George Town on Penang Island is the historic capital of the Straits Settlements, UNESCO-listed since 2008. This city in Malaysia is famed for architecture reflecting its diverse Malaysia people (Chinese, Indian, Malay, Peranakan) and British colonial history. The shophouses along Armenian Street are a key sight. From 2012, the city's old walls have been painted by artists led by Ernest Zacharevic; 'Children on a Bicycle' on Armenian Street is the most photographed. George Town is also widely regarded as having the best street food in Southeast Asia: char kway teow, asam laksa, and cendol are the staples.

What makes this place special

The Ernest Zacharevic murals are scattered across the old town. 'Children on a Bicycle' on Armenian Street is the icon, but a dozen others are mapped on a free walking guide.

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Penang's signature sour-fish noodle soup is best at the Air Itam market, where a 30-year-old stall is consistently rated the best in Malaysia.