Penang one of 2016's 'best budget travel destinations'

GEORGE TOWN: A major American finance publication has named George Town in Penang the top place for budget travel destinations for 2016.

Forbes placed the city number one in its "The Ten Best Budget Travel Destinations for 2016" list.

The article noted the Unesco World Heritage Site was a must for "those who love to try new food but are on a budget."

"The cuisine is a blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian specialties and local hawker centres and street food stalls offer dozens of delicious options," the report said.

Other than food, the report pointed out visitors could also visit temples, enjoy the colonial architecture and colourful street art.

Coming in second on the list was Xi'an, China, with the city of Barcelona in Spain rounding up the top three budget destinations.

The list on Forbes comes barely a week after LA Times listed Penang Island as one of the 16 "must see" destinations for 2016.

Penang also grabbed the attention of travellers when travel guide Lonely Planet put George Town as fourth in its top 10 list for Best in Travel 2016.