Langkawi: a real gem in the Andaman sea *

Also known as the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi isn’t one island but an archipelago of 99 islands just 30 km off the coast of mainland Malaysia. It’s easily missed in your trips to that gorgeous country, so it’s no wonder a lot of people tend to miss this particular location. We’re going to take a look at why it is a crying shame, however.

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Exploring the most gorgeous seas

As an island chain, a trip to Langkawi simply isn’t complete without a boating holiday and there are undoubtedly plenty of places to explore. Rent a boat or hitch a ride with a tour guide and hop from island to island. Go from mangrove swamps to glittering beaches. Watch eagle feeding at Pulau Singa Bear or get a closer look at the colorful corals. There are plenty of routes to choose, each offering something unique and worthwhile.

Appreciating the finer taste of things

A real luxury vacation in an exotic location isn’t complete without a little pampering, of course. There’s a range of accommodation to suit all budgets but if you really want to go all out, then The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi is well worth checking out. If you’re willing to fork out, you can also appreciate some of the most jaw-dropping views of the islands thanks to the Skycab that takes visitors right up to the archipelago’s highest point at Mt. Machinchang.

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Delving into the deepest wilds

As expected from islands in the Andaman Sea, there’s plenty of wilderness to explore, as well. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park can feel like you’ve been transported to another world. Here, your boat will be surrounded by thick mangrove vines and echoing caves, all of it host to some gorgeous wildlife sightings. From adventurous macaques swinging from tree to tree to truly huge bat colonies, it’s easy to feel like a real explorer in this park.

The iconic beach holiday

Of course, no island retreat can be so highly lauded unless it also has those beaches to relax and lounge upon when you’re done exploring and seeing the sights. Langkawi won’t let you down. There are tons of beaches, with Pantai Cenang being one of the friendliest of them all. Besides golden sands and azure seas, here the cocktails are served at relaxing little beach shacks that can help you feel a million miles away from regular life.

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A glimpse into the far past

It’s always worth delving a little into the history of the islands you visit, too. Langkawi pays special tribute to a rather odd legend, in particular. The Mahsuri Tomb and Cultural Center is named for a woman that was a pillar of the community before being sentenced to death over infidelity upon which she supposedly cursed the island. It’s a fascinating piece of folklore and worth taking a closer look into.

The luxury island life and stunning natural beauty you might expect of a southeast Asian holiday can be hard to find sometimes, which is why Langkawi is easily worth a place on our bucket list. It can be hard to find any place closer to that dream vacation.

* This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate links.