Global Courant 2023-05-08 06:15:00
GEORGE TOWN – The heat wave in Penang is driving tourists to seek a cooler getaway at Penang Hill.
Being the highest mountain in Penang at over 700 meters above sea level, tourists can be seen enjoying the cool, misty breeze.
American Joseph Hooks, 70, who now lives in Bangkok, and his wife Ms. Supat Sawangsri, 64, are among those who spent their time there on Sunday.
“It is so hot in Thailand, and when we first arrived in Penang a few days ago, it was just as hot.
“In the city I had to open the fridge in the supermarkets to cool down. We finally found a cooler spot on top here, and it’s much better,” said Hooks.
New Zealanders Steph Brownlee, 28, and her boyfriend Mr Thomas English, 29, also retreated from the scorching heat in the city to the greenery of Penang Hill.
“We visited several places, including the clan jetties, and ate the street food. Since Friday, however, we’ve been sweating non-stop wherever we go.
“At least at Penang Hill we have a panoramic view of the island without the heat,” Ms Brownlee said.
Checks showed that temperatures at the top of Penang Hill averaged between 24°C and 26°C, about 5°C cooler than at ground level.
On Sunday the flow was smooth as there weren’t many people at the ticket offices and the line to board the cable car was manageable.
It was reported that Penang Hill received nearly 8,000 visitors a day during the Hari Raya break.
Datuk Cheok Lay Leng, general manager of the Penang Hill Corporation, said the destination remained popular with tourists even after the Hari Raya and Labor Day holidays.
“Penang Hill is a cool getaway for those who want to escape the heat and humidity of the city, in addition to enjoying the amazing scenery from the top,” he said, adding that it averaged 6,000 visitors per day.
However, he advised visitors to bring an umbrella in case of sudden rain, adding that they were also invited to attend the upcoming Penang Hill Festival from July 21 to July 23 in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Penang Hill Railway this year.
