Langkawi
An Island of islands... That's what I could describe about this particular Island which is quite famous for it's beautiful view and popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Known as the 'Jewel' of the north city of Kedah, it is certainly a destination you can't miss if you're thinking to visit Malaysia a.k.a The Land Of Malaya.
After my first visit, I found this Island to be very interesting not only because of it's attractive clear blue sea but also the history that comes with it. Although, according to my friends, there could be better Islands in Malaysia than Langkawi Island but I would personally recommend all tourist to visit this Island especially those who is on a budget but also wants exciting adventure without having to pay a lot because there are so many options to choose there.
Also, another point is that when you visit this Island, you eventually get the whole advantage of having to see more than just one Island. You must be thinking why I say such silly thing but if you try to look at the map, you will definitely understand my point. Yes! Within this Island, lies few small Islands that each have its own secret beauty and story behind them. The mysterious stories that been told by generation, that might touch your logical thoughts to the core.
Anyhow, without mumbling more, I will reveal first about what is needed to know about the transportation to get to this location and the accommodations available. After the important stuff, I will list down the 'To do list" where you can choose from diving into the ocean of paradise to the hanging Sky bridge.
In this part, I would reveal few budget hotels that are suitable for those on tight budget and also few for those who don't mind a bit of lavish in their life. Who knows, you might find that the 'lavish' hotels could be on your budget list. FYI we are using Malaysian Ringgit and not Dollars so basically you could probably found it more cheaper!
But first thing first....
HOW TO GET THERE?
First and foremost, I must remind you that Malaysia is a tropical country and rich with beautiful islands, but you need to make sure which is the best month to go for your vacation. You don't want to go in the times where it is the monsoon season so plan carefully!
From the capital city of Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi Island
1)Express Bus
- Pudu Sentral or Puduraya Terminal is where you will have few choices of express bus companies to choose from which is situated at level 1. Make sure you book it at least a day before to be safe especially when you already booked your hotel.
- INFO: The journey by bus will be VERY long because once you arrive at the Kuah Jetty in Kedah. You will then have to queue for the ferry tickets which can't be booked online (which is very sad), so you will need to plan your journey carefully so that you won't spend the whole day just to get to the destination. You don't want to end up arriving at your hotel nearly to midnight. Trust me, you will feel frustrated because you miss a day of adventure. ( Came from my own experience!)
- COST: $15-$20 for a return ticket during holidays season and most probably less during normal days.
- TIPS: Book the bus ticket at least a day before or take the earliest bus you can. The earliest bus might be between 6am to 7am. You might want to arrive early because you don't want to miss the whole day as I explained earlier. The bus journey will be approximately 7 hours, more or less. Meanwhile, the jetty terminal will probably take you 30 minutes, could be less or more depending on the holiday season. If you go during non Malaysian holiday season then you probably won't have much problem waiting for long time in the queue.
- Example: Check in time at 2pm. Take 6am bus and arrive around 3pm at the Island.( more or less)
2) Airways
- The quickest way is definitely by airways, such as Air Asia which is commonly known for a budget flight but only if you booked in advance depending on promotional seasons which you have to be alert with! You can buy the ticket online or through agencies but I really suggest online booking to its own Air Asia website. (more safer!)
- INFO: You will then take express bus from KL central or in full, Kuala Lumpur sentral to LCCT (Low cost carrier Terminal). Your destination will be Langkawi International Airport(LGK). BAsically, you'll save a LOT of time just by traveling by flight because the flight will only take about an hour!
- COST: Approximately $100 or so for areturn flight. It could be less during promotional season which you have to be aware of months in advance.
- ATTENTION: Please do not get confuse between the KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the LCCT. Both are airports but for different purposes. KLIA is mainly for international flights around the globe whereas the LCCT is mainly for low cost flights within Malaysia and certain countries in Asia.
ACCOMODATIONS - Budget Hotels
There are many online booking tools that you can choose from and most common websites are Booking.com, Hostelbookers, Agoda, Expedia and the most famous of all to make the comparison among all websites is TripAdvisor!
BUDGET ACOMODATION
These budget hotels are reviewed to be clean, comfortable and suitable for small budgets!
1) Azio Hotel : $30 per night
2) Hotel Asia Langkawi : $ 32 per night
3) Joy Motel : $ 23 per night
LUXURY HOTELS
I understand how most of us think to save money as possible even for relaxing vacation but like I said in previous post, on Top 5 hotels in the capital, hard work must be paid at some point in our life! For once, it's all about you and maybe with someone you love or family. Make it as unforgettable as possible.
These are according to reviews in general. Please make sure to make your own research so that you would finally choose the one that suits you best.
1) Four Seasons Resort Langkawi : estimated $600+
A touch of traditional and modern contemporary design in each corner of this hotel, would definitely gives you the feel of the Malay traditional culture. There's types of rooms you could choose but the beach Villas certainly the best choice as you wake up facing the beach and sea view. Heavenly and spectacular scenery!
For more views and specific info on the place,
visit: http://www.fourseasons.com/langkawi/
2) The Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa : estimated $280-480+
A great getaway to a perfect relaxation with the resort spa treatment. Explore the lavish rooms and suites experience with a touch of modern design and specially designed beds for all guests.
For more info: http://www.westinlangkawi.com/
3) Berjaya Langkawi Resort : estimated $200-300+
Exotic scenery with the touch of classic design homes to give you a different feeling of living right at the beach spot and within the virgin tropical forest. The villas are build on the water, which is a perfect picture of the lifestyle of a certain tribe in this country which you can find some villages that actually build homes on water that you could find mostly at the Borneo part of Malaysia.
For more information on prices and activities to do,
visit : http://www.berjayahotel.com/langkawi/en/
All the above are mainly just my suggestions, but fear not as these are NOT the only options you have. Again, I recommend that you could compare prices at TripAdvisor so you will be able to view more choices and information that suits you better!
In the next post, Langkawi Part 2, I will reveal all the fun activities that you can do within the big island itself. Get ready guys, because there's so much to do and you probably need more days to explore it all. Although, if you can't stay for a week or two, I would suggest at least around 3-4 days.
So, stay tune for more activities on Langkawi, An Island of islands!
