Georgetown, Penang

Sunday March 30

Due to our berth not being available this morning we had to be tendered to the dock in Georgetown, but fortunately the ship would be able to berth by early afternoon when we would be returning from our independent touring. While waiting for the tender we got chatting to a kiwi couple who live in Canada and we decided to share a local taxi and tour around together.

After being besieged by bus and taxi drivers we agreed a price with one of them and set off to see the sights. The drive through the old town was interesting and we passed a lot of Buddhist temples with intricate carvings and multi colours. We were headed for the funicular railway at Penang Hill, but unfortunately it seemed like half the town were headed there as well! A 30 minute drive became more like an hour, but to our surprise we were able to board the railway straight away. It was an exhilarating ride and the quickest funicular we have been on.

Due to the high humidity (and smog) the view was very hazy but we were all surprised how big Georgetown was, but at least the mix of old colonial buildings and modern high rise condos was visible. The traffic was a bit less congested on the return trip so our driver took us for a scenic drive past most of the major tourist sites and added his take on the history and culture of the town like all good taxi drivers do! It was very nice to get back onto the ship and cool off after our touring in the heat and humidity.

 

 

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