Penang is never quiet – not even at night. When it comes to chilling with your buddies or new found friends, there are countless little pubs, bars and cafes in George Town.

Chulia Street, Leith Street and Penang Road are backpacker areas dotted with many little establishments serving cheap beers and hot snacks (street food is always readily available here).

At the Upper Penang Road, Mediterranean-inspired clubs, lounges and bistros and al fresco eateries thrive. To really experience the ground move (literally) under you, pop by on a weekend. Live bands and the latest chart-topping hits are popular as dance music does not seem to have a large following on this laidback tropical paradise.

Just a quick trishaw ride away at the Tanjung City Marina, a panoramic view of the ferry, private boats and yachts await. Park yourself at any one of the restaurants or club there be amazed by the sight of the sun disappearing behind the iconic Penang Bridge.

At Gurney Drive, the hotels, eateries, coffee shops and clubs lining the famous tourist stretch offer excellent value-for money entertainment… great for people watching!

For a more casual setting, beachfront pubs and shacks along Batu Ferringhi are your best bet – nothing beats cool music, the soothing sounds of the waves and a starry night sky! The many beach resorts also have very nice lounges with nightly live band performances.

Across the channel on the mainland, Highway Auto-City is a party hotspot that’s great for unwinding as the mind-boggling variety of eateries all open until the wee hours of the morning.