When you think of travelling to Penang? What do you think of? The UNESCO heritage site of Georgetown? The vibrant (and delicious) hawker food scene? Or simply chilling at Batu Ferringhi beach? In this post, we’ll show you 6 Amazing Travel Experiences in Penang that you won’t want to miss!
Most people discount the fact that Penang does have an excellent beach that faces the Andaman Sea and Malacca Straits. Batu Ferringhi is its name. Located at the northern tip of Penang, Batu Ferringhi offers beach goers all you’d expect at a reputable beach – fine pristine sand (especially at Hard Rock Hotel Penang), beach activities (including para-sailing, banana boat rides and jet skiing) and even horse back riding by the beach.
After all the fun you’ve had at the beach, head on out to one of the many excellent spas located along Batu Ferringhi beach – including the award winning Rock Spa @ Hard Rock Hotel and Chi Spa @ Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa.
As the evening winds down, check out the night markets along the roads next to the beaches. Many road side stalls open till late at night offering tourists the option of souvenir shopping (including sun glasses, hand bags and wallets) and late night supper at Batu Ferringhi.
Penang is littered with amazing street arts and wall murals. One of the most famous one is this mural of a trishaw uncle in the heart of Jalan Penang that almost covers the entire building facade. We also noticed several comical street art that brings across daily conversations in Penang through light-hearted colloquial jokes.
3. Wandering the Streets of Georgetown – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Since 2007, Penang’s Georgetown has been named as an UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the rich history of this precinct. You will be able to spot many colonial-styled buildings such as the Eastern & Oriental Hotel and Birch House as well as the many traditional chinese architectures along the streets. Fort Cornwallis, one of the best preserved forts in Malaysia also bears testament to Penang’s colonial roots.
To round off this historic trip, check out Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (better known as the Blue Mansion). Within, you’ll be able to see how the ultra-rich pampered themselves in this 38 room mansion – luxurious even by today’s standards.
Another amazing experience in Penang that you should try is the trishaw ride. We took a trishaw ride from Komtar back to our hotel at Eastern & Oriental. The ride took about 10 minutes and cost 15RM. What we enjoyed about this ride was the “alfresco” style of the ride. As the sun shone while we rode past the historic lanes (with winds gently blowing against your face), that made the ride really worthwhile. Be ready for a bit of excitement while the trishaw weaves in and out of traffic!
Penang is the home to Malaysian hawker food. Here you will be able to find famous Penang hawker fare such as Penang Char Koay Teow, Char Hor Fun, Penang Road Teochew Chendul and much much more. Check out our post on the “13 Penang Hawker Food and Nonya Restaurants that You MUST TRY” to find out more!
Still on food (what else? :p), one must try Penang’s nonya food. The Little Nonya Cuisine (ε°ε¨ζΉ) as well as Mama’s Nonya Cuisine offers some of the best nonya food in Penang at an affordable price.
A trip to Penang is never complete without trying out all the hawker food that Penang has to offer. In this post, we’ll answer the perennial question of “What to eat in Penang?” by covering all the great foods that we’ve tried during our last trip to Penang. Feel free to add on to this list in the comments section at the end of the post!
What to eat in Penang Malaysia
1. Penang Char Kway Teow
Penang Char Kway Teow
Ah Leng Char Koay Teow
Ah Leng Char Koay Teow at Jalan Dato Keramat
Special Ah Leng Char Koay Teow @ 11.50RM with additional toppings
Whenever one visits Penang, Penang Char Kway Teow will be one of the MUST TRY hawker foods. As with the kway teow from Ipoh, Penang kway teow also have a “taong” texture (chewy/bouncy feel) and because of this fame, Penang char kway teow can be found everywhere. Our favorite? Ah Leng’s Char Koay Teow!
Famous Ah Leng Char Koay Teow
(δΊιΎηζζ‘οΌ Address : Jalan Dato Keramat, Kampung Makam, 10150 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
2. Penang Laksa aka Assam Laksa
Penang Laksa aka Assam Laksa
In Penang, when you talk about “Penang Laksa“, it usually refers to the Assam Laksa. Unlike the usual laksa that we find in Singapore which has a rich coconut-based gravy, the laksa in Penang has a fish-based gravy which has a sour and appetising taste to it. The version that we tried had a rich fish-based broth and you could taste the shredded fish and crunchy vegetable texture with every mouthful. Although it is a laksa, it actually tastes healthy!
3. Wanton Mee
New World Park Hawker Centre
Penang Wanton Mee (4RM)
At New World Park Hawker Centre, you can find an amalgamation of Penang hawker foods. Here, we tried the Penang wanton mee and were thoroughly satisfied. There were loads of ingredients including generous amounts of char siew and quite a number of wantons. The highlight for us was the fragrant sauce for the noodles. Shiok!
4. Penang Curry Mee
Penang Curry Mee (4RM)
Still at New World Park Hawker Centre, we tried the famous Penang Curry Mee. This version we had from the old uncle’s stall (the other is owned by a middle-aged uncle) was full of ingredients including cuttlefish, cockles, fish cake and vegetables. Mix in the chili and you’d have an amazing bowl of Penang Curry Mee! Now we understand why Singaporeans bring home instant curry mee from Penang as well. Sedap!
New World Park Hawker Centre
(ζ°δΈη) Address : No. 1, Jalan Burma, 10350, George Town, Pulau Pinang, 10350, Malaysia
5. Penang Fried Oyster (Orh Lua)
Red Garden Food Paradise
Penang hawker food @ Red Garden Food Paradise
Penang Fried Oyster (RM10)
You can also find a host of Penang hawker food at the Red Garden Food Paradise. Here, we tried the Penang Fried Oyster (Orh Lua) for RM10. The oysters from this stall at Red Garden Food Paradise was huge and succulent! The taste is similar to the Singaporean style. The only difference is that the chili is not as tangy as the Singaporean version.
6. Penang Hokkien Mee aka Penang Prawn Noodles
Penang Hokkien Mee aka Penang Prawn Noodles (RM5)
Still at Red Garden Food Paradise, we tried the Penang Hokkien Mee as well. In Singapore, Hokkien Mee can refer to the fried version (with sotong) or the soup prawn noodles. But in Penang, if you refer to Hokkien Mee (Penang Hokkien Mee), it refers only to the soup prawn noodles. This version we tried has the thick prawn and pork taste to the broth which we enjoyed. Ingredients could have been more though. But for 5RM, we can’t ask for too much eh?
Red Garden Food Paradise
(ηΊ’ε) Address : 20 Lebuh Leith, 10000 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
7. Penang Char Hor Fun
Asian Kitchen @ Gurney Paragon’s Food Court
Penang Char Hor Fun (RM 7.90)
As it was raining heavily while we were at Gurney Paragon, we were not able to visit the famous Gurney Drive Hawker Centre (which we had seen and heard bad reviews of). Hence, we decided to pop by the food court at Gurney Paragon to see what’s in store for us there. To our surprise, we chanced upon the Asian Kitchen and is famous for its Penang Char Hor Fun. While the chef was cooking, we noticed that every step was prepared from scratch. The hor fun was originally white in colour (unlike the pre-fried ones these days) and the chef fried it to obtain the charred brown texture before placing it aside to prepare the gravy. The ingredients were subsequently fried, broth thickened (again the thickening agent was prepared on the spot) before switching off the gas and adding the egg on the last step. The egg was “spread” around in the heated broth to obtain the beautiful texture as seen in the picture. Needless to say, it was FANTASTIC! Strongly recommended for your trip to Penang!
Asian Kitchen @ Gurney Paragon Food Court (Level 5) Address : 163 C & D, Persiaran Gurney, George Town, Penang
8. Local Delights at Penang Bowl
Ordering Counter and Kitchen @ Penang Bowl
Mee Sua Tau Penang Bowl
Nonya Popiah Penang Bowl
While we were staying at the E&O Hotel in Penang, we decided to check out what else we can eat in the vicinity (yes, we’re voracious eaters) and we chanced upon this eatery at Penang Bowl (right next to E&O). The Mee Sua Tau and Nonya Popiah are the house specialties and we especially liked the Mee Sua Tau. Fragrant gravy with the mee sua absorbing the taste. Topped with crispy garlic bits…yum!
Penang Bowl Address : 38-B Leboh Farquhar, 10200, Penang, Pulau Pinang, 10200, Malaysia
9. Prosperous Dim Sum
Breakfast crowd at Prosperous Dim Sum
While walking along Lorong Abu Siti, we saw this HUGELY popular dim sum joint – Prosperous Dim Sum. There were tables and chairs all over the restaurant, both inside and outside. As we got closer, we saw that the prices were really reasonable. But due to the crowd, we did not try it this time round. If you’ve tried the dim sum here, let us know how it was in the comments section below.
Prosperous Dim Sum
(η¦ζθΆζ₯Ό) Address : 83 Lorong Abu Siti, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
10. Penang Road Teochew Chendul
Penang Road Teochew Chendul
The Penang Road Teochew Chendul was AWESOME! At RM2.60, you’ll get a huge bowl of chendul that has such a rich milky taste. A good contrast to the gula melaka version of chendol in Malacca. We actually prefer this version in Penang. Try it and you’ll understand why…
11. The Little Nonya Cuisine (ε°ε¨ζΉ)
Crowd at The Little Nonya Cuisine
Nonya Curry Chicken Rice RM8.80 (ε°ε¨ζΉ)
Lo Bak RM7 at The Little Nonya Cuisine
Deep fried otak beancurd RM9 (The Little Nonya Cuisine @ Gurney Plaza)
Nonya cuisine is also a MUST TRY when you visit Penang. This time, we visit The Little Nonya Cuisine (ε°ε¨ζΉ) at the basement of Plaza Gurney. All of the dishes above were DELICIOUS! In particular, we loved the curry chicken which was thick and frangrant. Perfect with rice. The deep fried take on otak was also amazing. Slight crisp on the outside but tender otak on the inside. The otak is also a perfect dish with plain fragrant rice. We could eat this all day long!
The Little Nonya Cuisine @ Plaza Gurney
ε°ε¨ζΉ Address : Plaza Gurney, 170-06-01, Gurney Dr, 10250 Georgetown, Malaysia
12. Mama’s Nonya Cuisine
Mama’s Nonya Cuisine
Curry Kapitan, Tau Yew Bak, Jiu Hu Char, Pig Stomach Soup, Bubur Cha Cha from Mama’s Nonya Cuisine
While in Penang, Mama’s Nonya Cuisine has got to be the one nonya restaurant that you have to try. We stayed at 3 hotels and all 3 concierges recommended eating here. It was undeniably good! We tried the Curry Kapitan (RM18), Tau Yew Bak (RM20), Jiu Hu Char (cuttle fish with vegetables – RM12), Pig Stomach Soup (RM22) and Bubur Cha Cha (RM4) and to be honest all of it were good! Seriously! If we were to recommend, the tau yew bak (braised pork) is a must-have. The braised pork combined with the spices went really well with rice. In fact, we had 2 HUGE portions of rice throughout the meal! Remember to save some space for the bubur cha cha. Certainly one of the best we’ve had in a long long time!
Mama’s Nonya Cuisine Address : Lorong Abu Siti, Georgetown, 10400 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
13. Penang Bakeries
Ghee Hiang at Macallister Road Penang
Inside Ghee Hiang
There are many traditional bakeries in Penang. Among them, the famous ones are Ghee Hiang, Kim Heang and Seng Seng Heang. Remember to bring some back for your loved ones when you return from Penang!
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We hope you have enjoyed our coverage of the Penang Hawker Food and Nonya Restaurants that you must try when you visit Penang! Tell us what you think in the comments section below!
Eastern & Oriental Hotel (also known affectionately as the E&O Hotel) is Penang’s most iconic hotel. Founded by the Sarkies brothers (who also founded Raffles Hotel in Singapore and the Strand in Yangon) in 1885, it was also known as “the Premier Hotel East of the Suez” due to its sea-front lawn spanning in excess of 800 feet and the hot and cold running water (yup, it was a symbol of luxury in those days). Thanks to the great folks of E&O Hotel (a huge shout-out to Eileen!), we were hosted to 2 nights stay at the Victory Annexe Studio Suite right here at the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang!
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) EntranceEntrance of E&O Hotel PenangReception of Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang
As we were heading towards E&O from Rasa Sayang, we popped by Lone Pine Hotel (also under the management of E&O) for a complimentary transfer.
We alighted at the heritage wing of the E&O and sure enough, the colonial and classy feel of the hotel dawned upon us as we entered the lobby…
Lobby of E&O Hotel Victory Annexe (A short walk away)Lobby of E&O Hotel Heritage WingCorridor to our sea view Studio Suite at level 8 of the E&O
After a prompt check-in at the Victory Annexe (too prompt in a sense that we were not formally introduced to the facilities of the hotel), we were shown to our lift. Walking along a hugely spacious corridor at level 8, we arrived at our suite…
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) Victory Annexe Studio Suite
As we entered the suite, the decoration and layout exuberated the classy vibe as we’ve had experienced at the Raffles Hotel Singapore. Our first gasp came as we laid eyes upon the bath tub…as the centre-piece of the entire suite, it is both functional and yet can be seen as a piece of art. The clawfoot bath tub, accompanied by a huge full length mirror, is certainly a lavish touch to the overall decoration of the suite.
2bearbear enjoying the clawfoot bath tub of the Eastern and Oriental PenangRed wine chilling out with super rings in bath tub! ;p
There are also 2 wash basins for the lady and gentleman. How do we know that? The toiletries supplied at each basin was different. One has the shaver while the other has the shower cap. A cute little touch there π
His and Hers vanity sinkToiletries of the E&O Hotel Penang
As with all 5 stars / luxury class hotels, the beds are always inviting. At the Victory Annexe Studio Suite, you’ll get a writer’s desk as well as pool and sea view at your own private balcony…
Bed and armchair of the Eastern and Oriental Hotel Studio SuiteWriterβs deskPool and sea view from E&O Hotel Victory Annexe Studio Suite
Video Tour of Victory Annexe Studio Suite, E&O Hotel
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) Facilities
Swimming Pool
Infinity Pool Eastern and Oriental Hotel Victory AnnexeAnother view of the infinity pool of the E&O HotelChilling out at the Pool Side TerraceSwimming Pool Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang
Both the Victory Annexe as well as the Heritage Wing have swimming pools of their own and guests are allowed to visit either of the swimming pools. We loved the Victory Annexe swimming pool (not only because of its proximity – ie walk less) but also because of the splendid views that it offers of the sea and the Malaysia Peninsula.
Gym
E&O Hotel Gym
The E&O Hotel is currently in the midst of adding a spa to its premise (yay!). However, it’s business as usual at the gym and yes, it also has sea views as you work out on one of these treadmills.
Planter’s Lounge
Planterβs Lounge Eastern and Oriental Hotel PenangChilling out at this cosy area of the Planterβs LoungeCocktail hours snacksWine, beers and drinks during cocktail hoursRadler beer and white wine with sea views during cocktail hours
Guests staying at the Victory Annexe also have complimentary access to the Planter’s Lounge. Coffee and Tea are available throughout the day while cocktail hours are from 6pm to 7pm daily. Do note that the Planter’s Lounge is NOT A CLUB. This means that it is essentially an area for guests to relax or have meetings. Hence, depending on the crowd, you may or may not be served when you visit the lounge. The other strange thing that we noticed was that there’s no signature cocktails served during cocktail hours (we ordered the E&O Sling at the pool). You would have to concoct your own cocktails with the given liquor and drinks π
Marvelous Views in and around E&O Hotel Penang
Sunset view from Heritage Wing Eastern and Oriental Hotel PenangViews of Peninsula Malaysia from SarkiesFacade of Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (Heritage Wing)Trishaw ride from Komtar to E&O Hotel for 15RM
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) Breakfast at Sarkies
Breakfast at Sarkies E&O Hotel PenangBakery area for breakfastPenang Char Kway Teow Station E&O Hotel BreakfastNoodles StationHot western selectionSushi and cold cuts at Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang BreakfastPenang Char Koay TeowPastries Fruits and Juices with sea view from SarkiesEggs Benedict enjoyed by Tom!
Breakfast at Sarkies starts from 6:30am to 10:30am while breakfast at Planter’s Lounge ends slightly later at 11am. There’s a good spread and variety of breakfast at Sarkies that ranges from asian (indian, japanese and malaysian) to western (patries, toasts and eggs). But for us, it was the overall experience of dining outdoors at the verandah, overlooking peninsula Malaysia and sipping over a nice cuppa while browsing the day’s news. Heavenly!
How to get to Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel)
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) is located at 10 Farquhar Street, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. From Penang International Airport it takes about 20 minutes (15 USD) by taxi and about 10 minutes (15RM) by trishaw from Komtar. If you’re taking a bus from Penang International Airport to Komtar, it takes about 30 minutes (3RM) by taking buses 102 and 401.
To sum up, we take a look at our BASIC FACTOR and the score for Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang, is a 4.5!
B – 1. Clawfoot bath tub. Need we say more? A – 1. Classy, lavish, luxurious and colonial. All the factors of a heritage hotel. S – 0.5. Like we said, checking-in was a little too “prompt”. More information could have been given at the reception. I – 1. Splendid views from the infinity pool. Great place to chillax. C – 1. Comfortable bed and pillows for a good night’s rest π
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**Special thanks to Eileen for making our staycation at Eastern and Oriental Hotel possible!
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa is Penang’s most luxurious and exclusive hotel. With its sea front views and traditional Minangkabau roof architecture, its no wonder why guests so easily fall in love with Rasa Sayang. Thanks to the great folks at Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa (Special shout out to Suleiman and team!), we were invited to a relaxing and enjoyable stay at the newly renovated Garden Wing…
Warm reception at the grand lobby of Garden Wing of Rasa Sayang
After the prompt check in, we were led by our receptionist to our lift lobby, we actually thought that was it. No! She led us ALL THE WAY TO OUR ROOM! Talk about personalised service!
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang Deluxe Seaview Room
As we entered our room, we could feel the space and luxury that Shangri-la affords. The room was spacious and so was the king-sized bed. There was even a small little sofa where you can chill and watch some cable TV. But the best part? The view from our balcony…
Pool and Sea View from Deluxe Seaview Room Rasa Sayang
Deluxe Seaview Room Rasa Sayang Penang Garden Wing
The room also affords the usual luxuries of a bath tub, complete with the in-house toiletries as well as a well-stocked mini-bar. All this equates to a start of a great holiday! π
Bath tub with bath foam that really FOAMS!
Shangri-la’s in-house toiletries
Well-stocked mini bar with complimentary coffee and tea
After checking out the room, we decided to take a quick bath (in the bath tub of course) before heading out to meet Suleiman at the Spice Market Cafe for afternoon tea!
Check out this video tour of our Deluxe Sea View Room at the Garden Wing of Rasa Sayang Penang
History of Shangri-la’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang
Soon, we met up with Suleiman, the Director of Communications at Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa. Suleiman was a man of stature and he brought about an air of authority as he approached us. But when we started conversing, there was no such air about him. In fact, he was approachable and friendly and as the afternoon went on, the conversations began to flow. And that was when we started to learn more about Rasa Sayang as well…
Afternoon tea at Spice Market Cafe Rasa Sayang Penang
Rasa Sayang Hotel was first opened in November 9, 1973 along Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang and was the first ever five-star resort in Malaysia and the first Shangri-La property in Malaysia as well. The original motto of Rasa Sayang was “A love of life and all its pleasures”…Ah…
Turns out that the name “Rasa Sayang” was derived from a local song of the same name. “Rasa” means feeling and “Sayang” means love. The famous refrain goes something like this…
Rasa sayang, hey!
Rasa sayang-sayang hey,
Hey lihat nona jauh,
Rasa sayang-sayang, hey
meaning…
I’ve got that loving feeling, hey!,
I’ve got that loving feeling, hey!,
See that girl in the distance,
I’ve got that loving feeling hey!,
So the story goes that the owners of the hotel (yes, they are still alive today and may be reading this) were discussing what name to be given to this grand hotel that was going to be built. As they were discussing, the song went on air (probably over radio as it was a popular song in those days) and the owners decided there and then. Hence, Rasa Sayang was born!
As we continued to discuss on the concepts of Rasa Wing and Garden Wing, we realised what Suleiman was really talking about. At the Garden Wing, we could feel the exclusivity coupled with the luscious greenery in and around the premise. A short walk along the gardens coupled with sounds of the waves in the distance, really rejuvenates the mind and body. Something that you ought to try out on your next trip here to Rasa Sayang Penang π
Shuttle Service from Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang
One of the MAJOR plus points of staying at Rasa Sayang Penang is that you’d be able to enjoy the beaches of Batu Ferringhi, visit the night markets a short walk away PLUS there’s also shuttle service that brings you to Gurney Plaza, Gurney Paragon and of course the famous Gurney Drive Hawker Centre…
Shuttle Bus Service Schedule from Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang
Gurney Plaza Penang
Gurney Paragon Penang
St Jo’s at Gurney Paragon
Pasar Malam (aka Night Market – yes, they only open at night) minutes away from Rasa Sayang by foot
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang Facilities
Health Club
Health Club consisting of Gym, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam Bath
CHI Spa
Spa experience at CHI Spa
Luscious Greenery
Greenery by the beach at Rasa Sayang
Water feature next to Spice Market Cafe
Swimming Pool
Swimming Pool Rasa Sayang Garden Wing
Video of the beach and pool area of Rasa Sayang
Photo Gallery Depicting Rasa Sayang’s History
Photo Gallery depicting the history of Rasa Sayang – You can see Suleiman there as well! π
What we really loved about the hotel is its luscious greenery, offering ample space and tranquility for travellers who wants to find rest for the soul. The CHI Spa will definitely add to that experience. Kate checked out the Rasa Asmaradana Spa Treatment. Long kneading strokes offers a deeply relaxing massage as practiced by traditional Malay healers. The treatment is also coupled with soothing concoction of local herbs, lemon grass and pandan leaves, leaving one thoroughly relaxed and rejuvenated.
Other facilities in the resort includes the Kid’s Club, Adventure Zone, Golf/Pitch and Putt, Table Tennis and Tennis Courts.
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang Breakfast
Rasa Sayang’s breakfast was probably one of the best we’ve had at this trip. Do remember to try out the egg’s benedict – yes, the yolk does ooze out like it should!
Eggs Benedict Rasa Sayang Penang
Eggs station and buffet spread
Fresh Fruit Juices
Cold Cuts
Healthy start to breakfast with fruits and vegetables
Delicious Assam Laksa
Asian spread
Indian Cuisine
Waffles, Bread pudding and banana cake!
How to get to Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang
Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang is located at Batu Feringgi Beach, Penang, 11100, Malaysia. From Penang International Airport, it takes about 45 minutes by taxi (approximately 20USD) or about 1hr 15 minutes by bus 102 (4RM).
To sum up, we take a look at our BASIC FACTOR and the score for Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, is a 5!
B – 1. Bath tub was great with perfect foam generating shower gel! A – 1. Luscious greenery with a relaxing feel all round. What more can we ask for? S – 1. Service was excellent with the concierge spending time to tell us what to explore in Penang. I – 1. Pools that catered to the adults and kids alike. All with a beach view! C – 1. A restful night offered at Rasa Sayang…
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**Special thanks to Suleiman and team for making our staycation at Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa possible!
Hard Rock Hotel Penang was our hotel of choice when we visited the Batu Ferringhi area of Penang. Thanks to the great folks at Hard Rock Penang, we were hosted to a one night stay at the Seaview Studio Suite with access to the Kings Club Lounge!
Hard Rock Hotel and Hard Rock Cafe Penang
Hard Rock Hotel Penang from the swimming pool
Receptionists welcoming us to a rocking good time at Hard Rock Penang
Hard Rock Hotel Penang Seaview Studio Suite
As members of the Kings Club Lounge, we had an exclusive check in there while we enjoyed some light refreshments. After getting our key card, we were eager to explore our Seaview Studio Suite!
Checking in at Kings Club Lounge Hard Rock Penang
As we entered into our room, “Oohs” and “Wows” started to sound from the both of us! We were particularly impressed with the size of the room, the huge bath tub as well as the awesome views from the balcony! From the balcony, you’ll be able to enjoy views of the swimming pool as well as the beach right next to the hotel…
Unbelievable views from Hard Rock Hotel Penang Seaview Studio Suite
Seaview Studio Suite Hard Rock Penang
Another view of the Seaview Studio Suite at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Inviting sofa that affords sea views in comfort
2bearbears comfortably in king-sized bed of Hard Rock Penang Hotel
A little pantry area complete with a sink, oven and fridge
Toiletries at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Luxurious bath tub in Seaview Studio Suite Hard Rock Hotel
Lyrics to Wonderful Tonight. Or is it? Read the lyrics carefully! It’s actually a message to conserve water!
There’s another thing which we enjoyed in-room…COMPLIMENTARY MOVIES! We caught 2 movies while we’re here; It’s Complicated starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin and Up in the Air starring George Clooney. Catching up on movies that we’ve not seen? Awesome!
Video tour of Hard Rock Hotel Penang’s Seaview Studio Suite
Hard Rock Hotel Penang Facilities
After checking out our stay at the Seaview Studio Suite, we decided to see what facilities Hard Rock Hotel Penang has to offer…
1. Rock Spa Penang
Our therapists at Rock Spa Penang
Outdoor treatment villas at Rock Spa Penang
Outdoor shower and tub for private villa spa
Indoor treatment rooms at Rock Spa Penang
The Rock Spa in Penang has won several accolades including the 5 stars rating by the Ministry of Culture Malaysia & Tourism – one of only two spas with this award in Penang. Kate enjoyed a Hard Rock massage at the Rock Spa (1 hour for 170RM) and indeed it lived up to its name as one of the most relaxing experiences in Penang.
2. Hard Rock Hotel Penang Swimming Pool
Kate at “beach” part of the pool with a sandy bottom
Fun water slides for the kids
Swimming pool at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
The swimming pool at Hard Rock Hotel Penang is one of the largest hotel swimming pools we’ve been to (second to only MGM in Las Vegas). There are 2 lap pools right in front of the lagoon deluxe rooms. A water slide , fun play area for the kids as well as the center stage pool. It was actually quite fun to swim from one end of the pool to the other. But you would have to get out and re-enter at certain parts of the pool in order to do so.
3. Kings Club Lounge
Kings Club Lounge Hard Rock Penang
View of the swimming pool from Kings Club Lounge
Savoury dishes during cocktail hours at Kings Club Lounge
Mini Tortilla Handroll
Rice paper roll with mango salsa
Mini crab cakes
Carrot cake , butter cakes and strawberry tart from Kings Club Lounge
2bearbear enjoying cocktail hour at Kings Club Lounge Hard Rock Penang
Kings Club Lounge privileges are only extended to guests stay at the Kings Club Seaview, Seaview Studio Suite, Rock Star Suite and Kings Suite. Guests may also enjoy these privileges at an additional RM150++ per room per night and RM75++ for the third guest.
Guests can enjoy the afternoon tea as well as daily cocktail hour (1 hour only) from 6pm to 7pm while enjoying the sun setting over the horizon…ah…
4. Hard Rock Cafe Penang
Live performance at Hard Rock Cafe Penang
Close up shot of Band Deviate
Nachos with grilled chicken (RM48) with a jug of draft beer (RM68) at Hard Rock Cafe Penang
As the sun sets over the horizon, the Hard Rock Cafe Penang comes to life with its nightly live performances! We enjoyed the performance by the band Deviate who were able to play songs upon request. In addition, the singers NEVER referred to any books, showing that they memorised ALL the lyrics by heart! These guys are really professional! Remember to request for “Smooth” by Carlos Santana!
5. Other facilities and things to do at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Pool facing Body Rock Gym at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Lil’ Rock Kids Club
Teens can also hang out at the Tabu Teens Club while ladies can spot a new hair-do at the Glamour Hair Salon. For the die hard rock fans, there are memorabilia located throughout the hotel. You can also choose to go home with a city-tee with a visit to any of the THREE Rock shops located at the premise.
As a guest, you are also given the a code to download songs from the online music store. You can also choose to play on any of the 12 fender guitars for free – well a deposit of 5000RM is required before you can lay your hands one of those beauties π
Last but not least, there are many beach activities such as banana boat ride, para-sailing, jet skiing and even horse-back riding available right at the beach front. Strangely, the sand in front of the Hard Rock Penang is really fine and comparable to that in Surfer’s Paradise Gold Coast. Hence, a walk along the beach should be in place π
Hard Rock Hotel Penang Breakfast
Breakfast at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
More options for breakfast at Hard Rock Penang
Yummy lamb curry with prata and murtabak
Healthy selection of fruits and vegetables
2bearbears with rice and noodles which were not bad
How to get to Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Rapid Penang Bus 102 from Penang International Airport to Hard Rock Hotel Penang
From the Penang international airport, we took bus 102 to Hard Rock Penang. The ride costs 4RM per person and takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic.
Hard Rock Hotel Penang is located at Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Penang, Malaysia
To sum up, we take a look at our BASIC FACTOR and the score for Hard Rock Hotel Penang, is a 5!
B – 1. Bath tub in the Seaview Studio Suite was HUGE! A – 1. Hard Rock Hotel Penang certainly lives up to the HR vibe right from the start of our stay S – 1. Service was good at Kings Club Lounge and at breakfast. I – 1. One of the largest pools we’ve been to. Had fun exploring it! C – 1. Bed was firm and the pillow was comfortable yet thick enough. One of our best nights rest at a hotel!
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**Special thanks to Sheryn and Karen for making our staycation at Hard Rock Hotel Penang possible!
