Are people finding that Penang is getting stricter with issuing tourist visas? I was thinking of going there (my first time there) next month, but based on a quick search of the group it seems that people were issued warning stamps even without multiple visas? Curious if that's the case.

If so, where might you recommend instead? I've been to Vientiane so I'd prefer somewhere else, and need a relatively short plane ride due to an injury.

Last question -- has anyone in Chiang Mai gotten the medical extension on their visa (sorry, don't know the specific name)?