5 Things to Know Before You Visit Langkawi – Malaysia’s Island Paradise

Part of Langkawi's charm is the lack of mass transport options, instead, you can travel via taxi or rental cars, scooters, or bicycles. The taxis are ideal for getting about provided you hail a registered vehicle. If you plan on exploring the hidden beaches and verdant forests, a motorbike or scooter will handle the gravel paths better and are ideal for manoeuvring along the hidden tracks. Of course, nothing beats a quiet leisurely bicycle ride along the charming little roads exuding plenty of island vibes. When travelling or enjoying the outdoors, you need to take bug spray, as the island owing to the beautiful mangrove forests and waterways does have its fair share of mosquitoes and bugs.

If you are looking to enjoy island vibes and plenty of seaside actions, then choose accommodation at a top beach resort Langkawi has on offer. There are plenty of options to choose from with popular ones likes Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa located close to Langkawi SkyBridge and SkyCab, as well as the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, and other nearby attractions.

That's right, noted as one of the top shopping hubs in Malaysia, Langkawi is a shopaholics' paradise. Purchase just about anything at duty-free rates, as you enjoy shopping for confectionery, electronics, liquor, and more. Visit the Kuah area for the best shopping options as the place is home to the largest shopping centres on the island noted for plenty of budget options. Langkawi is also a good place to pick up local souvenirs, selling the best batik songkets and handicrafts.

The island uses the same currency, the Ringgit, as mainland Malaysia. But while money exchange facilities are available there, you will find the rates higher than mainland centres. There are ATMs too at several points on the island, as cash is the preferred choice amongst many shop owners and restaurants. Also, it is traditional to tip 5% of your meal cost to your server when dining at a restaurant.

Islam is the widest spread across the island. However, there are plenty of Chinese temples too you can visit on the island. Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting the shrines, especially the conservative Islamic mosques. You will find a colourful mix of Indonesians, Chinese and Malays who make up the population on the island. Therefore, most of the islanders are fluent in English and can understand and communicate in the language. However, the official language is Malay. On a precautionary note, be aware of pickpockets as well as scam artists who make a living, amongst the unsuspecting people in crowded places.