There’s a certain satisfaction in discovering a hotel that honours its colonial heritage without drowning in nostalgic pastiche. The George Penang won Best Hotel in Penang at the TTG Awards 2024, and while its restoration is striking, the overall experience balances charm with operational quirks.
This is a hotel full of design flourishes and historic character, but it doesn’t quite deliver the polished professionalism one often finds throughout Asia.
First Impressions
Arrival Experience
The Grab driver navigated George Town’s narrow streets smoothly, dropping us safely at The George’s porte-cochère through a heavy tropical storm.
Sitting proud out front is a cute red Mini—the hotel’s designer signature nod to the city’s colourful past.
Reception staff were efficient but noticeably abrupt & officious. The transition from humid streets to the air-conditioned lobby was pleasant, but the guest experience leans toward being highly structured rather than welcoming or relaxed.
Lobby & Décor
The lobby strikes a balance between colonial grandeur and modern touches. High ceilings, restored terrazzo floors, and period furniture give authentic atmosphere without becoming museum-like. Subtle jasmine fragrance adds a sensory touch. Despite an interesting montage of the hotel and Penang’s history being featured in the lobby, the transit flow and signage for guests could be improved for first-time visitors, but visually the space is compelling.
Accommodations
Room Stayed
The Colonial Corner Suite we had booked in advance (65 sqm) impressed with dual-aspect windows and a featured large rooftop balcony—though accessing it required a special request followed by signing some highly legalised paperwork in order to secure the door key (for the record, I’ve never stolen a balcony key before and wasn’t planning on doing so this visit!).
Interiors blend original timber flooring, period charm, and thoughtful modern amenities. A massage chair proved unexpectedly pleasant after long days exploring George Town. Street noise is present but manageable; light sleepers might prefer rear-facing rooms.
Other Room Types
Deluxe Rooms (42–45 sqm): Comfortable, period-inspired, some limited views.
Premier Suites (55–60 sqm): Separate living areas; ideal for longer stays, with Penang Road views.
Standard Rooms (35–40 sqm): Compact but thoughtfully designed; corner units enjoy more natural light.
Facilities & Services
The hotel has 92 rooms, a small pool with quite a dark atmosphere due to the position inside the atrium, a fitness centre, and a steam room. EV charging and WiFi are reliable modern touches.
Insider Tip
Corner suites offer dual-aspect views.
Pool and steam room are quietest on weekday mornings.
Book prime rooms in advance for best experience.
Guest Experience
Staff operated with efficiency rather than warmth, giving a procedural, slightly officious impression. The lack of restaurant staff presence and equal lack of other guests dining, meant we opted instead to explore the buzzing local restaurants instead, which delivered excellent experiences. Small gestures, such as a welcome drink voucher, were appreciated, but the overall hospitality felt regimented rather than personal.
Ideal Guests & Potential Challenges
Ideal For:
Heritage enthusiasts and architecture lovers
Couples seeking a central base for George Town discovery
Food and cultural explorers willing to eat locally
Photography and design aficionados – check out the local street art!
Less Suitable For:
Families with very young children
Light sleepers sensitive to street noise
Those needing extensive spa facilities
Dining & Drinks
During our stay, hotel dining was largely non-functional. The George Restaurant and Lobby Lounge were deserted, so we ventured out to local favourites like Tek Sen, Red Garden, and Gurney Malls where we enjoyed some excellent dining options.
Location & Things to Do
Situated on Penang Road, The George provides easy access to UNESCO World Heritage sites, heritage streets, temples, and local shopping. Armenian Street, Love Lane, Khoo Kongsi, and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion are all within comfortable walking distance. Street art, cultural landmarks, and vibrant local life make early morning or late afternoon exploration ideal.
Final Thoughts
The George Penang offers striking colonial architecture, clever design touches, and genuine heritage presence—but operational quirks prevent it from fully satisfying discerning travellers. Compared to the Eastern & Oriental Hotel or Rasa Sayang, it lacks consistent warmth, attentiveness, and polished service.
Ideal for those prioritising location, character, and access to George Town’s cultural treasures, the property is less suited to those expecting fully seamless hospitality. While Colonial Corner Suites provide charm and functional luxuries like a massage chair, the hotel’s procedural service style and absent in-house dining temper overall appeal.
A hotel with personality, character, and promise—but ultimately, charm alone cannot replace operational finesse.
The George Penang by The Crest Collection
⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 No. 138, Penang Road, George Town, Penang Island 10500, Malaysia
📞 +60 4-262 2888
🌐 thegeorge.com.my
🛎 Book Online
🛎 Check Rates on Expedia
92 rooms and suites | From RM 280–850 depending on season and room type
🚗 45-minute transfer from Penang International Airport
🗺️ Walking distance to UNESCO World Heritage sites, 10 minutes to Gurney Drive
Photo Credit: thehotelreveal
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