Weekendin Singapore Feb '14 | Issue 11 | Page 124

acrosstheSTRAITS acrosstheSTRAITS “Little Girl in Blue” - One of the many murals by Ernest Zarevic in Penang Learn more about the history of KL at the City Gallery Despite being more than two centuries old, Fort Cornwallis the largest and most intact fort there is in Malaysia today. Presenting History at its Finest Penang is a pleasurable fusion of nature, culture and history, and is capable of leaving an indelible mark on each visitor upon departure. Awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage City in 2008, the streets are laden with a mishmash of cultural practices, historical landmarks as well as heritage buildings. Planning ahead of your journey, you may want to check out the accommodation available. We reckon that you spend a couple of nights at the Hard Rock Hotel, Penang. Constructed along the renowned Batu Ferringhi beach, the hotel rocks a contemporary cutting edge design with an unprecedented view of the sea. As dusk falls, soak up in the atmosphere with tunes of Rock ‘n’ Roll music resounding through the air. When in Penang, visit the streets of Lebuh Armenian in George Town, which is home to a series of funky art boutiques such as Studio Howard, Jonathan Yun Sculptural Jewelry and Galeri Seni Matiara. When at the junction of Lebuh Armenian and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, you definitely have to try Penang’s world-famous street food such as their Nyonya cuisines and their famed local coffee. Shopping in Chowrasta Market is filled with colour, variety and flavours and sells some of the best nutmegs and dried fruits there is in the area. Teeming with antique shops, Jalan Pintal Tali and Lorong Kulit has their fair share of surprises as well. Join in the crowd in Batu Feringghi every evening starting at 7pm for a splendid display of souvenirs, decorative pieces and other items at reasonably low prices. Penang’s History Made up of a rich tapestry of a variety of ethnic groups and practices, Penang is another living testament to Malaysia’s reputation of preserving its heritage. The state of Penang is a holding ground for people coming from a myriad of ethnic backgro չ