Penang travel and tourist guide
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Penang is a superb place to visit and offers an enticing mix of modern convenience, colonial charm and natural wonder. Many people come to Penang simply to relax on its beautiful beaches but the true magic of the island lies in its enchanting cultures and colourful history.
The hospitality industry in Penang is arguably the most developed in the entire country with a countless choice of accommodation, dining and relaxation options to enjoy. Beach resorts offering watersports and spa treatments occupy prime positions on the waterfront with old converted Georgetown abodes welcoming discerning guests intent on discovering the capital’s ancient charm.
Below is a brief introduction to Penang but for a comprehensive guide visit 1stopPenang.
 | Attractions & activitiesPenang has untold riches to be discovered by visitors with many contrasting cultures represented on the island. There are also many festivals and celebrations all year round to enjoy...more |  | Hotels & lodgingPenang has a wide range of quality accommodation with prices kept low through high competition. There are also some boutique options offering unhurried service and a personal touch...more |
 | Restaurants & barsPenang is the culinary capital of Malaysia and you'll agree after sampling our recommended restaurants. The nightlife is constantly evolving so trust our guide to the best bars...more |  | TransportationGetting around Penang is easy with cheap cabs and good rail and ferry connections. The airport has flights from international cities, while trishaws offer a fun way to get about...more |
Penang guide - Malaysia' cultural playground
Founded in 1786 by Sir Francis Light in behalf of the British East India Company, Penang soon became a Mecca for seamen and traders in search of their fortune. Attracted by free trade laws and a liberal regime, the island became a wild west-style frontier settlement where anyone could strike it rich with enough perseverance and luck.
This also attracted a fair share of unsavoury characters with the pirates and privateers that plagued the torrid Straits of Melaka docking in search of a good time. This led to Penang becoming known as a den of iniquity with brothels and gambling houses present in large numbers. The eventual flourishing of the southern port-city of Singapore contributed to the demise of Penang as a naval force, with unfriendly taxation legislation contributing to its downfall.
But today Penang has undergone a resurgence based no longer on rubber plantations and tin mining but electronics and tourism. Thousands flock to witness her spectacular sights such as the Khoo Kongsi Clanhouse, Fort Cornwallis or Snake Temple. Penang also possesses a magnificent national park with virgin rainforest and pristine deserted beaches.
A large immigrant population from China and the subcontinent has bestowed a dazzling culinary scene on Penang. Fiery Malay dishes can be found for next to nothing from street stalls and food courts, while the very best fine dining is offered from five star restaurants normally based in the large hotel chains.
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