Shaped like a turtle – the island of Penang in Malaysia is anything but little, in terms of the variety of entertainment and beautifully engaging sites it has to offer tourists, a trip to the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is an adventure in itself. A vacation in Penang offers a multifaceted experience, which comprises of beaches covered by palm trees, unique temples and its intriguing heritage alone makes it a thrilling place to visit. Penang plays host to a multi racial community, comprising of Chinese, Indians and Malays who make up the majority, and comes as no surprise that tourists who venture out to Georgetown will find a mosque, church and even a temple in close proximity to each other.
Sports such as motor boating, sailing, canoeing and even parachuting are quite common and for those into such adventure sports Penang is the ideal place to be. The Tanjung Burgah beach stretches for miles on end, beginning from Tanjun Toking and bordering with Telok Bahang.
The beaches are dotted with many restaurants that serve various cuisine, and a day at the beach spent just lazying on the sand, with a scrumptious lunch would be ideal for the traveler who is looking to relax and take in the sites.
For art enthusiasts the Yahong Art Gallery is a good opportunity to familiarize oneself with the country’s cultural art works. The gallery is easily accessible from Batu Ferringhi and is just a short drive away. At Jalan Teluk Bahang, visitors could catch a glimpse of the country’s traditional art works in the form of a batik factory. For the more adventurous in spirit the beautiful Forest Museum is amazing. Aside from this, the trip to the Butterfly and Orchid Farms is a must while on holiday in Penang.
To get about in Penang there are many options but an interesting way for the more adventurous would be to take a traditional trishaw ride through the city. The trishaws available here are a little different from those available in other Asian countries. The vehicle is like a bicycle and the driver has to cycle. The vehicle is open at the front and it gives tourists a better view at a leisurely pace.
Another option is to hire a motorcycle, which is another fun way of exploring the island as well as bring travelers closer to mingling with the locals. A standard rate is usually set for renting the bikes per day and is affordable.
Although, not all travelers maybe interested in zipping through Penang and may prefer a leisurely vacation, for such tourists looking to laze around the beach, then accommodation at a beach front Penang hotel could be a good alternative as well. A hotel such as the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang, is set in Tanjung Bunga, and its locations is ideal for sight-seeing as many popular tourist attractions are close by.