How to Enjoy a Stay in Penang, Malaysia

Penang is a state in Malaysia on the northeast side. The most interesting attractions of the state are on the island of Penang. A lovely tropical island with much to offer including beaches, shopping, temples and chances to get up close with nature.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Bring clothes made of natural fibers that are loose fitting and light in color. It is very humid and hot, so light clothing will keep you from sweating too much.
2. Plan your activities for the early mornings and evenings, leaving the hottest part of the day as a time to re-coup at the beach or with a nap and refreshing shower.
3. Visit the Botanical Gardens for a wonderful, up close view of plant and animal life.
4. Take the funicular up to the top of Penang Hill. On a clear day, the view is fantastic. On any day, the cooler temperatures are a nice respite from the heat.
5. Enjoy as many temples as time allows. Kek Lok Si is very impressive with many gardens and shrines. Get dropped off close to the entrance if you wish to avoid the many souvenir shops leading up to it.
6. Check out the Dharmikarama Burmese Temple. It is quite different in style, but spectacular. Find this at Lorong Burmah, Pulau Tikus.
7. Cross the street to visit the Reclining Buddha. This is a Thai temple where the Buddha is large and reclining. There are many details to check out as you walk around the statue. Behind the main attraction are urns and pictures of those who passed away. You will need to remove your shoes before entering this temple.
8. Eat from the multitude of culinary delights in Malaysia. Because of the cultural diversity, there are excellent restaurants featuring many cuisines. Malay, Indian, Chinese, Thai and Indonesian are just a few. Visit the hawker stalls for a local eating experience. Think food court; order from one of the many different vendors and meet up in the middle to consume the delights.
9. Walk around in Georgetown, where there are many shops, excellent examples of the old architecture and a chance to be a part of the city chaos.
10. Visit Fort Cornwallis for the history of Penang's meeting up with imperial world.
11. Enjoy the variety of nightlife that Penang has to offer. Choose from pubs or clubs, whatever suits your taste. Although a conservative Muslim country, there is a vibrant nightlife that coexists quite peacefully within the culture.

Tips & Warnings

• Check operating hours/dates of places you wish to visit. The religious diversity of the country means Muslim, Hindi, Chinese and Christian holiday celebrations and things might be closed on days that you don't expect.
• Malaysia is a fairly conservative Muslim country, although it may not feel like it. Be respectful and follow the examples of what the locals are doing. Don't saunter around in your swimsuit unless you are at the beach, remove your shoes before entering temples and just be polite.
• There are some problems with shoe thieves at temples. If you are concerned about your shoes, put them in a bag to carry with while visiting.

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