The Blue Mansion is Penang’s landmark hotel and catches your attention immediately with its indigo-blue facade and Chinese architecture. It is located within the UNESCO world heritage city of George Town on the famous Leith Street.
Built by the merchant Cheong Fatt Tze at the end of the 19th century, the Blue Mansion was his home and the base from where he ran his empire.
This five-star boutique heritage hotel offers luxury and grandeur while keeping the charm and elegance of its bygone era intact. It has a swimming pool and a fine dining restaurant and has been used as a set for several Asian films.
For me, it was the perfect place to spend three nights in Penang.
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Public Areas
Entering the building, I felt transported back in time; such was the splendour of my surroundings.
The reception area is awash with valuable antiques and precious objects from the 19th century collected from around the world.
Marble, floor tiles and stained glass windows were shipped to Penang from as far afield as the UK and Scotland, as the craftsmanship at that time was believed to be the best there was to offer.
Over the years, the Blue Mansion has been painstakingly restored to its former glory under the guidance of Unesco.
A mansion tour is an enjoyable way to spend a few hours learning about Cheong Fatt Tze and the Blue Mansion.
The Interior Areas
Blue-painted walls offset tranquil lotus ponds with relaxing seating areas positioned to allow you to enjoy the open courtyards.
It is a place to read, relax, and take time to absorb the decadence and grandeur of this heritage hotel.
Eighteen rooms are each uniquely furnished with precious heirlooms and authentic furniture and arranged in four categories. You can choose from the Liang, Tang, Han and Ming collections (with direct pool access).
The balmy air and birdsong allow you to drift away with your thoughts, forgetting the town’s hustle and bustle outside the Blue Mansion’s walls.
We stayed in the Ming Collection twin room, named Sinkeh, meaning ‘newly off the boats’.
This title represented the arduous and gruelling journey that Cheong Fatt Tze took to make a name for himself in Southeast Asia.
Our room contained antiquities from the family’s treasure trove. A private back entrance took us to the small communal garden and pool, a fabulous place to spend a few hours escaping the day’s heat.
Breakfast Courtyard
Leading from the reception area is the open-air central courtyard.
Breakfast combines self-service and waiter service, offering a good range of breakfast choices accompanied by fresh fruit juices and hot beverages. The service is friendly, and the welcome is very genuine.
If you have watched the film Crazy Rich Asians, this is where the mah-jong scene was set up.
A small bar area is adjacent to the courtyard if you should fancy a drink later in the day.
Indigo Restaurant
Indigo is located upstairs at the Blue Mansion and is known locally for its mouthwatering cuisine.
Our waiter was very knowledgeable, advising us of menu choices he thought would appeal to us. The food quality is fabulous, and booking is advisable as the restaurant is always in demand.
Don’t leave without trying one of Indigo’s cocktails; they are delicious!
What month did I travel?
I travelled in February, one of the best times to visit Penang.
Sunny days, lower rainfall and fewer tourists mean you’ll find better deals on flights and hotels. I was lucky not to encounter rainy days on my three-day trip to Penang.
Is a Visa required?
Check the requirements with your official Government website.
How was the weather?
It was hot and humid.
What should I pack for the Blue Mansion?
Light, breathable cotton dresses, shirts, shorts and skirts. Swimsuits and sarongs. Open-toed sandals for around the hotel and trainers for sightseeing. A hat to keep the mid-day sun off your head and face.
Would I recommend Blue Mansion?
Absolutely. The Blue Mansion is a heritage 5* boutique hotel with matching amenities.
Our room was spacious and traditionally decorated. The back door led to a courtyard, garden and outdoor swimming pool.
The buffet breakfast provided a vast selection of European and Asian food choices, and the restaurant, Indigo, offered a first-class dining experience.
How far is the airport from Blue Mansion?
Penang International airport is a 20-minute car transfer which the Blue Mansion concierge can organise.
Fae Celine
Friday 13th of March 2020
This blue mansion is so beautiful. I love the design and interiors, it is so amazing. It feels like you were transported to another time
WhereAngieWanders
Friday 13th of March 2020
Yes it is a return to another time when you step through the doors. I loved my stay there.