Langkawi, The island of mystical legend

Off the coast of Kedah is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds; beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating legends.

Langkawi has a lingering legend woven into its history. Ask anyone in Langkawi about the tragic legend of a beautiful young lady named Mahsuri, and you'll hear a tale of love, jealousy and a curse that was placed upon the island by the her for seven generations. Today, the seventh generation of Langkawi’s inhabitants has long come and gone, but people here still believe that the prosperity and blessings the islands enjoy today and the passing of the curse is not a pure coincidence. The mysticism of this legend can be felt in many parts of this island, especially at Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri’s Mausoleum) where the famous legendary figure is said to be buried.

Langkawi is not only geared towards tourism. Many of the islanders are farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs. Experience the beautiful countryside and the peaceful landscape of paddy fields by renting a car and taking a leisurely drive around the island. Some of Langkawi’s most rustic and memorable views are along the road that circles the island. You'll pass small villages with wooden houses framed by palm trees, and children pedalling their old bicycles on an errand. Aside from experiencing the local lifestyle, there is no shortage of things to do in Langkawi.

Head up the thrilling new cable car to the summit of Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest mountain - for an unrivalled view of the entire main island and beyond. You can also visit the Field of Burnt Rice, the Hot Springs, Telaga Tujuh (The Seven Wells) and the Beach of Black Sand. Boat tours are organised to Tasik Dayang Bunting, (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), Gua Cerita (Cave of Stories) and the Gua Langsir (Curtain Cave). And if you're more outdoorsy, why not go trekking through the pristine rainforest that blankets most of Langkawi, or go on a boat tour of the mangroves, go diving, or play a round of golf at some of the 5-star resorts. Langkawi also has an underwater world, containing an underground tunnel that runs though a giant aquarium, that has gotten rave reviews.

For beautiful scenery, great adventures and five-star conveniences, Langkawi is the place to getaway.

source : Malaysia Tourism Website

Gunung Belumut

To the northeast of Kluang town in central Johor lies Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest. Gunung Belumut in Malay means “covered or blanketed in moss”.

To get here, head for Kluang town. The entry to Gunung Belumut is along Kluang - Jemaluang trunk road. From the trunk road you have to pass through Felda Ulu Dengar oil palm plantation to reach the park. The waterfalls here cascade at low and moderate heights with the base quite flat. It is popular with among families during holidays.

It is 1010 m in height, putting it among the highest in Johor. This distinctive mountain is also the most prominent landmark in the district of Kluang. The climb to the summit will take about 4-6 hours, making it quite necessary to camp overnight.

We had been there twice, first time before we had a daughter and the second one, with our, 1 and a half year daughter and her first “lifebuoy”.

Pulau Kapas - The Picture

Here are some pics from our vacation.

Kapas Island (Pulau Kapas), Terengganu

Kapas Island (Pulau Kapas), Terengganu

Last holiday in June. We went to ‘Pulau Kapas’. Pulau Kapas or Cotton Island inherited its name from the native because of its incomparable white beaches. Surrounded by crystal clear ocean.

Kapas Island is located 5km offshore in the state of Terengganu, east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. From Kuala Terengganu airport, a leisurely 30 minutes drive will take you to Marang jetty and a further 10 minutes boat-ride is all it takes to reach Kapas Island Resort. Where a myriad of corals, shell fish and turtles flourish in the waters. The waters around the quiet and secluded beaches offer ideal spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. Basic but comfortable accommodation is available. However, Kapas Island is not recommended for visiting during the monsoon season between November to March.

FAQ about Kapas Island

Q1. I want to go to Kapas Island , do I need to go to Kuala Terengganu?
Answer:
For Kapas Island, you just follow the route to Kuala Dungun AND you don't need to go to Kuala Terengganu IF you're driving BUT if you're taking the express bus you have to go to Kuala Terengganu and from there you have to take a taxi to Marang.

Q2. Where can I park at Marang. Is it safe ?
Answer:
There're a lot of car park operate in Marang. It is safe to park here. Recently I’d charged RM3 for 5 hour.

Q3. What is the best time to go for island holiday ?

Answer:
The best time is between March - October and pls get advice regarding the weather condition before you go. Try to avoid school and public holiday. Check out travel tips.

Q4. Where is the airport strip ?
Answer
The airport is located 20minutes from the main town of Kuala Terengganu

Q5. Any interesting place to visit at Kapas Island?
Answer:
Yes, Pulau Raja (Raja Island) the small island just off Kapas best for snorkelling. You can go there by boat. Just ask any boatman at Kapas Island to go there…!

Q6. What is the ferry schedule if I want to go to Kapas Island and how much ?

Answer:
Most boats leave around 0900am and the cost is : Marang Jetty to Resort by slow boat RM15/person (return) (25minutes) Marang jetty to Resort by speed boat RM25/person (return) (10 minutes)