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Penang

Penang is another area with a facinating history, originally known as Pulau Pinang, A English captain Francis Light persuaded the Sultan of Kedah to cede Pulau Pinang to the British East India Company. Penang came into beieng when an Englishman Captain Francis Light convinced the Sultan of Kedah to hand over Pulau Pinang to the British East India Company. He landed in 1786 and there is delightful story that he fired gold coins into the surrounding jungle as a incentive to his men to clear the area., what a wonderful idea to use today to get the grass cut on time. The capital is Georgetown named after King George the III, Penang along with Malaysia gained independence in 1957 but ties with GB remain strong.

When Penang is suggested as a destination most people think beaches Batu Ferringhi being the most well known, without a doubt it meets everyones dream of laying in the sun with the waves lapping and letting that feeling of tropical paradise sweep over you. In the evening the tourist area awakes with restaraunts vying for your trade, take a walk along Gurney Drive where you can taste and breath in the flavours of some of Penangs best street food.

Away from the beach there is so much more to do in Penang, take a Trishaw ride round Georgetown an experience never to be forgotten, do not forget Georgetown is a Unesco World Heritage Site so there are many places of interest well worth seeing. The funicular train ride up Penang Hill is wonderful experience, takes approximately 30 minutes and has been in use since 1923. Before the bridge was erected the only way to the mainland was by ferry and they still operate to this day, it is well worth the 15 minute trip just to take in the atmosphere.

Cannot leave Penang without mentioning the shopping. there are Flea Markets through to traditional Indian shops and modern shopping malls. Don't forget to browse the side streets and practice or hone your bargaining skills.

ABTA No J5209