Penang, Malaysia

Penang is an island off the northern part of the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is also the name of the Malaysian state which is made up of Penang Island and the facing strip of territory on the mainland called Seberang Perai (formerly Province Wellesley).

Penang is one of Malaysia's main tourist draws with its rich multicultural history, full of colonial and Chinese influences. Its beaches are beautiful and there is a profusion of sites of worship of all different faiths.

Georgetown, the capital of Penang, is a favourite spot for tourists as it has lots of pre-war houses and is also one of the favourite spot for the locals as most of Penang's pubs are located there. Another favourite spot for both locals and tourists is Batu Ferringhi, located on the north coast, with white sandy beaches, luxurious hotels and restaurants.

Things to see and do

* Penang Hill
* Kek Lok Si ("Temple of Supreme Bliss").
* Bukit Jambul - Orchid, Hisbiscus & Reptile Garden
* Penang Bridge
* Botanical Gardens

Cruise Season - Jan - Dec
Currency - Malaysian Ringgit (RM)
Language - Malay
Land Area - 1046.3 sq km's
Population - 1,530,150 approx
Electricity - 2 vertical square pins and one perpendicular below British style
Time - GMT plus eight hours
International Country Telephone Code - + 60

Port Location - Penang Port operates Swenttenham Pier on Penang island which handles cruise vessels.

Transport Links - Getting to Penang both from within and outside Malaysia is easy as Penang is well-connected by road, rail, sea and air. Penang International Airport (PEN) is located in Bayan Lepas in the south of the island.
Penang bus services are generally unsystematic and taxis have only just started using the meter system in 2006. The three-wheeled trishaw, still operates in certain parts of George Town.