Much to see: A local guide (left) speaking to a group of visitors at Pinang Peranakan Mansion in George Town. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Penang tourism players are ready to throw a big party for Chinese tourists here during the Golden Week holidays starting Oct 1.
Penang Tourist Guides Association president Clement Liang said there had been a notable surge in tour bookings for the week ahead, adding that the boom would benefit the local economy.
“Penang is unique as it can cater to everyone’s interests. We offer hills, a coastline, fantastic food and a rich cultural scene, which is why many return year after year.
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“Chinese tourists are drawn to Penang’s rich heritage, delectable cuisine and vibrant street art.
“Younger, adventurous ones often visit our National Park, but most are eager to savour our local food.
“Many also enjoy the beaches, especially those from inland China who rarely get to see the sea.
“Even now, we are already seeing plenty of Chinese tourists. But we expect a real influx from China soon,” he said.
Oct 1 is China’s National Day, and the nationwide public holiday from Oct 1-7 is called the Golden Week. This is a time when people reunite with families and take trips.
Liang said some of them even had to turn down work due to high demand, highlighting the interest of Chinese visitors eager to enjoy all that Penang has to offer.
He said that although the durian season here is over, some stalls still offer the king of fruits, which will be a hit with tourists.
“They love durians and will look out for the few stalls that still offer it,” he said.
Malaysian Association of Hotels Penang chapter chairman Tony Goh said hotel bookings are expected to pick up.
A check with several beach and town hotels showed a noticeable increase in bookings from Chinese tourists for Golden Week.
Flamingo Hotel by the Beach general manager Ong Hai Leong said such a trend is typical, as many Chinese travellers visit Penang yearly.
“We have seen an increase in reservations at our hotel.
“While they are definitely coming, I have noticed that most prefer to stay in the town area, where they can easily access local attractions and experiences,” he said.
Penang’s tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said this year, the number of Chinese tourists during Golden Week will significantly increase.
“Last year, there were only direct flights from two cities – Guangzhou and Hong Kong – to Penang.
“Now, we have direct flights from eight cities across China,” he said.
