Joanna James
The dreamy island bejewelling the West Coast of Malaysia is a dramatic study in contrasts, melding graceful colonial architecture with jaw-droppingly contemporary street art and sweeping untouched landscapes with quirky cityscape hideouts. Here are some must-try Penang adventures for the family.
Penang is a multi-faceted gem of an island with allurements to thrill every brand of wanderlust, from its sugar-spun beach getaways with sapphire-hued waters ideal for parasailing and wild adventure zones for all ages to its ethereal 'living' museums and delicious night-time frolics. If you're wondering where to begin your exotic taste of Penang enticements, head over to its adrenaline-rich 'jungle gym'- the ESCAPE theme park, brimming with all manner of exhilarating rides and bonding activities for anyone young at heart. From zooming through the lush tropical jungle on the world's longest water slide and ziplining high above emerald canopies to hide-and-seek maze runs and "gecko" climbing towers, there is no shortage of wildly daring and excitingly tame experiences for all levels of adventurer to enjoy.
There's nothing more satisfying for freedom and peace than a dip into pure nature; Penang National Park, with its velvety rainforest sanctuaries, tranquil lakes, and coastal hideaways, is the perfect spot for some productive unwinding. After a day of hiking, whether to the ivory-and-sapphire Monkey beach and Muka Head Lighthouse or the turtle sanctuary at Pantai Keracut, you can also camp overnight in the blissful jungle park.
If you want to walk off all that delicious laksa and satay platters you ate (and make room for more), these beautifully manicured gardens are ideal for an insightful ramble, with touches of the wild, bizarre, and beautiful, from dusky leaf monkeys, anteaters, and turtles to majestically ancient trees, such as 130-year-old blossoming 'Rain Tree' and massive 'Cannon Ball Tree' with its pinkish-red flowers and mammoth pulpy fruits. If you're looking for prime Bukit Mertajam apartments close to the top Penang attractions, venture no further than Sky Residence Prai.
Penang doesn't shy away from expanding your imagination and tickling your curiosity with eccentric allures, from the Wonderfood Museum, which allows you to pose before gigantic durians and other gastronomic displays, to the ivory masterpiece of the Penang Museum, hosting fascinating tributes to art and culture.
The Entopia Penang Butterfly Farm is synonymous with entertainingly educative, opening to your kids a rainbow-hued world of butterflies and insects in picturesque habitats full of nature-kissed wonders. While marvelling at these unique critters, such as the vivid leopard lacewing butterfly alighting on their finger, children (and adults) can also learn fun facts that will further enrich the hands-on experience.
Forget about the Hogwarts Express, the enchanting Penang Hill Funicular tram rollercoaster chugs through the world's steepest tunnel track and past verdant vistas straight out of a fantasy tale. The Habitat Penang Hill is also a must-stop if you're a fan of delicious food, panoramic views, treetop trails, and giant rainforest swings.
As bedtime approaches, your young tribe can let out their excess energy by experiencing the kaleidoscope of sensations that characterises the Batu Ferringhi Night Markets, complete with temptingly vibrant and fragrant food stalls and souvenir stands for an indulgent experience that won't empty your pockets! Make sure you explore Batu Ferringhi via trishaw, a jaunty and authentic way to thrill your kids.
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