Penang

Penang is situated near the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is close to the Strait of Malacca. This is the eight most populous islands and is one

of the smallest states in Malaysia. People living in Penang are known as Penangite. This island has derived its name from the word Pulau Pinang which actually means “betel nut tree”. Penang is also popularly known as "The Pearl of the Orient".

Penang is also a heaven for those who love eating. People from Malaysia and Singapore visit Penang to enjoy its food. This place is also designated as the “Best Street Food in Asia” by TIME Magazine.

You will find different types of cuisine here because this place is inhabited by people of different cultures. You will find the influence of Chinese, Indian, Malay and Nyonya in the food available there. Apart from this, influence of Thai food can also be found there. The hawker food found here is one of the best which includes sea-food and noodles. Excellent food can be found near Pulau Tikus, Gurney Drive, New Lane, Chulia Street and others. You will also find a number of coffee joints here.

People who love shopping will surely enjoy Penang. This island offers travelers with different options for shopping. Komatar was the first shopping mall of Penang which was built in the year 1989. The Queensbay Mall located here is the longest and the largest shopping mall. The first Jusco Departmental Store is located here.

Gurney Plaza is another shopping mall which sells various things related to lifestyle. The Sunway Carnival Mall located ay Seberang Jaya has a number of cinema houses as well as retail shops.

Tourism is the main attraction of Penang. This island is mainly famous for its historical architecture. The best example of the historical architecture can be found in the George Town. You will find a number of shops which are more than 100 years old. There are villas as well which also portray the ancient architecture of the place.

A large number of historical movies have also been shot at Penang. The two most popular ones include "Anna and the King" and "Indochine", a French Movie. Once you visit the whole region, you will find a large number of old buildings with degenerated walls and faded colors. The Peranakan Tiles of the buildings will also attract your attention. Do not forget to visit the Aceh Mosque which is the oldest mosque in the city. The carved wooden panels called Khoo Kongsi are also a major attraction of this place.

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