Penang

The lowdown Known for its tropical climate, golden beaches and succulent cuisine, Penang, a small state  in the north of Malaysia, offers an affordable holiday for families and couples alike.

Local tip The capital of Penang, George Town, is steeped in history and the best way to see it is by rickshaw. Guides are available to give you a unique insight to the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and one of Malaysia's most important capitals. You'll see Fort Cornwallis, Little India, and find out how much of an important role the city has played over the last 200 years.

Foodie hotspot After a tour in George Town, make sure you get the rickshaw driver to drop you off at Kopi Cine, part of the Stewart Lane boutique hotel. The restaurant serves up a large range of tapas-style plates, both local and western. The venue is run by a couple of Australian expats who donate all proceeds to their Langkawi Animal Shelter and Sanctuary. For cuisine that's more in tune with Malaysians, visit one of the many night hawker markets on the island packed full with locals after dark. Kopi Cine, 55 Stewart Ln, George Town, Penang, Malaysia. (+604 263 7299).

Drinking den Imagine drinking your way through a bucket of Tiger beer while watching the sunset on the beach. That's what generally happens at the Sunset Bistro, a bar everyone recommends to Penang visitors. Chairs and tables are literally on the beach and waves crash in just metres from where you sit. The cocktail list is quite old school (think Pina Coladas and Margaritas), but it's cheap and the bucket of beer (five bottles) only costs $18. Sunset Bistro, 55 Batu Feringgi, Batu Feringgi, Penang, Malaysia.

Where to stay Following a $14 million refurbishment, the Golden Sands Resort byShangri-La has never looked better. Opening onto Feringgi Beach, the property features just under 400 luxuriously appointed guestrooms and offers a range of dining and drinking options alongside leisure activities. Time Out recommends reserving an end-of-building suite complete with balcony before booking a jetski and taking a ride out to Monkey Beach. Enjoy a spectacular ride along the coastline before seeing monkeys get fed up close in their natural habitat. Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La, Batu Feringgi Beach, Penang, Malaysia. (+604 886 1911).

Getting thereMalaysian Airlines flies twice daily from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur, with onward connections to Penang. In Business Class, the airline serves up its signature satay stick entrée and the quality is on par with Sydney's top Asian eateries. A good selection of entertainment and Australian wine rounds out the premium offering.

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