Info about Penang and Malaysia in general

[dolittle]

Hi folks. New to the forum. Currently living in Holland, Michigan, but seeking an overseas retirement spot. Have been to Costa Rica and Mexico three times each, and considering both.

Been reading some "buzz," about Malaysia - - specifically about Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

Can someone give me a "crash," course on the most desirable areas for expats, along with info on climate and humidity, safety after dark, living costs,etc., and what one can expect to pay for a very nice - - but small home. I am 67 years old; divorced, and in good health. Help me find my way.

Dolittle (Ph.D)

[rjnpenang]

Hi Dr.,
My wife & I live in Spain, retired late 2006 and bought an apartment in/on Penang, I can give some advice, just PM me with your questions. Robert

[synthia]

In Penang, you want to be in an apartment with security. Houses are too vulnerable, and the break-in rate is high. Houses are usually stripped to the bone during break-ins, including ripping out all of the wire. You want an apartment.

I moved your thread here, to the Malaysia forum. Welcome!

[dolittle]

Hi Robert,

Thanks for your offer to answer questions. Here are some: cost of a small, but very nice and secure apartment; realistic info on what it costs to live in Penang on a monthly basis; year around weather and best months to spend
time in Penang; how bad is the humidity; can one survive without knowing the language; is it SAFE . . . i here so many conflicting stories - - especially about b & e's; safety of food and water; ease of mixing with other expats who speak english; does one need an auto to get around; quality and availability of medical services, including Rx's;

And finally, how did you come to choose Panang as opposed to other potential retirement spots? What were your 2nd and 3rd choices?

Bet you are sorry you asked to help! But, thank you!!

Don

[rjnpenang]

Don, Send me a private message, left click on the green dot next to my name, scroll down to "Send a private message to RJN......., click on that and a new window will open, I can answer your questions more easily that way. Robert

[dolittle]

Robert,

For some reason, the screen you referenced isn't on my scroll-down. The button next to your name is blue - not green. What am I doing wrong?

Don

[rjnpenang]

I think under the new rules you have to post 4 or 5 posts before the private messenging can be used, is that correct, Synthia?.

[synthia]

Yes, it's five posts. We were getting some automated spam through the PM system, I think.

I spent five months in Chinatown, in Georgetown, and while I felt physically safe, my bag was snatched, and I heard about someone having the same thing happen nearly every day. Official statistics are misleading, as most people don't even bother to make a report.

Whether you need a car is a function of where you live.

The water is 'safe' for drinking, but it does bother some people to some extent. I was pleased with the medical care I got.

[rjnpenang]

Don, You´re a single guy in the prime of life, wouldn't you like it better in Thailand, there more expats there and its easier to meet them and if you want feminine co., well!. I also go up to Pattaya 2 or 3 times a year to see my doctor, I only bought in Malaysia because my wife was born there. However its easier to buy in M/sia, Thailand has certain restrictions on ownership. Sarawak is another place that's growing in popularity.

[rjnpenang]

Don, You still want advice?, do another 2 posts, then you can contact me privately. Rob