Langkawi and Penang

Langkawi and Penang
For the people of Langkawi, a secluded island situated along the northern tip of the Malaysian peninsular, the legend of Mahsuri lives on. Two hundred years ago a beautiful princess named Mahsuri was sentenced to death by her father-in-law for committing adultery ? although, according to the legend, she was innocent of the crime. Just before she was executed, Mahsuri said, ?For this act of injustice Langkawi shall not prosper for seven generations to come.? What followed for Langkawi was a bleak period of depression and decline. And coincidence or not, this time of misfortune lasted for seven generations. Today, however, Langkawi is very different. The curse has been replaced by what appears to be a blessing - for Langkawi is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Imagine the world?s oldest, deepest, richest rainforests, strewn with picturesque waterfalls and untouched by human influence. Picture the most beautiful unspoilt beaches with the gentle ripples of a warm turquoise sea lapping long stretches of pure white sand. This is Langkawi: a place of astounding natural beauty. Langkawi has a breathtaking array of beaches, but Datai Bay, situated on the northwest tip of the island, has recently been labelled ?Asia?s Best Kept Secret? by the Discovery Channel. It?s not hard to see why - overlooking the deep blue Andaman Sea and fringed by thick rainforest, it is a perfect spot for uninterrupted relaxation. Datai Bay?s Mandara Spa, recently voted the world?s best, will leave you feeling radiant and revitalised. Langkawi?s rainforests, which are said to be almost two million years old, swarm with colourful wildlife. Inhabitants range from ?flying? squirrels and orange-bellied flowerpeckers to huge spotted geckos and luminous green bullfrogs, the forests are a naturalist?s heaven. Other natural wonders include the Telaga Tujuh (?Seven Wells?), a waterfall that runs through the heart of the rainforest. Its name describes the seven pools that break the cascading falls. Like its rainforests, Langkawi?s limestone caves ? each with its own legend ? were created millions of years ago. Cave exploration is always a family favourite and these spectacular underground ravines will not disappoint. Tanjung Rhu Resort possesses some of the most geologically spectacular caves. The range of activities on offer is impressive. World-class golf courses such as Datai Bay Golf Club and the Gunung Raya Golf Resort boast immaculate gardens and striking scenery ? golfers will struggle not to be distracted by their beauty. Exhilarating water sports available from several locations on the island include sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, and scuba diving through crystal clear waters. To complete this unique Malaysian experience, Langkawi is a haven for duty-free shopping. Visitors who stay on the island for more than 48 hours can enjoy duty-free prices on goods including clothes, cigarettes and alcohol. Accommodation in Langkawi is plentiful, but not short of quality. For a true luxury experience try the Pelangi Beach Resort, spread over 30 acres of tropical paradise. Other retreats include the Aseania Resort Langkawi, or the Mutiara Burau Bay Beach resort, which is situated in the undisturbed coastal rainforest along Burau Bay. Just two hours away from Langkawi by ferry and known as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is one of Southeast Asia?s finest destinations, with its own outstanding beaches and exotic sights. Accessible from mainland Malaysia by the world?s third longest bridge, Penang prides itself on its history and heritage. So much so that the Penang State Government is endeavouring to have George Town, the capital city of Penang state, recognised as a World Heritage City. Named after King George III of Great Britain, George Town is awash with culture and charm. Once a British settlement, its meandering streets and lanes are full of character. Food lovers will be delighted by the range of fine cuisine available. A favourite dish among Malaysians is Penang Laksa, a combination of noodles, tangy soup and minced fish. If the tropical heat of George Town proves too much, a funicular railway runs through thick jungle to the top of the 830-metre Penang Hill. Spare a thought for the unfortunate bearers who used to carry tourists in sedan chairs up and down the steep ascent. From the top of the hill you will enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the city and coast below. Accommodation in Penang includes the Shangri-La?s Rasa Sayang Resort, nestled among 15 acres of lush gardens along the finest stretch of the Batu Feringgi Beach, or the Hotel Equatorial Penang, the island's only golf and convention resort, complete with superb panoramic views. Langkawi and Penang are for those who long for a truly luxurious experience, with the opportunity to relax in style, enjoy the local culture and of course admire stunning natural beauty. And with Malaysia Airlines now flying non-stop to both Langkawi and Penang twice weekly from London Heathrow, getting there has never been easier. More information about Malaysia

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)