THIS Merdeka, 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang is inviting travellers to rediscover a city many already think they know, not through another guided tour, but from the seat of a chauffeur-driven vintage car moving slowly through its streets.
The hotel has launched the 1926 Centennial Local Discovery Series, a new collection of experiences developed with Penang partners to mark its hundredth year on Jalan Burma.
The first chapter, the “Heritage Discovery Drive”, pairs the hotel with Classic Wheels Signature, a Penang-based collection of classic cars and Foi Mémoire, a luxury boutique atelier that features traditional and Nanyang-inspired heritage wear, including modern Nyonya-style kebaya and Peranakan-fusion fashion, for a chauffeur-driven route through the city’s historic core.
The 30-minute Heritage Ride begins at 1926 Heritage Hotel, travelling through Northam Road and George Town’s historic civic and waterfront district before continuing towards Fort Cornwallis and the old commercial centre along Beach Street. The journey then passes through historic cultural landmarks before returning to the hotel.
Along the way, guests can experience the layers of George Town’s story — from its early settlement and trading-port beginnings to its multicultural communities and civic and colonial development — all from the elegant seat of a 1960 Jaguar Mark II or similar vintage car, with one photo stop included.
1926 Heritage Hotel Penang general manager Angelina Lazuardi said for them, the centennial is not simply about celebrating the past.
“It is an opportunity to help guests connect with the Penang that exists around us today — its neighbourhoods, people and experiences. We want 1926 Heritage Hotel to be a place where a journey into Penang begins,” she said in a press release.
“Classic Wheels Signature will bring its own fleet of restored classic cars to the partnership. The drive is built on the idea that the car itself is part of the story, its craftsmanship and pace shaping how guests notice the city, rather than simply moving them through it.”
She added that the Centennial Discovery Drive package includes a two-day, one-night stay (priced at RM870+ per room per night), daily breakfast for two persons, and a 30-minute Heritage Discovery Drive with Classic Wheels Signature, dressed in Nyonya wear by Foi Memoire.
The package is available for booking from Aug 23 to Nov 27, for stays from Aug 28 to Nov 27.
For more info and reservations, email: [email protected].
Pix courtesy of 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang