Be mesmerised by the unique uses of exotic plants and herbs on an introductory tour of the Tropical Spice Garden before partaking in a cooking class to cook tasty Malay, Nyonya or Indian dishes. Then, discover a hidden side of Penang where there’s an eclectic mix of art and nature.
Programme Details
This morning, be picked up at 08:15 from the hotel for a transfer to Tropical Spice Garden. On arrival take a guided tour of the Spice Terraces, explore the lush landscaped award-winning gardens set out over 8 acres of secondary jungle. Then take a refreshment tea in the Bamboo Garden. Tucked away in a secluded corner of the gardens, the cooking school is surrounded by jungle trees and wildlife, a small herb garden and a glimpse of the Andaman Sea.
At 10:15, the cooking class commences. Cook tasty Malay, Nyonya and/or Indian cuisine with the help of professional chefs. Peranakan or Nyonya cuisine is a unique combination of Chinese, Malay and other influences. Peranakans are descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in Penang, Malacca, Indonesia and Singapore, inter-marrying with local Malays. The old Malay word, nyonya is a term of respect and affection for women of prominent social standing (part madame and part auntie). The same word has come to refer to the cuisine of the Peranakans.
With a blend of Chinese ingredients with various distinct spices and cooking techniques from the Malay/Indonesian community, Nyonya cooking has a tangy, aromatic, spicy and herbal combination. Mix this with the influence of Indian cuisine the experience is concluded with a delightful selection of dishes to enjoy for lunch on the patio.
(Please note: Dishes will vary depending on the day and menu set. Some examples are: Penang Nyonya flavours/Best of Malay/Spices of India or Tropical Thai. Vegetarian options are available on request.)
Following lunch depart deep in the hills of the winding road of Teluk Bahang towards Balik Pulau to Art and Garden where nature meets with art. Within 1.5 acres of hilly land, in three-tier reaches, a green sanctuary showcases an amazing variety of bromeliads, air plants, aloes, agaves, gingers, trumpet pictures and orchids amidst glass, clay and metal sculptures as well as paintings and colourful mosaics.
Take a pleasant walk along the terraced hill land with an explanation of each plant’s origin and use. Appreciate the seamlessly blended art glasswork with tropical planting and landscape along with many other mediums of work.
Transfer back to hotel by 16:30. (L)
Inclusions:
🥘 Lunch
Notes:
- Min 2 – Max 10 people to a class
- Not suitable for Children below 8 years old
- Guide rates subject to increase during public holidays https://publicholidays.com.my/. Ask to your travel consultant
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