Penang, often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient is one of the most picturesque and romantic cities of the East. The island is filled with lush tropical vegetation and the betel nut palm is a common sight all over the island - a fact which gave rise to the name of Pulau Pinang.

The famous beaches of Penang - Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang offer all the scenic delights of tropical island paradise - stretches of golden sandy beaches, clear blue seas and tiny secluded coves enclosed by clusters of rocks.

Certain sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era ?a shoppers' paradise for goods old and new, at bargain prices. Penang, a city steeped in history and tradition yet sparkling with progress and modern development.