5 Reasons Why You Should Stay at Penang’s Eastern & Oriental Hotel

Established by the famed Sarkies Brothers in 1885, whose architectural landmarks also include Singapore’s Raffles Hotel, the Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Hotel in Penang Island is the only hotel in the heart of George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts prime sea frontage.

The original site of the E&O Hotel, the Heritage Wing, features 100 elegant and expansive suites that retained its unique colonial charm whilst offering modern comforts with round-the-clock butler service. Staying true to its architectural inspiration, E&O unveiled its new extension in March 2013 – a 15-storey building named the Victory Annexe, its namesake being an old block of the hotel, so named after the British victory in World War I. The Annexe adds a further 132 classically appointed, sea-fronting suites, complemented by new restaurants, meeting rooms, pool, spa, and niche retail outlets.

Besides being delighted with E&O’s colonial charm and grandiloquent elegance set upon Penang’s balmy shores, here are 5 other reasons why you should stay at E&O if you’re visiting Penang Island.

---

1. High-Tea at 1885

---

This restaurant offers classical yet contemporary cuisine in an elegant environment which reflects the art of colonial style dining. We were treated to a Traditional English Afternoon Tea priced at 65.30RM nett per person anytime from 2pm to 5pm. Whenever one mentions “high-tea” in Penang, people would always recommend 1885.

Look forward to savoury finger sandwiches, dainty cakes and tea pastries, as well as, 1885’s signature scones with strawberry jam made in-house. Our favourites are marinated tuna flakes on whole meal loaf and egg mayonnaise in mini croissant. The former is very refreshing whereas the latter consists of just the right amount of creaminess. The fruit tart is really lovely. It’s not overly sweet, and we really enjoyed its crumbly exterior. The longan topping this fruit tart will surprise you with a burst of refreshing juices.

There’s a good variety of tea to choose from, and we tried Raspberry Royal and Soft Peach, which are the two hot favourites among ladies. Sun-ripened raspberry leaves you feeling energized while the delicate, soft taste of peaches blends well with vanilla, keeping you relaxed throughout your high-tea session.

---

2. Indulge in E&O’s classic claw-footed long baths

---

For those staying in the Corner Suites, the luxurious long baths are facing the Andaman Sea. You’ll get picturesque views of the Straits of Malacca. The Studio Suites also provide long baths, but without a magnificent view. After a hot and long day out exploring the streets of Penang, we’re pretty sure soaking your tired body in the bathtub is like being served char kway teow on a silver plate.

---

3. Take a Dip in E&O’s Gorgeous Swimming Pools

---

Set amidst lush tropical greenery in a beautifully manicured garden is Heritage Wing’s swimming pool that faces the sea. This is the focal point for guests seeking to unwind or to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit.

The new infinity pool located on the 6th storey of the Victory Annexe Wing reminds us of Santorini Island. After a pleasant swim, you can enjoy al fresco dining and drinks by the pool that overlooks the spectacular ocean.

If you’re awake early enough for breakfast, try the Planters Lounge, which is exclusively for guests staying in the Victory Annexe. The Planters Lounge serves complimentary breakfast, coffee and tea throughout the day, and evening cocktails with canapés from 5pm to 6pm daily.

---

4. Catch Glorious Sunrise & Sunset at E&O

---

Hands up if you’re one who’s motivated to get up early to chase sunrises! This is one of the most beautiful sunrises we’ve witnessed. When dawn broke, the sky in the opposite direction was still dark, but in the East, a mixture of yellow and orange on the horizon beneath a dark neon blue ocean of night had begun to evaporate. About 20 minutes later when we have made our way to the swimming pool at Heritage Wing, the sun peeked over the horizon, and the sky had become pink, like a sea of cotton candy, with the sun rays colouring the clouds above a pinkish hue. It’s a perfect timing for pool photography!

---

5. E&O Is Conveniently Located Near Major Attractions & Food Havens

---

A short 5 minutes walk brings you to Penang’s iconic Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. If you’re up to walking 15 to 20 minutes away from E&O, you’ll be able to find Fort Cornwallis, Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Clocktower, Kapitan Keling Mosque, and Penang’s Clan Jetties, just to name a few.

Foodies, it’s almost impossible to contain your excitement as Toh Soon Coffee, Line Clear Nasi Kandar, and Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls are located just a mere 10 minutes walk away from the hotel.

If you need to satisfy that inner sweet-tooth, China House Café that serves amazing cakes is approximately 15 minutes walk away. With this timing, you will also arrive at Kimberley Street Food Night Market.

Staying at The Eastern & Oriental Penang made us feel very well taken care of. You’ll not only be tantalized by the medley of flavours and aromas at the hotel’s restaurants. You’ll also be pampered in your suites as well. Heading to Penang for a short weekend getaway? This is a really good hotel you can consider.

Details
Address: 10 Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Penang, Malaysia
Contact: +604 222 2000
Website: http://www.eohotels.com/
Email: luxury@eohotels.com

Note that this is an invited stay, but the opinions are the writer’s own.