Discover Trip to Penang - Kuala Lumpur

Penang is a Malaysian state made up of Penang Island and the mainland strip across it called Seberang Perai. It is both a highly urbanized metropolis as well as a thriving tourist destination, thanks to its rich cultural history with influences from the Malay, Chinese, Indians and Europeans, as well as being known domestically and in Singapore as Malaysia's food paradise.

Top of the list of must-see places in Penang is George Town, the capital of Penang. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts of charming pre-World War 2 and 19th century architecture that serves as excellent backdrop or focal points for budding photographers. Another popular attraction is Penang Hill or Flagstaff Hill, 821 metres above sea level that offers both a respite from the island heat and stunning views of the entire island from the summit.

Architecture and history fans will find themselves at home, literally, at the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion, a beautiful indigo blue mansion that showcases the best in 18th and 19th century Chinese architecture. The mansion relies heavily on the tenets of feng shui for its design and took more than seven years to complete by a team of master craftsmen from China. It is now a boutique hotel and museum, open to all visitors and admirers. As Malaysia's premier food destination, don't miss out on the delicious hawker fare available nearly everywhere on the island. Not to be missed is the Penang Char Koay Teow, a flat rice noodle dish slathered in spicy sauce and tossed with seafood and vegetables, as well as Penang's take on the oyster omelette, a Chinese staple. Whatever you choose, you can't go wrong.

Penang is a very walkable city, but it is advised that visitors wear light and comfortable clothing as it can get very hot. RapidPenang buses can take you comfortably from place to place, with bus stops clearly displayed so that you never lose your way. Be advised that you must pay the exact fare to the driver when getting on one, as the drivers do not typically provide change.