Penang named second best solo travel destination by Lonely Planet
Penang has been featured as the second-best place for solo travellers in Southeast Asia by Lonely Planet.
Penang state exco for tourism and creative economy Wong Hon Wai was overjoyed with the news.
“Congratulations to Penang for receiving international recognition.
“The renowned travel guide ‘Lonely Planet’ has ranked Penang as the second best solo travel destination in Southeast Asia,” he said via a Facebook post.
Lonely Planet describes Penang as a city full of beautiful and delicious surprises that will appeal to solo travellers.
“For solo travellers who enjoy stumbling upon small delights while exploring the streets, this city is full of beautiful and delicious surprises,” it said on its website.
Lonely Planet commended Penang for its rich blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan cultural influences.
“Other than its melting pot of Malay, Chinese and Indian influences, the Peranakan culture is also evident in the city, with a museum and hotels such as Cheong Fatt Sze and the Edison George Town capitalizing on its intricate designs,” Lonely Planet added in its website.
Lonely Planet also praised Penang for having luxury affordable rooms.
“While there are no single rooms, with rooms starting from under RM600, those into affordable luxury can consider these a heritage treat,” Lonely Planet added.
Top destination for food and culture
Lonely Planet highlighted Penang as a top destination for vibrant street food and dynamic local culture.
“Solo diners can enjoy budget meals as low as RM10, and the makeshift seatings encourage tables to be shared, so it’s a great opportunity for some chat with fellow diners,” it said.
“The meal-centric hawkers often operate for short hours only, with some showing up for breakfast, and others for dinner.
“These seasoned masters will quickly whip up a bowl of wonton (dumpling) noodles or Penang Laksa (spicy noodles) for hungry diners,” Lonely Planet added.
Lonely Planet described George Town, Penang a UNESCO World Heritage site, as a treasure trove of ornately decorated pre-war shophouses and clan houses, interspersed with charming cafes and a whimsical street art scene that enlivens the city.
The first place was taken by Singapore.
The other destinations mentioned by Lonely Planet are Da Nang in Vietnam, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Bangkok in Thailand, Hanoi in Vietnam, and Bali in Indonesia.