Penang,
otherwise known as the “Pearl in the Orient,” is a popular
tourist destination amongst visitors to Malaysia. The state consists
of Penang Island and a strip along the mainland called Seberang
Perai (formerly known as Province Wellesley).
The
island is linked to the mainland by the longest suspension bridge
in this region – measuring 13.5 kilometers in length. Along
the island’s northern coastline lies the Batu Ferringi beach,
which boasts stretches of beautiful white sand.
The
old side of Georgetown provides the visitor with an abundance of
quaint shops (with those beautiful wooden shutters), in which skilled
crafts such as shoe and hand bag making from beads or leather can
be purchased at extremely low prices. Here, trishaws still scour
the narrow roads for anyone in need of a lift. Perhaps a trishaw
ride would provide the best way in which to view the older parts
of Georgetown, which includes some of the most beautiful Chinese
temples and colonial structures. Many of the riders are fluent in
English and would probably gladly provide you with a guided tour
of the historical side of the town, for a small fee. |
| PLACES OF INTERESTS  P Ramlee's House - Situated along Jalan P. Ramlee (formerly Caunterhall Road), is the newly restored wooden house, to commemorate the late P. Ramlee, Malaysia's foremost entertainer. Originally built in 1926 by his father and uncle, the house had previously undergone successive repairs before being taken over by the National Archives as an extension of its P. Ramlee Memorial project in Kuala Lumpur. The display within and outside the house features the main living areas and also the life history of the late singer, actor, composer, and director. The various artifacts include his personal memorabilia related to his life in Penang and also items belonging to his family. Opening hours: 9 am - 6 pm, closed on Monday. Admission is free.  Botanical Garden - The Botanical Gardens offer peace and tranquility amidst lush green surroundings, tropical plants and the vibrant colors of Penang's flora. The 30-hectare garden also features a waterfall. Created in 1884 by the British, it was meant as a tribute to Charles Curtis, its first superintendent who collected botanical specimens from the surrounding hills - specimens which have since become significant samples in the world's major herbariums. The gardens are also well-known for their bold Rhesus monkeys. Opening hours: 7 am - 7 pm, Admission is free.  Penang Hill - Malaysia's first hill station, Penang Hill is 380 meters (2730 ft) above sea level, visitors can ascend to the top by either hiking up or by the funicular railway which has been operational since 1922. Apart from the cool, refreshing climate and the fantastic view at the summit, visitors can also view the picturesque bungalows, a beautiful flower garden and a bird park. There are bungalows for rent and a hotel for those who want to stay for more than a day. Visitors can also indulge in refreshments and snacks at a convenient tea kiosk located on top of the hill. There is a good walking track up the hill. It takes 4 hours to reach the top and is recommended only for the more energetic. The jungle trail begins at the "moongate" at Jalan Air Terjun, approximately 300 m from the Botanical Gardens entrance. The funicular rail service begins at 6:30 am and ends at 9:30 pm. Entrance fee: RM 4.00 for adults & RM 2.00 for children.  Komtar, Jalan Penang - The Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, a prominent Penang landmark, houses Government departments, commercial offices, department stores, shops and restaurants. The 65-story complex also contains theaters, squash courts and a geodesic dome which serves as a multi-purpose hall, while the 55th floor offers a panoramic view of the city and on clear days, also of Gunung Jerai in Kedah. |