Adventurous travellers can explore the far north and head through scenic mountainous terrain to the rustic east coast. Interesting sights here include quaint fishing villages, cultural pastimes and numerous island off the coast.
South of K, the states of Melaka, Negeri Sembilan and Johor beckon with a wealth of historical and cultural attractions.
NORTHERN REGION
Popular holiday destinations in the north of north of Penisular Malaysia include the resort island of Penang, Langkawu and Langkawi
PENANG
Old-world Charm and Beach Reatreat
Penang founded in 1786 by Captain Francis Light of the British East India company is a cultural melting pot and the oldest British Straits settlement. Its historic heart of Georgetown was where ships refuelled and served as a centre for the spice trade as well as tea and cotton from China and India.
The island's alluring beaches and old -world charm has made Penang a popular tourist destination. Locals swear Penang has Malaysia's best food and will delight in taking visitors to the multitude of open-air stalls along Gurney Drive. Nonya food (a Chinese and Malay culnary blend) is also best sampled in Penang and Melaka.
Penang's maze of narrow streets offers an insight into the past where little has change since the days of the East India Company. This is the place to'get lost amongst joss stick shops, fresh noodle makers and other old crafts.
Walking thorough Georgetown with its eclectic blend of colonial. Moorish, India, and chinese architecture is sensory journey of fasscinanting sights, sound and aromas. Relax and take a trishaw to discover Geogetown's heart and soul. Seee the clan houses or kongsi establishedby Chinese settlers the most famous being Khoo Kongsi with its elaborate decorations. Ride past Kapitan Kelling mosque established by Penang's Indian Muslims. Nearbyis the Kuan Yin Teng or Goddess of Mercy Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Penang. In the Pulau Tikus suburb is a Thai template, Wat Chayamangkalaram with its reclining Buddha; reputed to be one of the world's longest. Many Penangsites are Buddhits and Wesak Day is a major festival. Thaipusam is a colourful Hindu festival observed in Penang anafew places worldwide.
The famous Eastern and Oriental Hotel is the place to unwind and be reminded of an era when it was a populour venue for the city's elite. Visitors can stay in the renovated 19th century Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, one of the most well-presed mansion outside China.
To enjoy cool mountain air a panaramic view of the city. take the unique funicular train up Penang Hill. Batu Ferringhi on the northen coastline is afavourite playground for visitor from Tanjung Bungah to Teluk Bahang boasts several international deluxe resorts as well as attractions such as the Toy Museum, the fist of its kind in Asia and the largest in the World.
The Penang Bridge,one of asia's longest,links mainland peninsular Malaysia to the island. Penang is also accessible by ferry from Butterworth,the international Airport has direct flights from Kuala Lumpur,Sinapore and Thailand.
