Penang/Langkawi

If you are considering a holiday in Malaysia, let me take this opportunity to give you some advice. Both Penang and Lagkawi are promoted by the tourism office as Island Paradises - but in reality this is only true of one of them.

Penang, now connected to the mainland by the largest bridge in south east Asia, was originally established by the British as a trading post for silks and spices. Tourism is now the biggest industry, but the island still retains the grubby, industrial feel that might once have been it's true character. The capital, Georgetown, is dominated by an enormous and unsightly port, and the city itself is unspectacular (apart from the 3 storey aquarium/pet shop that Kerri and I spent half a day in). For the intrepid motorcyclist, there are some pretty spectacular roads that run through the mountains and forests of the islands centre, but the beaches are poor and the resorts seem a bit....well, tatty.

However, north of Penang, and only a 2 hour ferry ride away is the island of Langkawi. This tropical paradise has something for everyone and i would not hesitate to recommend it for a 2 week getaway. There is so much to do here: big game fishing, golf, Birdworld, Underwater World and a marine park 20km off the coast.

We didn't do any of these things as they are priced for the enjoyment of the 2 week holidaymaker! However, there are 3 beautiful waterfalls, Asia's longest and highest cable car, over 90 islands to "hop" round, wild eagles to feed, giant monitor lizards roaming the streets, amazing beaches, beautiful sunsets and a huge selection of fine eateries. These activities were more in our budget, and even these kept us busy for an entire week.

At the risk of this post sounding like it was sponsored by Malaysian Airlines (Going Beyond Expectations), if you have never considered Langkawi for your holidays, put it on your list at once!