Enjoying Malaysia

We've continued to have a fantastic time on our post-Peace Corps travels here in Malaysia. After leaving the Cameron Highlands, we visited the island of Penang in the northwest. Penang has an interesting history of British colonialism combined with Chinese settlement (as do other parts of Malaysia), which we enjoyed learning about at a couple of museums and by walking through town. We tried some local cuisine, including "laksa" -- a spicy, sour fish curry, as well as a rather bizzare potato/tofu mix covered in red sauce and eaten cold. I'll describe more when I can post pictures!

Now we're settled at the beach for a couple of days. It's a little rainy at times, but still very beautiful and relaxing.

Here are a few things we like about Malaysia as compared to Thailand:

1. People here drive more slowly and less crazily.
2. This is a truly multicultural society, with Chinese, Indians, and Malays all interacting and socializing.
3. There are multiple cuisines to choose from.
4. It is green and clean, compared to the dusty dry place we left in March!
5. Things seem to work pretty well here on the whole.
6. There is usually soap in the public bathrooms.

It's a great place to be!