5 ways to experience Penang that you might not have known about

This article first appeared on Skyscanner's 5 ways to experience Penang that you might not have known about

1. Delight in a secret picnic at Muka Head

Photo: : Syed Abdul Khaliq

For a mesmerising slice of nature, make your way down to the National Park in Penang.

Although touted as one of the smallest national parks in the world, you may be able to find a boat operator who will take you to the beautiful island of Muka Head for a private barbecue seafood lunch.

While you're in the area, it's worth exploring the Turtle Sanctuary that's located on Pantai Kerachut - just tell your friendly boat operator you want to go there after that private lunch.

2. Hop on a rickshaw

Photo: Pixabay

Penang is filled with little secrets and the best way to unlock these is via the locals.

Imagine your very own guide to Penang on wheels - hop onto a rickshaw and soak in the beautiful sights of heritage buildings in this city while a local explains to you the significance of each of them.

Take his or her suggestions on where to go for lunch, what to see and what to experience because the locals obviously know the place best!

3. Savour the king of all fruits

Photo:  The Wandering Angel / Flickr

Singaporeans love their durians and we know this because we're willing to queue up and pay top dollar for a taste of this fruit.

Go beyond your usual Mao Shan Wang indulgence and head to Penang's morning wet markets and the durian truck along Love Lane for some affordable and fantastic durians.

Get a taste of the Little Red (a blusher version of the Red Prawn) durian while you're here too!

4. Try a glass of Toddy

Photo:  Paradise in the Pacific

No trip to Penang is complete without trying a locally-concocted alcoholic beverage made from the flower of the coconut and sugar palm: Toddy.

If you're a little sceptical about this beverage, then go down to Ong Cheng Huat Seafood for some of this beverage and a nice seafood lunch.

Prefer more things to do along the way? Make your way down to Market Lane in Georgetown and pop into one of many shops to quench your thirst!

5. Get spooked out in Penang

Photo: Chris Price / Flickr

Take a walk (or a guided tour) along some of the spookiest places in Penang.

If you are feeling a little ballsy, opt for an overnight camp at the Penang War Museum (Batu Maung) - an old time WWII site during the Japanese invasion.

Otherwise, check out the Hundred Years Mansion in Relau where a temple that is built nearby is believed to keep the evil spirits in.