Penang, Malaysia » City Info » Travel Tips

Getting Around in Penang

Penang is well connected by different modes of transport, such as buses, taxis, rail and rental cars. Major highways are directly linked to main towns; therefore, it is convenient to travel and visit attractions in Penang. Old rail routes are well maintained to provide additional privileges to visitors. Taxis are rigidly available, and one can rent a car in Penang to explore various sites by own convenience. Travelling in Penang is a bit inexpensive if you hire motorcycles, tricycles and bicycles. A fleet of aeroplanes serves the state, and the Penang International Airport stays busy because of travellers inflow.

Bus System

Buses are the most common mode of transport in Penang. The Rapid Penang, the latest bus service, has transformed Penang public transportation system to a different level. Due to booming tourism, Rapid Penang has launched the Tourist Passport, which is billed at once but stays active for a week, and it provides access to all Rapid Penang buses. Penangites enjoy a bus service and a free shuttle bus known as Rapid Penang CAT (Central Area Transport).

Taxis

Taxis in Penang are fitted with metres, which provide accurate rending for the distance covered. Most drivers avoid using metres and charge fixed fares. Therefore, tourists should stay agile while handling taxi drivers. It is always better if you fix prices before boarding onto taxis. One can also board onto shared taxis, which charge low fares.

Rail

The state is served by 34.9km of rail track within its border. The Keretapi Tanah Melayu serves the Butterworth railway station. There are daily trains from Hat Yai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. A journey from Bangkok to Butterworth is the most luxurious experience. Butterworth is a major station for trains coming from Singapore, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. The International Express runs daily between Butterworth and Bangkok.

Car Rental

The journey becomes more enjoyable when you rent a car in Penang. Car rental is relatively inexpensive in the city. Hire a car with a sitting capacity of five people at affordable rates and get total freedom and flexibility in the journey. Penang has the right-hand side of driving. The speed limit varies from 60km (city roads) to 110km on the highways and expressways. The city has well-managed parking areas.

Safety

When you visit Penang, take care of your belongings while travelling around Penang Island and walking through the lanes. Keep your valuables in your pocket or in the hotel's locker, don't spoil your journey with unnecessary fear. Using ATMs is a safer option than carrying cash. Note down hotel phone numbers and addresses and carry travel insurance contact numbers and bank & credit cards numbers. In case of emergency, dial 999 (for Mobile phone, dial 112 ) contact the police/ambulance.

Tipping

Tipping isn't customary in Malaysia. In many restaurants, services charges are included on the bill, but you can leave the coins as a tip. Sometimes, it is good to offer some tips to a waiter or waitress at clubs, bars and pubs to get better services. By tipping bellhop, who carries luggage to your hotel room, you show some respect and kindness.

Communication in Penang

Penang is becoming more popular as the lovable holiday destination in the world. Maxis, Digi and Celcom provide good connectivity in Penang. There are internet cafes located in various areas. The Edge is an English-language financial newspaper. The Star, the New Straits Times and the Sun are the mainstream newspapers in Penang. Mutiara FM, Perak FM and Kedah FM are popular radio stations operating in Penang.

When to Go to Penang

Penang has a tropical rainforest climate throughout the year. Any time of the year is a great time to visit Penang, but November is the best time because of the dry season and excellent weather conditions. Penang experiences sunshine throughout the days, but rainfalls in the evenings during monsoon winds. June to August are the hottest months. April to May and October to November are the wettest months.