How To Visit Penang’s Clan Jetties: Chew Jetty and Tan Jetty

Exploring Penang’s Clan Jetties: Chew Jetty and Tan Jetty

Visiting historic Clan Jetties was on top of our Penang “What To See” list. Built by Chinese immigrant communities in the 19th century, these waterfront settlements sit on wooden stilts above the sea and remain active residential areas today. Visiting the jetties offers an accessible look at Penang’s living heritage, traditional architecture, and coastal lifestyle.

Chew Jetty: The Most Iconic Stop

Chew Jetty is the most popular tourist friendly of the remaining clan jetties. The entrance is lively, with various small vendors. We stopped here for a moment to have fresh coconuts—an ideal refreshment before walking the long wooden boardwalk under the tropical heat.

Shops line both sides of the jetty, offering souvenirs, snacks, and locally-made items. As you walk toward the waterfront, the scent of the sea, dried seafood, and wood adds to the atmosphere. Murals depicting traditional life and small temples highlight the community’s cultural roots, making Chew Jetty a convenient introduction to Penang’s maritime heritage.

Tan Jetty: A Quieter, More Authentic Experience

A short walk away, Tan Jetty provides a contrasting experience. It is quieter, less commercial, and offers a more authentic look at daily life on the water. With fewer crowds, visitors can appreciate the stilt houses, open sea views, and the slower pace of the community. The long pier extending into the water is a popular photography spot, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Street Food Near the Jetties

Food stalls near Tan Jetty offer simple, affordable local snacks. Deep‑fried prawn crackers and fried tofu are popular choices, typically costing around 4.20 MYR (about $1.50 CAD). These quick bites are ideal if you want a light snack before continuing your George Town exploration.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon provides better lighting and avoids the intense midday heat on the exposed wooden walkways.

• Respect the Residents: The jetties are living neighborhoods. Follow posted signs regarding photography and avoid entering private areas.

• Footwear: Some temples require shoes to be removed, so choose footwear that is easy to slip on and off.

We liked visiting Clan Jetties a lot. It also reminded us our visit to the Muslim Floating Fishing Village in Thailand. Clan Jetties offer of the island’s most unique cultural experiences—easy to visit, visually interesting, and deeply connected to the city’s history.

Penang Hill Guide: Funicular Trains, Hilltop Views, and What to Expect

Penang Hill Guide: Top Things To See

Penang Hill is the only location we visited on our Malaysia trip after landing in Kuala Lumpur.  Located in Northern Malaysia, Penang has cooler temperatures, panoramic views, and a funicular system that’s an engineering landmark. If you’re visiting Penang, this is one of the easiest half‑day trips you can make.

Funicular Train: The Fastest Way Up

Our visit starts at the Penang Hill Lower Station in Air Itam, where the funicular train takes you to the summit in minutes.

Ticket Price for Foreign Visitors: 60 MYR (round‑trip)

The ride is smooth and steep, and one of the most interesting moments is the mid‑section, where you can see the massive pulley wheels that synchronize both trains. For the best visuals, stand at the front or back to watch the track rise or fall directly beneath you. Also, we saw some houses tucked in the mountains that added a charm to the view.

At the Top: Weather and Views

The summit is noticeably cooler than George Town. On clear days, you’ll get wide views of:

- George Town

- Penang Bridge

- The coastline and sea

However, Penang Hill is known for sudden fog. When clouds roll in, the sea view disappears completely and the area turns into a misty, atmospheric hilltop. We were not lucky enough to have a clear view that day.

Temples and Hilltop Landmarks

A unique feature of Penang Hill is the Hindu Temple and Mosque located side‑by‑side, reflecting Malaysia’s multicultural identity. The summit also offers gardens, walking paths, and several viewpoints overlooking the city.

If you prefer not to walk, electric buggies are available.

Buggy Tour: Around 40 MYR per person

Food and Small Treats

There are cafés and small stalls around the peak. A popular option is the Mango Ice Cream (5 MYR) — simple, refreshing, and ideal for the cooler climate. Macaque monkeys are common, so keep food and objects secure.

Final Thoughts

We enjoyed the entire trip and our only regret was not having sunny weather that day. If you are visiting Penang, Penang Hill is absolutely worth visiting for its funicular ride, cooler weather, and panoramic views. Whether you’re interested in engineering, photography, or just a relaxing escape from the city, it’s one of Penang’s most accessible and enjoyable attractions.

Cititel Penang Review: Stunning Ocean Views & Surprisingly Good Breakfast

Cititel Penang Malaysia Review: Best Breakfast In Penang?

After crossing the ferry, we arrived at Penang transit hub filled with buses, taxis, and small shops. We called Grab on the app, but noticed that local taxis were asking for too much.

Checking into Cititel Penang was a pleasant surprise. The lobby was spacious and felt welcoming, and the staff offered complimentary green and pink guava drinks, which tasted refreshingly close to fresh fruit. At the reception desk, the employee acknowledged that I booked the hotel 10 months ago and appreciated it. After finishing our drink, we headed to the room for a full tour.

The room itself was compact but thoughtfully arranged. The washroom included a dental kit, cotton buds, hand and body wash, and a rain‑style shower. While there was no conditioner provided, the setup was clean and functional. The closet area included a prayer mat, iron, hair dryer, and a safe, along with slippers—a detail many hotels have recently stopped offering.

One standout feature was the hotel’s eco‑friendly approach. Instead of disposable plastic bottles, guests receive refillable water bottles, with refill stations available on each floor. I liked this idea a lot and wondered why not every hotel does it! The room also included a small fridge, a workstation, a mirror, a compact TV, and a comfortable king‑size bed.

But the highlight of the stay was undeniably the view. Our room faced the ocean, offering a wide, unobstructed panorama of the water with a touch of cityscape on the side. Even as daylight faded, the scenery remained impressive.

Breakfast at Cititel Penang offers a wide selection: cereals, toast, fruits, dim sum, chicken sausages, baked beans, hash browns, fried noodles, condiments, fried fish, sushi rolls, and more. There’s also an egg station and a coffee area, making it easy to build a satisfying meal. We concluded that this was our best breakfast in Malaysia, surpassing all the other hotels. 

Overall, Cititel Penang delivers excellent value with friendly service, clean rooms, eco‑conscious amenities, and a view that elevates the entire experience. For travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of Penang, this hotel is a reliable choice.

KL to Penang by Train (Business Class) + Ferry Transfer Guide 🇲🇾

Kuala Lumpur to Penang Business Class Train

After spending one day in Kuala Lumpur, Walking Lady and I were looking forward to our business class train trip to Penang. We decided to take the train for its experience, as we would be taking a flight on our return trip. The ETS Business Class service offers a premium experience that eliminates airport transfers, security lines, and the unpredictability of road travel, while still delivering speed and convenience.

Upon arriving at the huge KL Sentral station, we accessed the Business Class Ruby Lounge on the upper concourse. The lounge provides a quiet environment with complimentary drinks. Boarding is fully digital—simply scan the QR code from the KTM app to enter the lounge and later the platform, directly from the lounge.

Once onboard, the ETS Business Class cabin immediately stands out. The 1‑2 seating layout provides significantly more space than standard class, with wide seats, adjustable headrests, and a deep recline suitable for long journeys. Each seat includes a personal touchscreen offering entertainment and internet access, along with a dedicated power outlet for laptops and devices. A Snack Box is provided at the start of the trip, followed by a hot meal service featuring local Malaysian dishes such as Nasi Tomato with Ayam Merah.

The train reaches speeds of up to 140 km/h, offering a smooth and quiet ride through Malaysia’s countryside. We took a tour to check out the economy class, washroom,  the bistro and prayer room in adjacent coaches. Even economy class impressed me with how nice and comfortable they were.

Arrival at Butterworth Station marks the transition to Penang Island. The station connects directly to Penang Sentral via an air‑conditioned walkway, making the transfer straightforward even with luggage. Ferry tickets are now fully cashless and can be purchased using cards or mobile payment. Ferries operate frequently, and the short 10 to 15-minute crossing to George Town provides clear views of the Penang Bridge and the island skyline.

For travellers prioritizing comfort, reliability, and a seamless connection into George Town, the Business Class train and ferry combination remains one of the most strategic ways to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang. 

Pro Tip: Buy your tickets long before your trip. We booked our tickets months ahead.

Maldives Complete Travel Guide: A To Z

MALDIVES TRAVEL GUIDE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Maldives is fundamentally different from any other travel destination on Earth. It is not just a collection of islands; it is a nation of 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 natural atolls. Every single island in the country is a coral island, meaning you are literally walking on the skeletons of ancient reefs.

THE ISLAND BREAKDOWN

To plan correctly, you must understand how these 1,200 islands are divided:

Inhabited Islands (Local): Approximately 200 islands are home to the local Maldivian population. These are where you find guesthouses, local schools, and a glimpse into the culture.

Resort Islands (Private): Roughly 160+ islands follow the "One Island, One Resort" concept. Each is a self-contained private world owned by a single hotel brand.

Uninhabited Islands: The remaining 800+ islands are either used for agriculture, industrial purposes, or left completely untouched—perfect for "picnic island" excursions.

WHY THE GEOGRAPHY MATTERS

Coral Foundation: Unlike volcanic islands (like Hawaii) or continental islands (like the Seychelles), the Maldives is built entirely on coral. This means the sand is made of calcium carbonate; it is incredibly white and, uniquely, it stays cool even under the hottest midday sun.

The Flatness: This is the lowest-lying country on the planet. The average ground level is just 1.5 meters above sea level. This lack of elevation is why there are no rivers, lakes, or mountains—only endless turquoise horizons.

The Barrier Reefs: Every island is protected by a natural barrier reef that breaks the ocean waves, creating the calm, shallow lagoons the Maldives is famous for.

THE PLANNING & LOGISTICS MANUAL

The Maldives looks like a paradise, but it can be a logistical nightmare if you don’t know how to plan. Most people spend thousands more than they need to because of hidden taxes and transport traps. I’ve spent weeks on local islands like Dhigurah and Maafushi and stayed at world-class resorts. This is the A to Z manual on the costs and strategy you need for a perfect trip.

The Flight Strategy

I don’t want to spend too much time talking about flights, but here is a helpful tip for planning your route.

Connecting Hubs: Cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, and Singapore work as excellent connecting hubs for Malé.

Stopover Hack: You can stop over and spend a day or two in these cities if you want to stretch your experience and see another destination on the same trip.

Alternative Hubs: Colombo is also a good connecting city, but it is typically further away than the other major hubs listed above.

ARRIVAL & THE "FRIDAY" TRAP

The Visa: Free 30-day visa on arrival. Just ensure your passport is valid for 6 months.

IMUGA: Mandatory. Submit your digital declaration within 96 hours of landing. Keep the QR code on your phone.

The Friday Warning: The Maldives is an Islamic nation. On Fridays, the country shuts down. Public ferries do not run, and many speedboat schedules are cut in half. If you land on a Friday, you might be stuck in Malé for 24 hours. Plan around this.

CUSTOMS & BANNED ITEMS

Prohibited Items: This is a dry country. Do not bring alcohol from Duty-Free; they scan every bag and they will seize it. Import of pornography, sex toys, vapes, idols of worship, or non-Islamic religious materials is strictly prohibited.

No Dogs Allowed: Dogs are strictly prohibited from being imported into the Maldives by tourists. Do not attempt to bring any pets other than cats, which require a specific health permit and prior approval.

THE TRANSFER HUB STRATEGY

The Transit Hack: Instead of a long same-day transfer, stay on islands just 10 minutes from the airport, like Hulhumalé. It’s a cheap taxi or ferry away and lets you see more local life.

Maafushi: If you want an easy-to-reach local hub that is a gateway for excursions, I highly recommend starting in Maafushi.

The Daylight Rule: Seaplanes only fly when the sun is up. If you land after 4:00 PM, you’ll be stuck in Malé/Hulhumalé for the night anyway. Always book a morning arrival.

TRANSFER COST OPTIMIZATION

To save money, choose your private resort based on proximity to Malé.

Speedboat: Reachable for $150–$300 roundtrip.

The Seaplane Trap: Remote resorts require seaplanes costing $500–$900 per person.

The Reality Check: A seaplane transfer can cost more than your international flight. Unless you have a massive budget, filter your resort search for "Speedboat Transfer" only.

THE SPEEDBOAT REALITY CHECK

While speedboats are the most common transfer method, they aren't always a "relaxing cruise."

The "Roller Coaster" Effect: In open water, speedboats can be incredibly bumpy, rough, and loud. The boat literally jumps over waves.

Motion Sickness: This is a major issue for kids and those prone to sea sickness. If the weather is even slightly choppy, expect a very "rolling" ride.

Stay Close to Malé: Choose a resort or local island within a 15–20 minute radius of the airport (like Hulhumalé, Maafushi, or Sheraton Full Moon). Shorter rides mean less time in the "washing machine."

Choose a Seaplane: For islands further out, a seaplane is significantly smoother and provides a "flight" experience rather than a "bumpy boat" experience.

The Middle Seat Hack: If you must take a long speedboat ride, sit in the back or middle of the boat. The front (bow) hits the waves the hardest and has the most vertical movement.

THE SPLIT-STAY SEQUENCE

Don’t choose between a resort and a local island—do both. But the order is critical.

Start Local: Spend your first week on a local island. Do all tours and diving here for a fraction of the cost. A standard snorkeling trip on a local island is around $50+, whereas the same trip at a nearby resort often starts at $150+.

NB: Dhigurah is widely considered the best place in the world to do whale shark tours. Many guesthouses here offer dinner included, which is a great way to save on your daily budget.

Finish Luxury: For the final 2 to 4 nights, move to a private luxury resort.

Why? If you move from a resort to a guesthouse, it feels like a downgrade. Ending at the resort ensures you finish your trip on a "peak" of relaxation.

RESORT DAY PASSES (THE ULTIMATE FLEX)

If you can’t afford $1,000/night for a resort, stay on Maafushi or Hulhumalé and buy a Day Pass.

The Cost: Usually $120–$180 per person.

The Value: This includes your boat transfer, pool access, private beach, and often a buffet lunch with open-bar drinks. You get the luxury experience for 1/10th of the price.

THE MEAL PLAN MATH

The Trap: Ordering a-la-carte can cost $100+ per person, per meal at resorts.

The Reality: At the Sheraton Full Moon, we had a three-meal package and it was way too much food. The breakfast is so massive you’ll struggle to eat lunch.

The Hack: Book the Half-Board plan (Breakfast + 1 Meal). You eat a huge breakfast, skip lunch, and have a great dinner.

The Saving: You’ll pay about $45 per meal instead of $100. Always book a package; never pay per meal.

MONEY, SIMS & RULES

The Price Trap: Always check the final price. Resorts show a base rate, but with the 17% Tourism GST (new for 2026), 10% service charge, and $12/night Green Tax, your bill will double.

Connectivity: Get an eSIM before arriving or pick up a local SIM at the airport. You need data to track boat transfers.

Currency: We used both USD and Maldivian Rufiyaa. Don’t convert all your cash at the airport. I got the best exchange rates directly from my local island guesthouse.

ATM Fees : Local island ATMs (Bank of Maldives) charge a flat fee of 100 MVR (approx. $6.50 USD) for every foreign card withdrawal. This is on top of whatever your home bank charges.

Bicycles: Renting a bike on a local island is $5/day. At a private resort, that same bike can be $80.

Respect: Bikinis are for "Bikini Beaches" or resorts only. In villages, keep shoulders and knees covered.

Alcohol Loophole: Local islands are dry, but hubs like Maafushi, Ukulhas, and Dhiffushi have floating bar boats offshore. A free shuttle boat takes you there for a drink.

THE RAINY SEASON STRATEGY

Don’t fear the "Wet Season" (May–Nov). The weather is stable (26–33°C). Rain usually comes in short, 10-minute bursts.

The Benefit: Luxury prices plummet and beaches are empty. I’ve gone 10 days in the rainy season with almost no rain at all.

EXPERT HACKS

Drone Usage: Drones are generally welcome on local islands with permission. However, private resorts are almost always "No-Fly Zones" to protect guest privacy; they rarely approve drone requests.

Power & Electricity: The Maldives primarily uses Type G (UK-style) sockets. Local guesthouses rarely have universal outlets, so carry a travel adapter.

Tipping Etiquette: A 10% service charge is automatically added to almost every bill. Extra tipping is optional, but a small cash tip ($5–$20) for boat crews or villa hosts is highly appreciated for great service.

Alcohol Loophole: Local islands are strictly dry, but popular hubs often have "floating bar" boats anchored offshore that serve alcohol legally and provide free shuttle transfers.

THE PACKING LIST ESSENTIALS

Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Use mineral-based (Zinc Oxide) sunscreen. It is better for the fragile coral ecosystem and stays on more effectively during long snorkeling sessions.

Breathable Clothing: Pack moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics. These are far better for high humidity than heavy cotton, which stays wet and uncomfortable.

Motion Sickness Meds: Open-water speedboat crossings can be incredibly bumpy. Have Dramamine or ginger tablets ready for these "roller coaster" rides.

Cash (USD): Local shops prefer crisp, un-torn US Dollar bills (post-2013 series) or local Rufiyaa. Larger resorts will accept credit cards.

Modest Clothing: On local islands and in villages, you must keep your shoulders and knees covered. A lightweight shirt or sarong is ideal for these areas.

LAST WORD

The Maldives is effortless once you master the system. Check my playlist for deep dives into Dhigurah and the best affordable resorts. Drop your questions below. I’ll see you in the blue.