Hostels and B&Bs in Penang now offer travellers on a budget more style and amenities than ever. With the George Town festival in full swing, John Brunton checks out whats on offer
This tasteful 200-year-old mansion is an oasis of calm right in the heart of bustling George Town. Not only has the architecture been perfectly preserved, but the owners have furnished the property with a mix of eye-catching modern artworks and vintage 1930s furniture. Rooms are bright and airy, several looking out on a lush tropical garden. Prices are more expensive than the budget norm, but this is worth the expense, as for the extra dollars you get an veranda and a library to relax in, and recently a restaurant has been added next door, SteakFrites@23, where breakfast and afternoon tea are served for hotel guests.
23 Love Lane, + 604 262 1323, 23lovelane.com. Doubles from £84 B&B