Penang scores another tourism accolade

GEORGE TOWN: Penang notched another tourism achievement after it landed on CNN Travel’s list of 22 best destinations to visit in 2022.

It was named alongside Antigua and Barbuda; Bissagos Islands, Guinea-Bissau; Cape Breton, Nova Scotia; Chile; Colombo; Dijon (France); Disko Bay (Greenland); Lahti (Finland); Naples (Italy); Orkney Island (United Kingdom); Oslo Beach (South Africa); Tulsa, Oklahoma; Valencia (Spain); the US-based Yellowstone National Park and others.

CNN Travel said Covid-19 had left many longing for culinary-focused journeys and Penang ranked top among Asia’s best, offering a wide mix of traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes.

It also noted that the popular Penang Hill was designated a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in September last year.

Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, who shared the good news on his Facebook page, said Penang kick-started the new year with splendid tidings.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Penang being ranked among the must-visit destinations in 2022 by CNN Travel would attract visitors.“Rich in various cultures, food, heritage and other key elements that would attract tourists from far and near, Penang, also known as the Pearl of the Orient by many, is proud to have made it to the world platform.

“Experience Penang. Live life to the fullest,” he added.

Last month, Penang came in third after Malta and Mallorca in Spain in the list of “15 Best Islands in the World to Retire On” by International Living, a website that covers global retirement and relocation opportunities.