Sat on Malaysia's Penang Island, the first foothold of the British on the Malay Peninsula, George Town was established in 1768 by a trader from the British East India Company. The city today has sprawled out for the old Fort Cornwallis, which has guarded George Town since the late 1700s. The area around the fort makes up the city’s well-preserved and atmospheric colonial core, a place of historic lanes and vibrant street life, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

George Town’s downtown is modern and bustling, the economic powerhouse of northern Malaysia. Between the contemporary city and the colonial core this is plenty more history to explore. Chinatown is the most fascinating to explore, with its colourful shop houses and intricate temples lining a maze of lanes and squares. There are lots of little shops, cafes and restaurants on these streets that offer a fine break from Penang’s humidity. The Clan Jetties are another must visit; these residential neighbourhoods built onto long piers jut out into the waters of Weld Quay, each owned by a specific Chinese clan. Home to communities for over a century, the current residents are the descendants to immigrant who arrived in Penang in the 19^th and early 20^th century and remained largely unchanged – a rare glimpse into a traditional way of life.    

On the edge of the city is Penang Hill, once a colonial era retreat. While you can hike to the top, a more thrilling way to ascend is the funicular. First opened in 1923, it’s been significantly modernised since but still includes a tunnel that is the steepest in the world. At the top you’ll find spectacular views, walking trails, dilapidated colonial bungalows, ancient rainforest and cooler, fresher air.

Two other features of George Town to look out for are the street art and the food. Dotted throughout the city’s historic district, urban murals and sculptures depict life and culture in the city, bringing a quirky and fun energy to the often dilapidated historic buildings of the area. The most famous is ‘Kids on Bicycle’ by Ernest Zacharevic, which is also interactive – you can hop on the bike for the photo, if you feel so inclined! George Town is also well-known for its street food, its snacks a mixture of influences thanks to its trading post past. Try char kuey teow noodles, roti canai and Penang assam laksa.