Malaysia travel tips

Speaking very generally here as I don't know what you are interested in. Penang is one of my favourite cities. A few things to note:

If you're interested in historic buildings, streets and culture, I'd recommend staying in George Town. If budget is no object, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel is magnificent. If you like the idea of staying in a historic house, looks at Seven Terraces or the Cheong Fat Tze Mansion.

If you prefer the beach, I'd recommend The Shangri-la Rasa Sayang resort at Batu Ferringhi. Just bear in mind that swimming in the sea is not recommended due to jellyfish, and it's a bit of a trek into George Town.

Places to see - the Khoo Kongsi (most impressive Chinese clan house in Malaysia) Kek Lok Si Temple, and the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, as well as the Sun Yat Sen Museum (house where Sun Yat Sen stayed while plotting the 1911 Chinese revolution). Out Ferringhi way, you can take a boat ride to the beaches in Penang National Park (Monkey Beach etc) from Teluk Bahang.

And of course, the food! Check out the famous chendul stall.

Thank you Simon for your recommendations - the E and O hotel have also been recommended to us.

In KL, beware of pickpockets and purse/cell phone snatching. Have fun.