Hi Cimeron, we are an active retired couple considering moving to Penang. Far from Georgetown, beaches, activities and nightlife. This is really a working persons neighbourhood and feels like it is the suburbs with a focus on getting the job done, says Sharon. There arent many neighborhood bars. Penang, Malaysia is that place. All mixed together are fancy high rises, ancient local homes, mosques, Buddhist temples, hawker stalls, gigantic colonial homes surrounded by grand lawns and palm trees, a few shanty shacks, and the fantastic Pulau Tikus wet market. Convenience is king here restaurants and shops are all within walking distance, and its close to town. Oh, you tell me how many kilometres you want, and I change it for you!. Can you afford to live there? But dont just take my word for it. How to Make Friends Abroad the Key to a Happy Expat Life, Learn to Teach English in Malaysia at myTESOL, Kiteboarding, foilboarding and windsurfing in Penang. There are apartments and landed homes, beachfront condos, and semi-detached homes available in the area. Calling a Grab should only cost you a few dollars unless its a long ride. Malaysia, and Penang specifically, always grab a top spot when it comes to rankings of Best places to live and retire in Asia. On $2,500 a month, a couple can live in luxury. As a highly industrialized city, Penang provides many opportunities to . Read our disclosure. While foreigners have the option of sending their children to public and private schools, those wishing to send their kids to international schools in Penang will find more than a few quality options throughout the island. Lively area with lots of restaurants, hawker stalls, and night market stalls. We found your area report very helpful in anticipation of a visit we will be making soon. Popular malls include Queensbay Mall, Gurney Plaza, and Auto-City. Limited high speed internet. I enjoy reading LIVING IN PENANG! Penang really lacks in the nightlife department. One of the things I live about living in Penang is that it's still safe, and that you are only a short flight from any major capital in the region. Hopefully this gives you a good idea about which areas you may want to check out in person. Penang is a charming island with an old cultural heritage, located in the Northwestern parts of Malaysia. There are road rules in Penang but no one obeys them. And by wild, I mean hitting three bars before calling it a night. But they aren't bad and are getting better all the time. Located just behind Gurney Drive is the vibrant neighborhood of Pulau Tikus. Its also a preferable choice among expats that work in multinational companies in Bayan Lepas or on the mainland, as they can reach these areas within a short distance. Its always bustling here, and theres always something to do, whether its a movie at the IMAX theater, a stroll along the boardwalk or dinner out with friends, Gurney is a hopping place. AsiapropertyHQ.com was launched in 2017 to help property buyers better understand ownership rules, taxes and buying processes in Asia. These could include what language you prefer and location you are in. Very close to Georgetown, and a fairly easy commute to the Free Trade Zone. The cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Penang is typically around $100,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $150,000 USD. Syed Kechik Foundation Building Theres also a new condo development by the water, beside the historic E&O Hotel, and a few apartment buildings (mostly older). Many thanks How to Retire in Malaysia: Costs, Visas and More - SmartAsset If it was good to eat raw, theyd cut off a hunk and offer it to us. Guide to Malaysia for Expats: Everything You Need to - Sand In My Curls You can still feel its multi-cultural heritage as you wander through Chinese and Indian temples, and smell incense burning throughout the streets. And its close to the international grocery stores. Besides the old-school but modern feel of the island, the Malaysian culture is an incredibly crazy concoction of Muslim Malays, Buddhist and Taoist Chinese and Hindu Indians. But in December of 2012, on holiday to Penang, something drew me in and grabbed hold of me. The weather in Penang is warm year-round, so you'll need lightweight clothing options. With a mix of these cultures, the food is touted to be the best in all of Southeast Asia. I was 43 and he was 59. Hi there! Centuries-old shophouses have been lovingly restored to modern boutiques or small hotels. Ive always felt extremely welcomed by the locals. Expats in Penang - Facebook Construction completed/started, costs, etc? We love it here! Home to an abundance of high-quality hospitals, Penang is fast becoming a go-to destination for those wishing to rid themselves of all types of ailments. In 2001, on one of the first dates with my husband, we discussed living overseas. Great article Cimeron. But at the moment, its not very populated so it lacks a community feel, which can make people feel a bit isolated there. And since raw sewage gets pumped out into the bay, the sea water quality may not be great for swimming. Living In Penang Expat Guide part 1 - expats.adamfayed.com However, I always suggest getting into the online Facebook groups before you even get here. In Penang, a great life can be had on a budget and youll never be bored. With a variety of luxurious and modern malls that come equipped with quality retail shops, cinemas, and other various amenities, many locals and travellers on the island are finding fewer reasons to leave this island paradise. And stay tuned Sharon and I are working together to create an even more in-depth neighborhood guide for those who want more details about each location. "One of the best ways to find a place to live in Penang is to use online resources such as property websites, classifieds, and social media groups. In 2013, they were sick of the rat race and decided to rewire their lives by turning it upside down and moving across the planet. With those prices, its almost ridiculous not to indulge! Your email address will not be published. A few years ago, before we had any insurance, I had sinus surgery. Foreigners can travel between Penang and their home countries with direct international flights, Penang is like a melting pot of diverse cultures and with a fusion where East meets West. Thanks Cameron , Very happy to hear that the story is helpful to you, Jeff! If you like the outdoors, there are some nice hiking and running trails around the Batu Ferringhi aqueduct, and its just a 10-minute drive to Taman Nagara, the national park. By following the safety tips we've outlined in this article, you can ensure that your time in Penang is as safe and enjoyable as possible. In 2013 we were sick of the rat race and decided to move across the globe and rewire our lives. Tanjong Tokong which is located nearest to Gurney & Georgetown has become one of the top choices. So, if you are trying to come to Penang because you think you can buy cheap housing and lounge on the beaches, its probably not for you. Expat in Penang : Expatriate buying property in Malaysia. Retire in However, we are lacking in decent restaurant choices. If you are thinking about retiring in Malaysia or moving to Penang, these blogs can help give you the bigger picture of life in Malaysia: Hey friends in Penang, tell me what Im missing. Night markets in Penang are usually similar to other night markets around Malaysia and take place once a week in different areas. Penang Neighborhood Guide for Expats | Oh MY Expat Life Here are the most popular residential areas for expats in Penang: If youve dreamt of retiring to a tropical resort town by the beach, Batu Ferringhi might be the place for you. The islands along the east coast of Malaysia (Redang, Perhentian, and Tioman) are practically rain-free during this time so if youre looking for beaches, head to the east coast. https://lifehackerguy.com/living-life-as-an-expat-in-malaysia-pros-and-cons/. Thinking about moving here in a few years. Those wishing to dance the night away need not look further than venturing to Upper Penang Road, where an abundance of restaurants, bars and clubs clutter the street with live music, tantalizing aromas, and pleasure-seeking patrons of various ages. One thing that people dont know about Malaysia is that it is a medical tourism destination. However, if you are coming to explore incredible culture, food, and people, then by all means, Penang is the place. If youre looking for a place without many cars or motorbikes, look for islands without commerce, such as Tioman and Pangkor. You can go shopping at Gurney Plaza, or Queensbay Mall, and find the same high-end stores you would in the U.S. You can walk through the jungle, laze about on a secluded beach, take a food tour and a cooking class, or even drive a few hours to visit an Orangutan shelter. It costs $939 a year for both of us. Fill in the form to get connected with a real estate agent in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand or other countries. Penang is one of the safest expat havens in Malaysia. Its really up to you. There are three coffee morning meet-ups every week, which is a great way to start meeting people. Whether you go for the food or the sights, Penang certainly has more to offer to those willing to explore the island and all of its secrets. Its one of the top choices when foreign retirees and expats decide to settle down in the country. Just like the doctors, most are schooled in the Western world and speak English. The hotels and airfares are often even more affordable during this time so plan accordingly and bring a raincoat and an umbrella. If you arent up for driving yourself, the buses are very clean, super cheap and always freezing. No major updates to the story all the costs are about the same, and none of the neighborhoods have changed significantly (with the exception of the Gurney Drive area, which has a huge, multi-year land reclamation project going on across the street). Medical Facilities For Expats Living in Penang, I: Why We Were Attracted To Living In Penang, II: What Its Like Living In Penang As An Expat, IV: Other Things To Know About Living In Penang, Tasmania Road Trip from Hobart to Launceston, 101 Travel Quotes Inspiring The Journey. Georgetown is the beating heart of Penang, with festivals galore, street food hawkers, beautiful old architecture, old men on trishaws, stunning street art, and ornate temples, mosques, and Chinese clan houses. If youre staying in George Town, try to choose a hotel with a pool for your midday cool down breaks; youll need them. Getting lost in the maze of narrow streets and alleyways makes you feel like you are in another world, one that existed long ago. People think of it as a retirement visa because you are not allowed to work and if you apply for it before you are 50 years old, the monetary requirements double. And in recent years, living in Penang has become a popular choice for retirees and those seeking a lifestyle change. Transportation in Penang is similar to most modes of travel in Malaysia with the addition of sea travel. 1. From groceries to furniture, Penang is limited in what you can find. Cost of Living in Penang, Malaysia | Expat Exchange As Malaysias food capital, this light guide to dining in Penang will mainly focus on the finer and more popular things to eat on the island, especially its famous hawker street food. With its culinary tastes mixed up into a fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines, Penangs food scene has a lot to offer hungry travellers. A lot of times it only rains at night, with monstrous deluges that last for an hour then stop. Living in Penang: What You Need to Know Before You Move - InterNations 1. Having the option to rent a spacious and modern place for RM 5000 (USD 1200) a month, instead of locking in a big sum of money in an illiquid asset that wont appreciate much in the coming years, many foreigners decide to rent property instead. Required fields are marked *. Probably slightly cheaper. Culturally its a mind-blowing place to live. Renting is a far better choice. I'll only be addressing the costs on the island. Dentistry in Penang is just as high quality as the doctors and surgeons there. Mean Machines, Malaysias largest motorsports and motorshow performance, also visits Penang annually and is an ideal attraction for motoring enthusiasts. People come to Penang for street food because its the best in Malaysia. It is quick, efficient, and five-star quality for prices that are lower than what most people pay for their deductible. Penang has a very laidback feel that I love. On her blog, Sand in my Curls, she writes about the realities of expat life. Penang is famous for its food, with a distinct regional take on Thai, Malaysian, Korean, and Chinese food. Top 4 Areas to Live in Penang: A Guide for Retirees & Expats There are ancient crumbling walls with new street art painted on them. Its true that a lack of high speed internet in a building will bring down the rental price. , Excellent article, thanks for sharing. Quite a distance to other parts of Penang, which can feel isolating. The summer months have less rain than April and May making it another good time to visit. This group is set up to meet expats living in Penang, provide good tips or get useful information. Gelugor and Bayan Lepas are preferable among MM2H-holders, retirees, and expats for several reasons. Our Company uses these cookies so that we recognize you on our website and remember your previously selected preferences. Travel2Next.com provides travel inspiration and information about world travel. A mix of first-party and third-party cookies are used. Can you live in a safe place with all the amenities that you want or will you have to forgo some creature comforts? Another expat group that meets from time to time is the international website-based Internations, which organises evenings in wine bars and cafs. If you want secluded and quiet, head to the back of the island. Thank you for this article! Of course, there is petty crime here and the odd machete stabbing, but it's still less than anywhere else in Malaysia. Close to the Botanical Gardens, hospitals and Gurney Drive. And to highlight the unique flavor and special considerations for each neighborhood, Ive enlisted the help of my close friend Sharon Giraud shes an expert on the subject and gives neighborhood tours to future expats to help them find the right rental properties. If you have a little leftover pocket money, why not splurge and get a cleaning lady for $3.50 per hour, a pedicure for about $13, or even a foot massage for $18? It is already considered an up and coming area for medical tourism. Interesting projects in Tanjong Tokong and Tanjung Bungah include: Foreigners that have lower budgets with Penang standards, which is generally below RM 3000 (USD 723) in Tanjung Tokong, tend to choose properties in projects such as: Popular condominiums sizes above 400 sqft (37 sqm) located in Tanjung Bungah with beachfront include: Many MM2H-holders and expats that come with families of 4-5 people prefer to live in landed properties in this area. Batu Ferringhi is a bit out there and a car may be essential to get to grocery stores and into town because it may be a challenge to get a cab or Grab back and forth, says Sharon. The rent may be more affordable here, but the groceries are a little cheaper in Kuala Lumpur. More and more people and their damned cars and motorcycles. In 2007, the city was listed as a UNESCO heritage area, so its been historically and architecturally preserved. It is actually less expensive to eat out than to cook at home and many condos dont have well-equipped kitchens. There are quite a few speakeasies or hidden bars, but they are more expensive. My husband and I choose to retire abroad early. Hello are the visas available again yet to enable us to retire in Malaysia ? Simply enter your email address below to sign up for ILs free daily postcards and well also send you a Free Malaysia Report Amazing Malaysia: Halve Your Living Costs While Living Like a King in the Pearl of the Orient. This is also a reason why we see increasingly more newly completed projects in the Southern parts of the island, attracting more people from the above category. And eventhough its cheaper than KL, these days I dont think its that much cheaper than KL. Not including travel, we spend between USD$1600 to 1833 a month but we could easily spend more and probably spend less if we were careful to stick to a budget. Now, where do most retirees and expats stay in Penang? Information about moving to and living in Penang - Expat.com Tons within walking distance: grocery stores, hawker stalls, malls, restaurants. Here are some thoughts about life in Penang from Kirsten Raccuia (Sand in my Curls). A lot of trash washes up on Tanjung Bungah beach after storms, and it can get loud when people are setting off fireworks during festivals. I know a lot of people want to get here and move right in but that isnt the best idea. Tales From Two Expats Living in Penang - ExpatGo I didnt want to move so far away, but after visiting Penang, we fell in love, and it just felt right. Thank you Christen. Id have to say, pretty damn good even though this list has more cons than pros. Thank you Cimeron. I agree with your pros and cons for sure and mention many of these in my similar post on the pros and cons of living in Penang. Just go to Free resources above and press Get your free E-book here. But to actually spoil ourselves with crystal clear water and fantastic coral, its best to go to Perhentians, Tioman, or Kota Kinabalu. KUALA LUMPUR Given past British involvement in Malaysia, you can get by solely speaking English here, especially in KL. In the last couple of years, more places for Penang digital nomads are popping up. Facebook community. Hi Sheikh, Counting on heat, humidity, and rain no matter when you plan on travelling will help prepare you for packing. You can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and magazines. I like that balance. Oh My Expat Life: Penang Neighborhood Guide for Expats; Oh My Expat Life: Top 5 Relocation Hacks To Help You Adjust Faster to Malaysia; Oh My Expat Life: Cost of Living in Penang; Malaysia Traveller: 15 Reasons to Retire to Malaysia (and Reasons Why Not) Penang My Home: Pros and Cons of Retiring in Malaysia; LifeHacker Guy: Living Life As An .
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