- Langkawi -

After a long 6-hour bus ride and 1 ½-hour ferry ride, we reached the most famous and touristy island of Malaysia: Langkawi. The island is particularly popular due to its duty-free zones. In addition, there is a wide range of leisure activities available. Fortunately, we visited Langkawi before the peak season, which starts in June.

Our hotel was unexpectedly comfortable and spacious. The well-maintained hotel pool invited us to swim. For around 20 Swiss francs per night, a simple breakfast was even included.

We explored the island with a rented scooter. On the first day, we visited the Temurun Waterfall, which had almost no water due to the long dry season. However, we discovered monkeys with funny faces, which we had never seen before. The information boards (see picture) were also phenomenal. One never stops learning. ;-) We spent the rest of the day at the beautiful Tanjung Rhu Beach in the north of Langkawi, which is (still) not touristy. Therefore, the local delicacies offered there were very affordable (around CHF 1.50 per meal).

The next day, we had planned the standard tourist program. In the morning, we visited the Langkawi Cable Cars and the Skybridge. The supposedly steepest cable car in the world took us to the highest point of the island. From there, we also reached the famous Skybridge. The view was breathtakingly beautiful. It was just a pity that it was a bit hazy. Back at sea level, we drove to the famous Cenang Beach. It was clear at first glance that this part of the island is geared towards mass tourism. The clothing and food stalls, massage salons, and hotels were lined up next to each other. However, more than half of them were closed. It must be hellish during the peak season here. Prices are up to 4 times more expensive than on the other side of the island! We really liked the beach with its white, fine sand.

Langkawi is not only known for its beautiful landscape but also for its good seafood. We enjoyed wonderfully fresh fish, crabs, mussels, and squids at the Wonderland restaurant on two evenings. Due to the numerous Arab tourists, many restaurants offer Middle Eastern food. We visited a Syrian restaurant and were thrilled. We ordered hummus, salad, shawarma (chicken kebab), and fries.

Today, the journey continues to George Town, Penang by ferry. This is the last stop in Malaysia before flying to Bangkok on Saturday.