Magical Penang Island off the coast of Malaysia was recently honored as one of the top Asian islands in Travel + Leisure's 2008 World's Best Awards.

A first timer on the list, Penang continues to gain popularity among travellers for its lively beaches, interesting architecture, and amazing Asian-fusion cuisine.

The World’s Best Awards are voted on by Travel + Leisure’s readers, selecting their favorite hotels, spas, airlines, cruise lines, outfitters, cities, and islands around the globe.

For the island category, readers were asked to rate islands according to five characteristics, i.e. natural attractions, activities/sights, restaurant/food, people and value.

Penang, with its unique blend of cultures and heritage, has always been a favourite holiday destination among foreign travellers. On 7 July 2008, George Town, the state capital of Penang, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, putting it in the ranks of such iconic landscapes and monuments as China’s Great Wall, India’s Taj Mahal, the US’ Grand Canyon and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

According to UNESCO, George Town’s unique architecture and culture has no parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.

Despite the recent shake-ups in the economy, Malaysia proves that travel dreams can still be a reality. Diverse cultures, political and societal stability, and a wide variety of attractions and activities make Malaysia the perfect destination. English is widely spoken, along with Malay, Chinese and other languages, so getting around is simple and easy to do. Furthermore, with the favourable exchange rate, Malaysia offers great value for money as a holiday destination for New Zealanders.