One of the islands of the Langkawi archipelago
In recent decades, the Malaysian government has spent considerable funds on turning Langkawi into a major resort. An airport was built, regular ferry service with the mainland was organized, and in 1987 the Langkawi islands were declared a duty-free zone. Yet the influx of foreign tourists that the government expected is not observed here. Perhaps it is for this reason that lovers of quiet and measured relaxation like to come to the Langkawi islands? After all, even at the height of the tourist season, Langkawi retains the familiar atmosphere of sleepy peace and pristine untouchedness.
Getting here is not difficult at all. Just take a ferry from Penang Island or Kuala Perlis, located on the Malay Peninsula; the sea journey will take approximately two hours. You can also get there by plane (from Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Alor Setar, or Singapore).
The main and largest of the Langkawi islands is called Pulau Langkawi. On its southern coast lies the town of Kuah, which until recently was a small village. After Langkawi was declared a duty-free zone, it transformed literally before our eyes. Now almost every local store has a huge selection of foreign alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, and various electronics. There are unique art salons selling hand-woven fabrics, various products made of shells and stones with miniature painting. In Kuah is the government-run Langkawi Island resort.
Until recently, Kuah was the only place where tourists arriving on the island could stay. Now foreign guests have at their disposal hotels, cottages, and lightweight houses in various parts of the island. One of the most popular holiday spots is Pantai Cenang on the southwest coast, where the large Pelangi Beach resort is located with cottages on the seashore. You can also rent a suitable room in the village of Pangai Ru on the north coast.
Interesting attractions can be found not only in the beach area but also in the interior of the island. Telaga Tujuh – that's the name of 7 lakes located one above the other on a gentle mountain slope. Cold glacier water flows from one lake to another, and as local legend has it, fairies descend from the mountains here to bathe and wash their long hair. After visiting here, for variety, visit Telaga Air Panas – hot springs in the central part of the island. Not far from this place, amidst dense tropical vegetation, the Durian Perangin waterfall cascades onto the rocks.
On the second largest of the Langkawi islands – Dayang Bunting – the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden is of interest, separated from the sea by a narrow isthmus. Women suffering from infertility make pilgrimages here, drinking water from the lake in hopes of being cured of their ailment.
Malaysia is one of the popular destinations in the tour search and selection system. Indeed, it is here that many modern resorts are located, distinguished by pristine nature and preserving their exotic appeal. Luxurious hotels and cozy bungalows on the Malaysian coast attract many tourists to this country, who then scatter to the most interesting places as part of diverse and exciting excursions.
A trip to Malaysia is a chance for everyone to explore an extraordinary region of the world. And if you take advantage of discounts on booking and purchasing air tickets, you can organize an exciting trip to a tropical paradise that will be remembered for a lifetime.