We spent the Diwali weekend in Penang staying at the beautiful Eastern and Oriental Hotel. It turned out to be a wonderful weekend weather-wise. Clear blue skies in the morning and huge clouds building for the afternoon downpour, which kept things cool and fresh. We’ve never seen the Strait of Malacca look so blue! We swam in both the pools at the hotel, ate delicious food and wandered the narrow streets of George Town. Exploring the Pinang Peranankan Mansion was a highlight. This is a restored 19th century house that belonged to wealthy Baba (a locally acculturated Straits Chinese businessman) and is filled with collections of photos, furniture, jewellery and china. Well worth a visit.