Penang, Malaysia

          While in Malacca, I had a conversation with Mike "Smithers" McMillan, who told me of a family connection he had to Georgetown, Penang. As a result, I did a little research. Penang or Langwaki? Two islands both on the Northwest coast of Malaysia. Penang, is a really melting pot of culture, culinary delights, and ethnic backgrounds. Langwaki is a duty-free island, noted for its natural beauty, however a little more touristy.

I went with Penang. I will say right now, I see Penang as a wasted opportunity. I will explain why.

The infamous "Love Lane."

         Firstly, I grabbed an evening bus from Malacca. Because of delays I didn't arrive in Penang until 3:30am. As a result, many of the front desks for all of the hostels were locked up. Also, I have been good this entire trip of doing adequate research in areas beforehand, so I don't get cheated. This is especially true with taxi drivers. And because, I was so exhausted, I failed to realize that the cab driver charged me too much, and then dropped me off in a "backpacker lane." It was ACTUALLY called LOVE LANE, and was full of prostitutes. 

          So it is safe to say, I didn't have a positive introduction to the city. The other unfortunate aspect of Penang, was the simple concept that there wasn't too much to do there. Aside from eating, which I admit, the variety was incredible, I found myself wondering around a lot, and never finding anything new around the corner. And unlike Malacca, (where everything was in walking distance), essentially anything worth visiting, was a long cab ride away. It was almost as if the city planners, designed the island with every attraction spread out for the sake of the transportation industry. I certainly benefited from the English Premiership season beginning, as a couple of nights involved me joining people of all walks of life in bars to watch "the English game." In Malaysia in general, Manchester United is popular, however the favourite seems to be Liverpool.

It's also safe to say, I felt most homesick while in Penang. Back home in Vancouver, there were lots of exciting things happening, and I was unable to be a part of it. Likewise in Brisbane, where I really created a home for myself. My empty dorm room wasn't helping things either. It also seemed like, right when I became loneliest, the weather took a turn for the worst. It was essentially a prelude to soggy wet Thailand.

            On my last day in Penang, I managed to do something quite worthwhile, and something I really should have done earlier. For starters, Georgetown/Penang is not Kuching and Malacca. Everything is NOT in walking distance. I should have learned the bus system in advance (less than $1 Canadian to essentially cross the island); the western coast of the island is BEAUTIFUL. What a shame, that I missed that for 3 days. Here are some pictures:

           
           Honestly, this was my formula for Penang. The further west I traveled, the more I liked it. I should have done a better job with area, but I still feel like it was the one city/area that I never really connected with. Every where I go, I tend to find little pockets and niches that I seem to fit into, but sadly Penang wasn't right for me.

Apparently, Brenden Fraser is not a popular actor in Southeast Asia.

The docks and piers on the west coast of Penang were awesome to venture out on and explore. I talked to many of the local fisherman who seemed somewhat surprised that I was talking to them. I think it was because the only way tourists tend to venture out that far, is with a large group.

Glamour shot. 

My favourite beach I have discovered thus far in Southeast Asia. Yes, I have seen whiter sand, and yes I have swam in clearer water. What is this one my favourite? Check out the features. Firstly, it was completely isolated and I was the only one there. Secondly, a dog followed me and played with me the entire time. Thirdly, there were giant rocks for me to sit on. Lastly, there was even a small cave to explore. Great find!

 And the sun sets in uneventful Penang. Oh well, not everywhere will blow you away. Besides, I'm sure I will have a fair share of memorable moments in Ko Phi Phi, Thailand, which is my next destination. See you on the other side. My passport is getting colourful.