I travelled down to Penang from the southern Thai city of Hatyai.  The whole journey took four hours by minivan and cost a bargain 300 baht, around £6.

Georgetown is the capital of Penang state, situated on Penang (or Pinang) island (though technically not an island because it has a road onto it).  It is a very attractive city, full of old colonial buildings, a hangover from British rule (the city was named after George 3^rd).

It’s a beautiful city to wander around, guidebook free, and just discover stuff, which is pretty much what I did.

Little India is nearby.  Good for food and also lots of sparkly costumes.

Little India

I stayed in Chulia street, which is packed with backpacker hotels and very active.

Chulia Street