crellston

thursday - yes it does have a/c

traveller2007

There are lots of nice quirky hotels in Georgetown - the E and O isnt the only place to stay! For a good list check out tripadvisor, it has the best spots. I personally have stayed at the Straits Collection (v nice converted shophouses) and have heard Mango Tree is good. There are cheaper option - I think Evergreens and Bayview both central and well located. Cheong Fatt Tze is like staying in a museum - it IS a museum. Very different experience. Less 'cosy' than Straits and Mango tree.
Also G Hotel, an a new E and O option - something Pines. But they are outside Georgetown on Batu Ferrengi.

rhkkmk

i would only stay IN georgetown

traveller2007

just to add - for something different, there is also Clove Hall - a historic home, nr Georgetown centre. Basically, you need one day in Georgetown and I would recommend doing a historical trail - The Straits Collection hotel has a great walking tour - taking in some quirky cafes, amazing clan temples and eating places/hawker stalls. Start early and after several hours of walking in the heat you will be exhausted! Visit a quayside village too. For taxis - all really friendly and nice but you need to negotiate the fare before getting in. You can get from one side of the city to the other for about 20- 25 Malaysian Ringgitt (about $8) so use that as a benchmark.
Enjoy Penang! Its one of my favourite cities to spend a weekend.