Penang Hill (升旗山, Malay:Bukit Bendera) - Penang Hill probably has the best view of Georgetown and Penang Bridge, especially at night. Go up via the Penang Hill Railway (update: the railway is not operating at this time-July 2008-due to cable replacement works), a fascinating little cable train service that lifts you out of the heat and humidity of the coastal plain and up to a fabulous view and cool breezes. The 19th century English travel writer, Isabella Bird, called the temperature on the hill 'delicious' because it can be at least 10°F cooler than on the plain. The more adventurous (and fit) may want to hike up the hill. There are several starting points for a trek up the hill including from the Moongate (about 300m from the entrance to the Botanical Gardens) and from inside the Botanical Gardens itself (just before the Reservoir). You can also walk up the paved jeep trail which begins beside the entrance to the Gardens. When you reach the summit you can walk around the hilltop, stop for tea, enjoy a leisurely lunch, buy a souvenir, try to photograph Georgetown and the Strait, or simply breathe deep lungfuls of cool,clean hill air. Leave a good 2-3 hours minimum to get to the top and return once buying your ticket. The trains can be crowded and you may have to wait some time in queue at the bottom and top.