The Destination: Penang

Penang is one of Asia’s most famous islands. It is known for its natural beauty and exotic heritage and has been attracting visitors from around the world for centuries. Known as Pulau Pinang in the local Malay dialect, Penang Island is located on the north-western coast of the Malay Peninsula at the entrance to the Straits of Malacca. The island and mainland are separated by a channel 3km wide at the narrowest point and 13km at the widest. They are linked by the 13.5km long Penang Bridge which is the third longest in the word.

Today, Penang is very much an amalgam of the old and the new – a bustling port, a heritage city and an industrial base. Some believe that it has more to offer visitors per square kilometre than any other destination in Asia. In its capital Georgetown, modern skyscrapers rise from among one of Southeast Asia’s largest collection of intact pre-war buildings. Manufacturers of sophisticated electronic goods compete for space with markets and old temples.

Where else would you be able to find a century old church, a Chinese temple, an Indian temple and a Muslim mosque within walking distance of each other. Likewise, tall urban structures stand proudly beside the tiled red roofs of Chinatown and “Little India”. This seamless melding of the many peoples of Penang is best reflected in the delicious hawker foods available around the clock and the adherence to the traditions and customs of their ancestors. Away from the busy city are the idyllic beaches of Batu Ferringhi which are lined with hotels and resorts catering to tourists from all over the world. Soak up the sun or unwind on the beach and enjoy a host of aquatic thrills during the day. In the evening be dazzled as the area comes alive with a carnival like atmosphere as the many open-air bazaars try selling everything from ornate curios to enticing souvenir items.