Penang, Malaysia - Mar 03, 2013

A couple busy ports as we literally sail into the sunset after an incredible day in Phuket (Mar 4th) but first I will go back a day to Penang, Malaysia. Penang is a state in Malaysia and the name of its constituent island. It is located on the north-west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is comprised of two parts: Penang Island is where the the seat of government is and Seberang Perai (Province Wellesley) on the Malay Peninsula. It is one of the most developed and economically important states in the country, as well as being a thriving tourist destination. We were in a harbor in the city of Georgetown. This is the capital of Penang and was named after the reigning King George III. We had a wonderful day here doing our own tour which consisted of beating back the mod of taxi folk who wanted way too much money for a 45 minute drive the national park. The bidding started at about $80.00 US and by the time we hit the first streets outside the port we settled at $25.00 US with a driver with a nice new air conditioned taxi. We had learned over the past few days, both by reading and seminars, that a very good hike was to be had at this national park. So at the Park we began our hour and half hike in the park to a beach called Monkey Beach. We encountered a few wild monkeys on the way as well as about a half dozen at the beach - just keep your distance and you will be okay. Okay one did come after us a bit but in my best Caesar Milan voice (the dog whisperer), I was able to keep her away - she was protecting her baby monkey so we did understand. A great challenging hike in the hot weather with a great beach reward at the end. We were able to hire a boat to take us back for a reasonable price. After having a bit of difficulty getting a taxi at the park entrance, Jan chatted with a couple from Perth at the Bus stop, long story short we took the clean, air conditioned local bus back to the port for a mere $4.00 USD. As we got back in plenty of time we were able to have a good walk around Georgetown and a good visit to the Museum. Here are a few pictures of day in this pleasant port, also some pictures from the King Neptune ceremony on our sea day (the crossing of the equator is very serious out here in the middle of the ocean where this age old traditional ceremony still is performed - a bit more fun than in the past but nether the less still performed). Will send a separate post for Phuket tomorrow.