Types of Hotels in Penang
As a world class tourist destination, Penang offers a huge variety of accommodation across a wide price range. Here are some of the options that you can consider.
Heritage Hotels
Heritage Hotels are the type of accomodation that retains the original characteristic of the buildings. Penang has a number of old buildings that were built during colonial time that are still preserved and adapted into a hotel.
The exterior and the interior of the buildings, the architectural features and the general construction often have the distinctive qualities and ambience in keeping with the traditional way of life of the area.
Buildings that turn into heritage hotel are only allowed less than 50% new structures integrated into the old structure. Because of this, the facilities such as swimming pools, lawns are not available.
For the guests who want to experience Penang rich culture and traditional Penang cuisine, heritage hotels are the perfect place to stay.
Beach Resorts
Beach resorts are full service holiday lodging facilities that are located at the seaside. Some beach resorts have access to a private beach. The resort offers an all-around service that include water entertainment and recreational activities.
Beach resorts are a self-contained establishment. It provides the guests with amenities like the lodging, food, drink, sports, entertainment and souvenir shops. Beach resort is suitable for families and child friendly with lots of programs for the children.
Boat Jetty
Boat Jetty is a cheaper alternative for beach resorts. For the guest who can't afford the luxury of enjoying a private beach, boat jetty also offers the view of the sea.
Boat Jetty usually can be found in the fishing village area. The sea is a bit busy and noisy in the morning from the sound of the boat used by the fisherman going out and coming in from fishing.
Unlike beach resorts, boat jetty only provides basic amenities. However, due to it's location, the guest can explore the fishing village by feet or with bicycle to find what they need from nearby shops and restaurants.
Sometimes at night, there will be seafood restaurants offering fresh seafood with a cheap price around the area.
City Hotel
City hotel is the hotel located in the city. It usually runs by corporation and has different branches in every city. The hotel offers services like wake-up calls, room cleaning, laundry, restaurant and transport services for its patron.
The hotel ranges from one star hotel to five stars hotel.The guests have the option to choose the hotel based on their budget. For those who have stricter budget can choose to stay at the slightly cheaper hotel. The offers services like wake-up calls, room cleaning, laundry and a breakfast service for the guests.
For those who want to enjoy their stay and no problem to spend more for it. Mid-range or high end hotel are the most fitting place to stay. The staff will cater to every need upon being called and the concierge is always reliable if one wants something done for them. It also has facilities like the gym, spa, two or three restaurants and swimming pool.
Nature Resorts
Nature Resorts are often located at a little bit secluded area away from the City. The resort integrates the element of nature so the guests can enjoy the greeneries and quiet environment it offers.
Due to its location, oftentimes it is far away from other attractions and the mode of transportation is quite limited. It is also away from other attractions and entertainments.
For the travellers who like to explore what is happening in town. This resort might not be suitable for them. This resort is suitable for those who wants to escape the hustle and the bustle of the city. Surrounded by trees and nature, The resort provides the calm and relaxing surrounding for the guest.
Homestays
There are two types of homestay in Malaysia. One is run by several agencies in Malaysia where the visitors will be adopted and placed to live with the host family and the other is the private homeowner renting out their place for visitors to use for accommodation.
The former is a fun way to experience the culture first hand. Most of the guests who joined the program often give good reviews for it.
The latter has mixed review. The attitude of the homeowner often affects the whole experience renting a homestay. Some owners are accommodating while some are not. The most famous app for this service is airBnB.
With airBnB, the guests could check the review of the owner and the place they want to rent beforehand. It helps filter out some bad homeowners from the good one.