Langkawi is an island paradise – if you’re looking for a tropical getaway in an exotic location, this is the one. Langkawi has several large beach resorts, but has also preserved its small local villages and lush jungle landscape. There’s an accommodation option for everyone – Pantai Cenang is the backpacker party hub, Pantai Tengah is the quieter family option, and Datai Bay is a haven of 5* hotels and luxurious spas.
Langkawi is a duty-free zone, so it’s a shopper’s paradise! Forget bottles of vodka and huge bags of chocolate hurriedly bought at the airport – Langkawi’s shopping malls and markets are where you’re really going to save. The malls and outlets are your best bet for fashion, cosmetics and electrical items, while the local bazaars are full of crafts, batik goods and handmade gifts.
A holiday in Langkawi is all about the beach life; it’s easy to pass your days sunbathing on the white sand and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters. Cenang is the most popular public beach, with plenty of bars and beautiful sunsets, while nearby Tengah is equally pretty but less crowded. Many of the most luxurious hotels have their own private beach, so keep this in mind if you really want to treat yourself!
You won’t want to miss seeing the island’s beautiful scenery – start with the Langkawi Cable Car, which takes you on a 20-minute ride up Langkawi’s second highest peak to the Sky Bridge, a suspension bridge overlooking the jungle. You can also take a river cruise through the Kilim Nature Park to see amazing landscapes and wildlife, or enjoy watersports at the beach like sailing, scuba diving and jet-skiing.
GMT +8
6 RM
32.50 RM
13 hrs
(from London)
Malaysian Ringgit
Malaysian
When we think of Kuala Lumpur we think of bright lights and towering skyscrapers, but down on the streets you will find that the old Malaysian traditions are still alive and well.