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Holidayco.co.uk specialises in Cheap holidays in Penang, package holidays and late deals to a huge number of destinations. Find out more about Penang in our guide below.

Cheap holidays in Penang

Why not search our database of Cheap holidays in Penang now by visiting the holidayco.co.uk homepage and using the search facility.

Penang Island, some 370km from Kuala Lumpur, was the site of the first British settlement in Malaysia. The island's capital, Georgetown, is often referred to as Penang, and is a popular holiday destination. Many languages are spoken in Malaysia, but English is also very common so there should be no problem making yourself understood.

Penang Island is linked to the mainland by a bridge (all 13.5km of it!) and a regular ferry service. However, there is no need to go to the mainland – there is plenty to do on the island.

Penang's excellent beaches and warm climate are an obvious attraction, but for those who want more than sun and sand there is plenty to do. The city has many fine temples, mosques and churches plus gardens and parks and makes an excellent base for exploring the area.

The city centre is small enough to make transport unnecessary. For those venturing farther afield there is a good bus service and taxis. For something a little more unusual, offer a way of getting around you'll not be likely to find back home. It is worth agreeing a price in advance with taxi and rickshaw operators.

Accommodation and Food

Penang has is a range of accommodation available to suit all budgets. Society is very cosmopolitan and shows influences from many regions. International cuisine is widely available as well as dishes based on local specialties.

Malaysian food is influenced by many cultures. Chinese and Chinese-Malaysian dishes are popular, as is Iaksa (fish soup with noodles). Many establishments cater mainly to tourists and serve dishes aimed at the Western palate. Hawkers sell more traditional Malay cuisine at the roadside in many areas.

Things to Do

Georgetown has been a trading port for centuries, and retains much of the vibrancy of its origins Night life is fairly good, though most clubs are not particularly up to date with the latest tracks. Some clubs feature cabaret some evenings of the week.

Chinatown in Georgetown is one of the liveliest Chinatowns in Asia. It is a hive of frenetic activity and offers good opportunities to go shopping in the street markets. There is also a good market at Fort Cornwallis, site of the first British landings on Penang. Today it is home to a cultural centre and open-air amphitheatre.

Bendera Hill offers spectacular views of the island and is reached via a 50-year-old cable railway. There is also an excellent view from the other hills in the area including Flagstaff Hill.

A visit to the famous Snake Temple might be in order, unless you are afraid of snakes! According to legend the vipers that inhabit the temple came out of the jungle the night it was completed and remain to this day. The snakes are devenomed and kept docile by incense smoke. Another temple worth a visit is the Kek Lok Si temple, which claims the distinction of being the largest Buddhist temple in Asia. Its tall pagoda is particularly impressive.

Penang also boasts the oldest Christian church in Malaysia as well as Hindu temples and Islamic mosques. Such diversity might in some areas lead to conflict, but the Malaysian people have found strength rather than division in their differences.

Why not search our database of Cheap holidays in Penang now by visiting the holidayco.co.uk homepage and using the search facility.