Why Go
Named after the chestnut eagles that soar through the azure blue skies and gaze down upon its beautiful landscape, Langkawi has much to offer travelers who need a romantic breath of fresh air. Located off the coast of Malaysia, the island attracts travelers from all over the world. With a reputation as a fabulous spot for escaping the stresses of life, couples can expect world-class service and delightful comforts in five-star hotels, where it is finally possible to truly get away from it all. For those who want to get out and explore, Langkawi's numerous restaurant, entertainment, and nature options are simply astounding. From strolling along Cenang Beach at sunset to dancing until dawn, there's something for everyone on this delightful island. That's why it is so popular with adventure-seekers, honeymooners, or just about any Joe or Jane who simply wants to try something different. Sun, sea, and relaxation – these are the things Langkawi can definitely promise.
- Visitors can travel to Langkawi year-round. However, it is important to take note that the weather can be very hot and humid. Prickly heat, a heat rash, is not uncommon among tourists. To avoid it, use air-conditioning, bathe often, dry your skin, and avoid going out during mid-morning hours.
- Wearing light cotton clothes is important. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sun block, and a hat.
- Depending on the beach you frequent, it may be advisable to wear discreet clothing, as Malaysian women tend to swim fully clothed on the beach.
- While most international hotels offer conversion socket/plugs and even 110v shaving sockets, the electricity in Malaysia is 220v to 240v at 50Hz cycle. The outlets require three-pin flat pronged plugs.
- If the internet is important to you, there’s no need to worry. There are internet cafes on this island, and most hotels offer free Wi-Fi connection.
- Banking hours in Malaysia are only from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
- If one restaurant sells a certain food for 100RM, don’t expect the next restaurant to offer it for 50RM. The prices at restaurants are pretty much standard. They tend to be more expensive compared to Kuala Lumpur because of less competition as well as transport costs. However, finding delightful dining at any price range is easy, and plenty of different styles of cuisine are available on the island, from local delights to Chinese.
- Going around the island can be expensive. At the moment, no public transportation is available, so you need to hire a taxi or rent a car. If you know how to drive, it will be a lot cheaper to rent a car or motorcycle. With roads in good condition and manageable traffic, it's not a very stressful experience.
- For beach-lovers and adventurers who want to spend time with like-minded people, Pantai Cenang (or Cenang Beach) is a must-visit. It is the liveliest strip of the island with a host of different accommodations ranging from rustic hits to five-star accommodations. This hotspot is the favorite of younger crowds. Pantai Tengah (Tengah Beach), to the south, is quieter and is more suitable for the laid-back types.
Where to Stay
Visitors who want decadent facilities for much-deserved relaxation should consider Datai Resort. Situated at the northwest tip of the island, it offers an exclusive retreat, recreational activities, and modern amenities. The resort has its own white sand beach that faces the Andaman Sea. Guests can have a choice of suites, villas, and rooms, all of which boast fantastic design and heavenly bedding. There are four restaurants within the facility, meaning a quick bite of Thai or Malaysian is only steps away.
For classic comfort and stunning views, the Four Seasons Resort is an excellent pick for couples. For those who care about design, the hotel is a true treat. The first thing guests see is the grand entrance, which appears to be drawing inspiration from stately Thai temples. The domed reception area and stunning courtyard seemed to have taken a few cues from impressive Arabian mansions. And the attention to detail and design continues in each of the hotel's 91 rooms, which mimic the feel of Malay village while promising modern amenities. The hotel's private beach is enough to win sun-worshippers over, while the two pools, spa, and tennis court keep those who want to relax and work out equally happy.
Where to Eat
For a romantic splurge with a partner, Nam Restaurant at Bon Ton Resort is well worth the cost. A fantastic menu combines local delicacies with Thai standards, and with cozy yet sophisticated decor and to-die-for samosas and rack of lamb, it's no wonder that this is one of the most highly regarded restaurants on the entire island.
For mid-range diners, the whole strip of Pantai Cenang offers endless choices. If you are craving pizza, Artisans Pizza Café serves freshly made pizzas with Malaysian toppings. The sambal and satay pizzas are especially recommended. The Restoran Haji Ramli (Pantai Chenang,near Casa del Mar, Mukim Kedawang, 07000 Langkawi) may also be worth visiting, especially for those who appreciate local delicacies. It serves seafood a la carte and grilled seafood. You can grab fist-sized prawns and they will be cooked according to your specifications. If you’re craving Thai food, then head out to Rose Tea 2 (Pantai Chenang, Kedah Daru Laman, Langkawi 07000) which serves excellent and authentic dishes at affordable prices.
If you’re on a budget, the AddaMaya Café (which is opposite Nadia’s Comfort Inn, near Haji Ramli’s) in Pantai Cenang might just do the trick. It is a relatively small place that serves Western fast food and local dishes quickly. The problem is that the space is limited and the restaurant is a bit dusty. But those who simply want a quick, cheap bite will be pleased. Another hipper option for budget-conscious diners is the Tomato Nasi Kandar (located opposite the Langkawi Boutique Hotel), which serves Indian food. It's a great pick for night owls, as there are a variety of dishes is offered till the wee hours of the morning.
What to Do
Golfers will be glad to know that there is a well-designed golf course on this island. The Datai Bay Golf Course is located at the heart of a rainforest, situated between the Andaman Sea and the Mat Cincang Mountain Range. It is one of Asia’s most exclusive 18-hole courses, and with incredible views, even those who aren't particularly interested in winning or losing will enjoy the vantage points offered. For serious golfers, there are also practice range and putting green that will provide a good warm-up before starting the game.
Most people who’ve been to Thailand rave about the amazing massages they received. But those who sign up for treatment here might find themselves singing the praises of Malaysian massages. While massage facilities may not be as prevalent, there are plenty of fabulous (and professional/accredited) options for those who need to feel the stress literally melt away. An excellent choice for a day of pampering is The Andaman Spa. From the spa's Ancient Balinese Massage to its Traditional D'Orient Organic Facial and Asian Style Foot Massage, it's a professional facility designed to relax its clients.
Kilim River Nature Park spans an area of 100 square kilometers, but every single inch feels as though it is teeming with nature's true beauty. It offers a stunning mix if isolated beaches, mangrove forests, and blue lagoons. Expect to see some beautiful wildlife such as brahminy kites, white belly sea eagles, small clawed otters, kingfishers,and monitor lizards in its natural habitat. This experience is not to be missed.
Another activity you should try in Langkawi is riding the cable car. It will take you to Gunung Macincang (708 meters) and here, you will be treated to a stunning view of the island. Of course, no one's visit to Langkawi is complete without a trip to the beach! In addition to the famous beaches Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah, both of which deserve all the accolades they receive, don’t miss Pantai Kok, which is arguably the most breathtaking beach on the island. Anyone who can appreciate a beautiful sunset will be delighted with the chance to spend a day soaking in the sun and swimming, only to watch a beautiful, brilliant ball of light slowly sink behind the horizon.
Photo Credit: The Four Seasons, Dmitry Klimenko, Andy Lawson, Ravikiran Rao, Gemini Ali, Sir TomSawyer, Saskia Bosch van Rosenthal, s-a-m