Langkawi

Located off Peninsular Malaysia’s northern shores and the coast of Kedah State, Langkawi is actually a cluster of more than 100 islands sprinkled across the sparkling Andaman Sea. While most remain uninhabited, a handful of islands have been designated for tourism, a treasure trove of protected marine parks, verdant jungles, wildlife sanctuaries and secluded beaches, all waiting to be discovered.

Dominating the Langkawi archipelago is its largest, most famous island, Langkawi Island (Pulau Langkawi), the “Jewel of Kedah” and one of the planet’s most beautiful islands. Deriving its Malay name from the abundance of eagles residing here, this tropical getaway is mostly celebrated for its upscale beach resorts fronting pristine, palm-fringed beaches and official status as a duty-free zone.

Although one of Southeast Asia’s most popular holiday destinations, Langkawi’s real beauty is that you never feel you’re staying on an overrun tourist island. Beyond the beaches, this lush island reveals rugged, stunning natural interiors of soaring mountains, mangrove swamps, gushing waterfalls and emerald-green paddy fields. Covered in most parts by primeval rainforest and home to rich flora and fauna, Langkawi also boasts Malaysia’s sole UNESCO global geopark, protecting 500 million years-old rock formations and exceptional conservation areas. Magical in every sense, this “Legendary Island” is shrouded in fascinating ancient folk lore.