Langkawi, Malaysia

The home of the eagle
In old Malay "lang" means eagle while "kawi" means red-brown.
Langkawi comprises of a group of 99 tropical islands lying off the north western coast of peninsular Malaysia about 30km from the mainland and 2.5 hours by ferry north of Penang. The main island Pulau Lankawi is twice the size of Penang and three times the size of Singapore yet has a population of only 85,000 predominately Malay with some Chinese and Indian.

As per Islamic custom, Friday is the day of worship and everything is closed. Langkawi is the tropical paradise showcase of Malaysia and everything is completely duty free. For example the price of a can of beer is MYR 3. Accommodation ranges from 6 star (Four Seasons Resort starts at $US 350 a night) to some good value hotels and cheaper backpacker establishments some of which would suit flashpackers.

The island is the birthplace of former prime minister Dr Mahathir who was the local doctor before entering politics. His influence and affection for his home which he visits regularly can be seen everywhere and the creation of one of the world's greatest holiday spots is a credit to him. With very little traffic on the island it is advisable to rent a car, take a scooter and do your own thing.For an overview of what Langkawi has to offer go to the Langkawi-Info website.
Some suggestions specifically for flashpackers are:

 

Accommodation

Eagle Bay Hotel, is close to the ferry terminal
(100 MYR, AU $34 for a double with breakfast)
Pantai Cerang beach strip has some flashpacker establishments
Aseana Hotel
Bella Vista Hotel

 

Food, fun & duty free purchases

The Jetty Complex, Kuah Town, Kuah Town Centre and Langkawi Fair
Langkawi Parade shopping & entertainment
Pantai Cenang beach strip has many small bars, restaurants & places to meet.

Places of interest

Langkawi Cable Car and Oriental Village
Langkawi Geo Park Information Centre (UNESCO)
Ayer Hangat Village
Kota Mahsuri
Eagle Square & Dataran Lang
Gallery Perdana (Mahathir Collection)
Underwater World
Royal Langkawi Yacht Club: visitors welcome
Awana Porto Malai - cruise ship port
Pulau Payar Marine Park - coral garden
Lake of the Pregnant Maiden
Three excellent golf courses

 

Transport

Langkawi Ferry Terminal sees ferries departing to Kuada Kedah, Kuala Perlies,
Penang and also to Salun Thailand.
Langkawi International Airport has services by AirAsia, Fireflyz, Silk Airt and
international carriers Singapore and Malaysia.