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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.
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. 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 shopper's paradise for goods old and new, at bargain
prices. There is 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 favorites like
nasi kandar, char-kway toe and Penang lakes, which is a
different variety from that found in other states. |
