Penang is a tourists` paradise with an eclectic mix of cultural, natural and historical attractions. Some `must visit` places in Penang include:

Penang Hill:Rising 821 meters above sea level, Penang Hill provides travelers with a delightful resort to beat the city heat. A mesmerizing view of the entire island awaits the travelers as they reach the top. The top of the hill includes a restaurant, mosque, church and a Hindu temple. A trip up the hill is something that you just cannot miss when touring this island city.

Butterfly Farm:The beautiful Butterfly Farm is more than just a tourist attraction. It is an education and research center that is home to more than 4000 butterflies from 120 species. Butterflies flying freely in a natural setting leave the travelers absolutely enchanted.

Kek Lok Si Temple:Considered to be one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, the Kek Lok Si Temple was founded about 100 years ago. The temple atop a hill features beautiful gardens and a stunning collection of Buddhist statues made from precious metals. The 120 feet bronze Kuan Yin statue is the main attraction of the Kek Lok Si Temple.

War Museum:Located on top of Bukit Maung, the war museum testifies to the fall of British army by the Japanese invaders. It is a significant historical site in Penang which has kept intact its ammunition bunkers, ventilation shafts, canon firing bays, medical infirmary and sleeping quarters.

From beachfront huts to luxurious spa resorts, and from modest guest houses to budget hotels, accommodation options of all kinds can be easily found in this beautiful island city. The best areas to consider include:

Georgetown:Home to numerous tourist attractions, this historical center is home to a large number of accommodation options for the travelers with varies budgets. Hotel Grand Continental Penang is a luxurious hotel that is a favorite amongst the swish set. Business travelers would love the ambience and facilities at Northam All Suites and Dorsett Penang Hotel. For those on a budget, the Sunway Hotel Georgetown is an excellent option. Travelers intending to stay near the city center can opt for Hotel Malaysia, Grand Paradise Hotel and the Evergreen Laurel Penang.

Pulau Tikus:Be it the beautiful seaside or the old world charm, Pulau Tikus combines the best of both the worlds. Lying close to historical buildings, botanical gardens, beaches and shopping arcades are a number of hotels, such as Paradise Tanjung Bungah, Berjaya Georgetown Hotel, Copthorne Orchid Penang, Crown Prince Hotel and Sandy Bay Paradise Penang.

Batu Ferringhi:The love for some sun and sand brings hordes of travelers to this majestic place. Rasa Sayang Resort, Golden Sands Resorts and Lone Pine Hotel are amongst the best accommodation options in the region. It is the best place to enjoy entertainments like Tropical Fruit Farm excursions, performances at the Pinang Cultural Centre and fun at the beaches.

Travelers to Malaysia must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from the intended period of stay.

Visa is not required by the following:
Nationals of EU countries for stay of not more than 3 months.

Nationals of Commonwealth countries for stay of up to 1 month.

Nationals of Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand for stay of up to 3 months.

The dry period in the months of December, January and February is the best time to visit Penang. It is best to avoid the wettest months that begin from November till March.

Penang experiences a warm equatorial climate that keeps it hot and dry all through the year. The average annual temperature of the city is 30 degree Celsius. The monsoon season begins in November and ends in March. Be prepared for a lot of sweat as the humidity levels during this time can hover between 70-90%. June to August are the hottest months with the temperature rising to as high as 35 degree Celsius during day time.

Currency:The currency used in Penang is Malaysia Ringgits. Almost all currencies can be exchanged in the main tourist centers. Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted at all banks, large departmental stores and hotels.

Language:The official language of Malaysia is Malay. However, English too is widely spoken in the tourism industry and business sectors. Other languages and dialects that one can hear in Penang include Chinese, Indian and Thai, along with a few European languages.