George Town Day 89

Capital of the Malaysian island of Penang, George Town has long been a crossroads. Resting on the Strait of Malacca, it served as an important port on the prosperous trade routes between Madras and Canton. Today, it is a glorious celebration of culture, one of Asia's most colorful corners. Malays, Indians and Chinese all share a past here, as a ride around town via a pedaled trishaw. George Town's unique cityscape features shops from colonial days, Buddhist and Taoist temples and kongsi, brightly painted clanhouses that traditionally open their doors to all who share a surname. We explored the melting pot of cultures that have helped create Malaysia's oldest city. George Town is where East meets West and old meets new, with an intriguing blend of British and Southeast Asian influences. We took on a tour by motor coach through the city. Mohamed didn’t explain much about how George Town developed as a trading post in the 18th century. We didn’t even slow the bus to see England at Downing Street-which, as in London, was once a seat of government and the poorly maintained whitewashed facade of St. George's Church. We walked through the old dirty city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and viewed the faded sad bicycle street art, (we have seen better graffiti) and quickly drove past Kek Lok Si, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, and the eye-catching State Mosque. We passed the sacred Hindu Waterfall Hill Temple, Botanical Gardens and Fort Cornwallis en route to your ship. Mohamed needs more time in seat to make a passable tour guide.Read more