I’ve expanded coverage to Malaysia, with the addition of mini-guides to Penang and Langkawi. Penang warrants consideration for it’s well preserved historic old town, along with two very distinctive hotel options. After spending several days wandering through the colonial streets of Georgetown, you’ll probably want to relax for a few days on a tropical island, and Langkawi certainly fits the bill. Spectacular scenery featuring eagles, white sandy beaches, and some of the region’s best resorts, what more could you ask for?
These are "mini" guides only, featuring suggesting on where to stay and an overview of what to see. For complete details on where to go and what to see, visit the Malaysia travel guide at AsiaForVisitors.com.
It seems an editor over at Condé Nast has discovered one of Penang’s hidden gems: the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, a late nineteenth century Chinese merchant’s house, lovingly restored and converted to a small boutique hotel. As the editor reports, the details sometimes appear too dated, but the overall effect is quite charming.
The Mansion isn’t the only place in Penang where you can get a feel for a bygone era. Many people have also raved about the Eastern & Oriental Hotel. Dating from the same period as the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, the "E & O" was fully restored less than 10 years ago, and re-jigged to consist of just 99 suites. Staying here would be a decidedly different experience than staying at the Mansion, but it would be hard to choose between the two. Why not both?
