Penang

The second largest island of Malaysia, Penang or Pulau Pinang is often called the Pearl of the Orient. It comprises a 280 square kilometre turtle-shaped island and a 48 kilometre wide strip of land called the Seberang Prai.

Penang is mainly known for its colonial heritage. The most popular attractions include the Botanical Park, Kek Lok Si Temple and Penang Hill. It is also home to many churches, mosques, and Indian and Chinese temples at a distance of few hundred metres from each other.
   
The main attraction of Penang is George Town, which is located in the north-eastern part. It also has a number of museums, places of worship, a few popular beaches, and a number of hotels, ATMs and banks. Bigger banks of Penang like CIMB Bank, Hong Leong Bank and Maybank accept travellers’ cheques and foreign currency.

The beaches are located at the north-west of George Town. High rises are located along the beaches. The biggest and most popular beach of Penang is Batu Feringgi. Teluk, the small fishing village of Penang is located beyond Feringgi. The rural area of Balik Pulau offers a sight of mangrove swamps.

Till late 18th century, Penang was ruled by the Sultans. Its location made it a symbol for seafarers and pirates. In recent years, the place became a centre for electronics manufacturing and presently, it has become one of the largest hi-tech hubs in Southeast Asia. Penang Rapid is the new bus system, which helps tourists to explore the area.

Penang’s cuisine is a blend of various cuisines spiced with lots of local specialties. The place is also famous for shopping centres and offers large malls along with smaller markets and handicraft shops. Other facilities like internet cafes are available at cheap rates that also provide free Wi-Fi.