Penang is actually a state in Malaysia, which comprises a city, an island getaway, a shopping paradise and a culture haven, all packed neatly into its compact size.  The island is just about 25km by 12 km.  A large part of Penang known as Seberang Prai sits on the mainland and it is more famous for its industries.

Penang has seen rapid growth in recent years but this has not interfered with its charms.  Its'capital city George Town is where you will still find old cars and cabs plying the busy streets, along with old decorated trishaws.

Visitors can cover the core of the city in a day by just walking or riding the trishaw.  Here, modern shopping complexes and skyscrapers form impressive backdrops to charming old mosque and intricately carved Hindu temples, while colourful Chinese temples adorn the old streets.

Ancient buildings reflecting the city's heritage, old shops with unusual wares, roadside stalls offering cheap and delicious local fare - these are some of the temtations that charmed tourists to visit this lovely haven.

Outside Georgetown's perimeter are the island's lovely beaches such as Tanjung Bungah and Batu Feringgi.  International class hotels and other accommodations line the area and there are a host of sporty activities as well as plenty of sunshine and warm waters for those who love the sea.  The Feringgi area is also famous for its night markets that sell cheap imitation stuff as well as local delicacies.

To cool off, a ride up the 800m high Penang Hill via the unique funicular rail service is an unforgettable experience.  From the top, visitors can enjoy a bird's eye view of George Town and Selatan Straits.  There are also nicely kept gardens here with profusions of sub-tropical flowers.

Probably, the most exciting part of visiting Penang is savouring its local specialties.  Food is cheap and available all over and the island is especially famous for its hawker's fare.

Hawker food stalls in Gurney Drive offer affordable and delicious Chinese, Nyonya, Malay, Indian and Indian Muslim fare.  Other places with good hawker's food are Pulau Tikus, New Lane, Swatow Lane, Penang Road and Chulia Street.  Local Chinese restaurants serve excellent cuisine too.  American fast food outlets and coffee joints are also readily found throughout the island and even Seberang Prai.

Wahtever the temptation, be it food, culture, heritage or just the colours of its people and the surroundings, Penang is a fascinating place to visit.