Penang, often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient is one of the most picturesque and romantic cities of the East. Located on the north-west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Penang received its name from the Pinang or Betel Nut tree once commonly found on the island. Established as the first British trading post in the Far East in 1786, Penang today is a bustling metropolis reflecting a uniquely exotic blend of East and West.
The state of Penang consists of the island of Penang and a strip of land on the mainland known as Seberang Perai (formerly, Province Wellesley). The two land masses are linked by the Penang Bridge, one of the longest in Asia at 13.5km. Penang is also connected by a ferry service to the mainland.
On Penang island is the capital Georgetown, a city steeped in history and tradition yet sparkling with progress and modern development. Certain sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era.
Penang is a shoppers’ paradise for goods old and new, at bargain prices. There is a wide, competitive choice of cameras, electronic and electrical goods, clothing, batik, souvenirs, antiques and knick knacks. The island also boasts some of the best food in the region, ranging from Nyonya cuisine to stall favourites like nasi kandar, char kway teow and Penang laksa, which is a different variety from that found in other state.
