From its establishment as the first Bristish trading post in the Far East in 1786, Penang is today a bustling city with unique blend of the East and West. This is reflected in its heritage buildings as well as in the lifestyles, food and customs of the local people.

Georgetown, named after King George III of England, is the seat of the state's administration as well as the centre for commerce, education, social activities and entertainment. Among the places of interest in this city are Khoo Kongsi, Kapitam Keling Mosque, Sri Mariamman Temple, Fort Cornwallis, Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram and etc.

Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram is a buddhist temple with one of the world's longest reclining statues of Buddha. The Khoo Kongsi is an impressive clan house built by master craftmen from China features a magnificent hall embellished with intricate carving and richly ornamented beams of the finest wood. This unique architectural heritage gives Georgetown its charming appeal and distinctive character. Trendy restaurants, sidewalk cafes, "nasi kandar" stalls, discotheques, night markets, department stores and quaint pre-war shops together with a host of other places all combine to give the city its lively and colourful character.

Traditionally known as the "Pearl of the Orient", Penang owes much of its fame to the fine beaches which are ideal for all types of water sports. Resorts of international standards have mushroomed along its beaches offering full facilities for rest and recreation.

Some of other established tourist sports on the island of Penang are Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si temple, Butterfly farm, Botanical Gardens, Snake Temple and the Penang Bird Park on the mainland.

A characteristic sight in Penang is its gally decorated trishaw which offer tourists a fun way of taking in the island's sights at a leisurely pace. For an exhilirating experience, cross over to the mainland by the Penang Bridge, which is one of the longest in Asia. A more romance way of travelling between the island and the mainland is on its famous ferry, which was once the only link between the two.

One can take a refreshing drive up the forest clad hills to enjoy the scenic beuty of the island too. On the way back, a stop over Balik Pulau and sample its highly aclaimed durians and nutmegs will be a non-forgetable experience..