Let’s get jet-setting.

We have another diverse journey. Grab a cocktail or maybe some Pinot Noir.

We’re hitting: Penang, Malaysia; then overnight in Raleigh, NC. Then we expound some Jetsetter advice on a nicely-priced Pinot Noir; and a travel pillow for your back.

Why Penang?

Penang is well-known among Asians, but not in the US.

It’s a quick flight or 3-to-4-hour ride from the capital Kuala Lumpur.

And it is worth it.

Here are 8 reasons we discovered.

First, Food: Penang is Malaysia’s culinary capital. The food is a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. As you will see, we dive into Penang’s famous street food.
Second, Culture: Penang has a rich cultural heritage, and you can explore the city’s history by visiting its museums, temples, and colonial buildings.
Third, Beaches: Penang has some beautiful beaches, such as Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. We chose to stay right on the ocean.

Butterflies

Fourth, Nature: Penang has a lush tropical rainforest, which is home to many species of flora and fauna. You can explore the forest by taking a guided tour or hiking on your own. What is most memorable for us is the butterfly farm.
Five, Shopping: Penang has many shopping malls, street markets, and boutique shops where you can buy souvenirs, clothes, and other items.
Sixth, Architecture: Penang has a unique blend of colonial and traditional architecture. You can see this in the city’s historic buildings, such as the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and the Kapitan Keling Mosque.
Seven, Festivals: Penang hosts many cultural festivals throughout the year, such as Chinese New Year, Thaipusam, and Hari Raya. These festivals are a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and traditions.

Medical Tourism

Eighth, Medical Tourism: Penang is the Asian capital for medical tourism. We actually visit one of the hospitals where people from around the world get affordable highly acclaimed medical care.

Next, we spend the night in Raleigh, North Carolina. It’s a great one night town for visitors.

Raleigh is worth a long weekend visit. It has so much food, nightlife, festivals, and history. Raleigh is also booming economically with the Research Triangle, so lots of folks may be here for a quick business trip. But you can still enjoy your “after hours.”

Raleigh With Ashley

We hit some top bars and restaurants, all mastered by award-winning Chef Ashley Christiansen. Her kitchen creativity uses locally sourced ingredients.
And one of her bartenders shows off the “Ashley Way” by giving us a crash course in ice. That’s right. The type of ice you use matters in the cocktail you make.

Best Pinot Noir For The Price

Next, we settle in with a glass of Pinot Noir. This is a fabulous blend from Costco. It is the Kirkland brand Pinot Noir from Carneros. We give you the taste profile, along with some history of why Carneros is one of the best growing climates for the Pinot Noir grape. We also raise the question if this is a good red wine for white wine drinkers who want to make the change.

No More Oh My Aching Back

And finally, we find a traveling pillow that will help your lower back. It’s called Therapouf. It’s supposed to help golfers who have low back problems. But as we found out, this would be perfect for long car and plane rides.

We think you will enjoy this episode since it has such a diversity of places and ideas.

Tell us what you think.

Susan Anzalone and John Daly are the Co-Creators and Co-Hosts of Undercover Jetsetter, a show on travel, food, wine, mixology and, of course, golf. They show you how to jet set the world and at home. They also co-authored the book, The TV Studio In Your Hand: How to Shoot, Edit & Deliver the Easy Way on Your iPhone. Join them for tips and hacks on the road, at home, or in the kitchen.  Yes, as you will see, all on the iPhone.