Penang – (GeorgeTown)

Our first port of call was Penang probably better known as George Town. Although smaller, the mix of old colonial and modern high rise is similar to Singapore. The shorefront underpins the contrast.

Up close some of the terrace buildings have wonderfully ornate details.

Planning rules do not appear to be too rigid and have no uniformity when it comes to religious buildings.

The Sri Mahamariamman Temple was built in 1833 and is the oldest Hindu temple in the town. That said it seems bizarre for it to be inserted into the middle of a row of terraced buildings many of which are small shops.

Some are clearly benefitting from their neighbour such as this flower shop. That said this was not just local trade as a couple of motorbike couriers were also doing a good trade.

The Anglican faith is also well represented with the Church of St George (1818 – the oldest in SE Asia) set in large grounds. The space is in stark contrast to the Hindu temple. (Colonial rule?)

At this stage we were both in need of a bit of a reprieve from the heat. Fortunately, nearby was Helen’s second place of worship – Starbucks. I doubt there is a better-looking corner coffee shop anywhere in Asia and probably the world.

After coffee we needed a little lunch and hunted out the famous grand Eastern and Oriental hotel.

Or more specifically the Farquar bar. Here we had their famous Gin Setengah martini with some chicken satay. This was such a relaxing experience we had to stay for a second martini.

Now much more energised we headed back to the ship past the town hall where a sign proudly announced George Town was twinned with Adelaide.

In isolation the clock tower appears to be a tall symbol of the colonial era.

But in reality, its three-storey height is tiny compared to other nearby structures!