Drive from Melaka to Penang (5 hrs)
My kind hosts, The owner of my Melaka guest house, and his visiting close friend who owns a guesthouse in KL, wouldn't allow me to pay anything. They had business in Penang to purchase another guesthouse, and so lucky me, I got a free comfortable ride door to door to lodgings in Penang. I was glued to the window, taking in the astounding lightening storms on the way. They were oblivious to the weather and mearely chatted and sang along to the 60's ballads playing on the American station.

movie of lightening storm

The 24hr ferry runs about every 15 minutes, and transports vehicles. Even at 2am, it was very warm out!



Penang
Penang is an island. For many years ferry was the only way on and off this bustling island. Now they have the longest suspension bridge in SE Asia. Like Melaka, it's architecture, cultures, and food is interesting and diverse.

My two hosts and I stopped at the Stardust bar for a beer. Obviously a locals hangout, we were greeted by acquaintances that recognized Raymond. One long haired wiley looking caucasion guy proudly showed me his baby's picture, saying that this was the future prime minister of Japan... somehow that had something to do with the fact that his wife was Japanese... whatever. This is a 24 hr town.