Once again, the Island of Penang comes alive with music with the 11th Edition of The Penang Island Jazz Festival, to be held from 4th to 7th December 2014! Performers for this year’s “Jazz By The Beach” stage (Saturday, 6th and Sunday, 7th December) include Richard Bona Group, Carmen Souza, Crystal Bowersox, Laila Biali Trio, Monoswezi, CNIRBS, The Fresh Dixie Project, Jo Yeong Duk Trio, JazzHats & Ray featuring Man Kidal and others.
Supporting musical related activities held during the period of the festival are Workshops, Exhibitions, Sunrise @ TSG, After Hours Jazz Jam, Creative Malaysia Fringe Stages and the “Island Music Forum Sessions”. Some of the Speakers for this year’s “Island Forum Sessions” include Professor Tony Whyton (Director of the Salford Music Research Research Centre at University Salford UK) and Victor Kye (Assistant Artistic Director of Jarasum International Jazz Festival, Gwangju World Music Festival and Jarasum Rhythm & BBQ Festival).
Imagine travelling back to the time where you can experience the old days of Penang!
We will begin with visiting Pinaon Time Tunnel, walk along the narrow foot path which is like going through the tunnel as the rich history of Penang unfold along the way. Then continue to the first Camera Museum in south East Asia where vintage cameras from various parts of the world are display; together with the heritage building, it will give you the feel like the olden days of Penang.
Last stop will be the Interactive Museum Gallery located in the heart of George Town which showcases the rich heritage of Penang. Interesting miniature figurines of famous landmarks are displayed, take photos of trick art and life size 3D murals/pictures for that add-on special effect to your photos!
The Penang Botanic Gardens, or more popularly known as "Waterfall Gardens", was established by the British back in 1884 from an old granite quarry site. Set in the valley with natural landscaping surrounded by hills and greenery, it is rich in flora and fauna with fresh water flowing down the hills. Take a stroll around the garden and look out for the photogenic monkeys.
Tropical Spice Garden, come explore this award-winning tropical spice garden! Be mesmerized by the unique uses of exotic plants and herbs, you’ll always find something interesting amongst the 500 and more varieties of tropical flora from all over the world. Note: INCLUDE self-guided Audio Tour at the Tropical Spice Garden.
Taiping town literally means “town of peace” where lotus flowers and giant rain trees can be found around the Taiping Lake Gardens. Located at the foot of Maxwell Hill, this beautiful town is not only home to the only Zoo up north but also the oldest Zoo in Malaysia. From the cute tiny deer to tallest giraffe, from the cute orang-utan to fierce Malayan tiger and giant elephant, there are a lot more to see as Malaysia is home to many of the animals.
Take a lunch break before visiting the renowned Matang Mangrove Forest. Stroll on the wooden boardwalk to get a closer look at the mangrove trees, watch out also for coastal birds, colourful crabs, mud skippers or other animals that live in the muddy coastal floor of the mangrove ecosystem. Last stop, see how coffee beans are traditionally roasted. Note: INCLUDE Set Lunch (local / Asian food).
Start the morning by visiting the batik cottage industry and learn about the traditional art of fabric making by using wax and dyes. Stop at a fruit stall to be introduced to the many varieties of fruits produced by the local farmers, and also learn how a rubber tree is tapped.
Continue the journey to visit the traditional malay village and the famous Snake Temple. Drive along the coastline to George Town where lunch will be served. Visit Fort Cornwallis that was built in 1808, the fort also marks the spot where Sir Francis Light first landed on this island. Proceed to the Chinese clan jetties, a village built on stilts over the sea and populated by members of the same clan. Visit the Penang State Museum which houses a collection of historical items and the Burmese & Thai Buddhist Temple.
State Museum closed on Fridays, will be replaced with Little India. As you go around the city, you will get to see many beautiful colonial & heritage buildings. Grab the opportunity to take some photograph of the popular street arts that can be found around the city.
EAT... Get a chance to taste the popular local delicacies unique to Penang, like Teh Tarik (pulled tea), Assam Laksa (spicy-sour fish base noodle soup), Char Koay Teow (stir-fried flat noodle) & Chendol (dessert made of shaved-ice with condiments).
PRAY… Visit centuries old Churches, Chinese & Indian temples, Muslim Mosque where the different religions were brought in by the early settlers.
LOVE… Love the sights, smell and sound as you go on George Town heritage enclave, what better way to do this other than in a trishaw. Explore the city and its alleys at a slower pace, dont forget to take photographs of the famous street arts.
Extra… Get a chance to learn and experience the art of making Tau Sar Pheah (Mung bean biscuit, Penang famous local biscult).
You will be guided into the unspoilt tropical rainforest to discover the rich flora & fauna of Malaysia. From the giant trees, ferns and plants that provide the shades as one trek along the National Park, where many of the plants do have medical value that are used by the natives till this day. Sound of birds chirping away can be heard and the trained guides with their experience and sharp eyes might spot some interesting things along the way. The walk ends at the secluded beach where you will return to base by boat ride.
Take a boat ride to the idyllic beach. Anchor the boat by the coastline; try your luck in fun fishing where hand lines and baits are provided. If you are lucky enough, just give your “catch of the day” to the boatman as he will prepare it together with your BBQ lunch, to be served on the beach. You may spend your time exploring the sandy beach or go for a swim; otherwise find an ideal spot to sunbath or just relax on the beach. Monkeys, sea eagles and the harmless giant lizard can be spotted along the coastline.
Disconnect from stress for a day and take a plunge into an experience that will refresh and renew you, with this Round Island and Hill & Temple tour.
Round Island.
Penang or “Pulau Pinang” which means "Island of Betelnut Palms" - was once a pirates' hideout. It came under British control in 1786. History has it that Captain Francis Light loaded the cannons with silver coins and fired into the thick undergrowth and the locals scrambled to recover them - thus clearing the area for settlement.
Born as a crossroads for traders from Arab to Europe, India to China and nearby islanders, Penang is today a mini Asia in a nutshell! The island still retains its natural charm with quiet sunkissed beaches along the famed Batu Ferringhi strip. Visit a Batik Factory (a local cottage industry) - a stop to learn about the traditional art of fabric making by using wax and dyes.
Then drive through the hills where one will enjoy the lush greenery of tropical rainforest dotted with fruit orchards and spices. Stop at a street stall to be introduced to the many varieties of fruits and spices produced by the local farmers, and also learn how a rubber tree is tapped.
Drive to the valley where clusters of traditional malay villages and paddy fields where one can feel the tranquillity. Head to the centuries old Snake Temple or the Temple of Azure Cloud and discover the pit viper snakes. A brief stop to sample the famous white coffee before going back to hotel.
Hill & Temple Tour.
Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple or Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas - infinitely intriguing from the start. It is one of the largest Chinese temples in Malaysia and the largest Buddhist temple in South East Asia. Among the other features is the Tortoises' Pond of longevity where devotees release the creatures to earn blessings in life and Seven Tier Pagoda that incorporates Chinese, Thai & Burmese architecture. A beautiful bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy overlooks the temple.
Next, take the funicular train up to Penang Hill, where the oldest British hill station in the region was established. A cool hill retreat from the tropical heat, it provides a panoramic view of George Town and mainland Malaysia (on a clear day).
Disconnect from stress for a day and take a plunge into an experience that will refresh and renew you, with this Georgetown Heritage and Scenic Night tour.
Georgetown Heritage.
George Town, listed by UNESCO as a world heritage city with its diversified arts & cultures, it is definitely a place not to miss!
Visit to the world renowned Pinang Peranakan Mansion. The Baba & Nyonyas (the Peranakans) was a prominent community of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world, the mansion houses over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectible items of the era on display. Then take a short walk to the colourful ethnic Indian enclave, Little India where wide range of items are sold.
Then visit the oldest Hindu Temple in Penang. Continue to Chinese clan houses where ornate rooftops with intricate carving of dragon pillars are found. Walk along Armenian Street to view the famous street arts and see the Kapitan Kling Mosque nearby. Note: INCLUDE guided tour and entrance fees to heritage sites stated in the itinerary.
Scenic Night.
Watch the city of George Town come alive at night with the city lights and street peddlers. The phrase ”we live to eat” cannot be more profound than when applied to Penang. Having a rich mix of many races living in Malaysia, we are blessed with a variety of exotic foods. Join us and we will show you why Penang is known as a Gourmet’s Paradise. Enjoy freshly prepared food, dining alfresco style.
After dinner, hop on a trishaw for a slow ride through the colourful streets of George Town. This “three wheel rickshaw”, unique to this part of the world is locally known as the “King of the Road”.
Later, enjoy a scenic drive across the Penang Bridge, a total of 13.5km from the island to the mainland and back to Penang Island by ferry, the oldest ferry service in Malaysia since 1920.
Disconnect from stress for a day and take a plunge into an experience that will refresh and renew you, with this Trishaw Heritage Trail and Eat Pray Love tour.
HIGHLIGHTS:
* Explore the city of George Town.
* Get a chance to taste the popular local delicacies unique to Penang
* Experience the art of making Tau Sar Pheah biscuit.
Trishaw Heritage Trail.
Trishaw, a three wheeler light local transport, is the best way to see and explore the city of George Town at a much slower pace, with full view of the sights as it moves along. Wind through the narrow streets where famous heritage landmarks of Penang are found.
Start from Fort Cornwallis, passing by the Clock Tower and then proceed to the waterfront jetties. From there go through the bustling Little India, the commercial & banking area, the St. George’s church, old Chinese Temples and narrow streets dotted with boutique hotels and cafes. the ride will end at The Blue Mansion.
Eat Pray Love tour.
Specially design to give you an insight to the way of life of the local folks… the Malaysian way!
EAT... Get a chance to taste the popular local delicacies unique to Penang, like Teh Tarik (pulled tea), Assam Laksa (spicy-sour fish base noodle soup), Char Koay Teow (stir-fried flat noodle) & Chendol (dessert made of shaved-ice with condiments).
PRAY… Visit centuries old Churches, Chinese & Indian temples, Muslim Mosque where the different religions were brought in by the early settlers.
LOVE… Love the sights, smell and sound as you go on George Town heritage enclave, what better way to do this other than in a trishaw. Explore the city and its alleys at a slower pace, dont forget to take photographs of the famous street arts.
Extra… Get a chance to learn and experience the art of making Tau Sar Pheah (Mung bean biscuit, Penang famous local biscult).
Disconnect from stress for a day and take a plunge into an experience that will refresh and renew you, with this Penang and City Explorer tour.
Rewind Penang - Back To Time.
Imagine travelling back to the time where you can experience the old days of Penang! We will begin with visiting Pinaon Time Tunnel, walk along the narrow foot path which is like going through the tunnel as the rich history of Penang unfold along the way.
Then continue to the first Camera Museum in south East Asia where vintage cameras from various parts of the world are display; together with the heritage building, it will give you the feel like the olden days of Penang.
Last stop will be the Interactive Museum Gallery located in the heart of George Town which showcases the rich heritage of Penang. Interesting miniature figurines of famous landmarks are displayed, take photos of trick art and life size 3D murals/pictures for that add-on special effect to your photos! Note: Includes entrance fees.
City Explorer.
George Town, the capital of Penang and named after King George III of England, is an interesting blend of old and new. It is worth to note that Penang has one of the largest collections of British colonial buildings in Southeast Asia.
Tour includes a stop at Fort Cornwallis, built in 1808. Fort Cornwallis also marks the spot where Sir Francis Light first landed on this island.
Drive along the Street of Harmony, which is bordered by religious landmarks such as Kapitan Keling Mosque (the first Indian-Muslim mosque in Penang) with its domes and minarets; the Sri Mahamariaman Temple devoted to a popular Hindu Goddess; Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) Temple, built in 1800; St. George's Church, oldest Anglican Church (1818) in the Region.
This is followed by visit to the Penang State Museum which houses a collection of historical items. Drive past the colourful Little India and bustling Chinatown, an old cherished charm of Georgetown. Next stop is the World’s Fourth Largest Reclining Buddha statue at Wat Chayamangkalaram. Note: State Museum is closed on Fridays.
Taiping town literally means “town of peace” where lotus flowers and giant rain trees can be found around the Taiping Lake Gardens. Located at the foot of Larut Hill (or Maxwell Hill), this beautiful town is not only home to the only Zoo up north but also the oldest Zoo in Malaysia. From the cute tiny deer to tallest giraffe, from the cute orangutan to fierce Malayan tiger and elephant, and hornbills too, there are a lot more to see!
Take a lunch break before visiting a Charcoal Factory that has been around since the 1930s'. Hear about the interesting process of turning mangrove wood into quality charcoal. This place is full of character mainly due to their traditional techniques of producing charcoal, preserved since the start of the factory.
Explore Penang Island, the fun way, on a double-decked tour bus. The Hop-On-Hop-Off Penang tour covers two exciting routes, the City Route and Beach Route. Each route is carefully planned to give visitors the best sights and top landmarks through the most popular areas in and out of George Town. Both routes combined, there are more than 50 attractions where visitors can hop-on or hop-off at any of the 33 designated stops. Each bus is uniquely designed with half-open top, which is a favorite for visitors to get a better view of the island better.
The Hop-On-Hop-Off Penang tour gives the flexibility to choose where and when you travel while visiting Georgetown, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The Service runs daily on a 20-30 minutes service schedule between 9am and 8pm. Each bussç is designed uniquely with half-open top with the capacity of 60 sitting passengers whereby 27 passengers will be experiencing the outdoor feel on top of the bus. The open deck is a favorite for tourist as tourist can feel and view the island better so it going to on first come first serve sitting arrangements.
Penang is considered the culinary capital of Malaysia and nowhere is the diversity of dishes and range of flavours more evident than in its beautiful capital, George Town. You don’t walk its streets – you devour them. Every corner you turn is a new gastronomic adventure, with hawkers selling delicious street food.
Start your day with some authentic Malaysian recipe Roti Canai and Teh Tarik, a local breakfast many Penangites love. Take a slow drive along the Street of Harmony, which is bordered by religious landmarks such as Kapitan Keling Mosque (the first Indian-Muslim mosque in Penang) with its domes and minarets; the Sri Mahamariaman Temple devoted to a popular Hindu Goddess; Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) Temple, built in 1800; St. George's Church, oldest Anglican Church (1818) in the Region. Witness the making of Wooden Clogs, commonly known in Penang as “Kak Kiak” in Hokkien, is a traditional footware used daily in the olden days.
Next, we will go to taste a variety of the famous traditional Nyonya ‘kuih’ (cakes / savoury or sweet snacks). Go for a hunt at the famous Street Art, as well as enjoy a traditional snack of peanuts candy wrapped with the freshly made poh piah skin. Taste the Penang Cendol, a famous Penang dessert that promises to brighten and refresh your day from the first sip. End of tour by learning the steps of making Penang famous tambun biscuits (Tao Sar Pheah).