How to travel around Penang

Being a state with a part of it on the mainland and the other part an island Penang encompasses a mix of Asian cultures. This is evident in Georgetown, the cosmopolitan main city of the state with its exotic cuisine and the kaleidoscopic array of attractions. As discerning visitors to this captivating city here are some useful insights on how to travel around Penang to have unforgettable memories of your visit. 

Introduction 

Penang is a vibrant vacation getaway with natural beauty, an exotic mix of cultures and a rich colonial past that draws many visitors to its shores. A small yet well-developed state with various parts of the island having a sound road network. Getting around Penang is easy, apart from the rush hours, so keep this in mind when you plan to get about in Penang during that time as there is traffic congestion at these times. 

Various modes of transport are available to suit different budgets and needs. Travel by bus is convenient for long distances and is quite affordable while trishaws are available in plenty for short distances and tend to be used often by visitors using Georgetown city hotels in Penang. Read on to find more details about the services. 

Travelling by Bus 

Operating from two main hubs Weld Quay Jetty Georgetown and KOMTAR Complex (also known as Penang New Urban Centre and the tallest building in Georgetown) city buses also do long-haul routes and run all over the island and take visitors as far as the Penang National Park. The bus service is the cheapest mode of transport on the island. 

Rapid Buses – These are new modern and well-kept buses that run to a schedule. If you intend to spend several days in Georgetown and intend to use bus services, getting a Rapid Passport Card is a good idea. This is done by visitors from hotels like Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang who are on the island for several weeks as the card offers unlimited bus rides for a week. These cards can be purchased at the bus hubs as well as at the airport. As many routes operated by these buses overlap, visitors can get confused easily. Therefore, carry a route map, look for the electronic signboards and if still in doubt inquire with the bus driver. 

Free Buses – Buses known as CAT (Central Area Transport) run through major stops in Georgetown including Fort Cornwallis which is free of charge. These are labelled as Free CAT Bus and operate daily except on Sundays from Weld Key Jetty till almost midnight in 15-minute intervals. 

Getting about by Taxi 

Taxis in Georgetown are metered and carry a notice indicating no haggling. Yet you find some taxis are not metered. 

Therefore, always ensure that the taxi is metered and if not, make sure you agree on the charge before boarding the taxi. With many taxis available flagging down another taxi is not difficult. Be aware that taxi charges are higher at night. 

Using Trishaws 

The three-wheeled trishaw is a great experience, especially for those visitors who have not been on one before. Although the tropical sun in Penang may put you off there is a charm in being carried on one, try this along the esplanade near Fort Cornwallis for a ride with the breeze fanning your skin. 

As with taxis, agree on the rate for your intended trip. These patient drivers give you the flexibility to stop by to pick up souvenirs or snacks as you lumber along sightseeing or just explore a different street to witness the Street Art in Georgetown etc. Any tip you provide over and above the fare will be accepted with gratitude for their toil.