Tropical Spice Garden

Penang Island, Malaysia

The well-done eco-tourism site was set up in 2003 on an old 8-acre rubber plantation, with three trails meandering through the beautiful jungle landscape. Around 500 species of spices, herbs and exotic flora to explore. At one corner is Tree Monkey Cafe (predominantly Thai food) set on a deck in the middle of a rainforest and sea views, and a gift shop and cooking school - these are accessible from the exit gate so you don't have to pay an entry fee to get to them. Guided tours are available (at 9:00am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm) and recommended.