PENANG ISLAND

Penang needs little introduction to many visitors to Malaysia, having long been known as one of Southeast Asia's finest destinations. Penang's outstanding beaches and exotic sights have made it one of the most popular destinations in the region.As fabulous as its beaches are, some of Penang's deeper mysteries should also be experienced. According to local folklore, the Snake Temple, dedicated to a Buddhist healer-priest, was inhabited by snakes who crawled out of the jungle on the night of the temple's completion.

The snakes are still there today. The Kek Lok Si temple, at Air Itam, is reputed to be the most beautiful and largest temple complex in Southeast Asia. Its seven-story pagoda, over 90 feet high, is a harmonious blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architecture and craftsmanship. Other worthwhile stops are the delightful Penang Bird Park, the romantic peak of Penang Hill, Fort Cornwallis, the site of Light's first landing, and the Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve (crisscrossed with beautiful trails leading to isolated beaches).

A trek through the reserve's interior reveals rare flora, monkeys chattering in the trees, sea eagles surveying their prey, and maybe a glimpse of a Hawksbill turtle heading for the sea. Some hotels organize early morning treks through the forest.

HOW TO REACH:

Penang International Airport is located in the south of the island, in Bayan Lepas, and handles flights to international destinations such as Bangkok, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Medan, Riau and Taipei. Penang Airport is the gateway to northern Malaysia. More than three million passengers arrive and depart here each year, heading to domestic and international destinations.

Penang is readily accessible by air from major cities in Asia by direct Malaysia Airlines flights. At least 20 daily flights link Penang with Kuala Lumpur, which are also offered by the national carrier. Firefly, the low-cost carrier owned by Malaysia Airlines, has its hub here.

Twenty kilometres from the city centre, Penang International Airport offers transfer options that include buses, taxis and limousines. Taxis offer fixed-price service to numerous destinations around the island. Air-conditioned taxi service and limousines are also available at the airport, providing service at higher rates. Penang’s Yellow Bus Company operates hourly service from the airport to Pengkalan Weld in the centre from early morning through late evening.

Public Transport

The island boasts a comprehensive public transportation system that comprises electric trams, trolleys and double-decker buses, covering routes through Georgetown’s streets and connecting points throughout the island. The Penang Hill railway is a funicular that makes the climb to the top of Penang Hill. This was considered an exceptional feat of engineering when it was constructed in 1923, and is still popular with visiting tourists today.

In order to improve the efficiency and usage of the public bus system, the city has arranged to provide free shuttle services on some routes to lessen the congestion caused by private vehicles. Recently, the entire public bus system was revamped to upgrade services on 38 routes around the island and mainland by increasing the fleet to 150 buses. There are two main bus terminals in Penang that handle longer-distance services: one at the ferry terminal in Wellesley and a newer terminal at Sungai Nibong.

A relatively new regulation requires taxi drivers to use meters, but many drivers do not adhere to the law, complaining that it’s not profitable to do so. It’s recommended that you use only taxis whose drivers are willing to switch on the meter or that you agree on a fare in advance of your trip.

Another option is to use three-wheeled rickshaws, know locally as a trishaws, which you’ll see on many of Georgetown’s streets. This form of transport is losing popularity as more modern and efficient options gain favour. Today, trishaw operators are largely dependent on tourists for their business.

From dusk to dawn and city lights to beach settings, the accommodation that awaits each visitor to Penang is a sure sign of our gracious hospitality. For the unfussy visitor who is here on a budget, yet keen to experience our local hospitality in its simplest from, the suitably located hotels in George Town, along Chulia Street and Penang Road would be ideal.

Photograph courtesy of Shangri-La Hotel Penang.

With towering Komtar setting the landmark, visitors can easily find their way around; taking to the heels or by way of the ever popular trishaw, at an affordable price.

For the more selective traveler who want a bit of the same action, but choose a more refined and luxurious environment, there are a whole range of choices ranging from 3-star hotels, to 5-star hotels. These city hotels located conveniently along George Town are just right for the entrepreneur who has to be in the city's vicinity.

Penang's famous beach hotels and resort are our pride and joy. Located along one of the finest beach paradise in Southeast Asia, they guarantee relaxation, sun and enjoyment that is so characteristically Penang. These famous beach hotels are strictly for those who come to Penang for a bout of relaxation.

A panaromic view of
Rasa Sayang Resort, Penang

The ever popular guesthouses are another quiet attraction not widely known even among locals. Superbly situated along Batu Ferringhi's beach front, and uniquely camouflaged by greenery, some of these guesthouses are old colonial houses which have been left to make a name for themselves. Turned into Guesthouses, they provide an atmosphere of historical significance, with the beaches to complete the setting.

About Penang Island Restaurants

The Penang Island restaurant scene has all the usual national chains and fast food joints, but part of the fun of traveling is sampling the local cuisine. With that in mind, branch out and give a few locally-owned Penang Island restaurants

a shot. This Penang Island dining guide offers choices for those who crave comfort food and those who savor more international flavors, fans of out-of-the-way spots as well as proponents of stylish, upscale dining rooms. Rest assured – the 10Best Penang Island restaurant guide covers all the bases!

Back to Nature

Minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city is Penang’s natural heritage -- her emerald green hills and golden sandy beaches.

Leisure activities are varied -- tennis to golf, riding to scuba diving. Penang is one place where you can jog, cycle, sunbathe, sail, beachcomb, snorkel and windsurf.

Myriad Celebration

Penang's multi-cultural composition ensures a succession of colourful, exciting festivals and celebrations that are unrivalled anywhere else in the world. Considering the number of special events, festivals, celebrations, gods and deities' birthdays and religious occasions among the three main race groups (Malays, Chinese and Indians) when one big celebration is finished, another is just about to begin.

Penangites are always game for an excuse to celebrate and feast, and there is much enthusiasm, painstaking preparation and merry-making all year round. Thus, Penang sees a kaleidoscope of festivals and celebrations which seems to last the entire year.

Culinary Adventure

Having a reputation as a food paradise, be it haute cuisine, or cuisine bourgeoise (hawker fare), Penang offers a heady and exotic mix of delicious cuisine to choose from.

Indulge! Savour!

Rich Legacy

George Town, the state capital of Penang, has one of the largest collections of 19th, and early 20th century buildings in Southeast Asia. It is a living historic city, with inner city communities, places of worship, guilds, wet markets andbazaars, traditional trades and retail shops, trishaw peddlers and hawkers.

Daily, hundreds of tourists both local and foreign, visit this vast preservation of treasures in George Town, in which may be seen and enjoyed the story of Penang's man-made heritage.

As the starting point of Penang's multicultural community, the inner city of George Town has many houses of worship, guilds, mosques, temples, clanhouses, district associations, sanghams and lodges which are Penang's 'open museums' of migration and cultural history. The many heritage tour guides are only too happy to reveal to the visitor the beauty and wonder, and the inspiration and spiritual meaning that lie behind each building, each community and each culture

Business Avenue

MICE is the acronym for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, and represents a niche market that the local travel trade is seeking to promote.

Penang -- comprising Penang island, tucked in the north-western coast of Peninsular Malaysia, and Seberang Perai, a thriving industrial area -- famed for its hawker delights, myriad culture, electrifying night life, happenings and unique attractions, certainly fits the bill as an ideal MICE destination.

Penang Activities

Children’s Activities

Visitors will find a great variety of activities for children and families in Penang. Most tourists come here for the beaches and water sports, but there’s also fun to be had inland visiting butterfly and bird parks, recreational forests and jungles. Horseback riding is also popular on the island and can make for a good outing that the whole family can enjoy.

Beach Sports and Activities
All of the beach hotels and resorts provide facilities for numerous water sports that can be enjoyed by children, including canoeing, snorkelling, waterskiing and windsurfing. Depending on the age of your children, parasailing, scuba diving and speed boat rides are also possibilities, each of which are offered at the island’s more popular resorts.

Butterfly Farm
The world’s first tropical butterfly farm boasts a population of more than 4,000 Malaysian butterflies, representing 120 species. Not only is this an attraction that’s popular with children and their parents, it’s also a living museum that offers public education and research facilities. The farm’s main attraction is without doubt the enormous enclosure in which the papillons fly free. Visitors can view the butterflies at close range as they fly around their favourite nectar-producing plants.
Bukit Panchor Recreational Forest
Located approximately 30 miles (50kms) from Georgetown, this small and lush lowland forest features a variety of flora and fauna and a bat cave for those who dare to join a night cave tour. A walkway extending over the freshwater swamp here guides visitors through a unique mangrove environment. This is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike, as it’s suitable for camping and provides facilities for other recreational activities.

Horseback Riding
A number of stables offer horseback riding facilities, and several hotels include riding on their guest activities list. This is a sport that everyone in the family can enjoy, with seasoned stable hands present to train and guide you and your children

Jungle Trekking
There are lots of options when it comes to jungle treks. Most of the beach hotels and resorts organise treks that leave early in the day: these are typically easy walks that go to waterfalls and follow jungle streams. For families who want to venture out on their own, there’s a useful guide published by the Malaysian Nature Society called The Nature Trails of Penang, available at tourist information offices. It’s an excellent resource for families with children who want to follow interesting trails through the unique jungle environment.

Penang Bird Park
The Penang Bird Park is a favourite destination for children. Occupying a large and beautifully-landscaped site in Seberang Jaya, here you’ll see many specially-designed aviaries that are home to more than 400 species of birds from around the world. The park also features ponds with manmade islands and waterfalls as well as lovely landscaped gardens filled with ornamental plant species.

Youth Park
This park is Penang’s largest recreational area, nestled beneath a mature tree canopy. Facilities available at the Youth Park include outdoor exercise and play equipment, outdoor swimming pools and lush tropical gardens for parents and children alike to enjoy.
Cultural Activities

The multi-cultural heritage of Penang provides diversity in activities for visitors throughout the year. There are colourful, exciting celebrations and events based in Chinese, Malay, Islamic and Buddhist traditions. Tourists can choose from galleries and museums, cultural centres based in the various ethnic communities, and theatre and music performances at various venues.

Chinatown
Chinatown on Penang Island covers a large area and is well-preserved historically, extending from Weld Quay to Lebuh Campbell, Lebuh King, Lebuh Muntri and Lebuh Stewart. So much of the 19^th century architecture is still standing that you can experience the atmosphere of life as it was for early Chinese settlers. Visitors will see temples, shop houses and clan houses lining the streets of Chinatown, still in active use today.

Little India
In the section of Georgetown known as Little India you’ll find shops carrying goods from southern India and a number of restaurants offering up tasty, spicy dishes. If you’re in the market for a saree, south Asian spices, trinkets, sculptures or traditional music, this is the part of town to visit. Even if you’d just like to soak up the atmosphere, it’s well worth your time strolling through the sector, which gets quite busy in November in the days leading up to Diwali.

Penang Islamic Museum
Only very few of Penang’s elegant Muslim residences of the 19^th century remain standing today. One notable example is the Syed Alatas Mansion on Lebuh Armenian, which now houses the Penang Islamic Museum. The architecture of the building incorporates a mixture of European, Indian and Malay influences. The museum itself takes visitors through the history of Islam in Penang and other parts of Malaysia, from its beginnings until the present. The museum’s exhibits are organised in galleries and by theme.

Penang Museum and Art Gallery
Located at Lebuh Farquhar, this museum and gallery features collections of old maps and charts, photographs and historical artefacts. The building was originally constructed to house the Penang Free School in 1821. The museum is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Malaysia. Phone: +60 4 261 3144.

Theatre performances and concerts
Performances of traditional and contemporary theatrical works and music are held at a number of venues throughout Penang, including: Amphitheatre, Dewan Sri Pinang, Geodesic Dome, Fort Cornwallis and Lebuh Light. Many hotels also offer entertainment, booking world-class singers, dancers and other performers. You’ll find listings in the local newspapers and information is also available from the concierge or reception staff at your hotel.

USM-ABN Amro Arts and Cultural Centre
Previously home to the ABN-Amro Bank, the building that now houses the arts and culture centre was built prior to WWII. The new centre mounts art exhibitions and holds cultural events on varying themes most months. The gallery also boasts an extensive collection of both local and regional art, and provides support to a number of Malaysian artists.
Dining & Shopping

Penang’s multi-cultural history provides today’s visitors with a wealth of cuisines to choose from. Variety is indeed the spice of life when it comes to food here, and eateries around the island serve up a range of dishes that includes Malay, Chinese and Indian favourites as well as fast foods and international cuisines such as French and Italian, among others.

Malay cuisine has been credited as playing a key role in establishing Penang as a ‘food paradise’ of Southeast Asia. This traditional culinary style was influenced over the centuries by trade with other nations, including China, India, Indonesia and countries of the Middle East. Malay dishes are typically flavourful and spicy, blending a variety of herbs and spices in a unique combination reflecting the foods of these various nations.

Chinese cuisine is a staple in Penang, and has been since the 19^th century. Popular Cantonese dishes, spicy treats of Szechuan cuisine and local specialties that reflect Hainanese, Hokkien and Teochew heritage are all available. You’ll find street vendors, small family restaurants and more elegant venues to choose from.

Indian choices range from Moghul dishes that are typical of northern Indian cuisine to the spicy fare of southern India. Northern Indian food tends to be milder, with curries featuring aromatic spices such as aniseed, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and saffron. Budget Indian food, particularly dishes offered by street vendors, tends to be of the southern Indian variety. Rice and vegetables feature prominently and flour-based pancakes with dhal or potato curry are particular favourites for breakfast or snacks later in the day.

In addition to the exciting array of dining options, Penang has long been known as a paradise for shoppers. Hundreds of retail establishments are scattered throughout the city and also other parts of the island. In Georgetown, the main shopping areas are found on and around Jalan Penang, Lebuh Campbell, Lebuh Chulia, Lebuh Kapitan Keling and Lebuh Pantai. There aren’t many other places in Asia that offer up the range of goods you can find here, and at such reasonable prices.

Antique shopping draws a good number of visitors to Penang. There are bargains to be found here, but you should be aware that not everything offered as an antique is genuine. Junk shops, such as those you’ll find along Rope Walk, offer an assortment of old and antique items including porcelain and glass, coins, ceiling lamps and clocks.

Shopping malls have been cropping up everywhere on the island in recent year, moving from the edge of the city to many of the larger suburban areas. The mall experience and window shopping are now firmly-entrenched aspects of life for residents of Penang. At the malls you’ll find an array of shops that range from lower-priced, bargain clothing outlets to upscale shops selling fine jewellery and luxury items. Most malls feature food courts, fast-food outlets and occasionally a family-style restaurant.

Pasar malam, or night markets, are popular in Penang and can be found throughout the island. The markets are usually set up in the suburbs and in areas frequented by tourists, such as the beach resort of Batu Ferringhi. From early evening until midnight, vendors offer up a variety of merchandise from roadside stands. CDs and DVDs, clothing, souvenirs, local handicrafts, handbags, batik, and many other items are typically for sale and bargaining over prices is expected.
Outdoor Activities

Penang offers visitors many options for outdoor activities and sports. Water sports are particularly popular, including snorkelling, diving and sailing. The island’s national park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and bird watchers, in particular. Golf brings many tourists to Malaysia, and Penang has its fair share of excellent courses

Bird Watching
The Penang National Park is a delight for nature lovers, and particular so for bird enthusiasts. Birds are plentiful here including large birds such as the white-bellied sea eagle, brahminy kite and the kingfisher. Annual events are held at the time of the return of migratory water birds, typically at the coastal wetlands and mangroves.

Diving
Diving in the tropical waters off Penang and other parts of Malaysia attracts many tourists to the region. There are coral reefs and shipwrecks, and visibility reaching 100 feet at times. The country’s awareness of the ecological and economic importance of the underwater environment has led to protective measures aimed at maintaining the integrity of this important resource.

Golf
Golf is a popular outdoor activity in Malaysia, which draws many visitors. Penang boasts several internationally-acclaimed courses which feature facilities of a high standard. Some of the clubs open to visitors include the Air Force Golf Club on Butterworth road, Bukit Jambul Golf and Country Club, Bukit Jawi Golf Resort, Penang Turf Club and Kristal Golf Resort

Horseback Riding
Riding on horseback along a beach or through the rolling hills of the island can be an enjoyable way to appreciate the beauty of the natural environment here. There are a number of stables catering to horseback riding, and some hotels work with the stables to include riding on the list of activities available to their guests. Typically hotel concierge staff can provide details o horseback riding and make arrangements for you.

Sailing
Sailing is a popular activity that can be enjoyed by the entire family. There are catamarans and small dinghies available for hire at most of the seaside hotels and resorts. If you’re inexperienced, lessons are often available, as is necessary safety gear. The waters here are warm and pleasant, and on a day when the seas are calm, sailing can be an agreeable and relaxing activity.

Water Sports
In addition to sailing and diving, many beachfront resorts feature facilities for other water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, parasailing, waterskiing and windsurfing. Speedboats are available for hire to take you to the uninhabited islands of Pulau Bidan, Pulau Song and Song Pulau Telur off Batu Ferringhi, where you can enjoy fishing and snorkelling.

Penang Sightseeing

Top Things to See

Penang’s list of attractions includes beaches, nature parks, temples, mosques and forts. Many of the interesting historical sights are found in a relatively small urban area, while natural features such as beaches, reserves and hills are located in various parts of the island.

Beaches
The beaches of Penang are undoubtedly the main attraction. The best known of all the island beaches is Batu Ferringhi. This long stretch of sandy beach with its tranquil waters is a great spot for relaxing, sun bathing and water sports. Other beaches along the same shoreline include Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang, where you’ll find upscale resorts offering the best in accommodation, meals and facilities. In more secluded areas of the island you’ll encounter smaller, more private beaches if you’re willing to make your way through trails in the jungle to reach them. Among the more secluded spots are Monkey Beach, Pantai Mas and Teluk Duyung.

Fort Cornwallis
The fort was constructed at the site of Captain Francis Light’s landing at Penang in 1786. Originally built as a wooden stockade, it was replaced with a concrete structure in 1804. Today visitors to this attraction will find an open-air amphitheatre, a gallery of historic displays, and a handicraft and souvenir centre on site. An important feature is the famous Dutch cannons that have been associated with every shift in power on the peninsula since the early 1600s: the cannons were a gift from the Dutch to the Sultan of Johor in 16

Khoo Kongsi
When the Chinese arrived in the immigration surge during the 19^th century, they formed clans, or kongsi. These clans provided a support system and substitute for the family, friends and business associates left behind. The Khoo Kongsi is the most well-known example of a hall built by an immigrant association, and was designed with the grandeur to rival a palace of a Chinese emperor.

Kuan Yin Temple
This temple was built in honour of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, and is the oldest standing temple in Penang. Hokkien and Cantonese settlers built the Kuan Yin Temple in 1800, reflecting ancient Chinese styles. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and dragons sculpted from stone, which are said to guard the temple site.

Snake Temple
This is likely the only temple of its kind that you’ll find anywhere in the world. The mass of pit vipers that are coiled around the altar’s pillars are said to be rendered harmless by the incense that perennially burns here. To make sure of this, however, all the snakes have had their venom removed. Even with this precaution, only the brave enter this temple

Sri Mariamman Temple
Penang’s oldest Hindu temple was built in 1883, and features elaborate sculptures of gods and goddesses on its façade and over its main entrance. The interior of the temple is richly decorated, and houses a priceless gold and silver statue of Lord Subramaniam, which is embellished with diamonds and emeralds. During the annual Thaipusam Festival, this statue is carried through the city streets on a silver chariot.
Top Things to Do

Bukit Mertajam Recreational Park. This popular park covering a wide expanse of hilly terrain is located approximately 11 miles (18kms) from the ferry terminal at Butterworth. The hills are high enough to enjoy cooler temperatures, and you’ll see wildflowers and ferns that are not present at lower elevations as well as exotic birds and butterflies. For those interested in hiking, numerous tracks take you into the heart of the jungle.

Penang Hill. On Penang Hill you’ll have a respite from the heat in Georgetown. The hill rises over 88 metres above the sea, and can be climbed in a moderately-strenuous four-hour hike. Alternatively, a funicular railway makes the ascent in a much shorter time. However you reach the summit you’ll have a spectacular view of the city and the coastal areas once you’re there.

See one of the largest Buddha images in the world. This ornate Buddhist temple built in the Thai architectural style is known as Wat Chayamangkalaram. It houses a wonderful gold-plated image of the Buddha in a reclining position, reputed to be the world’s third-largest image of its type.

Shop at night at Batu Ferringhi. Every evening along Batu Ferringhi’s coast markets are set up, opening around 19:00 or 20:00 and closing between 23:00 and 01:00. You can find all sorts of merchandise on offer at very good value - providing you’re willing to haggle over the prices. Clothing, cushion covers, DVDs, handbags, jewellery, luggage, sarongs, sunglasses and souvenirs are among the items you’ll find on sale.

Take an outing to the Orchid and Hibiscus Garden. The park at Bukit Jambul features a reptile farm in addition to hibiscus and orchid gardens. Attractions of note here also include a cactus garden, deer park, ornamental Japanese pond and several waterfalls. There’s a pottery corner on site as well, with interesting locally-crafted items for sale.

Visit the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. Kek Lok Si is also widely-known for its architectural style that incorporates elements of Burmese, Chinese and Thai styles. The temple complex is dominated by the seven-tiered pagoda known as Ban Po Thar, constructed in honour of the Boddhisattva Tsi Tsuang Wang. The Boddhisattva chose to not enter Nirvana upon enlightenment so that he might assist others on their path.

Penang Travel Tips

Business Hours

Banks: 09:30 to 16:00, Monday to Friday; 09:30 to 11:30, Saturdays
Government Offices: 08:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: 10:00 to 22:00, daily
Business Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday; 09:00 to 13:00, Saturdays

Cautions

Penang is generally considered a safe travel destination and crimes against tourists are uncommon. There are incidents of petty crime however, particularly in areas that are popular with tourists and at major transportation centres including the airport and bus terminals. Purse-snatching and pick-pocketing are the most frequently-reported occurrences.

It’s recommended that you exercise normal safety precautions such as avoiding walking alone after dark and keeping valuable items concealed. It’s also recommended that you use your hotel safe to store important travel documents, large amounts of cash and expensive jewellery.

Electricity: 220 volts, 50Hz; both round and square three-pin plugs are in use.

Health

There is no requirement that visitors must show proof of vaccinations when entering the country. There are no diseases prevalent which currently constitute a cause for concern. Tap water is considered safe to drink, but some visitors prefer to boil or otherwise purify water before drinking it, or to drink bottled water. Although foods seldom pose problems, it is wise to peel raw fruits or vegetables before eating them and to avoid improperly cooked seafood, to prevent any serious gastrointestinal problems.

The healthcare system in Penang is widely perceived to be of a good standard. Small communities typically have clinics operating instead of public hospitals and private clinics and hospitals provide an alternative, often with better equipment and facilities.

Ambulance: 999 and 112 Police: 999

Language

A number of languages are spoken in Penang, with Malay (Bahasa Melayu) being the official language of the country. Languages commonly spoken include English, Hokkien, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. English is the language typically used in business and the tourist industry. Other Chinese dialects that are spoken include Cantonese and Tamil.

Currency

Penang’s currency is the Malaysian ringgit, which is abbreviated as RM. One ringgit is equivalent to 100 sen. You will see banknotes in denominations of RM100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in circulation in the following denominations: RM1; and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 sen. Banks and authorised moneychangers will exchange major foreign currencies and travellers cheques for ringgits.

Currency Exchange

Foreign currencies are not typically accepted for purchases in Penang, although Singapore dollars are sometimes accepted at unfavourable rates of exchange. Licensed moneychangers located in shopping malls and the city centre usually offer the best rates of exchange. Airports and banks offer exchange services, but the rates are less favourable. ATMs are available in cities, but are not widely available outside the centre. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, shops and restaurants.

Customs

Goods that may be imported into Penang duty-free include 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 1 bottle of liquor and perfume for personal use. You may also bring in a reasonable number of gifts and amount of film for your personal camera. Foreign currency in an amount greater than US$10,000 must be declared on arrival. Prohibited items include endangered animals and plants, firearms and narcotics.

Etiquette

Islamic practices are followed in Penang, although not as rigorously as in other parts of Malaysia. Visitors should exercise common courtesy and avoid extremes in both dress and behaviour, showing respect for religious and social customs to avoid causing offence. Except for time spent at the beach, tourists should dress conservatively, avoiding revealing clothing. Women should note that topless sunbathing is not only against Islamic tradition, but the law too.

In Islam, physical contact between persons of the opposite sex is discouraged. A non-Muslim should not be offended if their offer of a handshake is not reciprocated by a member of the opposite sex. Before you enter a house of worship or someone’s home you should remove your shoes. It’s also important that you never point at someone with your forefinger or the soles of your feet, or touch anyone's head.

Public shows of affection are tolerated in population centres and tourist areas, but might attract unwanted attention. In more rural areas, this type of display should be avoided. Same-sex relationships are taboo under Islamic law, so gay and lesbian visitors should avoid holding hands or showing affection in public.

Dining Etiquette
It’s common practice in both Indian and Malay communities to eat using the fingers of the right hand rather than use cutlery. Note that it is the right hand that is used and not the left, as the left hand is typically used for personal hygiene. Hands are always washed before meals. Generally, a kettle of water for hand-washing is placed on the dining table for use during the meal in Malay homes and at restaurants.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown for a month. No eating, drinking or smoking is permitted during daylight hours. It is expected that visitors would also refrain from public eating and drinking during this time. You’ll find that most restaurants are closed until the evening. At the end of each day’s fast, the towns and cities come to life, with restaurants opening up and serving massive spreads of special foods to large crowds.

Visa and Passports

Visitors of all nationalities who enter Malaysia must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months after their date of entry into the country. Those foreign nationals who require a visa to enter the country must make an application at a Malaysian consulate or embassy in advance of arrival.

Nationals of most Commonwealth countries do not require visas, with the exception of the following countries: Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Nationals of the Republic of Ireland, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, San Marino and Switzerland also do not require visas.

For stays of up to three months, nationals of the following countries do not require visas in advance: Algeria, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Morocco, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, USA and Yemen.

Tourist Information Offices

Tourist information offices provide a number of services for visitors, such as directions and maps, information on area attractions and accommodation, and details on other tourist destinations in Malaysia. In Penang you’ll find tourist information centres at the airport and in Georgetown. The tourist information office at Penang International Airport can be reached by calling: +60 4 643 0501. Alternatively the office in the centre of Georgetown can be found at 10 Jalan Tun Syed Sheh, Barakbah (phone: +60 4 262 0066;

Penang Nightlife

If you want some fun in the evening, until 3 am, enjoy Penang

nightlife in Georgetown, the island’s capital, has plenty to offer, beside the usual beer fill it up stations. Penang Georgetown Bar's, clubs and discos, lounges and hidden parlors with mainly pretty Chinese girls from Malaysia and mainland China. There are plenty of restaurants and open air food stalls some with music where the people can also do a little dance, sometimes very amusing to watch.

The big hotels offer very stylish up market Penang nightlife bars, like the famous Eastern & Oriental in Georgetown, a superb legacy of British colonial times.

Some time ago Russian and Ukraine ladies tried to get a foot into but this ended unpleasant for them. For one reason the locals guys didn't like the competition and the other problem for them was the could be spotted very easily by the police, or polis in Malaysian language.

Actually this has changed now -Sept.08-, a typical dialogue of a foreigner with the local guy opposite Hotel Malaysia, goes like this, hello Sir do you like a lady ? A Russian lady ? answer no, do you like a Chinese lady, answer no, do you like a Egyptian lady, answer no, do you like a Thai lady ? answer no. What do you like then ? I like Heineken Beer, got the message?

The biggest nightlife center is around Slippery Senoritas - 50 Ringit entrance is asked at the weekend, with several bar's. A other nice place with life music is just nearby, its uptown bar, there are plenty of other nightlife spots in Penang Georgetown.

Penang nightlife is concentrated in downtown Georgetown, plenty of bars and nightclub are around the bigger hotels like Condotel and other. Some of the nightclubs have minimum age to enter is 18 years written at the door, guess why?

Penang Nightlife is typical Asia nightlife, quite different from screaming Thai nightlife, also less of an erotic nightlife, at least as far as someone can see. Asian nightlife is done in the dark, means do everything, but don't let anyone seeing it.

Penang Nightlife is on in Georgetown and around Ferringhi beach. There is no visible gay nightlife whether in Georgetown nor in Malaysia at all.

Girls nightlife is on a low burner but the island nightlife is not bad at all. Its relaxing and not to loud.

Malaysia nightlife in Kuala Lumpur is much more vivid and vibrant.

Nightlife in Penang is Penang bars, Penang gay is difficult to tell because its not visible, its on for sure but there are some religious influences which drives the gay nightlife into the dark.

Penang girls are great stuff, they are wrapped up from head to floor but this is sometimes a masquerade, the more you hide the greater the desire.

Everyone know this simple equation but who don't know ?-

To understand Penang island the best is just hire a Penang guide to show you what's going on in Penang Malaysia, its just as simple.

Check with the hotel reception, the arrange a qualified Penang tour guide, pay about Ringits 100,- and within one day you learn more about Penang as others not even in 10 years.

Penang Malaysia is not so easy to understand since most in the Chinese and Islam thinking is not to talk about, this are subjects everyone wont dare to talk about because what happen if this goes into the wrong ears ? It would be disastrous.

On top of it with all the Chinese superstition nobody ever can really look through.

Some Pictures of Penang