Penang Transport

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http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/National/2273501/Article/index_html

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Interesting and disturbing article, especially as we are due to arrive in Penang on 13th July. Penang was indeed a great place to live but now seems to be descending into choas (on the roads anyway). I wonder what Mergui is like? No busses maybe.

Bob

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Re taxis in Penang:

Is it acceptable to flag them down in the street, or does one have to visit a taxi-stand?

If acceptable, what is the indication that they are available for hire?

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There is a fairly decent Bus system: Rapid Penang.
As for taxi's you can flag them down but be prepared to pay exorbitant fares, although the use of a taxi meter is mandatory nobody actually does.
Try to get some phone numbers of reliable drivers (yes there are a few) and use them.
But to be honest nothing beats your own car or motorcycle.

Good luck

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Thanks stuurman.  If and when I live there I will surely avoid them, but I feel that using them will be inevitable on my forthcoming short visit.