Paint-palette bright mansions. Intricately carved temples. Stately Raj era buildings. Proudly cosmopolitan from its founding days, UNESCO-listed George Town beckons you to explore. In one day you could walk from a seafront fringed by shimmering skyscrapers to art-filled backstreets lined with tumbledown shophouses. When evening comes around, you’ll find yourself in pride of place for sampling some of Southeast Asia’s best street food.
LANDMARKS
A luxury city break in George Town wouldn’t be complete without taking in some colourful culture in the Peranakan Museum, home to eclectic, educational exhibitions. For an insight into George Town’s days as a thriving 18th century port, stroll the Chew Jetty. Here you can see the few surviving stilt houses built by early Chinese communities.
FOOD
With countless stalls serving up regional delicacies, it’s not hard to see why George Town is a key pin in the food-lover’s map. From hearty Indian curries and crisp Chinese stir-fries to fragrant Malay dishes, it’s possible to globe hop with every plate. A local favourite is assam laksa – a hot, intense fish broth with noodles, seasoned with tamarind and cool sprigs of mint.
SHOPPING
Leave room in your suitcase, as when it comes to retail therapy, George Town doesn’t disappoint. Head to gleaming, modern shopping malls or dive into buzzing markets where traditional spice stalls stand alongside hand-woven fabrics. Explore galleries that showcase the work of local, contemporary glass artists and admire modern murals painted by the thriving street art scene. Or search for traditional handicrafts in arts and crafts markets, from painted tiles to batiks.
Enjoy a taste of Malay-Chinese tradition. Take a seat in one of the authentic heritage shophouses and order up baskets of delicate Dim Sum.
