Penang’s Famous Laksa is at Air Itam (Hitam), whether you like it or not.

Oh… you’ll be in hot soup if you already have set expectations of this local eatery. Clear your mind of any conventional street food experience. Here is Penang’s famous Laksa, even those who prefer their own recipes will have to admit that Air Itam (also spelled “Air Hitam” ) is THE place for the best introduction. No one…

The Habitat on Penang Hill : Up close and friendly with nature

The best times to visit The Habitat , the work-in-progress-green “Narnia” on top of Bukit Bendera, or Penang Hill , are during the weekdays and NOT on a school holiday, if possible. I always like to encourage visitors to use the Penang’s public transport , bus number 204 is easily accessible from Komtar, or the…

The simplicity of Nasi Padang

Penangites love to eat. We eat all the time. I’ve known friends who will drive all the way up from Kuala Lumpur when their cravings take over. Our food connects people, I believe its because of our very colourful history , the blend of spices and herbs as marinate or paste triggers not only your…

At Batu Feringghi :Short Term Rental By the Sea

When growing up in Europe,  in the 90’s especially, people would ask me where I’m from and I’d say of course, Malaysia. What was popular amongst wanderlusters then,  was the epic Asia trail, Phuket-Borneo-Penang-Bali . They’ve heard more about these spots , than they’ve heard of the capital cities. Endless sandy white beaches, clear water,…

Coffee with Bill

Coffee with Bill Bill is actually chuckling here in this photo. William Brownlie Hilston (Bill) has been a resident of Malaysia since the 80’s, actually he arrived here, when it was Malaya in the 50’s but moved around Asia for work. Scotland was his home. You’ll see Bill rock up to Hillside Café on Tuesdays…

Restaurant Review : indigo at The Blue Mansion,  Penang, Malaysia. 

Restaurant Review : indigo at The Blue Mansion We can’t dive into a restaurant review without shedding some light on the mansion that it’s housed in. The Cheong Fatt Tze (affectionately known as the Blue Mansion) was named after the original owner, who at the tender age of 16 from Hakka, followed the throngs of driven men…