When visiting a World Heritage Unesco Site, the experience can be taken to a whole new level by staying in accommodation that is typical of the era. Yeng Keng Hotel is just such a place. This 19th century building has been carefully restored to its original magnificence by owner Dato’ Ong Gim Huat. With the guidance of Lawrence Loh (the architect who helped restore the Blue Mansion), the team painstakingly set about the tedious work of bringing life back to the crumbling structure. Excavation uncovered four layers of tiles and six layers of paint. Much work went into sourcing ceramics to match the original stratum and the same technique of mixing the colours themselves as they did 100 years ago was used for the wall coverings. Unlike modern times where one generic tile can be used, the roof consisted of male and female tiles each stacking perfectly to fit together. This too became a labour of love in keeping the original feature. Six million ringgit later, the integrity of this heritage building is revitalized for all to enjoy its splendour.
The 20 rooms of Yeng Keng Hotel remain their original size (with the additional of a toilet) and have been tastefully decorated. The heritage feel is maintained with the discreet addition of modern conveniences such as a flat screen TV (hanging like a painting on the wall) and a mini fridge and safe stored out of sight behind sliding doors. Tea and coffee facilities are accompanied by an old tin thermos adding character to the modern appliances. Good quality linen and bedding, dark rooms and both air conditioning and fans support a sound sleep. Small but functional bathrooms make an efficient use of space. friendly, but unobtrusive. The lobby area provides free tea, coffee, cold drinks and fruit all day for guests. Breakfast is included in the room rate providing local and western fare equally.
Neighbouring Yeng Keng, you’ll find street vendors who have been in business for over 50 years. Craftwork and recipes that have been passed down through the generations are still alive and beckoning. The antique and trishaw repair shops are establishments that seem to have given time the flick, not changing since opening day in the vincity of three quarters of a century ago. Chulia Street, formerly known as the red light district, has been cleaned up with the introduction of World Heritage status and brandishes some of the most renowned Penang street food. Right next door though you can get a taste of history with Executive Chef Tan Jee Yong PJK, one of the oldest working chefs in Penang, at Yeng Keng Cafe. But more of that to come in the next post…