Malaysia is renowned for its captivating mixture of landscapes and cultures. Long stays in Malaysia are ideal for those seeking a warm tropical climate, a low cost of living, and a colourful assortment of cities, laid-back islands, and cool highland retreats.
Are Long Stays in Malaysia For You?
When it comes to Malaysia you have a lot of variety. Choose from the bright lights and big city vibe of Kuala Lumpur, the history of Melaka, the food scene of Penang, lazy island life of Langkawi or the mountains and cool climate of the Cameron Highlands.
With affordable accommodation, modern amenities, great public transport and a food scene to die for, it is little wonder that long stays in Malaysia are a popular choice for slow travellers. Better yet, English is widely spoken, making Malaysia an easy destination to travel and spend time in.
Add the Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures and you will find a fascinating blend of architecture, history, festivals and cuisines.
Why Penang?
During our visit to Malaysia, we were impressed with both Kuala Lumpur and Melaka, but we chose to spend most of our time in Penang because it has a lively digital nomad and expat scene.
We adored historical George Town for its charming photo opportunities and fusion of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Penang is a famous foodie destination which also made it an attractive choice for long stays in Malaysia.
Penang Malaysia Overview
The Malaysian state of Penang borders Penang Island and a portion of mainland Malaysia. Sitting at its heart is George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the state capital.
George Town is renowned for its colourful street art, colonial architecture, and incredible street food. In fact, it is often referred to as the “food capital of Malaysia,” blending Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences into every part of daily life.
Though the island has a relaxed atmosphere it is alive with local colour, offering long stay visitors a mix of beaches, temples, museums, and night markets.
Of course, Penang is also home to the modern shopping malls, stylish apartment blocks and the hawker centres of Gurney, making it a fabulous choice for long stays in Malaysia.
Long Stays in Penang Malaysia
Penang is a popular choice for long-term travellers, digital nomads, and retirees thanks to its low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and friendly expat community.
Apartments are affordable, especially in areas such as Gurney Drive, and Batu Ferringhi. English is widely spoken, making it a user-friendly destination for the English speakers of the world.
The weather is tropical, and while there is a monsoon season, Penang is relatively sheltered compared to other parts of Southeast Asia.
With fast internet, great food, and plenty of modern conveniences, Penang offers a comfortable, culturally rich base for long stays in Malaysia.
Penang Malaysia Long Stay Information
Penang is a perfect destination for anyone wanting a long stay in Southeast Asia. The Malaysian tourist visa gives plenty of time to explore other Malaysian destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and Ipoh before making a base in Penang.
With such an exciting mix of cultures, history, beaches and culinary delights, Penang will charm you at every turn.
Below is information for long stay travel in Penang Malaysia.
Penang Cost of Living
Penang is an excellent choice for long-term stays, offering a comfortable lifestyle at a reasonable cost. Although more expensive than Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, Penang Malaysia still offers good value for money.
Penang Accommodation
Penang has an extensive selection of accommodation ranging from 5-star luxury to budget hotels and apartments. Popular areas to stay in Penang include historic George Town, near the shopping malls of Gurney or by the beach in Batu Ferringhi.
If you love 5-star luxury hotels, the Eastern & Oriental in George Town, the G Hotel Gurney within the Gurney Plaza shopping precinct and the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang in beachside Batu Ferringhi are firm favourites.
During our visit to Penang, we chose accommodation in three separate locations. We stayed in hotels in both George Town and Tanjung Bungah. We also settled into an older style three-bedroom apartment which was steps from the Gurney Plaza Shopping Mall and Gurney Hawker Centre.
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Penang Apartments for Long Stays
For long stays in Penang renting an apartment is a fabulous way to have all the comforts of home while immersing yourself in the local culture.
Penang apartments can be booked through hotel booking websites and usually include electricity, water and internet in the total price.
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Penang Food Scene
Penang has a reputation for being one of Asia’s top street food destinations. Start the day with a Dim Sum or Chinese noodle soup breakfast. Savour a tasty Char Koay Teow, mouthwatering Nasi Lemak or for a sweet treat try a refreshingly cool Cendol.
The regions fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan cuisines can be found in a variety of character filled settings. Pull up a stool at a hawker centre, streetside food cart or a busy oldtown shophouse restaurant.
Escape the heat and sample a range of Malaysian and International dishes at a food court in your nearest airconditioned shopping mall. If upmarket dining is more your style you will find a wide selection of International and Malaysian fine dining experiences sitting on your doorstep.
Penang Shopping
If you love shopping, Penang has a breathtaking variety of shopping experiences. Shop for exquisite saris and curios in Little India. In George Town you will find a selection of boutiques, art galleries and handmade jewellery shops selling unique one-of-a-kind merchandise.
Penang is also home to a massive collection of shopping malls. This is the perfect place to escape the midday heat, allowing you to shop until you drop in airconditioned comfort.
Two of Penang’s favourite shopping malls are Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon. Both house a fabulous assortment of Malaysian and International brand stores, food courts and well stocked supermarkets featuring a good range of grocery favourites from home.
Penang Transport
Along with buses and taxis, Penang transport options include Grab taxi, a ride share company like Uber.
During our stay in Penang, we used Grab to get around. We like this option because you get the price of the fare on booking. We also have our credit card linked to the Grab App which makes for a cash free transaction when you arrive at your destination.
Keep in mind that Penang traffic can get busy, especially during peak hours. Make sure to take this into consideration when planning outings or catching a flight from Penang Airport.
Malaysia Visas for Long Stays
The length of stay in Malaysia will depend on the visa entry requirements into Malaysia from your home country.
Australian tourists can visit Malaysia without a visa for up to 90 days. This is a fabulous option for slow travellers wanting plenty of time to explore this fascinating country.
A Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) must be completed before arriving in Malaysia. On arrival, the MDAC allows you to use the smart gates for quick and easy entry into Malaysia.
Click here for Malaysia visa information for your country
Malaysian Currency
Malaysian Ringgit
Compared to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, we found Malaysia to be more accepting of credit cards.
Of course, small businesses and shops, restaurants and hawker centres will still want cash payment, so it is best to have some Malaysian Ringgit when you enter the country. We used Wise Card to keep currency conversion costs to a minimum.
Check here to learn more about Wise Card and other travel saving specials
Penang Weather
Penang Malaysia has a year-round hot, humid weather which is divided into a wet and dry season. Of course, Penang’s tropical climate can give rise to sudden showers at any time throughout the year.
The best time to visit Penang is from December through to early February. During this time, you can join in the celebrations of the Hindu Festival of Thaipusam and Chinese New Year.
Dry Season – December to February
Average Temperature – 30C to 32C (86F to 90F)
Visiting Penang during the dry season is the best time to relax by the beach at Batu Ferringhi or discover the cultural and gastronomic delights of historic George Town.
Wet Season – April to November
Average Temperature – 30C to 32C (86F to 90F)
From May to September expect brief but heavy afternoon downpours. Through October and November, the rainy weather intensifies increasing the risk of flooding in some areas.
Last Words on Long Stays in Malaysia: Penang & Beyond
If you are considering long stays in Malaysia, Penang is an ideal base for slow travel within Southeast Asia. In Malaysia we fell in love with the diversity of cultures and truly believe it is one of the most colourful countries we have ever visited.
During our stay we always felt safe and were impressed that the Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures live harmoniously side by side. Penang is a place where mosques, temples and churches are within walking distance to one another, highlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Add an incredible food scene, and affordable living and you will understand why Penang and Malaysia is such a prized destination in Southeast Asia.
Have you visited Malaysia? What was your favourite Malaysian city? Feel free to comment we would love to hear from you.