What better way to celebrate tomorrow's George Town UNESCO World Heritage Day than staying in at one of the city's best known boutique hotels.
PLEASANTLY roused at the crack of dawn by a pair of inquisitive sparrows perched at a nearby windowsill, my attention shifts to the attractive set up in the gradually brightening room.
Tastefully filled with stunning period-style furniture, the interior exudes an enticing rare old-world charm that befits Yeng Keng Hotel, a stunningly restored heritage boutique hotel strategically located right in the heart of George Town's historic quarter.
Opened just a few years after George Town was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008, the hotel offers guests the rare luxury of timeless design, unparalleled history and ample space with plenty of private nook and crannies to enjoy a variety of unique facilities.
Unlike other stand-alone buildings in the vicinity which are usually relegated to the rear by rows of shop-houses, Yeng Keng Hotel uniquely enjoys unobstructed frontage access along bustling Lebuh Chulia with its striking facade fully visible from the roadside.
Despite undergoing a series of modern-day extensions and luxurious refurbishments, the original grandeur of this sprawling two-century old mansion is evident everywhere.
Built in the striking Anglo-Indian architectural style by Shaik Eusoffe bin Shaik Latiff for his Indian-Muslim family, ownership was transferred to the trustees of Ying Han Pit Shu, a popular 19th century Cantonese social club in 1897.
The building changed hands several more times before transforming like the proverbial phoenix into this stunning hospitality provider that regularly tops the Penang boutique accommodation list.
STAY
Setting the benchmark for luxurious living in a refurbished heritage building overflowing with culture and history, Yeng Keng Hotel's 19 beautifully appointed rooms and suites come in eight different categories ranging from superior, courtyard, mansion deluxe to courtyard family for the former while types representing the latter include garden, chulia, family and yeng keng.
While sizes vary according to category, all rooms feature luxurious beds, vintage wooden panel floors, timeless furniture as well as tastefully designed beddings and fixtures. Some even have patios overlooking the tranquil courtyard and offer sweeping street views.
Part of a sprawling mansion which garners fame as one of the oldest surviving and intact 19th century buildings in this renowned UNESCO World Heritage City, my courtyard room comes with a luxurious en-suite bathroom and offers sweeping pool views.
After tucking into a sumptuous semi-buffet breakfast spread, opportunity arrives to explore the hotel proper. Top on my list of favourites is the courtyard area located at mid-section of this two-storey building.
Filled with ample seating places interspersed with lush greenery and antique jars with eye-catching motifs that blend seamlessly with the traditional red floor tiles, this airy haven is the place to spend lazy late mornings before adjourning for lunch at nearby outlets offering delectable street food.
Its air-conditioned upper floor guest lounge area is a perfect sanctuary for those seeking refuge from the sweltering afternoon heat.
Covered with pleasing soft toned colour schemes, this public place is outfitted with elegant decorations including comfortable antique furniture, captivating photographs of old Penang and well-maintained hardwood floor boards covered with luxuriously thick woven rugs.
The remainder of the day is spent enjoying a relaxing dip in the pool before hitting the streets once again to sample the delicious cuisine whipped up at hawker stalls that start to line the roadsides as the sun makes it final descent towards the distant horizon.
Back just in time to see the streetlights come alive from my own private patio, recollections of visiting George Town's many interesting sights overwhelm.
Memorable in every sense of the word, the experiences savoured will serve as recurring reminders to return soon and relive all these pleasant memories once again.
EAT
Apart from checking out the many food outlets that dot the streets of George Town, do make it a point to check out the tantalising offerings at a directly adjacent outlet, Yeng Keng Restaurant by Hainantown.
While the mixture of Hainanese and Western staples are primary gastronomic highlights, diners also favour other artisanal delights that throw the spotlight on chic international flavours. It opens daily from 10.30am to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm, except Mondays.
DO
Surprisingly, the boutique hotel has its own swimming pool that just adds the romanticism to the beautiful hotel. But if taking a dip is not your kind of thing, do check out its many interesting 19th century features that have withstood the test of time like the ornate timber staircases, cast iron railings and antique furniture. Also keep an eye out for stunning wall ornaments that serve as reminders of the building's opulent past.
GO
Take advantage of the hotel's strategic location to check out the various 13th George Town Festival venues. Taking place for 16 days from July 9, the festival program encompasses enthralling dance, music and theatre performances as well as notable film features and absorbing photographic exhibitions.
While exploring, keep an eye out for artistic installations and stunning murals in practically every street and save stomach space for Penang's many delectable cuisines.
VERDICTS
HIGHS Strategic location and excellent service.
LOWS Cannot think of any!
YENG KENG HOTEL
362 & 366 Lebuh Chulia, George Town,
10200 Pulau Pinang
TEL 04-262 2177
EMAIL reservations@yengkenghotel.com
WEBSITE www.yengkenghotel.com
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