Story by Zalina Mohd Som (NST Travel Times April 18-24, 2003)
czar-lina@nstp.com.my

FANCY waking up early to go to a wet market at an exotic destination during your much awaited vacation? Don't be quick to dismiss two of Penang well known markets - Chowrasta and Lorong Kulit.

Shopping aside, both offer unique samples of local life with, each having its own character and charm.

Morning comes alive quickly at the 112-year-old Chowrasta market in Penang Road as locals make their way through the crammed lane for their daily marketing.

Besides the usual items available in any wet market such as fruits, vegetables, fish and meat, there are stalls offering apparel, shoes and kitchenware.

So what's there for tourists to spend a worthwhile morning. For starters, the energy, colour and sound give a quick boost to your day. Then you can grab a delightful local breakfast at the many stalls in the lane.

The original Chowrasta Market was built in 1890 by the George Town municipality. The front portion facing Penang Road was rebuilt in 1920 and has remained virtually unchanged until 1981 when a new market was built in its place.

In Urdu, Chowrasta means "four cross roads". In the early days, more than three-quarters of the stall holders were Indian Muslims from south India.

By climbing aboard a local bus heading to Aye, Itam or hailing a cab to Lorong Kulit, you will be on track to a different "market" experience at Lorong Kulit.

Occupying the Penang City Stadium carpark, the market gives the sleepy area a carnival atmosphere every weekend, causing massive traffic jams and parking problems.

The market owes its popularity to its unique feature as a one-stop shopping centre for the budget-conscious and antique lovers.

Inferior or original products, traditional herbs,- used stuff, antiques or collectors items can all be snapped up at a bargain, some even say the prices are the lowest on the island.

The Lorong Kulit flea market had its humble beginnings in late 1992 when the municipal council cleared out the secondhand goods dealers from Rope Walk, located off Penang Road in the town centre, where they had been trading by the roadside since the 1970s.

They were originally supposed to move to Cecil Street Ghaut but a few of them defied the authorities and moved to the City Stadium carpark, Other traders began joining them and they have never looked back air,,.

When it comes to grabbing another bite, there is also a myriad of stalls offering nasi campur, laksa, lontong, fried kueh teow, roti canai, apom manic and cendol.

Since the hustle and bustle at Chowrasta market subsides by noon, it is best to start the morning there before heading to Lorong Kulit in this Penang tour that will give as strong a dose of local flavour as you will get.