Langkawi is probably the greatest destination in the Southeastern Asia. It impresses with the amazing pristine landscapes and snow-white, almost pearly beaches, washed by the incredibly clear ocean waters. Lush tropical greenery of the island helps to maintain the special microclimate, which contributes to relaxation and good rest. So, if you’ve decided to spend your holidays on Langkawi, but search for the ways to do it with the maximum benefits for yourself, then go through some practical advice from experienced travelers!
What to expect from the holidays on Langkawi?
Langkawi is not the best destination to get acquainted with Malaysian culture, history and architecture, since there are no significant man-made attractions. Those who prefer accommodation for up to $10 will also be disappointed. Such a cheap lodging can be found only in Kuah, but there is no beach suitable for swimming. It’s also not the best place for shopping.
Langkawi will be interesting primarily for those who want to relax comfortably on the clean beaches. Children will also be happy there, because there are a lot of exciting entertainments for them, such as the Giant Aquarium or a cable car. The lovers of natural beauty will enjoy beautiful waterfalls, observation decks, rice fields and extended green meadows in the center of the island, while divers will find plenty of interesting places under water.
When to go to Langkawi?
Due to the mild climate and a short rain season, you can start your vacation at this resort all year round. However, the best time for the classic holidays on the beach and exciting excursions is considered the period from the beginning of December till mid-June. However, if you’re a fan of water sports, such as diving or spearfishing, then it’s recommended to opt for spring or autumn, since this is the time when the schools of barracuda, huge sea turtles, snapper, Jak-fish and other exotic inhabitants of the deep are gathering in the area of the archipelago. Also, you can find magnificent sea anemones and hunt for large lobsters near the island.
How to get around Langkawi?
You will be disappointed if you plan to get around the island by local buses, because the only means of transport, which Langkawi can offer you, is the air-conditioned taxis. There are two types of taxis on Langkawi – ordinary passenger cars with the “Kereta Sewa” (“taxi”) sign on the rooftop and small vans for 8-10 persons. The prices don’t differ a lot. If you are traveling on your own, then you will be charged alike no matter what taxi you take. The fare is fixed if you are traveling to or from the pier or the airport. In the other cases, the price can be negotiated.
A taxi from the pier to the popular beaches of Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah costs around $8, while from the airport – $6.5. You needn’t search for taxis, since they are available in large quantities at the exit from the marina and from the airport.
If you want to see rural areas of Langkawi, visit numerous beaches and enjoy the nature of the island away from the tourist places then use Langkawi car rental service.
Where to stay on Langkawi?
The island offers fairly high prices for accommodation. The lovers of luxury vacations can easily find a hotel with all the necessary facilities. The middle class accommodation is also well represented on the island. But budget travelers will experience some difficulties with finding cheap lodging, because it’s almost impossible to find an accommodation on the coast for less than $18. Cheap guest houses are available only on Pantai Cenang beach and in Kuah town, and certainly they are located not in the first line from the coast. A room (often without windows or with windows in the corridor) with shared facilities will cost around $6-9. If that’s a suitable option for you, then consider D’sa Motel & Restaurant.
The best hotel on Langkawi regarding the price and quality is The Rumours Guesthouse, located in 5-minutes’ walk from the beach of Pantai Cenang. It boasts of a picturesque and quiet location. During the low season, a room with a private toilet costs there around $10, with air conditioning – $14. In the high season the prices can be a bit higher. The same room, but right on the beach, will cost $8 more. The Rumours Guesthouse is closely located to the Aquarium and a shopping center, restaurants and cafes.
The hotels standing in the front line of Langkawi are mainly of a bungalow type, i.e. they represent detached houses with comfortable amenities. Also, there are 2-3-storey hotels with rooms, for example, Aseania Resort. High-rise hotel buildings can be found only in the Kuah town, for example, Langkawi Seaview Hotel. Although the windows of such hotels open a great view of the sea, but you cannot swim, because Kuah has no beaches suitable for that.
What to do on Langkawi?
You definitely won’t get bored on Langkawi, because it offers a wide range of entertainments for all tastes. In addition to riding a water scooter, parasailing and massage therapy, you can go diving, snorkeling, go to the nearby islands, boat among the mangroves, tour Langkawi and much more!
If you have your own vehicle, you can visit all the interesting sights of Langkawi – the black sand beach of Tanjung Rhu, Gunung raya observation deck, Telaga Tujuh Waterfall, Temurun Waterfall and Durian Perangin Waterfall, the Oriental Village with duty free shops, a cable car, Laman Padi Rice Garden, the Underwater World Aquarium, a crocodile farm, the tomb of Mahsuri, Al-Hana mosque, etc.
So, if you appreciate wild nature, secluded beaches and gorgeous landscapes, then welcome to Langkawi! And remember to take advantage of the given advice, because this is the way to make your trip successful and cost-effective!