Penang or its Malay name of Pulau Pinang is made up of a turtle-shaped island, a total of 280 square kilometers, and a strip of land called Seberang Prai on Peninsular Malaysia about 48 kilometers wide. Penang is also often called the Pearl of the Orient. It used to be the oldest British settlement in Malaysia predating Melaka. In 1786 Captain Francis Light took possession of the island. Today it is probably the most famous island of the country. It is not only known for its beach resorts, but for its colonial heritage you can especially witness in the Georgetown, the biggest city of the island.
Many visitors coming down from Thailand head for Penang first before they continue their trip to places like Cameron highlands, Kuala Lumpur or Melaka. Many people living in Thailand come to get a new visa at the local Thai consulate. Must see places are the Kek Lok Si Temple, Botanical Park, Penang Hill to name a few.
What is rather impressive to the foreign visitor is the existence of mosques, churches, Chinese and Indian temples a few hundred metres away from each other, some of which were built at the turn of the century. The famous author Somerset Maugham is known to have stayed on the island and spun tales about the romance of the white planter in South-East Asia.
Most visitors will either stay in Georgetown or in one of the beach resorts outside the city (See accommodation section). The most popular are Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi (Foreigner’s rock). If you are looking for really clean and unspoiled beaches Penang might not be the right place, but it is still very nice and the whole atmosphere is really relaxed.
The main express bus terminal in Penang is Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal and Komtar Bus Terminal in Penang island, and Butterworth Jetty Bus Terminal in Butterworth. More information on Penang can be found in http://www.my-island-penang.com
text from world66.com
January 29, 2005 change by travellingmap
November 28, 2006 change by chokchai
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License
Recommended Hotel in Penang
Bayview Georgetown Suite Penang – A unique, contemporary and happening hotel is nestled right in the heart of Georgetown, perfect convenient location for business or leisure. Historical sights of Georgetown (a city listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO), shopping centers, food haven and commercial hub is just a walk away. It is also centrally located in the heartbeat of Penang¡¯s only Food & Entertainment Hub that comes alive at night and the historical and cultural landmarks of Penang. Hotel offers an entirely new dimension in modern hospitality to meet the needs of every visitor and traveler. All rooms offer luxurious comfort and modern facilities. With 320 tastefully furnished rooms and welcoming friendly staff, Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang is the hotel where guest become friends and ever ready to extend a hand of friendship and make you feel at home. The magic of Bayview Hotel unfolds in the numerous awards achieved over the years, a testament of its reputation for service and excellent amenities, endorsed by the gurus of the hotel industry.
All the combined excellent facilities and services have resulted in Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang winning the prestigious – World Asia Millennium Gold Award for the Best 4-Star Business Hotel in Malaysia 2001/2002 – WAP Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards 2003/2004 for Excellence in Hospitality Personality: 4-Star Property General Manager & The Award for Excellence: Department ¨C Front Office Penang was established as a British trading post in 1786. Since then, it has become a culturally diverse holiday destination. The charming capital, Georgetown, is a magical combination of heritage architecture, colorful festivals with sumptuous culinary treats, all imbued in a culture of small-town friendliness. Don¡¯t miss a ride up Penang Hill via a funicular railway, strolling on a sandy beach or dining on endless varieties of food. For the shopper, check out the many nearby shopping complexes and roadside stalls.
(RM 153 Only!!)