Hi, My 3yr old, my wife and I are planning to holiday in Malaysia leaving UK 18th May, heading back 28th May. I would like to spend 5 days in KL at the Renaissance then travel to Penang. Is the Train a good way to get to Penang, I understand we will see some beatiful scenary. How long is the train ride and how much? Can anyone recommend good Hotel in Penang? Thank You. Shahie

You are better off taking a low cost carrier flight to Penang, Air Asia, www.airasia.com , less than 1 hour flight. For the train, check this website. www.ktmb.com.my , look under INTERCITY TRAIN TIMETABLE / FARE / SEAT AVAILABILITY on the bottom right of your screen. Select from Sentral Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth. From what i understand the trains departs KL at night and arrive early morning in Penang. Ride is about 8-9 hours. Prices depends on normal seats or berths. Normal seats prcied from MYR 10 for children to MYR 17 for Adults. For night berths, expect to pay MYR 30 to 56 for children and MYR 50 to > MYR 100 for adults. So i think the best option is to fly Air Asia.

As for hotels in Penang, you have options of staying on the beach or in the city. Since you have a kid with you, i would recommend a family beach resort, my favourite one is Shangri-la Golden Sands, http://www.shangri-la.com/penang/goldensands/en/index.aspx The one in the city and close to cafe, hawkers, shopping and my favourite is Gurney Hotel, http://www.gurney-hotel.com.my/ Cheers and have a good trip.