Why I look forward to Penang Open

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Checkmating in Paradise: Why the Penang Open Chess Festival is a Unique Experience

Chess, a game of strategy and intellect, often conjures up images of hushed libraries or dimly lit tournament halls. But what if you could combine the mental challenge of chess with the allure of a tropical paradise? Enter the Penang Open Chess Festival, an event that promises an unforgettable experience like no other.

Penang: A Cultural Tapestry

Penang Island

Ok the rest of the article will sound like a Tripadvisor content but it’s not hype and all true 🙂

Penang, the island jewel of Malaysia, offers a vibrant tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and history. From the bustling streets of Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the serene beaches and lush rainforests, Penang provides a sensory feast that extends far beyond the chessboard.

Beyond the Game: A Feast for the Senses

Georgetown, Malaysia

While the competition itself is sure to be fierce, with the defending champion Grandmaster Priasmoro Novendra returning to the Penang Open Chess Festival. Coincidentally the man has stamina as he will be playing just after another major tournament in the Philippines.

It’s not all chess:

  • Explore Georgetown’s Heritage:There is colonial charm of Georgetown, with its colorful shophouses, vibrant street art, and eclectic mix of temples, mosques, and churches.
  • Indulge in Culinary Delights: Diverse culinary scene, offering a fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Nyonya flavors. From street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, Penang’s gastronomic scene is a true delight.
    It’s the only time of year I over indulge in hawker and street food 🙂
  • Unwind on Pristine Beaches: I hope I have time to visit some of the less visited beaches in Penang – having discovered them when a relative in Penang showed it to me and my sister a few months ago.
  • Embrace Nature’s Wonders: Avoiding Penang Hill as it’s now in my opinion a tourist trap. Instead lush jungles, home to exotic wildlife and stunning natural landscapes of the Penang Botanical Gardens is a better bet.

More Than Just Chess: A Community Event

Penang Botanical Gardens, Malaysia

The Penang Open Chess Festival is more than just a competition; it’s a community event that brings together chess enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. Also it’s probably the only time I see my Penang freinds.

The other main reason is I like chess photography. Still an amateur but I seriously want to improve and get those amazing pictures of chess players.

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