Experience The Wonderful Penang

Penang - an island resort - is perhaps the most favorite tourist destination in Malaysia that is much famed for its rich culture and history, natural wonders, and excellent cuisine. Situated in the straits of Malacca on the Peninsular Malaysia's north-west coast, Penang is the smallest state in the country, after the state of Perlis.

Penang is made up of the island of Penang, occupying an area of about 290 square kilometers, and a tapered strip of land of about 750 square kilometers on the mainland Sebarang Perai, both of which are connected by a 13 km long bridge. Georgetown is the administrative center of the island resort. Once known as the harbor of pirates, Penang has a long interesting history dating back to the mid 16th century.

Al though a relatively small destination, Penang does not have any shortage of sights and attractions to amaze visitors touring here. From cultural spots and ancient shrines to mosques, forts and splendid natural landmarks, Penang's attractions are truly endless. However, the prime attraction of Penang is undoubtedly its beautiful beaches. Of the beaches in the area, probably the most famous is Batu Ferringhi, which is a great spot to relax as well as engage in a number of water sports activities.

Beaches such as Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang are also much popular, whose area consists of some upscale hotels and resorts. Apart from these, if you are ready to tour via jungle trails, you can reach some of the most secluded beaches in the area such as Monkey Beach and Pantai Mas.

Erected at the site where Captain Francis Light landed in 1786, Fort Cornwallis is one of the most visited tourist spots in Penang. Among the highlights of this wooden fort is a gallery exhibiting historic artifacts, an open air amphitheater, and a handicraft and souvenir center.

Another worth visiting spot in Penang is Khoo Kongsi - an impressive building, the entry to which requires a prior permission from the Kongsi office. For those who want to take a peep into the interesting history of the region, nothing would be better than taking a tour to some of the museums in the region such as the Penang Museum and Art Gallery. Likewise, climb atop the Penang Hill, rising more than 85 meters above the sea level, to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city as well as the coastal areas surrounding it.

In spite of being a popular tourist spot, Penang is also a much famed religious spot with an array of shrines. No matter you are a spiritual tourist or a history buff interested in the religious past of the region or just a sightseer, taking a tour to Penang's temple would be a great experience.

Some of the most popular temples here are Kek Lok Si, the South East Asia's largest Buddhist temple whose architectural designs are a mix of Burmese, Chinese, and Thai styles; Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple, with a gigantic statue of the Lord Buddha; Kuan Yin Temple, erected to honor the Chinese Goddess of Mercy and which is noted for its intricate carvings and architecture; Snake Temple, a Taoist shrine which is perhaps the one of its kind in the whole world; and Sri Mariamman Temple, which is the oldest Hindu temple in the state.

Apart from these attractions, one of the prime reasons that keep attracting tourists to Penang is its world-famous traditional style cuisines, which are more or less influenced by the cuisines of three prominent Asian groups such as Malay, Indian, and Chinese.

With a great number of restaurants and eateries, you can enjoy sumptuous Penang dishes, ranging from Roti Canai served with thick chicken gravy and Penang Satai to honey squid, baby oyster omelet and duck noodles prepared with Chinese herbs. Above all, Penang provides fabulous shopping experience, with a number of outlets and boutiques spread across the state.

When comes to accommodation, Penang boasts of a great number of hotels and resorts, all of which provide a range of options to choose from including standard rooms, family rooms, deluxe and superior rooms, studio, and executive suite. Room rates are usually inclusive of breakfast and tea/coffee.

Some hotels provide complimentary daily newspaper, and car parking facilities. No matter you prefer to stay in city center, beach location, or near shopping areas, Penang has options for all. Usually, these hotels are located within easy reach of almost all attraction that you prefer to see.

With the introduction of the internet, finding a hotel in Penang is not a tiresome task. You can easily find a hotel of your choice and that too without leaving your living rooms. There are some service providers that render online hotel reservation services.

Some even provide discounted rates for making instant hotel bookings. Whatever your preferences may be: grand, budget, or spa resort, these providers can help you find and book an accommodation of your choice, thereby enabling you to be free from the hassles of bookings.

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