Onward to Penang

Penang - Every journey has its own story, and this trip to Penang was one filled with conversation, companionship, and small challenges that made it memorable. It began early in the morning at KL Sentral, a place that always feels alive with movement and anticipation. I met Donny at 7:30am at McDonald’s. It was a simple meetup, but one that marked the beginning of a meaningful journey.

Our ETS train departed right on time at 8:05am, a reassuring start that immediately put us at ease. The electric train ride was smooth and comfortable, cruising at around 150 km/h. There’s something calming about train travel — watching the scenery shift from city views to stretches of greenery, knowing you’re moving forward without the stress of traffic or driving.

The journey took approximately four and a half hours, but it never felt long. Donny and I spent most of the time chatting — about life, experiences, perspectives, and all the little things that usually get lost in day-to-day routines. Those uninterrupted hours created a space for genuine bonding. No distractions, no rushing — just conversation flowing naturally as the train carried us north. It reminded me how rare and valuable such moments are.

When we finally arrived in Penang, the journey wasn’t quite over. To get to George Town, we needed to walk to the jetty to take the ferry across the Penang Straits. While the idea of crossing by ferry felt nostalgic and charming, the reality presented a challenge. With my luggage in hand, I realised there was no escalator, and I had to carry it up two flights of stairs. This was especially difficult as my shoulder was still hurting from a previous fall injury. It was an uncomfortable and frustrating moment, one that tested my patience and physical limits.

Walking towards to Ferry

Our Ferry to Georgetown

Still, once onboard, the ferry ride itself was smooth and calming. The sea was steady, and the breeze offered a welcome sense of relief after the strain at the jetty. The disembarkation process was orderly — motorcycles exited first, followed by pedestrians once the traffic marshal gave the signal. It was efficient and well-managed, a small but appreciated detail after a long morning.

Once off the ferry, we hailed a Grab taxi and headed straight to our hotel. As the city came into view, it felt like the journey had gently transitioned into the start of a new chapter — one filled with anticipation for what Penang had to offer.

Despite the minor challenges, the journey was deeply rewarding. From punctual trains and meaningful conversations to ferry crossings and quiet resilience, it was a reminder that travel isn’t just about destinations. It’s about the moments shared along the way — and this trip to Penang was truly one of them.