Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Langkawi Beaches - Pantai Pasir Tengkorak (Sandy Skull Beach)


Pantai Pasir Tengkorak, which literally means Sandy Skull Beach, is another tranquil beach on Pulau Langkawi. As per the folklores, the beach has been the witness to the bloody battle between the local and the invaders (Thais). Its waters are crystal clear and calm. Pantai Pasir Tengkorak is a favourite picnic spots during the weekends. This divine beach awaken the images of pirates and their adventures. It does indeed resemble a pirates' hideout with its stretch of beach flanked by boulders at both ends. Shaded by giant trees right up to the shoreline, it offers lovely seclusion amidst the lush green jungles of the Pasir Tengkorak Forest Reserve. Not far from the beach is the Ibrahim Hussein Museum.

A rather eerie legend shadows Pantai Tengkorak. Some locals believe that a giant whirlpool awaits unwary ships just off the Langkawi islands at the spot where the Straits of Malacca join the Indian Ocean and the Andaman Sea. The whirlpool is said to have swallowed countless number of vessels and deposited the skulls of the crew and passengers at Pantai Tengkorak (Skull Beach). The bone fragments of ancient mariners were found scattered at Tanjung Tulang, while parts of the ships washed up on Pantai Pasir Hitam. Fact or fiction, visiting this mysterious beach is not to be missed.

Langkawi Beaches - Pantai Teluk Burau (Burau Bay Beach)


Burau Bay Beach, called Pantai Teluk Burau in Malay, is one of the tranquil bay areas in Langkawi. It's actually a narrow beach where the rocky Gunung Cincang descends abruptly to meet the sea. Sited on the west coast of the island, this beach formerly used to be the resort of the Piped Hornbill. Besides Burau Bay, the island features the Kuala Teriang fishing village, Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and Padang Matsirat on its western shoreline. This stunning beach is the favorite destination of tourists looking for a hushed getaway and longing for getting straight into the lap of nature. The beach boasts of a rugged coastline which is further marked by verdant tropical vegetation. Its clam and tranquil locale, together with its exotic assortment of birds, make the major highlights of Burau Bay. It overlooks the striking Pulau Burau which is a roosting place for migratory birds. Certainly, for ornithologists, it's the best place to take out their binoculars and do a bit of bird watching.


The long stretch of shimmering white sands, which make up the beach, are amazingly beautiful especially when seen from the undulating slopes of Gunung Cincang. From here, one can have the spell-binding views at sunrise and sunset. The preferred activities at the beach are swimming and shell collection. The glistening waters are truly inviting and motorboats are at hand for people interested in a quick ride. The swaying coconut palms and thick rainforests make Burau Bay Beach absolutely pleasing to the eyes. This stunning beach lined with rocky outcrops is located at the West Coast of Langkawi. Several world-class hotels operate in this area which offers a peaceful and tranquil environment for relaxation and quiet meditation. The near-by Burau island is also a roosting place for migratory birds – a treasure trove for bird-watchers.

Looking For Hotel @ Burau Bay?..... Click Here

Langkawi Beaches - Teluk Datai (Datai Bay)



Hidden by a tropical rainforest, the Datai Bay offers an exclusive retreat for the rich and famous. Some of the country’s most expensive resorts are located here. The secluded beach in the bay offers gorgeous sights, including a view of Thailand’s coast-line on a clear day. Besides beaching yourself, you can also explore the surrounding tropical rainforest and admire the gems of Malaysia’s natural heritage. The Pantai Teluk Datai, literally Datai Bay Beach, is amongst the premier beaches of Langkawi Island. It is generally typified by boulders at its both ends and dense forest in the background. To be found on the north coast of Langkawi, Datai Bay is the area where some of the most luxurious resorts and private villas of the island are located. It is locally known as a stunning alcove facing the Andaman Sea, where the lush forests merge with the azure waters.
The beach overlooks the quaint little island of Pulau Anak Datai. Teluk Datai is also quarters to the Datai Golf Course, which is one of the major attractions of the region. Nestled on the edge of the rainforest, this 18 ball, 72-par golf course is encircled by lofty tropical trees. Its 'Signature Hole' poses a challenge even for the expert golfers. On the beach, the travelers can take pleasure in a range of water sports like boating, yachting, scuba diving, windsurfing, and snorkeling.



The proximate Gunung Matcincang offers not only panoramic but also spectacular views of the beach and the horizon. From here, the far-off small islands appear like dots. Datai Bay makes a preferred haunt of the travelers due to its picturesque setting in the very lap of nature. Its most captivating features are the shimmering sandy beach and the gushing waves. To put in short & snappy terms, Teluk Datai is a great place to chill out in a soothing locale.

Looking For Hotel @ Datai?..... Click Here

Langkawi Beaches - Pantai Pasir Hitam (Black Sand Beach)


The Pantai Pasir Hitam, which literally means Black Sand Beach, is a spectacular beach on the island of Langkawi. This short stretch of beach lies 2kms west of Tanjung Rhu Beach. The shoreline boasts of sand, which isn't completely black but it's actually like a mixture of black sand and normal sand. However, like other black sand beaches, the sand isn't volcanic in nature. And iron oxide is understood to the cause of this observable fact. This beach serves as a major tourist attraction for people coming from far lands. People, coming here, get surprised to see such shimmering sands and the stories associated with it. According to the folklores, this beach had been the witness to the Battle of the Birds and the remnants of the war are still discernible on its sands. Another tale states that killer eddies and whirlpools became the water graves of naive sailors and blackened the sands of this beach.


Other fable narrates that a fisherman received the wrath of a mermaid, as he stole her ring. The mermaid's curse charred the land and the black sands became the sign of the man's offense. People also consider that the black sand beach is the result of burnt soil from the rice fields which were burnt during the Siamese War. The burnt soil, probably, flowed to the sea and got washed up at this beach. Geologists say that the sand is rich in cassiterite and stannous oxide, which have also given this color. However, the exact reason behind the black soil has not been discovered yet. The Beach is not suitable for swimming as it is dotted with boulders. But it is ideal for doing some meditation or reading a book. Pantai Pasir Hitam has got an old age charm due to the existence of an ancient fishing jetty. It is good place to spend relaxing time and enjoying local food at the food stalls.

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Langkawi Beaches - Pantai Kok



Pantai Kok is a tranquil beach on the beautiful island of Langkawi. This soothing beach is to be found about 24.8 km away from Kuah, on the western tip of Langkawi Island. Being located in a secluded area, it is the best site for honeymooners and solitude seekers. It is characterized by silky sands and shimmering waters. In its virgin locale, your eyes will generously feast on profuse greenery and sailing yachts.

Apart from its picturesque setting, one more thing that is associated with this beach is Summer Palace, a replica of Thai Palace. The marvelous location of the beach has attracted people, including movie producers, to spend some quality time here. And that's how, the Summer Palace came into being at Pantai Kok. This Palace was created for the shooting of the famous English movie, Anna and the King. The set is still there as the memento of the film.

People with adventurous bent of mind can go for jungle trekking and have a close glimpse of some local animals. For sure, Kok Beach is quieter than the Cenang Beach and that's why, it makes the ideal place for you to fall in and renew your bonds with your loved ones. Besides, it's a place to admire the spectacular view of yachts and sailboats while you laze amid white sands and swaying palms. To put in succinct terms, Pantai Kok is a certainly a beautiful place that is worth visiting on your trip to Langkawi.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Langkawi Ironman Triathlon

Langkawi Ironman Triathlon 2009

28 February 2009 Until 28 February 2009

Touted to be one of the world’s most renowned extreme sport events, the Langkawi Ironman Triathlon will witness more than 900 participants testing their mental and physical strength to the limit. Participants will have to compete in a gruelling 3.8 km swim, 180.3 km cycling race and 42.2 km marathon.

For more information just click this link --> http://www.ironmanlangkawi.com.my/

What is an Iron Man Competition..?


An Ironman Triathlon is one of a series of long-distance triathlon races organised by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) consisting of a 2.4 mile (3.9 km) swim, 112 mile (180 km) bike and 26.2 mile (42.2 km) marathon run.

The Ironman Triathlon, or The Ironman Triathlon World Championships, is both the original triathlon and the annual world championships of the event, held annually since 1978 in Hawai'i. It was made famous by its grueling length, harsh race conditions, and television coverage.

Zoom Malaysia

ZOOMING AHEAD

The main aim of the domestic tourism campaign 2008/2009 — making local holiday destinations the preferred choice among Malaysians.

In terms of meaning and pronunciation, this catchy phrase transcends language, culture or racial barriers.

Zoom! Malaysia is also memorable, visually arresting, adaptable and generic with high recall factor.

When a visitor “zooms” in on a destination, it is about understanding the reality and attributes of the place or in a nutshell, the true beauty that encompasses culture, people, heritage and nature.

Zoom! Malaysia will also inculcate the value of planned holiday culture among Malaysians, vacation as a way to enhance the quality of life and productivity as well as help promote national integration.

Zoom! Malaysia, the brainchild of Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman, was created to get tourists — especially locals — to look at Malaysia with fresh eyes.

** The following publications is from NST - a definite read for anyone interested in finding out more on the domestic Zoom! Malaysia tourism campaign.

For more information just click this link --> http://www.nst.com.my/zoom

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Langkawi Beaches - Tanjung Rhu


2) Tanjung Rhu.

Tanjung Rhu, located in the north, is also known as the ‘Casuarina Beach’ for its abundance of Casuarina trees rather than the usual palms and coconuts. Tanjung Rhu is sheltered by the curve of the bay while its waters are shallow and warm. Life here is low, relaxed and soothing, perfect for a therapeutic getaway. During the low tide, it is also possible to walk across a sandbank to some nearby islands; Pulau Pasir and Pulau Gasing.



Situated 20 kilometers from Kuah town, this beautiful beach is a coastline rich with coral and marine life. The long stretch of beach is fringed with shady Casuarina trees, which are found in abundance in the area. A striking feature of this beach is the little rocky outcrop of Chabang Island rising out from the sea. During low tide, it is possible to walk across the sandy stretch linking the beach to the island. There are numerous caves nearby, namely Gua Cerita and Gua Siam. Horse riding is also available at the Tanjung Rhu Riding Center.


Tanjung Rhu is home to one of Malaysia's most unusual eco systems. Within 1,000 acres, the mangroves, water ways and sandy beaches create a kaleidoscope of fauna and flora in their natural habitat that is nature's lover's paradise.



Langkawi Beaches-Chenang

1) Chenang.


The most popular beach in Langkawi is carpeted by fine, white grains of sand that doesn’t stick to you – this is the hallmark of a good beach. Delightful coconut trees and elegant casuarinas line the 2 km (1.2 miles) stretch of sand with resorts and chalets mushrooming in between.
Pantai Cenang is Langkawi’s most popular tourist destination, located near the airport and 25 km away from Kuah Town. The hallmark of this beach is its 3 km stretch (when combined with the 1 km-long Pantai Tengah) of sandy goodness, beautiful scenery and exciting tourist attractions. This is also where most of the resorts are concentrated on the island along with a host of shopping opportunities, exciting nightlife and convenient facilities. Pantai Cenang is a haven for tourist shopping at the entire beach road is lined with shops and stalls on both sides. These shops sell mostly souvenirs in the form of fashion accessories, beads, handicrafts and merchandise but there are also many convenience stores. On the other hand, you can visit the night market that takes place in nearby Temoyong on Thursdays or the Zon Duty-Free Shopping Complex in Underwater World Langkawi.

Pantai Cenang is the most vibrant spot in Langkawi during the night. For as far as the eye can see, the beach-side road of Pantai Cenang stretches with bistros, pubs, cafes, al-fresco restaurants and souvenir shops. Some of the bars are directly located on the beach, and it makes perfect sense to spend the evening with friends over beer while absorbing the sound of waves crashing on the shore and the glitter of a starry-lit sky.

For dining at night, there are just so many restaurants to choose from that feature international and local or even fusion cuisine. You get a wide variety that includes Japanese, Thai, Korean, Western and local favourites served in these mostly open-air restaurants by the beach. On peak periods, the streets along Pantai Cenang are just brimming with crowds of people during the night, as the bars and restaurants are filled with noisy cheer.




Monday, February 23, 2009

Langkawi Island (Pulau Langkawi)

All About Langkawi Island

Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah (Malay: Langkawi Permata Kedah) is an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah, which is adjacent to the Thai border.

On July 15, 2008, Sultan Abdul Halim of Kedah (The King Of Kedah State) had consented to the change of name to Langkawi Permata Kedah in conjunction with his Golden Jubilee Celebration. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 45,000, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. Langkawi is a duty-free island.

Origin Of The Name

The name Langkawi is a combination of "Lang" and "Kawi". "Lang" comes from the local native Malay word helang which means eagle and Kawi means "red". In the past, the land was a home to innumerable red-eagles(helang Kawi). Also some Hindu-tendercies historian said "Kawi" is Sanskrit for marble, which is found in excess in this part of Malaysia. Both words are joined to form the word "Helangkawi" which ultimately became Langkawi.

Geography

Langkawi lies north of the Strait of Malacca in the southern Andaman Sea near the border between Malaysia and Thailand. A few kilometres to the north lies the neighbouring Thai island of Ko Tarutao. The island group's main town, on the main island, is Kuah.
Langkawi's highest point is Gunung Raya, rising to 890 m above sea level in the main island's central-eastern area.
The archipelago consists of 99 islands with a total land area of 528 km2 (204 sq mi).

How to Get There

By Road

Drive to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis, the main take-off points by ferry to Langkawi. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah takes about six hours while Kuala Perlis is another hour away.

By Air
Malaysia Airlines and budget carrier AirAsia provide direct air services from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to Langkawi.There are direct flights to Langkawi from London twice a week.

By Rail
Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) or Malayan Railway provides economical and comfortable rail services from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Star in Kedah and Arau in Perlis (north of Kedah). From these points, take a taxi or bus Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis for your ferry to Langkawi.

By Sea
Express ferries provide regular services daily to Langkawi from both Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis. The journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and 45 minutes respectively. From Penang to Langkawi the ferry takes about 2 hours 30 minutes. The island is also a stopover for Star Cruises, one of the largest luxury cruise lines in the world.

Click Here to Search For Hotel In Langkawi

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Malaysia Map

Malaysia has many of the best island,beaches, scuba and snorkeling sites in the world. . Let us help you discover the wonders of islands in Malaysia.

From the Malaysia map you can see there are so many beautiful island around Malaysia.

Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very laid back, warm and friendly.

Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs.

For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

Malaysia is a nation of contrasts: From ancient to ultra-modern; from primitive tribes to state-of-the-art technology; from luxury resorts, beaches and gourmet food to adventurous trips through jungles filled with wild animals; from High Fashion to small minority villages with rustic yet charming cultures.

Malaysia has many of the best island,beaches, scuba and snorkeling sites in the world. . Let us help you discover the wonders of islands in Malaysia.