Book a trip from Penang to Xiamen with Cathay Pacific , fares from MYR2,265

Xiamen, a stylish city on China's southeastern coast, was once a bustling port town. Today, it is well-known for its European-style architecture, lively cultural events, breathtaking subtropical gardens, and long sandy beaches. The city's pleasant climate, which includes warm temperatures throughout the year, adds to the allure of its natural attractions and outdoor activities.

Begin your journey with a visit to Nanputuo Temple, a well-known Buddhist temple at the foot of Wulao Mountain in Xiamen. With a thousand-year history, this temple is more than just a place of worship; it is also a cultural and architectural treasure. The temple complex has traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture, with stunning halls, pagodas, and courtyards adorned with intricate carvings and colourful artwork. Visitors can wander through the serene gardens, observe monks praying and performing rituals, and soak up the spiritual atmosphere. The temple also offers panoramic views of Xiamen University and the surrounding coastline, providing a scenic backdrop for contemplation and photography.

Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street is a must-see for those interested in shopping, dining, and experiencing the vibrant local culture.One of Xiamen's more vibrant and bustling shopping districts, this lively street runs for about 1.5 kilometres and is lined with a variety of shops, boutiques, restaurants, and street vendors. Travellers can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere and browse the diverse selection of stores that sell everything from fashion and accessories to local snacks and souvenirs. The street is also known for its charming architecture and historical buildings, which contribute to its popularity.

For nature lovers, the Xiamen Botanical Garden is a picturesque retreat nestled in the foothills of Wanshi Mountain. The garden, which spans 5.6 square kilometres, is a haven of natural beauty and a paradise for those interested in learning about the local flora. Visitors can explore its winding paths, which are lined with a diverse range of flora, including rare and exotic plants. The garden is divided into sections, which include themed gardens such as the Bamboo Garden, Palm Garden, and Orchid Garden. It also has picturesque views, serene ponds, and tranquil pavilions where visitors can unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Make your trip from Penang to Xiamen one to remember by booking luxury accommodation with Cathay Pacific. With us, you’ll discover a wondrous world of rewards including special accommodation, room upgrades, and lounge access. Those planning an extended stay should consider Somerset Software Park Xiamen, a serviced residence located in Xiamen's Software Park. The well-furnished apartments offer a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, complete with convenient amenities and fully equipped kitchens. On the other hand, those who prefer luxury should consider Langham Place, Xiamen, which provides a sophisticated and lavish experience in the heart of the city. The hotel's stylish rooms and suites exude modern elegance while providing a tranquil retreat. Guests can savour gourmet cuisine, unwind at the spa, or stay active at the fitness studio and pool. By booking a holiday package or hotel through Cathay Pacific, you will be able to earn additional miles for your stay.

When visiting Xiamen, a coastal city in China known for its vibrant culinary scene, tourists should go on a gastronomic adventure and sample the local delicacies.

Start with fish balls, also known as "yu wan," a popular street food and snack in Xiamen. These flavourful balls are made with finely ground fresh fish paste and a variety of seasonings, including ginger, garlic, and herbs. The mixture is then formed into small balls and boiled or deep fried until tender and bouncy in texture. Fish balls can be eaten on their own, skewered on sticks, or mixed into noodle soups, hot pots, or stir fry dishes.

Those looking for something more satisfying should try the fried rice vermicelli, a popular stir-fried noodle dish. It features rice vermicelli noodles stir-fried with a variety of ingredients. Carrots, cabbage and bean sprouts are common vegetables in the dish, and shrimp, pork or chicken are sometimes added. The noodles are seasoned with soy sauce and other spices, resulting in a savoury and flavourful dish. Fried rice vermicelli is known for its light and delicate texture, making it a popular choice for those who want a filling noodle dish without the weight of thicker noodles.

For dessert, keep an eye out for Peanut candy, known as "hua sheng tang," a popular sweet treat in Xiamen. It is made by caramelizing peanuts with sugar, creating a crunchy and nutty confection. The peanuts are roasted first to enhance their flavour, then mixed with hot melted sugar. The mixture is then spread out, cooled, and divided into bite-sized pieces. Peanut candy is popular because of its delicious texture combination—the crispiness of caramelised sugar and the crunchiness of roasted peanuts. It is a popular snack among both locals and visitors, and it is frequently packaged in attractive boxes, making it an ideal souvenir to take home.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Xiamen.

• Currency: Chinese Yuan (¥, CNY). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V Types A, C, and I
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Language: Mandarin