Langkawi: The exotic lands of Southeast Asia in Malaysia!
Located in the exotic lands of Southeast Asia lies the beautiful country of Malaysia, a paradise filled with culture, history, and some of the most stunning islands you will ever see. Malaysia's hot temperatures and tropical climate has made it a hot spot for tourism, especially for those looking for a getaway an island vacation away from the overcrowded (and over priced) Caribbean locations so prominent in travel guides.
One of the most popular of these locations is Langkawi, a collection of 98 smaller islands surrounding one main island by the same name. Covering a total of 485 square kilometres in all, this archipelago was declared a duty free island in the late 1980's, and every since then it has attracted thousands of tourists a year.
Whether you like the scenery of vast, untouched forests that litter the main island, or prefer the sandy beaches and salty ocean boasted by Pantai Cenang and Tanjung Rhu, you are sure to find something here you will love. The attractions available on the islands are also immense, for instance the Langkawi Underwater World. Home to hundreds of exotic fish, if you enjoy aquariums you will be thrilled with this one.
Another popular feature of the islands is the food. Coming from a multi-cultural perspective, the cuisine in Langkawi is an eclectic mix of Chinese, Malaysian, Indian, and more. The influences combine to create some of the most delicious and well-spiced dishes you will ever taste. It's a mix of the exotic, as well as the more normal foods you would expect for the area, such as rice, cooked in a multitude of ways.
One of my personal favourites is nasi lemak, a spicy dish of boiled eggs, fish, cucumber, and peanuts, cooked in coconut milk. It has one of the greatest and most complex flavours you will ever taste, a mix of creamy and spicy, and it's one of many traditional Langkawi meals you can enjoy on your visit.
With the fantastic Langkawi hotels like the Bayview Hotel located in downtown Kuah, you will be able to enjoy your stay in style. They have 4 stars, and smaller motels, even programs on some of the islands that allow you to stay with the local people and experience their life along with them, getting a real opportunity to see how another culture lives. With so many accommodations to choose from you can find the perfect accommodations to fit your needs and budget.
Feel the need to explore the island, but want reliable transportation to do it? For only rm80 a day ($11.63 US) you can rent a car, and drive around the main island, enjoying the sites of downtown, and the field view planted by the local residents.
So, what are you waiting for? With gorgeous beaches, dense forests, and so many attractions to entertain and thrill you, the Langkawi Islands of Malaysia is the perfect vacation spot for those of you who desire an exotic tropical vacation in an area of untouched beauty and rich culture.