JUST OFF THE COAST of the mainland, Penang was purchased from the Sultanate of Kedah in 1786 and has been a trading centre since. South and north Indians, various Chinese, Tamils and others have made this island, and Georgetown in particular, a AAA+ food destination, with a scattering of historical sights as well. There are OK beaches and some inland hills for motorcyling, making this one of the most visited places in Malaysia.
A row of colonial era shops contrast with modern buildings in Georgetown, the main city on the island of Penang.
Sweet and savory: Roti susu (milk) with banana, and my go-to Malaysian breakfast, roti canai, served with curry.
A girl makes dim sum in a street market on Penang, which deserves its reputation as a food destination.
Like most of Malaysia Penang is very multi-ethnic, but Georgetown has a particulalry Chinese flavour. Practising Lion Dance for New Year.
Artwork inside the famouse Khoo Khongsi, which dates back to the 1850s, when the Khoos emmigrated from Fujian Province, China.
Clanhouses were built by Chinese merchants as meeting places for the coomunity, and for cultural activities.
Famous British chef Rachel Khoo is a member of the same Khoo family, with roots in Penang.
Under British occupation, many Indians also migrated to Malaya for work. Hinud temples as well as mosques add to the colour of Penang.
Samosa and other fried Indian snacks at a street market. Penang genuinely has quite a few fatties.
Lebuh Chulia, the old backpackers haunt in Georgetown. Bus and air tickets, tours, bicycles, second hand books, weed, cyclos, and of course, cheap guesthouses.
Night time in Georgetown, time for more eating.
A happy chap serves an ice cold drink.
A typical Georgetown two-storey shop. To see what it looks like now, Google the name on the sign "Tian Chin Hiang 47 muntri".
A typical Malaysian eatery, open to the streets, serving tea and coffee, probably either quick Chinese food or Indian food.
Built by a successful Hakka immigrant in the 1800s, Cheong Fatt Tze is one of the best examples of traditional Chinese mansion building in Malaysia. Extensive renovation work in the late 20th century saved it from ruin.
Curtains for the verandah of a Chinese hotel and restaurant.