Gourmet products local specialties and wines Malaysia

One of the best Chinese pastries in Georgetown.

Bird nests are an essential ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine. They're supposed to strengthen vital functions, cure influenza, asthma, and illuminate the complexion… nothing alone! In short, a real miracle potion! Once cleaned, you boil the nests in the water, and you drink the soup. Don't be surprised by prices: the 37,50 g box costs 388 RM, the soup of bird nests 28 RM; and it's one of Malaysia's cheapest shops. This treat is very much appreciated by the Chinese who spend fortunes to get these little treasures… Notice to amateurs!

Many shops and a store, the Parkson Grand: it is a chain of stores in most of the major Malay cities.

In the heart of Chinatown, let's live with smells from every corner of the world.

Every Sunday morning, Gaya Street is closed to traffic and invaded by vendors of all kinds. You'll enjoy wandering among the stalls selling fruit and vegetables, sarongs, antiques and souvenirs, in a lively atmosphere. Trade has always taken place on this artery, and although the wooden stalls with their nipah roofs have disappeared, the tradition remains. The big drawback is the live animals locked in small cages and left out in the sun.

Known as Balai Getam Guri, this building, hidden behind high palisades, is dedicated to promoting Kelantan crafts. You'll find all the skills of the craftsmen: songket, batik, sculpture, goldsmithing, basketry... Demonstrations are also organized, bringing the whole event to life. Unfortunately, not all stalls are occupied (the site is vast), and in low season the village can seem quite deserted. You can try your hand at batik for RM10.

In Langkawi, the evening market moves from one part of the island to another during the week. Each day has its own market. The Kuah market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the latter being one of the busiest. Here you'll find the usual pasar malam delights : noodles, fried food, ravioli, satay skewers, but also burgers, sushi, fresh fruit and vegetables, desserts, milkshakes... There's something for everyone. The only drawback is the lack of space to enjoy all this. There's no choice but to take away.

Penang's most famous pastry shop has been in operation since 1856 - a true institution. At weekends and during school vacations, be sure to queue, as many Malaysian tourists stop here to take home a sweet souvenir. Try tau sar pneah, otherwise known as Tambun cookie elsewhere in the country. It's a crispy cabbage dough filled with a sweet paste made from mung beans and lard. Nothing to do with our own cakes, but just as tasty.