A trip to Penang

Last weekend, I was in Penang to observe the Emperor of Nine Gods Festival, and also to re-visit some  tourist spots. My first day was spent walking around the city area where most old buildings were undergoing restoration. Penang Road was my first stop, and there was a queue for Penang laksa and chendol, which tasted so yummy! Next, I headed for Armenian street; oh, what a pretty sight! The area was surrounded by an old temple, the picturesque Cheah clan building and newly painted pre-war shop houses. The famous Kuan Yin temple was under renovation and the Khoo Kongsi was closed by the time I reached there.Determined not to miss it, i went back to Cannon Street the morning before i flew back to Singapore. I was impressed by how well kept the Khoo Kongsi is; given its rich heritage I shouldn't be, perhaps.An electronic TV screen featuring Hokkien opera highlights was the new addition, a mirror of the stage in the court yard. On the second day, i took the bus to Kek Lok Si, and took the new cable car to the roof top which housed the Kuan Imm statue. It brought back memories of the last time i was there with your mom and Steve, where we observed a quiet moment thinking about you.  My next stop is Penang Hill. I was greeted by a blast of music meant for an event for the kids, and after pausing for a drink, i walked down the hill to reach Botanic Gardens. Nothing much has changed since my last visit ages ago, except for the addition of tram cars for anyone who cares for a ride. Generally, i was impressed by how green and clean the island is, and buses that ran on schedule. The most interesting night scene was Burma road where street stalls were set up selling vegetarian food for devotees of the Emperor of Nine Gods. The rain failed to stop the crowd from celebrating their favorite festival. I headed home happy and satisfied.