Penang

Not as much of a sleep in today as Mandy was determined to get to breakfast, and it was certainly worth it, getting the award for the most extensive breakfast of the trip. Packing and diary, then we checked out and stored our packs before walking down to Komtar yet again. Converted another travellers cheque, used an hour of Internet time to read and send mail, bought Samantha some birthday presents, and went to Starbucks for a hugely disappointing coffee that neither of us are finished.

Searched for and eventually found the bus to Air Itam (different number and spelling). Alighted when the driver told us to and walked up the hill to the funicular railway station, and rode up Penang Hill. A lovely 26° at the top with a lovely breeze. Spectacular view of Georgetown and Butterworth, and we just wandered around enjoying the view and climate for a couple of hours. At 5:30 we took the train down again after dodging the monkeys, changing trains at the middle station. Caught a minibus back down -- different number, different rate. Being short of time we went to KFC for a quick tea, retrieved our bags and lucked out when offered an air-conditioned Mercedes limousine as our taxi from the hotel to the ferry.

Took the ferry back to Butterworth, and boarded the train to KL which left 30 minutes late. A little larger but older than the other Thai trains, but very comfortable.