Penang, an Island off the west coast of Malaysia, was founded at it's capital, Georgetown by Captain Francis Light. He did so in a rather spectacular way- he blasted a cannon of gold coins off into the air, which caused a mad frenzy amoungst the locals who hurridly chopped down lots of the jungle in an attempt to claim as much of the gold as possible. As such, the way for Georgetown was created. We saw Georgetown in style with a rickshaw ride each. Bless the drivers- they all seem about 72 yet have legs of steal due to years of cycling tourists around. That was definately an experience, given Malay drivers! After some dodgy phone signals, misunderstandings and some eventual luck I manage to meet up with a friend, Erwin, from University who lives on Penang. He took us first to a market and bought us loads of exciting exotic fruit and other foods. Then drove us to the beach before suggesting that we have a go at reflexology- it hurt! (Thanks Erwin, we had a great time!!) In the afternoon we visited the temple just a little way out of the town a huge complex, some of which is still being built, including a huge bronze statue and it's shelter.