Old world charm and colourful cultures

Penang is one of Malaysia's most famous resort destinations. The state consists of Penang Island and a strip of the mainland known as Seberang Perai. Georgetown, its capital, is a fascinating metropolitan city with historical buildings and cultural landmarks.

Penang's northern shoreline, characterised by expansive stretches of golden sand and glittering waters, is a vacation spot for foreign and local visitors alike.

Batu Ferringhi, situated along the coastal road northwest of Georgetown, is most popular beach in Penang, lined with a string of international-standard hotels and resorts.

You can soak in the sun or unwind on the beach and enjoy a host of aquatic thrills from banana boat rides to canoeing and jet-skiing. For a spine-tingling adventure, try parasailing to enjoy the view of the beach from the sky.

As the sun sets, Batu Ferringhi comes alive with a carnival-like atmosphere with an open-air bazaar selling anything from ornate curios to enticing souvenir items. You can watch local artisans demonstate the intricate art of craft-making and batik-painting. Dubbed the Ferringhi Walk, the bazaar offers shoppers a host of attractions.

Tanjung Bungah is another popular beach resort in Penang. The numerous luxury resorts here offer a relaxing seaside vacation. The most charming feature of Tanjung Bungah is its many secluded coves, nestled within the shelter of overhanging cliffs and gigantic rocks.

At the northwestern end of the coastal road lies Teluk Bahang. Its idyllic beach offers a solitary luxury hotel promising a tranquil ambience for those who prefer privacy. Nearby is the Tropical Spice Garden, a living collection of more than 500 varieties of flora from Malaysia and around the world.

The eight-acre valley is reputedly the largest showcase of tropical herbs and spices in the region. Further west from Teluk Bahang are several beaches which lie off the beaten track. The beaches make for excellent excursions to get a glimpse into the vast variety of the island's flora and fauna.

Monkey Beach, a secluded spot in the northwest of the island, is ideal for quiet picnics under shady casuarinas. Adventure-lovers can explore the jungle trail from Monkey Beach to the Muka Head Lighthouse, perched atop a 785-feet-high cliff.

Further away, Kerachut Beach offers an unspoilt environment and picturesque views. In the hinterland, a lake containing distinct layers of freshwater and seawater is an added attraction. Both of these beaches are only accessible by boat or by hiking trails from Teluk Bahang.

Enquire with the respective resorts or private boat operators. Avid birdwatchers or outdoor lovers can delight in taking the jungle trail to observe monkeys, squirrels and other small animals along the way.

Jerejak Island, of the island's east coast, makes an interesting escapade. This tiny island resort offers total privacy amidst lush greenery.

To experience the charms of Penang, take a city tour for a glimpse into its nostalgic past. The Esplanade in Georgetown is a delightful seafront for an evening stroll. A distinctive landmark is the Fort Cornwallis, erected by Captain Francis Light in the early nineteenth century.

Hawker-style dining is the norm here and further up along Gurney Drive, a popular haunt for tourists. Little India and Campbell Street delight with an endless assortment of bric-a-brac, souvenirs and antiques.

Langkawi is the largest of a multitude of islands that lie off the coast of Kedah State, in the far northwest of Peninsular Malaysia.

The island comprises a jewelled setting of 99 islands. Langkawi is a versatile-holiday destination with world-class infrastructure and facilities - a modern international airport, excellent roads, state-of-the-art marinas, budget hotels to award-winning luxurious resorts, superb golf courses and a host of recreational activities.

Visitors arriving by sea will disembark at the jetty in the main town of Kuah. Located southeast of the island, the town houses many hotels and shopping centres. A large prominent statue of an eagle, situated at the popular Eagle Square is visible from afar when approaching the island. According to the local folklore, Langkawi derived its name from the eagle or helang.

Langkawi's idyllic beaches are perfect settings for a fun-filled vacation. Tanjung Rhu Beach, 22 km north of Kuah, is fringed by casuarinas from which the beach gets its name. A perfect place for a picnic, this wide sandy beach offers unmatched pristine tranquillity. The sunset here at dusk, in a blaze of orange and red is truly a spectacular sight.

On the western coastline of Langkawi, lie the beaches of Datai, Kok, Burau Bay and Tengah. Enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole course at Datai Bay and tee off against Langkawi's scenic backdrop.

Those who wish to spend their day at Burau Bay can enjoy horseback riding while visitors to Tengah Beach can hire a boat and go island hopping.

Cenang Beach is only 3 km from the Langkawi International Airport and is the most developed of the beach areas housing several luxury class hotels and dozens of budget chalets and restaurants. There are plenty of water sports available on this popular beach providing fun and excitement for all.

Go snorkelling and diving in the Payar Island Marine Park, or hop onto a glass bottomed boat and watch the underwater world unfurl below. Speedboats or catamarans shuffle visitors up and down.