Georgetown, Penang

Although I've been to Malaysia ten (or more) times, this was my first trip to Penang - and what a treat it was.

Penang is a foodie's heaven. You'll get the best (and cheapest) food whether it's in a roadside hawker stall, one of Love Lane's trendy cafes, or in a UNESCO heritage listed restored Chinese mansion, like the Seven Terraces or Cheong Fatt Tze.

The amazing Cheong Fatt Tze mansion

It's small and walkable so everything feels close and local, without having the overwhelming feeling of commercialisation. Although having said that, there are shopping malls not too far away, if that's what you are after. However, generally speaking, the blend between new and old, falls in old's favour in Georgetown. 

And when the new does come in, it is done so tastefully. For instance, integrated through some truly beautiful street art or restored shop houses.

Oh and did I mention the food is really good? Penang is known for it's Nasi Kandar, Penang Laksa (a more assam or sour laksa) and you can get the most divine cendol from Penang Road's Famous Cendol. Prepare to eat yourself into a food coma, have an afternoon siesta to escape the heat and rinse and repeat.  Now, go makan!