George Town is located on the island of Penang, one of Malaysia’s largest islands and known as Malaysia’s food paradise, Penang is also colloquially known as the ”Pearl of the Orient” and ”Pearl Island”. I agree.

Map over Penang Island

Penang is the third largest economy and is the only part of Malaysia where the population mostly consists of Chinese and Indier During the 18th century when Penang was under British rule.

George Town is also famous and known as one of Southeast Asia’s best places for street food, it´s cheap, very good and healthy, I do recommend everyone to test it.

Street Food in George Town is known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene, offering a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, cuisines.
The best places to enjoy street food include places like Gurney Drive, Chulia Street night market, and Kimberley Street.

If you, like me, have discovered this gem in Malaysia there is some must-try dishes to try before yoy leave…

Char Koay Teow (stir-fried rice noodles), Asam Laksa (spicy noodle soup), Penang Rojak (fruit and vegetable salad), and Cendol (iced sweet dessert)

You can choose to eat beside the food stand, often they have tables, or ask for a bag to bring with you to your hotel.

Note. Ask friendly if the dishes are spicy, some of the are very ”hot”

Another thing I discovered and noted with George Town was all the street and mural art. It´s packed with colorful, vibrant and stunning street art. You can´t just passed by them, you must stop and admire the works of art and its artists. Some of the murals even involve physical objects.

Down below some examples of mural art. There are dozens of murals scattered throughout the historic streets, new artworks appear, and others fade out

Brother & Sister

Kids On A Bicycle

MC Babe

Teach You Speak Hokkien

Marching Man

The Indien Boatman

Wondering Man

Air Pollution

During my stay in George Town, which lasted just under 7 weeks—most of that time due to my dengue fever—I had the opportunity to explore and look around.

The British influence is significant. They have left a strong cultural and architectural legacy in George Town, which today is known for its colonial architecture, multicultural history, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

Aside from all the murals and beautiful old houses, I was also delighted to see all the beautifully painted and designed doors, entrances, and windows.

Below are some of my favorites.