Sunday, March 15, 2009

LANKAWI

Langkawi has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, Southeast Asia's first, and Malaysia's pride. This cluster of 99 islands offers beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating myths and legends.

Off the coast of Kedah is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds; beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating legends.

Langkawi has a lingering legend woven into its history. Ask anyone in Langkawi about the tragic legend of a beautiful young lady named Mahsuri, and you'll hear a tale of love, jealousy and a curse that was placed upon the island by the her for seven generations. Today, the seventh generation of Langkawi’s inhabitants has long come and gone, but people here still believe that the prosperity and blessings the islands enjoy today and the passing of the curse is not a pure coincidence. The mysticism of this legend can be felt in many parts of this island, especially at Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri’s Mausoleum) where the famous legendary figure is said to be buried.

Langkawi is not only geared towards tourism. Many of the islanders are farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs. Experience the beautiful countryside and the peaceful landscape of paddy fields by renting a car and taking a leisurely drive around the island. Some of Langkawi’s most rustic and memorable views are along the road that circles the island. You'll pass small villages with wooden houses framed by palm trees, and children pedalling their old bicycles on an errand. Aside from experiencing the local lifestyle, there is no shortage of things to do in Langkawi.

Head up the thrilling new cable car to the summit of Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest mountain - for an unrivalled view of the entire main island and beyond. You can also visit the Field of Burnt Rice, the Hot Springs, Telaga Tujuh (The Seven Wells) and the Beach of Black Sand. Boat tours are organised to Tasik Dayang Bunting, (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), Gua Cerita (Cave of Stories) and the Gua Langsir (Curtain Cave). And if you're more outdoorsy, why not go trekking through the pristine rainforest that blankets most of Langkawi, or go on a boat tour of the mangroves, go diving, or play a round of golf at some of the 5-star resorts. Langkawi also has an underwater world, containing an underground tunnel that runs though a giant aquarium, that has gotten rave reviews.

For beautiful scenery, great adventures and five-star conveniences, Langkawi is the place to getaway.
LANKAWI - CABLE CARS

Key Tips

Simply fantastic views from the top! It would be a shame to miss this if you make your way to Langkawi.


How to get there
By Road
Langkawi Cable Car is located on the southwest coast of the main island, just a 30-minute drive from Kuah Town and only 15 minutes from Langkawi International Airport. Your best bet is to either hire a car or a taxi for the day and explore the island at your own pace.


Who to contact
The Cable Car Office is at Oriental Village, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia. Tel : 604-9594225 Fax : 604-9594121

Accommodation Overview
Langkawi offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.



LANKAWI - MANGROVES

Among the most exciting of these are the Brahminy Kites and huge Sea Eagles who nest in the crags overhead. One of the best ways to discover this usually inaccessible mangrove world is to join the regular small boat tours available. The highlight of any tour to the mangroves is the feeding of the eagles. Your boatman will throw food into the water near your boat and wait for these huge birds to circle overhead and swoop in for their 'lunch'.

Mangrove tours can include jungle trekking, cave exploration, village visits, high tide swims and guided exploration of mangrove flora and fauna. Decide on what itinerary best suits you before you book.

Explore kilometres of tidal forests, rugged limestone cliffs, secluded caves and unique flora. Pure Nature!

Key Tips
Once again, sunblock and water are the order of the day. Another top tip: Set your camera on wide-angle during the feeding of the eagles in order to get a decent shot of them swooping into the water to feed.

How to get there
By Taxi and Boat
The jetty for this tour lies just 15 minutes north of Kuah Town. But chances are you won't need directions as you will be part of a tour that does pick-ups and drop-offs at your hotel.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Langkawi Tourist Information Centre at 604-9667789.

Accommodation Overview
Langkawi offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.


LANKAWI - DATA BAI


There are several jungle trails that take you down to the peaceful Datai Bay beach. There is also a crocodile farm on the way to Datai Bay where you can watch the crocodiles as part of entertaining shows in the mornings and afternoons.

Key Tips
Unless you're on an organised tour, your best bet is to rent a car - very cheap in Langkawi - to give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.

How to get there
By Road
Teluk Datai is about 30km or 30 minutes' drive north of the Langkawi International Airport.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Langkawi Tourist Information Centre at 604-9667789.

Accommodation Overview
If you are not staying at the luxury resorts at Datai Bay, Langkawi offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.


LANKAWI - INTERNATIONAL FASHION ZONE

Choose from authentic and affordable brands such as Hugo Boss, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Armani, Valentino, Broni, Zegma, Gianco Ferre. Complete your day’s duty-free shopping with a stop at LIFZ and marvel at the wide selection available!

Key Tips
A one-stop multi-branded factory emporium outlet that houses world class brands ranging from men's, ladies wear and accessories


Who to contact
LIFZ Block E Oriental Village Jalan Teluk Burau 07000 Langkawi Te +6049591318



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