Penang
Location, Climate:
Penang is one of the federal states of Malaysia. It is bounded by the states of Kedah and Perak and straits of Sumatra and Malacca. The climate of Penang is equatorial thus the city experiences warm and humid days with scattered rainfalls. Avoid booking discount Penang hotels between September and November which are its wettest months.
Brief History:
The name of this state originated from the word “Pinang” which when translated to Malay means “betel nut”. Penang was originally called “Palau Ka-satu” which means “First Island”, but it was changed to “Prince of Wales Island” in 1786. The city also earned the nickname “Pearl of the Orient”.
Events, Landmarks, Activities:
Thousands of tourists and participants go to this lovely place for the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival. This popular event began in 1956 and continues to draw in huge crowds every month of June to witness who among the dragon boat teams would win the race. The most-visited city in Penang is Georgetown where you can find many historical and religious sites including the Kek Lok Si Temple, Municipal Council of Penang Island, Fort Cornwallis, Wat Chaiyamangalaram, Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque. Other famous attractions include the Penang Botanic Gardens, Penang Butterfly Farm and the Amazing Nibong Tebal.
Transportation:
The simplest way to get around Penang is on foot especially the Georgetown area. To travel narrow lanes, you can ride a bicycle or the trishaw. Avail of the Rapid Penang Tourist Passport to get a week-long of unlimited bus rides on all routes.
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