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Langkawi
Off the northwestern coast of Malaysia lies Langkawi, the largest of 99 islands in its group. With legends attached to almost every cave, rock and lake, and folk tales passed down over generations, the island is also popularly known as Pulau Lagenda or “Legendary Island”.
Langkawi’s main attractions are its beautiful white beaches. The clear emerald waters are rich with marine life, and also host many water sports and recreational activities. While many beaches are popular, if you’re looking for fine white sand that won’t stick to your skin, try Pantai Cenang. At Pantai Tengah, you can rent boats to visit nearby islands or paddle around the shore in a canoe. Further away and more secluded is Pantai Kok, a beautiful sweeping bay with limestone hills and mysterious caves that can be explored with a guide.
In the north, Tanjung Rhu is named after its abundance of casuarina (rhu) trees instead of the usual palms and coconut trees. During low tide, you can walk across the sandbank to the nearby islands of Pulau Pasir and Pulau Gasing. Nestled amidst mist-covered hills, limestone crops and lush forests are fascinating waterfalls and caves waiting to be explored. For birdwatching, visit Burau Bay on the east coast, a roosting place for migratory birds.
Another interesting attraction is the cable car ride from Oriental Village at Pantai Kok to Mount Mat Cincang. As the cable car ascends, enjoy the immense beauty of the rainforest and Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls cascading from a grey rock face. For an even more spectacular panorama, walk across the suspension steel bridge at the summit. Not only is it an incredible experience, you’ll also get a different view of the island and sea looking towards the north.
Away from Langkawi’s beaches, other attractions include Underwater World, an innovative aquarium housing 5,000 types of aquatic life, mammal and reptile species. Another place of interest is the Summer Palace, a set from the filming of Anna and the King, where traditional Thai performances are held throughout the day.
For a real culinary experience, eat with the locals at their favourite hangouts like Kuah town and Pantai Cenang, and enjoy the diversity of culture and food. If it’s shopping you’re interested in, remember that all purchases are duty-free if you stay a minimum 48 hours on the island.
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons of November to March. There are direct flights to Langkawi via Air Asia or Malaysia Airlines. Alternatively, you can drive to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis, and take the express ferries provided.
stay
Langkawi
5461 Perdana Beach Resort
2860 Aseania Resort Langkawi
travel tips
LANGUAGE
Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken and understood.
DRESSING
Malaysia is sunny all year round, so light clothing is ideal. However, it is advisable for ladies to wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts when entering mosques and other places of worship.
Don’t forget to pack your suntan lotion for that perfect tan.
LOCAL CUISINE
As Malaysia is a multiracial country, food hawkers
selling traditional and local delicacies of different races are a common sight. One can try teh tarik, a smoothened, creamed tea, and roti canai, a fluffy pancake prepared
by a local person of Indian Muslim ancestry. Spicy Malay food, such as nasi lemak, and various kinds of Chinese noodles are also popular. Although water from the tap is safe for consumption, it is advisable to boil your water first. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive.
Tipping is commonly included in bills at hotels and fast food chains.
VISA
Citizens from China, Taiwan, Vietnam and India are required to have a visa to
visit Malaysia. Nationals
from ASEAN countries are allowed to enter Malaysia for a month’s visit without a visa. However, it is recommended that visa enquiries are made at the Malaysian embassy or Malaysian consulate closest to you, as regulations are subject to change.
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