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West Australian
2 days ago
- West Australian
Fluorescence in Penang's night
Nature has incredible fluorescent things that can only be seen at night — as I have just discovered at a new dining and nature experience on the Malaysian island of Penang, where I live. Set in Teluk Bahang, a quiet village in the northwestern corner of the island, hemmed by the green hills of Penang National Park, the smallest in Malaysia, is Entopia, one of Penang Island's top family-oriented attractions. This world-class facility was developed from the former Penang Butterfly Farm to become a larger, more comprehensive tropical sanctuary featuring hundreds of rare insects like the Atlas Moth (one of the world's largest), reptiles and plants. The sanctuary is now also opened at night from Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm to offer Entopia by Night, ($14.50 for adults, $11 for children) possibly the world's first biofluorescent walk during which the focus is observing how animals and plants display fascinating, sometimes incredible natural fluorescence. If you were looking for one Penang activity that would surprise the children and young adults you have in tow, this could be it — and it has some interesting add-ons, too. Things kick off inside the Atlas, a building on the right side after Entopia's entrance, where guests sit down to have a fluorescent temporary tattoo. I chose to have a blue scorpion on my right hand. Visitors can then check out the fluorescent lab experience. When we arrived, two staff members in laboratory gear were running a demonstration on how to extract chlorophyll from the local pandan leaf, storing it in alembics. In some cases, when put under UV lights, the extract takes an eerie fluorescent colour. The next activity was the 'mystery glowing drinks', when guests taste different types of drinks, trying to guess what they are, and seeing how some fluoresce under UV light. You'll never look at a soda or ginger ale the same again after this. The best way to experience Entopia By Night is the Biofluorescent Odyssey ($35), which includes admission fee, guided walk and a three-course dinner at the Tapestree Cafe housed within Entopia's gardens. When we walked in, the lights were off, candles flickered on the tables, and the speakers were playing soothing jazz music. After being seated, I noticed that UV lights hang over the tables, and once one switches them on with a remote, the food takes a unique, ethereal glow that will surprise even the most jaded diners. The food brings together Malaysian and a hint of North-Asian, especially Japanese, tastes, and is available in two options — the 'tropical harvest' featuring a chicken-based main, and the 'seaside herb voyage' for fish lovers. A refreshing tacca lime soda came with the starter, a cucumber roll with mashed potato and chuka wakame, a vegetarian spin on Japanese sushi, made all the more inviting by the yellowish glow produced by the UV lighting. Once served, even my creamy green pea soup glowed in pinkish hues, and was firm yet liquid, the way I prefer it. It was a pleasure to dig into it with this new kind of fluorescent technicolour. The main was grilled chicken — ham and pineapple Hawaiian style with mustard honey sauce — like a compressed prime chicken meat steak sandwiched between slices of fresh pineapple and glazed in aromatic herbs. A delicious texture and mixture of tastes, sweet and savoury. On the side, the mains had salad with dressings and a set of four fried potatoes that looked like insect cocoons. Those who prefer fish can opt for fish piccata with creamy butter herb sauce — also beguiling, but to be fair, I preferred the zestiness of the chicken. After the food, we waited for a guide to round up our little group of six and started the final part of the night, a guided walk through Entopia's gardens, in particular the amphibian and insect section. We were shown and told how certain species of geckos, frogs, scorpions and special plant varieties reveal incredible patterns that are invisible to the human eye during the day when they are bathed in ultraviolet light. The guides use UV light to show the biofluorescence and explain how frogs and other insects use it. For example, did you know that when bathed in UV light, the Bornean horned frog becomes fluorescent, or that the shell of the giant forest scorpion turns a psychedelic blue-green? Our guide held up a box containing three scorpions' outer shells, which they leave behind and change as they grow in size, making some of the most squeamish in our group squirm. All in all, Entopia by Night is a unique and fun way to spend an evening chasing incredible critters without the need to go sweat in the forest. Kids are definitely going to have a blast, and the dining package is also very reasonably priced compared with the general admission. The advice? Go for it when in Penang with kids or your partner — I think it may be even better than visiting Entopia during the day.
National Geographic
27-05-2025
- National Geographic
5 alternative experiences to have in Penang
With its sizzling street food stalls, glorious beaches and dense jungle, Penang should be on every Malaysian holiday itinerary. Located in the north west of the country, the state is split between the mainland and Penang Island. It's perhaps most famous for its food — during your time here, you can feast on flaky roti canai and dhal in the early morning sunshine, or opt for Chinese noodles and sweet tea at a bustling open-air cafe. Yet there's so much more to a trip to Penang than eating your way around the colourful capital of George Town. Head beyond the city and you'll find hilly hikes and adrenaline-pumping theme parks surrounded by forests, plus plenty of laid-back beaches to slow the pace. Here are just five ways to experience the lesser-known sides of Penang. 1. Marvel at glowing flora and fauna Located on the western coast of Penang Island, Entopia is a wildlife haven that'll fascinate travellers of any age. Step inside the enclosed gardens and you'll see hundreds of species of butterflies floating through the air, surrounded by fish-filled ponds, lofty trees and tumbling waterfalls. In the 'mystery cave', there's a chance to see insects and reptiles up close, with scannable QR codes providing information about every spider, snake and lizard. And while there is a great deal to see during the day, Entopia by Night allows visitors to explore the world's first biofluorescent garden, where plants and animals, including geckos and scorpions, appear to glow in the dark. Getting to this sanctuary also allows you to see plenty of the island; to reach Entopia, hop in an inexpensive Grab taxi or take the bus that travels from George Town along the coast. Located on the west coast of Penang, Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is home to around 15,000 butterflies, dragonflies and fireflies. Photograph by Penang Global Tourism 2. Delve into Penang's colourful past Forget staid museums — in Penang, visitors can interact with the region's past at immersive spaces like the Penang History Gallery. This 10,000sq ft space showcases the state's history through meticulously reconstructed colonial streets and war bunkers. It's located within the state's UNESCO-designated capital, George Town, where Penang's history is visible in its many impressive temples and beautifully preserved heritage buildings. You can also learn about the region's past through the imaginative street art that decorates walls around the city. Bukit Tambun — a former sugarcane plantation that is now a vibrant village — also takes this creative approach to preserving history, with its eye-catching murals splashed on buildings and paintings on shophouse fronts. Some of these paintings tell stories about this mainland town's history and culture, while others feature whatever the shop owner happens to fancy (think Bruce Lee or SpongeBob SquarePants). This mural of a dancing girl can be found in the rural town of Balik Pulau. Photograph by Penang Global Tourism George Town is home to many colourful murals, including this lifelike painting of a tomcat. Photograph by Penang Global Tourism 3. Soar through the jungle on zip coaster At 1,135 metres, this adventurous ride at Escape Penang is said to be the world's longest zip coaster — and it's certainly one of the most scenic. Kitted out in a harness, you'll swoop, swerve and perhaps shriek as you make your way through the jungle canopy, taking in the treetops and hilly countryside as you go. In fact, the zip coaster is just one of 35 attractions at Escape Penang, a park located a 40-minute drive from George Town, surrounded by lush forest. With obstacle courses, splash parks and water slides offering entertainment for everyone from young kids to adults, this is one of the best places to cool off when the mercury rises. 4. Relax on Cat Beach Penang Within minutes on Penang, you'll see that this is an island of beautiful beaches of golden sands and turquoise waters. But one stretch of sand stands out: Cat Beach, which is home to hundreds of stray cats living the good life on the palm-lined shores. Located in the fishing village of Teluk Bahang, Cat Beach is also a sanctuary where you can spend time with rescued cats, either as a longer-stay volunteer or on an hour-long visit. Further along the beach, you may fancy a dip in the water or find an idyllic spot to watch the sunset. With its peak sitting 2,733 ft above sea level, travellers can find panoramic views of Penang Island and the mainland from the top of Penang Hill. Photograph by Penang Global Tourism 5. Hike the thrilling 'Trek 800' For those craving a walk in nature, Penang Island is crammed with peaceful hiking trails suitable for day-long excursion or short, challenging climbs. The just over four-mile Trek 800 trail, located in Taman Rimba Bukit Mertajam park, offers you the chance to really stretch your legs and enjoy some staggering views. On this high-energy trek, you'll pass monkeys, towering trees and huge tree roots, all before arriving at a lookout point with cloud-dusted views of Mengkuang Dam. Direct flights are available from the UK to Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur. From here, several airlines offer direct flights to Penang. The cheapest way to get around George Town is on the free CAT bus, with stops dotted across the city. When venturing further, Grab taxis (an equivalent to Uber) are cheap, reliable and easily accessible via the app. Alternatively, you can hire a car or use the island's bus network. For more information, visit This paid content article was created for Penang Global Tourism. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic, National Geographic Traveller (UK) or their editorial staffs. To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Yahoo
12-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What to do this April vacation in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — April vacation is here, and it's bringing a mix of spring weather. There are plenty of family-friendly things going on in Southern New England, both inside and outside for the rainy and sunny days. LOOKING AHEAD: Detailed 7-Day Forecast Check out this list of fun activities happening while school's out: : From 9 a.m. to 5:30 pm. on April 13, Butterfly Farm will be hosting its 4th annual Easter egg hunt in the farm's hay fields and Christmas tree fields. You can also check out the farm's animals — including some new babies — as well as meet the Easter Bunny and get your face painted. The rain date is April 20. You can learn more and buy tickets here. Kids Drop-Off Workshops: From 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 14–18, Create Color Art Studio is hosting workshops exploring a variety of artistic mediums. This workshop can give you some time to run errands and lets kids get creative. Pizza and drinks will be given to kids during the session. The workshops include making a pebble clay bowl and a Hello Kitty Mug. It costs $30 per session. You can learn more or sign up here. : At 1 p.m. at the Pawtucket Public Library on April 17, you can learn about the life cycle of chickens and other birds. Every attendee will also get to hold a chick. No registration is required for this free event. : The 11th season of Food Truck Friday kicks off at Carousel Park from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on April 18. There will be a rotation of 15 food trucks each week until Sept. 26. The event is free; you only have to pay for what you eat. Fairy Garden Days: From 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Roger Williams Park Botanical Gardens there will be Fairy Garden Days in the Fungarium or Mushroom Museum. There will be fairy house spotting, chats with a mermaid and wand-making. Tickets start at $13. You can learn more and buy tickets here. : On April 16 and 17, Roger Williams Park Zoo is celebrating Earth Day early with its Party for the Planet. The event will feature hands-on education stations, keeper talks, live music, and costume character meet-and-greets. The event is included with admission to the zoo. You can buy tickets here. : There will be a variety of events at the museum for April vacation, including the chance to hug a bunny on Wednesday and a puppet story time on Thursday. You can learn more and buy tickets here. : You can see animals from the past and present at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Return of the Dinosaurs is back with 60 life-size animatronic and interactive dinosaurs. The experience is not included with zoo admission. You can learn more and buy tickets here. Play at King Park: Check out Newport's newest playground in King Park. Kids can swing, climb and slide with a view of the Pell Bridge. While the city is still putting on the finishing touches, the playground is officially open. Save The Bay's Hamilton Family Aquarium: The aquarium on America's Cup Avenue is now open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The aquarium has partnered with the National Institute of Museum and Library Sciences 'Museums for All' program. Anyone who presents an EBT card can visit the museum for free with up to four guests. Easter Specialty Farmer's Market: From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 13 at Tiverton Middle School, there will be more than 50 vendors with a variety of international dishes, fresh produce, baked goods, pet treats and more. The Tiverton Farmers Market will also have an Easter Egg Scramble with rewards for kids who participate. The activity is limited to the first 50 children who enter. : At 8 p.m. every Friday, you can check out Bring Your Own Improv at the Warwick Center for the Arts on Post Road. Audience participation is always optional. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids, students and seniors. You can learn more about the interactive show or buy tickets here. Harry Potter: The Exhibition: Calling all witches, wizards and muggles — time is running out to check out the Harry Potter Exhibition featuring authentic movie props, costumes worn by the actors and scene recreations. The exhibition will be leaving on April 27. Tickets start at $25. You can learn more and buy tickets here. : At 11 a.m. on April 19, the First Congregational Church of Fall River will be hosting an Easter egg hunt that is free and open to all. There will also be a special appearance from the Easter Bunny with photo opportunities too. : On April 13, the Easter bunny will be making an appearance at Buttonwood Park Zoo. The brunch will feature food, photos, face painting and animal encounters. There are three time slots available. You can learn more and buy tickets here. See Cinderella: On April 11, 12 and 13, you can catch New Bedford High School Drama Club's production of 'Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella.' Check out showtimes and tickets here. Download the and apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch or with the new . Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
