Anyone been to Penang?

[Isadora]

We are trying to decide whether to go to have our holiday this year in Kuala Lumpur or Penang, however a couple of people now have told us not to bother with Penang as it is a little island with not much. Any suggestions?

[Phteven]

I love Penang. It is a little island but therein lies its charm.
It has some beaches and if you have time there are some lovely little islands not far away that you can go cruising through.
It also has some hills and a bit of shopping and a few temples etc.
There are a few differant cultures living together there (Malay, Chinese, Indian) so there is a great variety of yummy food.
I guess it depends what you're after. For me Penang is a more authentic Malaysian city. KL could be just about any big city in Asia (and it certainly doesn't smell like Asia in most parts) and for me that's it's problem - it's kind of bland.
So if you want to visit a city and go clubbing and shop in department stores/brand shops then KL's your place but if you want to slow down a bit then Penang might be better.
You could always fly into KL then travel by train up to Penang then cruise to Phuket and fly out...

[Isadora]

Thanks Dachlostar for your advice. Penang sounds lovely, I'm looking for lazy days by the pool/beach and eating out, so it sounds perfect really. We are also heading over to KL for 3 days after, very exciting!

[satya]

My parents love Penang and they've travelled all over the world.

[AnyDream]

Hayley, my DH has been to Penang and he says it's "awesome"...apparently there's a little resort island just off Penang (he can't think of the name right now) which is fantastic, but he loves Penang proper too. It's the place where he's shopped the best, and he learnt to eat Indian food there too . It's a nice little cultural mixing pot.

[xtml]

glad u decided to do both. i recommend ice kacang at the outdoor food markets, in penang i always used to hire a motorbike to get around (took the baby in the sling), and in KL theres great amusement parks at amazing prices. hell, even the shopping centres are like ultra chic art design experiences. enjoy!