Penang

Penang was a pleasant surprise. Though we had three days to visit the island, we left feeling as though there was so much left to see. The abundance of temples, mosques, and other attractions make this area rich in culture and history, waiting to be discovered, and the friendly people and good food make for a very hospitable city. Here's just a taste of what Penang has to offer:

The beautifully elaborate and gold laced Khoo Kongsi Clan House in Georgetown, Penang

Detail of the ornate roof, made by the traditional "cut and paste" method

Large statue of Guanyin, which sits atop Kek Lok Si (极乐寺), a Buddhist temple on a hill outside the main city

Wall of Buddhas at Kek Lok Si

Lanterns lining the temple in celebration of the upcoming New Year (春节)

Prayer ribbons

View overlooking the city from Penang Hill

An angry monkey on Penang hill

View of the inside of Kapitan Keling Mosque

One of the many temples in Georgetown, Penang

The Blue Mansion, old estate of Cheong Fatt Tze, the "Rockefeller of the East"