Weekendin Singapore Nov '13 | Issue 08 | Page 114

acrosstheSTRAITS acrosstheSTRAITS across the Straits In this issue: Special features Penang Perak Hotel Guide Panoramic Penang & Poetic Perak Back in 1786, the beautiful isle was known as Pulau Pinang and was referred to as the “Isle of the Betel Nut” by Malaysians. After Francis Light landed on what is today known as the marvelously scenic Esplanade, he persuaded the Sultan of Kedah to cede Pulau Pinang to the British East India Company. Now the state of Penang has become a celebrated Heritage treasure. European society had also extended its touch to another one of the thirteen states of Malaysia—Perak. English short-story writer, novelist and poet Rudyard Kipling in fact made this the subject matter for one of his tales. He writes about “endless sunshine” and “blossom-burdened (laughs)” during his stay in Perak. In each of these exotic destinations, one can explore nature, history, culture, or just simply relax at some of the luxurious hotels both Penang and Perak have to offer. with the support of Weekendin 112 113 Weekendin