Langkawi, once, centuries ago, was a pirate’s paradise; now mercifully it is the gateway to a tropical paradise, set on the edge of the magnificent Indian Ocean – in the deep southern part of the Andaman Sea.
Langkawi is the definitive holiday haven, offering even the most well-travelled everything from ultra-modern accommodation and sensational cuisine to amazing sightseeing activities. All of which are set against the natural surroundings of world class beaches and ancient tropical forest, which teem with glorious exotic Flora and Fauna.
Langkawi is renowned locally as the archipelago of ninety nine tropical islands of Malaysia; so you can enjoy being transported back in time with the fascinating folk tales and mesmerizing legends of old Langkawi.
The largest island of this archipelago is of course Langkawi itself, and this island is by far the most established of the all these islands. Langkawi is as almost as large as Singapore, yet nowhere near as well developed – guaranteeing a hideaway holiday of a lifetime.
The main town of Kuah Nad is the most populated resort along the coast; the airport is situated nearby, as well as many small shops, restaurants and hotels.
There are two main beaches Pantai Cenang and Pantai Kok, both of which are situated on the west of the island, Cenang is the more popular of the two beaches.
You can come to relax by the pool or sun yourself on the glorious beaches, or maybe you are the more adventurist type that likes to Snorkel and Scuba Dive. Therefore you could try the Pulau Payar Marine Park with 4 emerald-green islands. The clear blue waters and white virgin sand make this one of the most idyllic group of islands anywhere in the Andaman Sea.
The island also has three fantastic golf courses, all built around spectacular backdrops: Golf Club Datai Bay, Gunung Raya Golf Resort and 99 East Golf Club, which was the first golf club to be built on the island, and is ideal for beginners and experienced golfers alike.
The Malay government, in recent years, has spent considerable funds improving the infrastructure including the roads, modern shopping centres, new marinas and world class resort hotels.
There are many sightseeing trips and tours to take too, try the Field of Burnt Rice or the Hot Springs of Ayer Hangat, Telaga Tujuh is spectacular waterfall which is the most picturesque and undoubtedly the best waterfall in the island. Hit the road and go trekking through the unspoiled tropical forest that covers most of Langkawi, or go on a boat tour of the mangrove swamp.
Whatever your budget you will find the most exquisite food from all over Asia -the street food rivals Thailand for taste and availability. Langkawi is renowned for serving up some of the best fare in the country, you can readily find Indian, Malay Thai and Chinese dishes or why not try some locally sourced fresh seafood such as Snappers, Groupers, crabs, lobsters, king prawns, Calamari, the list is endless.
Langkawi is a gateway to the Islands in southern Thailand such as Koh Lipe Island.