As the calendar turns to the last month of the year, now is a great time to visit and experience the holidays and New Year in a different way. This is also one of the best times to visit Penang as much of the rest of the northern hemisphere is digging out from under snow, but the tropical nature of the region means sun and heat. Additionally the rains have started to slack off and the area is entering the driest time of the year.
December in the area only receives an average of 140mm of precipitation. This is down considerably from the previous months and while visitors can't leave all their rain gear at home, there is more opportunity now to get out and enjoy outdoor activities. This rain falls over an average of just 14 days. As a result, some of the month is completely dry and perfect to get out and about.
Temperatures remain warm thanks to the tropical nature of the island and average daily temperatures are a mild 28°C (82°F). With numbers like this, visitors can bring plenty of shorts and short sleeves. The overnight low is still 24°C (75°F) and the average afternoon temperature is a warm and muggy 31°C (88°F). With the humidity, the heat index will also make the afternoons feel much warmer.
This is a great time of the year to hit the beach. The only drawback is that the area only receives an average of 6 hours of sunshine per day. Therefore, visitors will need to get out early to take advantage of the amount of sun that does appear. Despite the lateness of the year, the water is still perfect for a swim, snorkeling or scuba diving. The average water temperature is a pleasant 29°C (84°F) for this time of the year.
The Doubletree Resort Penang is situated along the northern beach of the region and just 45 minutes from the international airport. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle into George Town, where for a 20-minute ride, guests can enjoy shopping and entertainment. The hotel features a total of 317 rooms and suites with private balconies. Guests will also enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and massages. The resort is perfect for families as it is home to the first teddy-bear themed museum, kid's club, and children's swimming pool with an artificial beach.
For those looking for a place to stay that is unlike a normal hotel, Macalister Mansion will fit that bill. Based on the design of a traditional British mansion, this hotel is quirky and unique. With only eight rooms for rent, be sure to book your December holiday early. If the weather is nice, guests may congregate by the outdoor pool, but if it is raining, then guests can retreat to their individually decorated room featuring all the amenities of home.
Completely renovated and restored, the Lone Pine Hotel is the ideal spot for families or couples. Located right on the beach, this hotel features plenty of charm within its 90 rooms. The hotel successfully combines the modern new world with that of the old and has guests returning again and again. The hotel features a games room, bar, restaurant, gym and spa.
With more rocks than sand, Bakar Kapor is not the place for those looking to build a sandcastle, but it is still one of the most beautiful spots in the region. Easily reachable by car, this serene beach is a perfect spot for a December day trip to take advantage of a daily average temperature of 28°C (82°F). A great spot for some seclusion, as there is plenty of shade to enjoy a picnic or some time away from the crowds.
China House is a unique mixture of shopping, eating, drinking and art all rolled into one place. While it can get crowded, it is possible to move around and try the eclectic collection of eating establishments with something for everyone. With a casual and hip vibe, there is live music during the evening hours and plenty to see and do.
Located at the Shangri-la resort, the Spice Market Café is not to be missed. While it might be an informal buffet-style restaurant, the food is second to none and guests can choose between western, Chinese, Indian, Thai, Japanese and more. The café is located under a canopy of century-old trees that offer a unique dining experience.
Known as one of the most happening clubs in Penang, Soju Room is a great spot to dance the night away. This nightspot offers a futuristic circular stage as well as an ultramodern bar. This bar is quickly becoming the go-to spot for the town's in-crowd thanks to live music and DJs spinning the latest tunes.
One of the more popular festivals and sights to see in Penang in December are the Dragon Boat Races. Legend has it that Ou Yan, a famous Chinese patriot poet from the Warring State period, killed himself by jumping into a river to protest the rampant corruption of the time. The public then rushed to their boats and began beating drums and splashing water with their paddles to keep the evil spirits away from his body. Today, dragon boat races are held annually to commemorate his death. With only 140mm of precipitation expected, it is also a good chance that this festival will be dry.
Also during this time of the year is Chingay. This procession began in the late 18th century with floats and street performers to honor the gods and welcome spring. Today, it is also associated with the procession of giant flags measuring 15 meters tall that are skillfully balanced on the forehead or shoulders. This is one sight that shouldn't be missed.
