Langkawi
The Jewel of Kedah!
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Also known as the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is one of the most well-known island holiday destinations in Malaysia.
The island itself notes a laid back romantic setting where troubles are easily forgotten. It is an archipelago
of 104 islands lying in the north western coast of Peninsular Malaysia, of which 5 islands are only revealed at
low tide.
It is located on the Andaman Sea and is
accessible by boat through Georgetown, Kuala Perlis, Kuala Kedah, and Satun, Thailand. Another way of arriving
on the island is by flight. There isn’t a bridge to link any mainland to the island, and while it’s possible to
ferry your vehicles over, it is not overly recommended. The best option is to cab it around the island or hire a
car for the duration of holiday you have on the island. Car rentals could cost you from about RM 50 – RM 300 a
day or more, depending on which model you pick. You can make your arrangements at the airport and
jetty.
The largest island amongst the 104 is
Langkawi and its size succeeds that of the Penang Island. The major difference is that Penang is vastly
developed while Langkawi’s scenic beauty is left seemingly untouched, to the glee of many tourists. Its view is
picturesque, with paddy fields and jungles surrounding the island while you travel from one area to another.
Major luxury resorts made isolated bays their home, offering the best sands and privacy for any
holidaymaker.
Langkawi is famous for its being a tax-free
island, so alcohol, cigarettes, and imported food like chocolates can be purchased at a much cheaper price. A
can of beer can cost as cheap as RM 1.50, which is about £0.25 and $0.40. At night, one can walk along the
beaches of Cenang where little bonfires are set up and beer and soft drinks are sold from an ice box for a cheap
price. Foreigners gather to sit around the fire and chat, or listen to acoustic guitar singers coo in the
cooling night breeze.
Langkawi’s under-developed aspect has proved
to be a salvation for its virgin white sands and crystal clear blue seas. Activities like snorkeling and diving
are a favourite because the waters are so clear and its ocean-life is thriving.
The island carries great legendary myths,
and is also known to be called Pulau Lagenda, which is The Island of Legends, most famously depicting the story
about an innocent young girl called Mahsuri who was wrongly persecuted for her purity and honesty.
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