After a brief reprieve from the larger rainfall amounts, higher rainfall totals are back for the month of July. Additionally, it will be important to consult an extended forecast to see when and where the rain will fall. However, because the rainfall will typically not last all day, it may be wise to pack a backpack full of not only rain gear, but also sunscreen for when the sun does come back out again.
Despite the clouds, there is still a good amount of sunshine during this time of the year in Penang. The region will receive an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day. This is perfect for adventure travelers who are looking to spend a lot of time outdoors enjoying what the region has to offer. It is also a good time to hit the beach and the waves as water temperatures remain a warm 30°C (86°F). The waters around the area are remarkably consistent from one month to the next thanks to the warm currents and the regions tropical location.
The tropics, however, are also home to the Intertropical Convergence Zone. This means that surface winds are meeting and rising through the atmosphere to form clouds and thunderstorms. The earth is home to 10,000 thunderstorms ongoing at any one time and most of these are in the ITCZ; exactly where Malaysia is located. As a result, rain chances are high and the region will experience a total of 210mm of precipitation over the course of the month. On average, 16 days of the month will receive rainfall.
Even with the rain, temperatures remain very warm. The average overnight low is just 24°C (75°F). Meanwhile, average afternoon highs will climb to 30°C (86°F). Overall, the average daily temperature is a warm, as well as a muggy, 27°C (81°F).
For those who want a hotel known worldwide, the Holiday Inn Resort offers everything a guest will want and then some. Located along the Batu Ferringhi, the hotel has sea, sun, surf and a vibrant nightlife right outside the doors. Home to the only high rise hotel on the strip, the 24-story tower offers commanding views of all of Penang. A perfect hotel for families, the hotel features an adult pool as well as one for children, full service gym, massages, bike rentals, kid's club and numerous eating options. As a result, this can be the perfect place for a July holiday.
Set 250 feet above sea level, the five-star Hotel Equatorial Penang is in a class all to its own. The hotel features 662 rooms and suites, all classically furnished and featuring state-of-the-art amenities. Guests have several dining choices ranging from classic French to traditional Japanese. The hotel also boasts a fully equipped fitness center, outdoor pool, squash and tennis courts, shuttle service and service standards that are second to none.
The Bayview Beach Resort offers stunning views of the surrounding beach and nearby waters. A part of the Bayview International Hotels and Resorts, this particular hotel is located along the northwest coast of Penang right along the beach. Guests may choose from 360 rooms and suites that are all tastefully decorated and offer a private balcony with views of the hills or the sea. There are numerous restaurants on site and the hotels features a kid's club, swimming pool, tennis court, gym and spa.
Located in Penang National Park, Pantai Kerachut is one of the most remote beaches on the island. July is an excellent time to visit this beach as jellyfish are prevalent later in the year. It is also the nesting ground for a wide variety of turtles making it the perfect spot for those who enjoying being one with nature. The area is also home to one of only four meromictic lakes in Asia where the seawater and fresh water do not intermix making it a beautiful sight. Thanks to 8 hours of sunshine per day during July, there is plenty of time to enjoy the region.
Located in the heart of George Town, Red Garden Food Paradise is perfect for friends or family to sit down and relax while enjoying a good meal and some good drinks. The menu includes plenty of local dishes as well as international fare that are sure to please everyone at the table. Additionally, there is a stage where professional singers offer entertainment throughout the evening.
The Book Sandwich Café is known as one of the best western style cafes in Penang. The café itself offers a wide variety of sandwiches such as the crab "burger", pastas and amazing desserts. While it can get crowded at lunch, the line generally moves quickly and is worth the wait. The dishes are also well proportioned and come at a good price.
With the longest bar in Penang at 46 meters, there is always somewhere to sit at the fashionable G Lounge. Located inside the G Hotel Lobby, guests can do plenty of people watching while enjoying one of the bar's signature Malaysian Dream cocktail. Catering to both hotel guests and those who are not registered at the hotel, the bar is a perfect place to sit back and relax in a warm and friendly environment.
One of the best ways to see Penang is to do so from the bow of a boat. There are a number of boat tours that visitors can take that will allow them to get up close and personal with locations that aren't accessible by car. There are boat tours of varying lengths and locations as well as sunset cruises that offer a different perspective of the setting sun. This is the perfect way to wind down a July day and enjoy the warm temperatures.
If you are traveling with children, one of the best adventures in the region can be found at Adventure Zone. Complete with slides, climbing wall and more, this is a great place to head to if the weather drives you indoors. The staff is friendly and accommodating and takes the time to explain any safety procedures. Your kids will love it and be exhausted at the end.
