New direct rail route to link Bangkok with Penang

Here's a new rail journey that sounds exciting.

Thailand’s State Railway (SRT) and KTMB, which operates trains in Malaysia, will shortly launch a direct train service connecting Bangkok, Thailand, to Penang, Malaysia.

Previously, travellers had to switch trains at the border. The SRT cancelled its previous daily express service between Bangkok and Butterworth in 2016.

The Bangkok-Penang train route will begin with a six-month trial period to assess the viability of the service.

Key benefits for tourists will include seamless connectivity with the service from Bangkok’s Bang Sue Grand Terminal (above) to Penang, with stops at Padang Besar and Butterworth.

The route provides an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Thailand and Malaysia, from bustling cities to serene countryside, and connects two rich cultural hubs.

Bang Sue Grand Station (officially known as Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal) is the new central railway station of Bangkok. The station will be the terminus for all current long-distance rail services and future high-speed railways, and through-trains for the SRT commuter lines and 3-airport HSR line. It is also connected to the mass transit system in Bangkok via the MRT Blue Line.

The railway companies of Malaysia and Thailand have also extended the route of the MySawasdee tourist train further north to Surat Thani.

MySawasdee operates only during holiday periods, taking travellers from Kuala Lumpur to Hat Yai. 

The extended route to Surat Thani is expected to boost seasonal tourism to Thailand’s resort islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Pha Ngan.

Marriott marks milestone in Malaysia

Marriott International this week opened its 50th property in Malaysia, with the debut of Penang Marriott Complex in George Town.

The complex comprises three properties – Penang Marriott Hotel, Marriott Executive Apartments, Penang and Marriott Residences Penang.

"Opening Marriott International's 50th property in Malaysia marks a significant milestone in our Asia Pacific growth journey, a continent that continues to be a strategic driver of our global expansion," says Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific excluding China, for Marriott International (sorry mate, clumsy job title).

"The Penang Marriott Complex, the first in Malaysia to include three brands with the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio under one roof, is a fitting addition.

"Set along the iconic Gurney Drive in Penang, we are excited to offer guests and Residence Owners Marriott's signature blend of modern amenities and timeless charm, creating lasting memories in one of Malaysia's most sought-after island destinations."

There are currently 20 brands within Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio in Malaysia.

"The opening of the Penang Marriott Complex is a pivotal moment for Penang," says Lim Guan Eng, former Chief Minister of Penang.

"It is not just another landmark in our skyline but a testament to our commitment to excellence, progress, and growth. This development strengthens our capacity to welcome visitors from all over the world, while also enriching the experiences they will have here.

"By doing so, we further bolster Penang's appeal as a top-tier destination, creating new opportunities for our local economy."

Marriott International now has a portfolio of approximately 9,000 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. 

See www.marriott.com

Bans imposed on Airbnb properties

The Malaysian resort island of Penang has become the first major tourist destination in south-east Asia to impose a ban on Airbnb and other short-term rental services.

Situated off Malaysia's west coast, Penang is one of the region's premier tourism destinations.

But following reports of increased noise and bad behaviour by tourists it has imposed the ban after considering such a move over the past 12 months.

Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Mayor Rajendran Anthony said the ban covered all private residential properties listed on Airbnb and other vacation rental sites.

It exempts existing serviced apartment buildings, although there are some additional restrictions placed on these, including maximum stays of three days per booking and approval from 75% of the other residents in their building.

Properties allowed to continue must be registered and pay annual fees, Travel Mole reported. They are also allowed to be rented for a maximum of 180 days a year.

In response, Airbnb said a recent study showed that three-quarters of Penang residents think renting out homes through Airbnb has a positive impact on their community.

The Penang move follows similar restrictions imposed in Florence, Italy, and in New York City.

In Norfolk, in the UK, planning authorities are calling for new powers to make it harder for properties on the Norfolk Broads and coast to be turned into Airbnbs and second homes.

The Broads Authority (BA) and North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) are both urging changes that would mean homeowners would have to secure planning permission to convert the use of their properties.

It comes amid growing concerns about the number of holiday lets and second homes in popular villages, the Eastern Daily Press reported.

It will be interesting to see how many other jurisdictions move in the same direction. In some cities, including Hobart is Tasmania, a public housing shortage has been the result of thousands of homes being used for short-stay accommodation.