Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi……. Also known as the Jewel of Kedah (Malay: Langkawi Permata Kedah), Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 permanent islands in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. It forms part of the state of Kedah which has a border with Thailand. The island is mainly mountainous with tropical rain forest, the highlands located to the north. The coastal strip is narrow; the only substantial flat land is in the west around the airport. The average distance from coast to coast is about 30 kilometres.
The islands’ recent history includes occupation by the Siamese in 1821 and the British in 1909 until independence in 1957. Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism and improve the lives of the islanders.

Waiting for High Season, Tajung Rhu Beach

Waiting for High Season, Tajung Rhu Beach

Langkawi can be reached by air or sea. The international airport handles domestic traffic as well as flights from Singapore and Thailand, notably from Hat Yai and Phuket. The Langkawi ferry from the pier near Kuah connects to the mainland at Kuala Perlis (18R 75mins), Kuala Kedah (23R 105 mins) and Tammalang Pier, Satun in Thailand (30R 75mins). It also connects to Penang (60R 165mins). During the high season (from 1 November) there is also a service to Koh Lipe in Thailand subject to demand (128R, 75min). This leaves from Telaga Harbour.
Getting around the island can be expensive as there is no public transport. Most people arriving on the island head for Pentai Cenang from the airport by taxi (18R) or from Kuah (24R). There is a cheaper option if you don’t have too much luggage. Hiring a motorbike costs from 40R, depending on the season. These are available in Pentang Cenang or if arriving at Kuah directly from the port thus saving the taxi fare. The road system is left-hand drive, the traffic normally light and roads well paved. Cars are also available and give more freedom to explore the island. However there is a good selection of island tours available to choose from.
The predominantly Muslim community has been quick to embrace tourism. Resorts have been springing up all around the island, especially near the airport with Pantai Cenang now the prominent beach location, yet the island is still large enough to accommodate three national parks. These add considerably to the attractions offered by Langkawi; the chance to lose oneself in the natural splendor of this tropical island.

Machinchang Raya

Langkawi has a good choice of accommodation in Kuah and Pantai Cenang. Other locations offer accommodation but these are sparsely distributed. Accommodation in Pantai Cenang can be obtained for as little as 45 Ringgit but 100 Ringgit will buy good standard accommodation close to the beach. There is also a good choice of cuisine. Muslim, Indian and Thai food is readily available. Seafood restaurants predominate but although offering good value and selection by western standards, the coastal location does not guarantee low prices; much of the seafood is imported from Thailand. Nevertheless a wholesome meal can be obtained for about 7 Ringgit. Finally despite Langkawi’s duty free status many restaurants don’t sell alcohol. A few bars do exist but are low key and operate discretely. Most of the alcohol is sold in duty free shops but a number of smaller shops sell a good selection of imported beers.