Faces of
Malaysia
Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian in Bahasa Malaysia) lie approximately 10 nautical miles (19 km) offshore the coast of northeastern Malaysia in the state of Terengganu, approximately 40 miles (64 km) south of the Thai border. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (“Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Perhentian”). Popular for it’s beaches, snorkeling and driving. Like a real postcard.

Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan.The name means ‘new city’ or ‘new castle/fort’ in Bahasa Malaysia. Kota Bharu is situated in the northeastern part of Peninsular Malaysia. In 2005, it had an estimated population of 425,294, making it the largest town on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.It’s known for its colourful markets and the muslim culture.

Backpacking Malaysia
Langkawi, Malaysia

Kuah

address: Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Kuah-Langkawi.jpg, The main town on Langkawi and the place you arrive per boat from Penang, Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis or from Thailand.
view of shop house area in Kuah town towards the jetty in the background
photo: Flickr user sharkyroseky.rose
The main town on Langkawi and the place you arrive per boat from Penang, Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis or from Thailand.

You probably won’t spend much time in Kuah. Once you arrive at the jetty, you can rent a car or get a taxi to get to the accommodations at the beaches.
The are many of duty free shops in Kuah. All of the island’s banks are there too. There are also many condominium apartment buildings in Kuah, for those who want to stay longer in Langkawi and rent a apartment.

 


Kuah jetty: the is where the boats from the mainland arrive image: Google Street View

 



Hotels in Langkawi

Fox Hill Langkawi holiday resort

Small resort in the heart of Langkawi on the road to Makam Mahsuri with a house for backpackers who want to be in the middle of nature

Gecko Guesthouse

laid-back backpacker guesthouse / hostel with a bar located about 5min walk from Cenang Beach

more accommodation
Attractions

Datai Beach, Langkawi

Langkawis most exclusiv beach in the north-west of the island. Home to the super-exclusiv Datai and Andaman Resorts

Gunung Raya, Langkawi

highest peak on Langkawi (881m) with spectacular views over the island and even to Thailand when it is clear

Attractions

Komtar Tower, Penang

Penangs tallest building and the sixth tallest building in Malaysia, the complex also hosts a shopping mall and a local bus terminal. The tower is worth visiting for its observation on the Level 65 and the daring skywalk on Level 68.

Kuala Tahan, Taman Negara

Kuala Tahan is the small village just opposite the entrance to Taman Negara NP at the other side of Sungai Tembeling river. All accommodations are located here.