The Jewel of Penang: Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

When I began planning my trip to Malaysia, I knew I had to go to Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its street food and colonial architecture. Doing a bit of research kept bringing the gorgeous Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion to my attention.

Heritage hotel and living museum, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, also known as "The Blue Mansion" after its vivid indigo color, is one of Penang's top visited attractions. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion was built in the late 19th century by the "Rockfeller of the East" as a symbol of craftsmanship, architecture, feng shui, and dedication to the one time Mandarin of the Highest Order's beloved seventh wife.

Detailed design of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion's roof

After years of meticulous renovation, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is now a perfectly preserved heritage site that has opened its doors to welcome visitors on daily guided tours.

Entrance into Cheong Fatt Tze's interior

Although I usually avoid guided tours, I found myself having an incredibly enjoyable time learning about the fascinating rags-to-riches story of Cheong Fatt Tze. My guide, Poh, was an enthusiastic and passionate story-teller who drew the group into the rich history and detailed architecture of the mansion.

The all-access pass into Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion for hotel guests

In addition to the guided tours, visitors also have the opportunity to stay in one of the 38 hotel rooms converted from the original design of the house. Lucky for me because I had the chance to sleep in one of them during my trip!

The Shantung Suite at Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The experience of staying in such a grand place was spectacular, and the house itself was a very unique treat. The Shantung Suite was spacious and comfortable, though quite basic as far as hotel rooms go. It's fair to say that the main draw of staying at Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion lies within the grounds of the house and its dedicated care staff, and not particularly the rooms themselves. It wasn't disappointing in the least as the mansion is simply stunning.

The airy inner courtyard of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

A complimentary breakfast of western options such as eggs, sausage, muesli, toast, and homemade spreads is served to hotel guests in the inner courtyard along with coffee, juice, and tea each morning. It was an excellent way to start out the day with the open air and sunlight filtering through the open roof.

A lovely spot to enjoy the beauty of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

All in all, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is an architectural beauty and certainly deserves to be one of Penang's top spots for visitors. This jewel is truly dazzling to behold!

Antique keys for in-house guests of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion's website, for more information and to make your reserve your tour and hotel room on-line. Be forwarned; Cheong Fatt Tze is extremely popular and hotel rooms should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

*Disclaimer: My stay at Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion was sponsored by the hotel, but all opinions are an accurate and honest view on my experience there.

© Connie Hum 2012