There can be no better way of spending a few hours than taking a boat trip out through the mangroves and along the craggy coast of northeast Langkawi (which incidentally formed a back drop in "Anna and the King"). This tropical island is a true nature lover’s paradise.
Brahminy kites, the symbol of Langkawi, soar overhead whilst herons and kingfishers fish at water level. Huge monitor lizards forage for food close to rocky inlets and crab eating monkeys sneak up on their lunch along the shoreline. It is like being at the world’s greatest natural smorgasbord. You can visit fish farms, see fishermen casting nets by hand and also go ashore to visit a small cave filled with industrious bats. Boat trips along the bay can be taken with local boat owners who hang out on a jetty near the Tanjung Rhu Resort.
The Tanjung Rhu Resort claims to be set in "1100 acres of poetry" and offers a delicious standard of luxury accommodation which, with it’s natural woods and local marble, blends almost seamlessly with outdoor eating areas, tropical gardens and the pool. This in turn overlooks one of the best beaches on Langkawi. Waking up here is like waking up in heaven with the call of wild birds and scent of frangipanis.
The JivaRhu Spa offers a great choice of massages. You can choose from aromatherapy, Urut (Malay traditional massage), Ancient Thai; Swedish; Sports; Shiatshu, Therapeutic or Kalari (Ayurvedic). In addition to spa and sports facilities, and in keeping with the surroundings of this eco-resort, the Tanjung Rhu offers a selection of nature-based guest activities. There is mountain biking through villages, non-motorised watersports such as sea kayaking and hydrobikes, and for those inclined to fish – the chef will prepare their catch. There are a number of day trips to historic sites and places of interest. Those who like snorkeling will enjoy Pulau Payar National Marine Park - small uninhabited island 45 minutes by catamaran from the town of Kuah.
A choice of dining spaces range from casual eating to The Rhu where house specialities include grilled lobster with tamarind sauce and chocolate ginger pudding…..yum. In Malaysia you will find a huge variety of asian cuisines. If you like Thai food, try the Barn Thai restaurant, only a few minutes drive away from the resort (Address: Kampung Belanga Pecah, Mukium Kisap Tel: +60 4 966 6699). This restaurant is uniquely located in a natural mangrove forest and reached via a 500 meter wooden walkway. Seriously delicious Thai curries, fish and colorful bite-size desserts. And a little bird-watching on the side of course.
How to get there: Malaysia Airlines, KLM and Emirates operate international flights to Kuala Lumpur. From KL there are domestic flights to Langkawi with Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia. Singapore Airlines operate international flights to Singapore and then Silk Air offers flights from Singapore to Langkawi.
Check out some great tips on how to travel safely.
