One of the hottest vacation resorts in Southeast Asia!
When you think of tropical islands, what comes to mind? Hawaii, Jamaica, the Florida Keys...what about Malaysia? No? Well, by the end of this, you will. Located in the Southeast Asian country of Malaysia is a collection of islands known as the Langkawi, a little know, but extremely beautiful, paradise filled with virgin forests, exotic jungles, sandy beaches, a wide array of wildlife, and some gorgeous scenery you couldn't find anywhere else.
The history of Langkawi is filled with intrigue. For instance, Pulau Dayang Bunting, or the 'Isle of the Pregnant Maiden' contains a lake that's waters are said to have the power to bring fertility to the women who bathe in its cool waters. There is also a cave that is said to be the home of a fierce banshee, so if you love the paranormal, this is the spot for you.
And if you like stories of betrayal, you will love the tale of Princess Mahsuri, whose jealous husband accused her of being with another man. Though she vehemently denied it, she was killed, and as her blood spilled from her veins the people saw that it was white, proving her innocence. However, that proof was not enough for her, and she placed a curse on the island, one that has lasted until recently, when it was said to have been lifted, and the island restored to its former glory.
With a population of only 60,000, the islands are the perfect place to spend your days is an easy flow, unhurried and unfettered, and even though much of the island is still underdeveloped, there are several resorts, 4 star hotels, and tourist attractions, so no matter which island in this archipelago, you are sure to find something you like.
Some of the most stunning resorts are located along the south-western beach line of the Pantai Cenang. The Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi, Resort Langkawi, Frangipani Langkawi, and the Aseania Resort Langkawi, are just some of the fantastic options you can choose from, and they are all in the mid-range price wise.
Getting to and around Langkawi is simple. The main island has plenty of services that provide boats to get the smaller ones, either for day trips or, where accommodations exist, longer. These boats are usually only a few US dollars to rent, and convenient to catch.
You can also rent a car at around $11.63 a day that will allow you to see the sights at your leisure, and to make sure you don't miss anything I would suggest a Langkawi map. Though the roads are easy to navigate, there are plenty of hidden treasures all over the island, and you may find yourself enjoying the little side-stops your favourite part of your trip.
The activities and sightseeing opportunities are vast. Filled with mangrove swamps, limestone hills, and clean, crisp rivers that offer tours, you will be hard pressed to experience even a small portion of what they have to offer. One thing that is very popular is the 'feeding of the eagles', a chance to watch a large collection of the local eagle population swoop down for their meal. It's a sight to behold.
If you feel the outdoors isn't really your thing, and would rather spend your days shopping and experiencing fine dining, then the perfect location for you is downtown Kuah. Named a duty-free island, almost everything you find here is untaxed, and so a great place to find amazing deals on unique items for sale, as well as a wide array of antiques.
The dining experience is truly amazing, from the Barn Thai restaurant that serves it's food in a genuine swamp among exotic birds and playful monkeys, or the casual setting and amazing Chinese cuisine offered at Restoran Hi Liang. It's amazing food at an amazing price, no matter where you go, and the locations are worth the trip alone.
It isn't hard to see why this is becoming one of the hottest vacation spots in Southeast Asia. I know that the second you step onto the Langkawi Islands you will fall in love, and after experiencing everything they have to offer, you will never forget your time here.