True to its roots

By Vinz Tham

In the heart of the world heritage site known as George Town, Hotel Jen Penang embraces cultural heritage with fresh perspectives.

As and when it’s safe to travel again, let it be known that Hotel Jen Penang awaits you with open doors.

The 17-storey landmark shines bright in the heart of UNESCO World Heritage Site George Town, located next to the state’s tallest skyscraper Komtar, following a multi-million-ringgit renovation in late 2017.

The hotel’s prominence in the multicultural capital of Penang dates back over 30 years and in staying true to its roots, elements of the colourful Peranakan culture were whimsically mixed into the hotel’s design to sport playful details that integrate contemporary elements, while the local culture is brought to life with the vibrancy of a modern city.

The hotel features 443 guestrooms and suites, as well as the introduction of two room categories for family-friendly comforts – the Family Room (32sqm) and Apartment (60sqm) with views of the city landscape.

Each room and suite, ranging from 28sqm to 78sqm, offers a view of historical George Town while showcasing one of Penang’s three heritage features on customised wallpaper – the trishaw, colourful Peranakan tiles and traditional shop-house louvered shutters.

The rooms are complemented with light wood floors and a colour palette of warm tones. Guests on dedicated Club floors can enjoy the personalised services of the Club Lounge where breakfast, refreshments and cocktails are served daily.

With large picture windows throughout, yours truly – who checked in for a weekend in January – enjoyed the stylish Club Lounge which offers encompassing views of the neighbourhood. The interior is predominantly dressed in dark wood panels and pops of yellow, green and blue. Cosy alcoves and bar-style seating for relaxing or having evening canapes and drinks make up the different sections of the 16th-floor space.

Cafè Jen
Lobby

Completely redesigned and presented with a live-cooking counter, Café Jen offers diners local culinary classics and international flavours. Its decor is minimal, with wooden tables and shelves of potted plants to stand out against the light grey flooring ideal for business entertainment or intimate family gatherings.

Meanwhile, the Lobby Lounge houses a ready-to-go snack bar offering casual refreshments with a local twist. Like the rest of the hotel, a wood theme runs throughout and transforms the area into a cosy space for gatherings and meetings. Its interior is a showcase of Peranakan style and comfort with decorative turquoise tiles and comfortable sofas.

Featuring a combination of contemporary furniture pieces and hanging rattan sofas in the lobby, travellers are greeted by an arrival experience that reinforces the distinct elements of the Peranakan culture.

Hotel Jen Penang contributes to the city’s total event space, with the main ballroom of 911sqm, with delicate chandeliers bringing life and interest to the minimal décor. Along with the five flexible function spaces, it is ideal for weddings and business events.

In addition, it has a 24-hour Health Club complete with fitness equipment, as well as a sauna and steam room for post-workout relaxation. There is also an outdoor swimming pool suited for children and adults alike. Guests can enjoy massage treatments at the hotel’s health centre, at a reasonable price.

Located on Magazine Road, Hotel Jen Penang is within walking distance to the main public transport terminal, shopping malls, local hawker centres and alleys dotted with quirky street art. Guests can enjoy free daily scheduled shuttle service to Batu Ferringhi Beach and usage of the swimming pool facilities at Golden Sands Resort.

For those interested, they can consider the hotel’s “Penang Staycation Deal” and enjoy a well-deserved vacation with RM50 daily hotel credit, buffet breakfast, extended check-out and other rewarding perks. Available till June 30.

For more information, visit www.hoteljen.com/penang.

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