Situated on the west coast of Sumatra (west of Palembang and southeast of Padang), Bengkulu has many interesting choices for visitors. The 7 km Pantai Panjang coastline has some of the best beaches in Sumatra, which are magnets for families and anyone seeking relaxation. History enthusiasts will love the 18th century Fort Marlborough, built by the British when the city was their primary source of pepper for nearly two centuries.