Penang

THE STATE HOSTS one of Malaysia’s most diverse, cosmopolitan and exciting cultures, with

Georgetown providing the culmination of all the above. There you will find the perfect combination of the urban centre required for ease during a business trip, as well as delivering on the charms of old-world Asia.

Although Penang’s beaches are a perfect spot on which to relax, you will find the state’s rich and multicultural history is what really draws you in. Its history dates back to the beginnings of British colonialisation in the 18th century and is full of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European influences as well.

Of course, it would be a travesty to neglect Penang’s tropical masterpiece

Penang has a long history of serving as the e connecting point between Malaysia’s two halves, not to mention an important stepping stone to the markets of Europe and the Middle East

during your time there, with palm-lined beaches and quaint fishing villages to explore. If you have a little more time on your hands between meetings and find yourself looking for a challenge, take a trip up to the mountainous jungle farms that grow exotic produce such as nutmeg and durian.

Similar to the rest of Malaysia, the climate in Penang is equatorial, with the driest months between January and February and the wettest from September to November. Of course, you will be travelling for business, but take into account that high-season is around Christmas, New Years Day and the Chinese New Year and the island will be flooded with tourists meaning accommodation can be particularly packed.