SINGAPORE

Singapore is both, a city and a country. As country, it is a Republic of Singapore since 1963 when it declared independence from Britain. It is the major and busiest Southeast Asian Port and commercial center.  As city, it is modern but has well preserved colonial architecture, shopping centers and recreational parks.

Sentosa Island is the recreational side of Singapore with resorts, beaches, parks and restaurants.

Merlion, a symbol of Singapore, is well visible from all angles and one of major attractions. It is an amazing sculpture of a lion head and body of a fish and dates to the 12th century modest beginnings as a fishing village and legends of Singapura – Lion City. 

Singapore has a rich history starting in the 16th century as a settlement destroyed later by Portuguese invasion. Singapore was rebuilt in the early 1800 by Sir Raffles and flourished since. Hotel Raffles commemorates this great achievement. 

For many Orchard Road has allure and is a true shopping paradise. And it is not just latest fashion and cosmetics. Singapore has the best price on the latest electronics.

Singapore is a delightful destination. It offers excellent entertainment, great shopping and relaxation in grandiose, colonial environment of Raffles Hotel or Vacation Island, Sentosa.  

PENANG

PULAU PINANG
MALAYSIA

Pulau Pinang is the local name for Penang also known as The Pearl of the Orient. Malaysia can be proud of Penang. It is the second, after Kuala Lumpur, centre in Malaysia, a conglomerate of cultures and history. The population is Chinese, Indian and Malay. 

The center of George Town is a UNESCO protected Heritage Site and the architecture is a mix of Chinese and colonial. Buddhist Temples are scattered throughout Penang. There is also a fair number of Hindu and Chinese Temples. 

The mix of old and new in architecture is visible with every step. Some historical buildings are being renovated but many are left untouched. The contrast is impressive.

Still the temples are most impressive. The Snake Temple is unique and often visited. The snakes look asleep but all are highly poisonous and better not touched or awoken.  All temples are visited by both, locals praying and admiring visitors.

Penang has a number of restaurants with a delicious mix of Asian cuisine. Many beaches are located in the northern part of Penang. The climate is warm and swimming and water sports are popular. 

Penang Hill offers amazing 360 degrees views over Penang and on a clear day mainland Malaysia. It is easy to spend hours walking, hiking, enjoying some great local lunch. Botanical Gardens display tropical flora and visitors are often watched closely by monkeys waiting for food bits. The attractions are numerous and there is something for lovers of history, architecture, cuisine and plain fun in the sun.

A visit to Penang is more than enjoyable, the departure is sad and a plan to return usually unfolds even before leaving.