It has been 3 months since I returned from Langkawi but yeah, it's still an interesting place to blog about. As you would already know, I chose Langkawi as my retreat after 3 months of 'work'. It was my second time in Langkawi as I vowed to return for its fair share of splendid beaches and ultra cheap duty free shopping.
Penang Island
I left for Langkawi from Penang via a 3 hour ferry ride. The ride may seem bumpy and uncomfortable but it wasn't bad actually.
Hot, bright and sunny morning
There are only 2 departures from Penang daily which is at 8.15 a.m. and 8.30 a.m.
The 815 one does not stop at Pulau Payar so we eventually opted for the 830. Btw, Pulau Payar is a Marine Park situated in between Penang and Langkawi. We've heard so much about it, we figured it was time for us to see the island ourselves.
Colourful fishes adorning the surface of the sea at Pulau Payar
Indeed, it was a diver's paradise and also a beach bump's hideout
Something like this in the west-coast, you might think twice.
The navy blue sea with Langkawi in the foreground
Finally after about 1 hour from Pulau Payar, we arrived safely at our destination, greeted by salesman and promoters trying to upsell their packages. One dude even willingly carried Nena's 50kg bag. Hallelujah. In return for his kindness, we booked a motel under him for our last night in Langkawi. And rented a car. RM80 for 2 days. (That's a seriously a bargain)
Pantai Cenang
We drove to Pantai Cenang, the most popular beach in Langkawi where we scouted around for budget motels. We found ourselves a beach motel costing only RM50 a night and it fits 3 ppl. It's really basic though, with just a double bed, single bed a toilet and a fan. It's extremely basic but it's a training ground for backpacking. haha
It's so Caribbean here.
Our chalet at Grand Beach Motel. Small and simple
After checking in and unloading Nena's 50kg bag, we went for lunch opposite Underwater World Langkawi as al lthe other warongs were close during the day.
Our proton... It can't be locked, it has spoiled radio, the speed indicator is not functioning and it drinks petrol like water. But... it's just RM40. Can't expect much right?
Our first stop was Pantai Kok. The sand was powdery soft and the water boasts soft blue hues. truly idyllic.
3 musketeers
Hospitality students being hospitality students, we checked out Berjaya Langkawi. Nothing to shout out though. It's really just a hotel and I'm still wondering why people are so fascinated over it. It has water chalets, and island pool bar and a beach but it's lacking on the wow factor and the intimacy. (No one greeted us)
Burau Bay, in which sits Berjaya Langkawi and Mutiara Burau Bay
For some reasons, it looks like Sipadan Island
The dragon horn hills. Actually known as Gunung Mat Cincang where the Langkawi Cable Car is located.
Geopark Hotel, Oriental Village
After the tour around Berjaya, we headed to the Cable Car station which is located at the Oriental Village, 3 minutes drive from Berjaya. Initial price for an adult is RM 25 but by flashing your Mykad, you are entitled to a RM10 discount which makes it only RM15.
Telaga Tujuh from the Cable Car
For those of you who are afraid of heights, it is best that you sit facing the direction of the cable car. Don't ask why, just do it. And don't look at the cable. haha.
Second time round
Shadow of the day
After reaching the last station, you need to hike down a trail in order to reach the suspension bridge. However, if the weather does not allow (which happens most of the time), the bridge will be closed to public.
Koh Tarutao, Thailand
Dragon Horn. I actually don't know what is it called but it looks like some ancient mountain back from the time dinosaurs roam the earth. Langkawi is 500 million years old by the way, which earned it its Unesco Geopark status last year.
Newly made friends from China. Traveling is certainly the best-est thing to do on earth. i just love the story-sharing part.
passage of clouds heading towards the Andaman Sea
As mentioned earlier, as hospitality students we just had to visit a couple of hotels. 2 must visit hotels are definitely The Datai and The Andaman. It's quite a long drive as it is very isolated, which is rewarded in privacy and exclusivity.
The pond in the middle of the hotel lobby.
The Datai is a true example of Malaysian Hospitality and certainly something the industry can be proud of. It's luxurious and rich but not opulent with its interior decor kept to a minimal. The whole site of the hotel itself is rather interesting. It's nestled amidst century old rainforest with a great view of the Datai Bay. Of course, the price tag will be heavy. In fact, 5 star hotels in Langkawi averages around 1k a night..
Notice the majestic horses 'guarding' the entrance
We wanted to walk to the Datai Bay and the pool but it was kinda raining so we headed over to The Andaman instead
Hotel Lobby
The Andaman is not bad too but I still prefer The Datai.
btw, if you're a Malaysian, you can book a room at this hotel for only RM400 plus. Not valid for group booking though. The actual rate is about RM1k for a deluxe so that is another bargain.
It was a long 1st day so we got some Vodka and Long Island Tea and headed straight to Dreamland.
The next morning, we woke up to the gentle sound of the lapping waves, deep blue sea of the Malacca Straits and the the sunny blue skies.
Pulau Rebak Besar as seen from Pantai Cenang
One thing that fascinates me in Pantai Cenang is the way the crabs make these sand balls. I know it's not unusual but the patterns formed by these balls are rather unique.
It looks like some kind of hieroglyph or Aztec symbol
some bean sprouting out of nowhere in Pantai Cenang. at the end of the day I only saw the bean left. lol
Somewhere at one end of Pantai Cenang lies a lonely tree
After frolicking on the beach and soaking up a bit of the sun, we went for lunch somewhere I don't remember. Checked out some paddy fields on the way too
Unfortunately, it was the dry season
One the way to Telaga Harbour, we stopped by some beach at Padang Matsirat for some Cendol and coconuts.
Telaga Harbour
Feels so Mediterranean
And feels so French
There were many restaurants there offering al-fresco dining environments but do expect a hefty price tag.
We checked out one of the cafes which is The Loaf. It's owned by Tun Dr. M.
A very cosy and nice place to dine.
Nearby Telaga Harbour was the Summer Palace which was the set of the film, Anna and the King. It was listed under several brochures and blogs so we thought it would worth a visit.
To our dismay, the place now lie in ruins although we still explored it and took some pictures.
What used to be like this during its heydays is now...
This
There also used to be a pavilion on the sea but it has been washed away. How nice.
Anna and the King
The facade of the building needing serious repairs
Before
After
After the crew abandoned the set, it was transformed into a museum but I wonder where everything vanished to.
The corridor facing the sea...
have facilitated in the local boat-making industry. lol
she's trying too hard...
Nostalgic
Take two
Great disappointment, why on earth did they even advertise it?
Finally, a trip to Langkawi would be imperfect without a visit to Tanjung Rhu where two luxury hotels, namely the Four Season Langkawi and Tanjung Rhu Resort is situated. We arrived at Tanjung Rhu about early evening so we missed the emerald-blue hues of the sea but we were just in time to catch the magnificent and renowned sunset.
Islands north of Langkawi
classical Tanjung Rhu
buaya
I walked behind the beach by the river, and I came across this rock. Actually, I cam across this picture while browsing through my album and i just realised it looks like a crocodile's head.
More dragon peaks
Sand dunes formed by the river tides
Beach
By late evening we headed over to the other Tanjung Rhu beach. There's 2 and I don't know why. We thought we had missed the sunset as the clouds were in the way and there was a huge storm brewing in the sky.
Lucky enough, the sun came out and displayed a magnificent sunset
Black Sand Beach with black clouds
seriously one the best sunsets on earth
And it came with a rainbow
We stayed on the beach for nearly an hour before we headed back to our car
That's when we realised there was a small funnel shaped like thing that looks like mini cyclone in the islands off the coast. Cool.
The pasar malam
Considering it was our last night, we decided to head to Kuah for some real shopping.
Miniatures for sale
at dirt cheap price...
Within an hour we snapped up chocolates and liquors amounting to hundred of dollars. lol. Still worth it though. Final night we wanted to head to the beach but I ter-slept on the bed. lol. Super tired and we had to go island hopping the next morning. The trip cost us RM33 each after bargaining like crazy
It was my second island hopping trip but it was still enjoyable.
Rocky outcrops
I don't think I need to explain this story again rite?
One thing about Langkawi is that it doesn't feel like you're in Malaysia
The rocky formations and the emerald sea suggest that one is in
Ha Long Bay like in Vietnam
swt...
Well anyway, our first stop was the Lake of Pregnant Maiden which is one the Island of Pregnant Maiden
This picture caused me a scratch on my phone... lol, you know who you are.. hehe
The hike to the lake
Cotton clouds
The lake is much better this time compared to the lat time I was there. more pathways have been built.
Lochness...
This picture feels so Swedish
wth?
Turtle Island
Went to Pulau Singa Besar again to watch the eagles feed
This time, there was an additional destination on the itinerary which is Pulau Beras Basah. Great beach
Beras Basah
Footprints in the sand...
There were plenty of rocks on the beach and over the years they have been carved by the sea and the wind that they look like wood carvings
It's actually a rock although it looks like a wood
Afte island hopping we headed back to the motel to pack up and check out. But our flight is only at 11pm so we hanged around Pantai Cenang and walked over to Pantai Tengah.
Pantai Tengah
But in order to catch the sunset, we went back to Pantai Cenang with out kacang and Cadbury Blackforest
Somehow, it seems like the clouds hate us
But the sun surely adores us as much as we adore it
Shell 2
It wasn't that dark actually, I just played around with the exposure
It was our last moment in Langkawi and it was generously rewarded with a spectacular sunset
In order to enjoy the sunset even better, we headed to a beach bar for dinner
Red wine at only RM6 but they don't have any wine glass... lol
Dinner by the beach
After dinner headed back to the motel to collect our luggages and went to the airport. That's when the nightmare began. We had to pay extra for our extra load and Nena had to pay RM300. LOL. Seriously so freaking stressful but we eventually got through.
Fisherman boats as seen from the plane
Shit, back in KL. But I was actually very excited coz' I'm back after 3 months!
Penang Island
I left for Langkawi from Penang via a 3 hour ferry ride. The ride may seem bumpy and uncomfortable but it wasn't bad actually.
Hot, bright and sunny morning
There are only 2 departures from Penang daily which is at 8.15 a.m. and 8.30 a.m.
The 815 one does not stop at Pulau Payar so we eventually opted for the 830. Btw, Pulau Payar is a Marine Park situated in between Penang and Langkawi. We've heard so much about it, we figured it was time for us to see the island ourselves.
Colourful fishes adorning the surface of the sea at Pulau Payar
Indeed, it was a diver's paradise and also a beach bump's hideout
Something like this in the west-coast, you might think twice.
The navy blue sea with Langkawi in the foreground
Finally after about 1 hour from Pulau Payar, we arrived safely at our destination, greeted by salesman and promoters trying to upsell their packages. One dude even willingly carried Nena's 50kg bag. Hallelujah. In return for his kindness, we booked a motel under him for our last night in Langkawi. And rented a car. RM80 for 2 days. (That's a seriously a bargain)
Pantai Cenang
We drove to Pantai Cenang, the most popular beach in Langkawi where we scouted around for budget motels. We found ourselves a beach motel costing only RM50 a night and it fits 3 ppl. It's really basic though, with just a double bed, single bed a toilet and a fan. It's extremely basic but it's a training ground for backpacking. haha
It's so Caribbean here.
Our chalet at Grand Beach Motel. Small and simple
After checking in and unloading Nena's 50kg bag, we went for lunch opposite Underwater World Langkawi as al lthe other warongs were close during the day.
Our proton... It can't be locked, it has spoiled radio, the speed indicator is not functioning and it drinks petrol like water. But... it's just RM40. Can't expect much right?
Our first stop was Pantai Kok. The sand was powdery soft and the water boasts soft blue hues. truly idyllic.
3 musketeers
Hospitality students being hospitality students, we checked out Berjaya Langkawi. Nothing to shout out though. It's really just a hotel and I'm still wondering why people are so fascinated over it. It has water chalets, and island pool bar and a beach but it's lacking on the wow factor and the intimacy. (No one greeted us)
Burau Bay, in which sits Berjaya Langkawi and Mutiara Burau Bay
For some reasons, it looks like Sipadan Island
The dragon horn hills. Actually known as Gunung Mat Cincang where the Langkawi Cable Car is located.
Geopark Hotel, Oriental Village
After the tour around Berjaya, we headed to the Cable Car station which is located at the Oriental Village, 3 minutes drive from Berjaya. Initial price for an adult is RM 25 but by flashing your Mykad, you are entitled to a RM10 discount which makes it only RM15.
Telaga Tujuh from the Cable Car
For those of you who are afraid of heights, it is best that you sit facing the direction of the cable car. Don't ask why, just do it. And don't look at the cable. haha.
Second time round
Shadow of the day
After reaching the last station, you need to hike down a trail in order to reach the suspension bridge. However, if the weather does not allow (which happens most of the time), the bridge will be closed to public.
Koh Tarutao, Thailand
Dragon Horn. I actually don't know what is it called but it looks like some ancient mountain back from the time dinosaurs roam the earth. Langkawi is 500 million years old by the way, which earned it its Unesco Geopark status last year.
Newly made friends from China. Traveling is certainly the best-est thing to do on earth. i just love the story-sharing part.
passage of clouds heading towards the Andaman Sea
As mentioned earlier, as hospitality students we just had to visit a couple of hotels. 2 must visit hotels are definitely The Datai and The Andaman. It's quite a long drive as it is very isolated, which is rewarded in privacy and exclusivity.
The pond in the middle of the hotel lobby.
The Datai is a true example of Malaysian Hospitality and certainly something the industry can be proud of. It's luxurious and rich but not opulent with its interior decor kept to a minimal. The whole site of the hotel itself is rather interesting. It's nestled amidst century old rainforest with a great view of the Datai Bay. Of course, the price tag will be heavy. In fact, 5 star hotels in Langkawi averages around 1k a night..
Notice the majestic horses 'guarding' the entrance
We wanted to walk to the Datai Bay and the pool but it was kinda raining so we headed over to The Andaman instead
Hotel Lobby
The Andaman is not bad too but I still prefer The Datai.
btw, if you're a Malaysian, you can book a room at this hotel for only RM400 plus. Not valid for group booking though. The actual rate is about RM1k for a deluxe so that is another bargain.
It was a long 1st day so we got some Vodka and Long Island Tea and headed straight to Dreamland.
The next morning, we woke up to the gentle sound of the lapping waves, deep blue sea of the Malacca Straits and the the sunny blue skies.
Pulau Rebak Besar as seen from Pantai Cenang
One thing that fascinates me in Pantai Cenang is the way the crabs make these sand balls. I know it's not unusual but the patterns formed by these balls are rather unique.
It looks like some kind of hieroglyph or Aztec symbol
some bean sprouting out of nowhere in Pantai Cenang. at the end of the day I only saw the bean left. lol
Somewhere at one end of Pantai Cenang lies a lonely tree
After frolicking on the beach and soaking up a bit of the sun, we went for lunch somewhere I don't remember. Checked out some paddy fields on the way too
Unfortunately, it was the dry season
One the way to Telaga Harbour, we stopped by some beach at Padang Matsirat for some Cendol and coconuts.
Telaga Harbour
Feels so Mediterranean
And feels so French
There were many restaurants there offering al-fresco dining environments but do expect a hefty price tag.
We checked out one of the cafes which is The Loaf. It's owned by Tun Dr. M.
A very cosy and nice place to dine.
Nearby Telaga Harbour was the Summer Palace which was the set of the film, Anna and the King. It was listed under several brochures and blogs so we thought it would worth a visit.
To our dismay, the place now lie in ruins although we still explored it and took some pictures.
What used to be like this during its heydays is now...
This
There also used to be a pavilion on the sea but it has been washed away. How nice.
Anna and the King
The facade of the building needing serious repairs
Before
After
After the crew abandoned the set, it was transformed into a museum but I wonder where everything vanished to.
The corridor facing the sea...
have facilitated in the local boat-making industry. lol
she's trying too hard...
Nostalgic
Take two
Great disappointment, why on earth did they even advertise it?
Finally, a trip to Langkawi would be imperfect without a visit to Tanjung Rhu where two luxury hotels, namely the Four Season Langkawi and Tanjung Rhu Resort is situated. We arrived at Tanjung Rhu about early evening so we missed the emerald-blue hues of the sea but we were just in time to catch the magnificent and renowned sunset.
Islands north of Langkawi
classical Tanjung Rhu
buaya
I walked behind the beach by the river, and I came across this rock. Actually, I cam across this picture while browsing through my album and i just realised it looks like a crocodile's head.
More dragon peaks
Sand dunes formed by the river tides
Beach
By late evening we headed over to the other Tanjung Rhu beach. There's 2 and I don't know why. We thought we had missed the sunset as the clouds were in the way and there was a huge storm brewing in the sky.
Lucky enough, the sun came out and displayed a magnificent sunset
Black Sand Beach with black clouds
seriously one the best sunsets on earth
And it came with a rainbow
We stayed on the beach for nearly an hour before we headed back to our car
That's when we realised there was a small funnel shaped like thing that looks like mini cyclone in the islands off the coast. Cool.
The pasar malam
Considering it was our last night, we decided to head to Kuah for some real shopping.
Miniatures for sale
at dirt cheap price...
Within an hour we snapped up chocolates and liquors amounting to hundred of dollars. lol. Still worth it though. Final night we wanted to head to the beach but I ter-slept on the bed. lol. Super tired and we had to go island hopping the next morning. The trip cost us RM33 each after bargaining like crazy
It was my second island hopping trip but it was still enjoyable.
Rocky outcrops
I don't think I need to explain this story again rite?
One thing about Langkawi is that it doesn't feel like you're in Malaysia
The rocky formations and the emerald sea suggest that one is in
Ha Long Bay like in Vietnam
swt...
Well anyway, our first stop was the Lake of Pregnant Maiden which is one the Island of Pregnant Maiden
This picture caused me a scratch on my phone... lol, you know who you are.. hehe
The hike to the lake
Cotton clouds
The lake is much better this time compared to the lat time I was there. more pathways have been built.
Lochness...
This picture feels so Swedish
wth?
Turtle Island
Went to Pulau Singa Besar again to watch the eagles feed
This time, there was an additional destination on the itinerary which is Pulau Beras Basah. Great beach
Beras Basah
Footprints in the sand...
There were plenty of rocks on the beach and over the years they have been carved by the sea and the wind that they look like wood carvings
It's actually a rock although it looks like a wood
Afte island hopping we headed back to the motel to pack up and check out. But our flight is only at 11pm so we hanged around Pantai Cenang and walked over to Pantai Tengah.
Pantai Tengah
But in order to catch the sunset, we went back to Pantai Cenang with out kacang and Cadbury Blackforest
Somehow, it seems like the clouds hate us
But the sun surely adores us as much as we adore it
Shell 2
It wasn't that dark actually, I just played around with the exposure
It was our last moment in Langkawi and it was generously rewarded with a spectacular sunset
In order to enjoy the sunset even better, we headed to a beach bar for dinner
Red wine at only RM6 but they don't have any wine glass... lol
Dinner by the beach
After dinner headed back to the motel to collect our luggages and went to the airport. That's when the nightmare began. We had to pay extra for our extra load and Nena had to pay RM300. LOL. Seriously so freaking stressful but we eventually got through.
Fisherman boats as seen from the plane
Shit, back in KL. But I was actually very excited coz' I'm back after 3 months!
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