Penang - the shopping paradise

Napoleon may have called Britain "a nation of shopkeepers" ("l'Angleterre est une nation de boutiquiers") but the honour of being a "nation of shops and shopping" rightfully belongs to Penang!

For as long as anyone can remember, Penang has always been a shoppers' paradise. During its freeport days, Malaysians made a beeline for the island in droves to shop for items like electrical goods, cosmetics and clothes. This may sound surprising to some, but certain items like French perfumes were even cheaper in Penang than Singapore. Shoppers never failed to leave the island without first loading their cars fully loaded with shopping bags.

Although the freeport status was given to Langkawi in the 80s, Penang still remains a favourite shopping destination among locals and tourists. Hundreds of retail establishments are located strategically and conveniently in and around the city.

Certain parts of George Town are also famous for certain things:

• Lebuh Campbell: Chinese jewellers, Rolex watches, luggages, clothes, electrical items and Chinese medicines and herbs
• Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling: Indian jewellers, money changers and florists
• Chulia Street: Clothes, antiques, framed art and glass items
• Bishop Street: Imported clothes, carpets, antiques and banks
• Penang Road: The entire stretch of Penang Road is lined with shops selling clothes, shoes, imitation perfumes and edible favourites like nutmeg, pickled mangoes, banana chips, cookies and belacan.

Popular shopping malls and complexes are found in Jalan Penang, Jalan Gurney and Tanjong Tokong.

Shopping tips

Bargaining is still very much a part of life here; so don't be afraid to politely ask for a discount (except at departmental stores, hypermarts and chain stores) if you really want an item. Remember that bargaining involves offers and counter-offers, so be patient and slowly work the price down to something both you and shopkeeper are happy with. A word of advice - don't bargain if you have no intention of buying.

Shopping calendar

The annual Mega Shopping Carnival is definitely a great SALE day for almost anything. Check the local papers for dates, which vary slightly every year.

All shopping complexes and chain stores hold special sales frequently, and usually just before a major Malaysian holiday. Some great bargains can be found during this time. Flyers and announcements are widely distributed by stores and complexes to homes and offices just before a sale is launched. The mass-media (newspapers, radio and television) also announce and advertise sale carnivals, so keep your ears and eyes tuned for shopping updates.

Penang tourists advice | entertainment, shopping, local cuisine