Located ideally on Love Lane, the center of downtown Georgetown, it is almost nonsensical to stay anywhere else as a budget traveler. It has been a great base for both of my stays in Penang. An old colonial building as most are here, it is redone to look quite swanky inside with a lounge area, bar at the back with a pool table serving up food and drinks. A patio out front to enjoy the evening where live music is often played regularly.
The staff are friendly and helpful always willing to give advice and direction on places to go and how to get there. They are able to arrange Thai visas here along with transport to other destinations in Malaysia. Almost every morning someone greeted me with a coffee before I was even able to sit down and help myself to the complimentary breakfast of eggs, toast and fruit.
Located upstairs with electronic code to access, the beds are pod style in air conditioned, clean dorms of 4 and 10? (30 MYR per night) with shared bathroom and a balcony to relax on. A lounge area with a television, book shelf, computer, couches and security lockers (provide your own lock) is also on the upper floor. Free WiFi runs throughout the building although in the dorms it may not be the strongest connection. Laundry service also available.
The hostel provides a great starting point for undertaking the street art walk around the city with much in the direct area, then taking you around a bit of a wonky circle bringing you back to cool down after. Lebuh Chulia (Chulia street) is only a minute walk where numerous cheap public buses stop taking you anywhere on the island. The area is swarming with street food stalls, restaurants and bars as well to satisfy whatever your tastes may be.
I’ve stayed here twice now for 5 days each time and know if I do return to Penang, unless my budget magically grows significantly I will return to Reggae Penang no questions asked.
A sister hostel is also located in Kuala Lumpur – Reggae Mansion
Ah I remember Penang very well! I didn’t stay here but I remember there being an interesting collection of hotels and guest houses!
It’s a great city, I think there is at least half a dozen on this road alone.