Penang

Despite being the second smallest state in Malaysia, modern-day Penang seems to contain multitudes when it comes to its culture and heritage. With a land area of only 293km², it somehow manages to retain its UNESCO-acclaimed heritage while embracing modernity, with every part of the island carrying a different ambiance and tone. City explorers may seek out George Town for its modernised colonial juxtaposition, while beach vacationers head to Batu Ferringhi for its laid back island-in-the sun vibe. Nature lovers will enjoy the rough-and-ready, back-to-basics forestry reserves of Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang.

Street food hotspots along Carnarvon Street, New Lane and Gurney Drive are perpetual favourites among tourists and locals alike, and you’ll want to hunt for time-honoured staples such as the char kuey teow (stir-fried rice noodle) along Lorong Selamat, kuey chiap (broad rice noodle soup served with various cuts of meat) at Kimberley Street and cendol (iced dessert with coconut milk and palm sugar) at Lebuh Keng Kwee.

But there’s much more to discover about Penang beyond its street food. For more under-the-radar yet equally worthwhile haunts, check out this city guide.

When to go:

While Penang experiences constant rainfall and sunny days all year long, its hottest months are between February and March, and the wettest between September and October.

How to get around:

There is no subway service, but e-hailing rides like Grab are a convenient norm. There is also RapidPenang, the city’s public bus and ferry service. LinkBike, the city’s first bike-sharing service, makes it easy for cyclists to get around George Town.