A Wonderful Weekend in Langkawi
There’s no better time of year to visit Malaysia. Here, an itinerary for a short getaway in Langkawi that fits into even the most hectic holiday season.
The sunny archipelago of Langkawi, Malaysia, offers a much-welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. With its unspoiled beaches, tropical rain forest and crystal-clear emerald waters, it is a nature lover’s dream. Shoppers, too, will delight in the annual Malaysia Year-End Sale, which takes place throughout the country through January 1, 2012. Couple this with the fact that Langkawi is a duty-free shopping zone, and any last-minute holiday gifts will be a breeze to find. With so much to explore, don’t forget to take a moment to relax and soak up the sun—something Langkawi has plenty of.
Here are some suggestions from Zaidi Hassan, Concierge Manager at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia, for the perfect itinerary for your warm-weather winter weekend escape.
Day One
Explore Langkawi’s wilderness with an expert naturalist on a three-and-a-half-hour Mangrove Safari into the spectacular mangrove wetlands, limestone caves and secluded coves. Then have lunch at the beachfront Kelapa Grill, whose menu highlights the ocean’s seasonal best, and cool down with a tropical coconut drink or refreshing fruit smoothie. Afterward, indulge in a rejuvenating journey at The Spa with a selection of holistic Asian therapies inspired by Malaysia’s own indigenous traditions. Next, take a breathtaking 2.2-km ride on the SkyCab, a cable car 25 minutes away from the Resort, to see magnificent views of Langkawi and the neighbouring southern islands of Thailand. Then return to the Resort to sip cocktails at Rhu Bar and enjoy stunning sunset views. Feast under the stars with a sumptuous selection at the Beach Barbecue dinner, and toast s’mores over a warm bonfire for a sweet end to a magical evening.
Day Two
Savour a hearty breakfast at Serai, followed by a morning garden walk or a bird watching trip to Gunung Raya with the Resort’s naturalist. For some fun in the sun, splash about in the Family Pool, sunbathe on the sundeck or head to the water-sports pavilion on the beach. Adventure lovers should take a kayaking trip to the nearby Sand Island and its private beach, or join the Resort’s naturalist for a kayak tour through the mangroves.
The Southern Boat Trip is a can’t-miss excursion. This tour offers a look at the harbour town of Kuah, followed by a cruise through the bay between the main islands before reaching the Island of the Pregnant Maiden and its mystical lake. After passing more islands, enjoy a short break for a picnic lunch and snorkelling on the resort’s private beach.
Return to the Resort for a swim at the Adult Quiet Pool, or bask on a chaise lounge sipping refreshing mojitos. And for an unforgettable close to your day, enjoy an idyllic dinner under a Rajasthan tent—embellished with lanterns, hand-woven Indian dhurries, plush, oversize divans and tropical flowers.
