One Thing You Don't Want to Miss

Penang invites you to get lost (figuratively) in the architectural wonderland of George Town, which doubles as the state's capital city and its Chinese quarter. From there, the massive and opulent Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is truly something to marvel over. Beach-lovers simply have to kick it for an hour or two on one of the many north coast beaches. And make sure you don't leave without checking out Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple. Finally, if you still have any energy left, there are always the monkey-ridden, 70-acre Botanical Gardens.

Local Flavors

Penang, known as the "food capital of Malaysia," earns its claim with a reputation of outstanding and surprisingly inexpensive street foods. Culinary influences from China, Malaysia, India and Thailand have yielded an array of exciting delicacies that belong uniquely to Penang. More traditional yet equally fabulous Chinese, Japanese and Korean foods are also readily available.

Sporting Adventures

In the category of oceanic adventures, Penang has it all: waterskiing, windsurfing, parasailing, fishing, snorkeling, sailing and scuba diving. If you're looking for a chance to break out your driver, choose from any one of Penang's five gorgeous tropical golf courses (advanced booking recommended).

Shopping for Bargains

Shoppers will find it hard if not impossible to resist the 65 stories of Menara KOMTAR, Penang's largest shopping mall and tallest building. However, many other hot spots for shopping exist along the city streets of Georgetown that are every bit as inviting. And at dusk Batu Feringgi, the main road, turns into a fun night bazaar. See, we told there was a lot to do here.

Currency

Penang's currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. Most of the banks that exchange cash are located downtown in George Town, but ATM's can be found in the majority of the shopping areas.

Weather in Penang, Malaysia