George Town is a great spot for shopping – the city is blessed with many different colorful and interesting markets, plus there are loads of places where you can pick up an unusual souvenir to take home. Be sure to try some of the delicious snacks native to the island, while you browse the various stalls and stores on our George Town Shopping Tour.
1) Little India
Little India Street has a clutch of exotic market stalls where you can find an exciting range of Indian products. There is a huge variety of Indian spicy foods here, such as roti canai, plus lots of traditional Indian goods, including sculptures and Punjabi suits. Make sure to have a look through the extensive displays of cheap DVDs and CDs while you are here.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and SurLaRoute.fr
2) Campbell Street Market
The Campbell Street Market is one of the most popular community markets on the island, as well as one of its oldest. Some locals say it was established on the grounds of an ancient Malay cemetery. If you visit this market you will be delighted by the range of meat, rice, tea, coffee and assorted cooking products on offer.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and hamron
3) Chinatown
The Chinatown district is one of the most fascinating areas of George Town. Here, among the crowded streets you can explore several different markets full of exotic Eastern products, as well as visit traditional temples and browse antique stores.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and mckaysavage
4) Gift Shop Hong Giap Hang
This store has what is probably the largest range of souvenirs in the city. It’s full of fantastic gift ideas, such as porcelain ware, fine ebony items, masks, pretty dolls and jewelry boxes that you can take home to that special someone.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Le Petit Poulailler
5) Chowrasta Market
The Chowrasta Market is another popular community market where you will always find crowds of people buying and selling all kinds of things. Food, flowers and souvenirs can all be bought here at great prices. When you visit, make sure to take a look around upstairs at the unusual selection of old books.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and amanderson2
6) New World Park
If you only have time to visit one shopping location during your stay in George Town, head to this former park which has been transformed into a one-stop shopping destination. There are all kinds of market stalls here, plus fashion stores, gadget shops, perfume stores, and even tattoo parlors. While you’re here you can catch a live performance at the stage area or enjoy some snacks and drinks.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and alexallied
7) Him Heang Tambun Biscuit
The Him Heang Tambun Biscuit shop is the best place in George Town for anyone with a sweet tooth. Make sure to try the two most local treats: a "Tau sar peah", or biscuit with green bean filling; and "hneoh pneah", the same biscuit but with caramel. Both are amazingly delicious and sold at many cafes and shops around Penang.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and davida3