Wednesday, December 30, 2009

TOP 10 things to do in Langkawi

The tropical island of Langkawi, which lies off the northwest coast of Malaysia, is a popular destination for international travelers lured by its unspoiled natural beauty. The island is covered with dense rainforests and mangroves millions of years old, while its waters teem with marine life. Langkawi’s charm also lies in its people. The fishermen and farmers maintain a traditional way of life, keeping alive centuries-old folklore, legends and mystical tales about the island and its surroundings. Every cave, waterfall and rocky hillside has a story to it that won’t fail to fascinate even the most cynical tourist. From immersing yourself in local culture to jungle trekking and scuba diving, there are plenty of things to do in Langkawi. Here are the top 10 activities you must include in your itinerary.
1. Tour the island
A great way to get around the island is by hiring a car. You can get maps of the island from the tourist information center at Kuah town, Langkawi’s commercial hub. While in Kuah, you can check out the local market and walk around the “Lagenda” park, a 20-hectare park featuring sculptures of all the island’s many legendary figures. A short drive from Kuah is Cenang Beach. Cenang Beach has lots of budget chalets, restaurants and cafes and is very popular with backpackers. Here, you can visit the Underwater World aquarium, the place to go for those who want to take in some marine life without donning a dive mask. Not far away is the shrine of Mahsuri, dedicated to Langkawi’s most famous historical figure. A young lady who lived 200 years ago, Mahsuri was wrongly accused of adultery and sentenced to death. It is said that as she lay dying, her blood ran white as proof of her innocence and she laid a curse on the island folk for seven generations. The curse ended, coincidentally, with the development of the island in the 1980s. Near the shrine is a traditional Malay village and a botanical garden, both worth a visit.
2. Swim with (baby) sharks
The Payar Island Marine Park is one of over 90 smaller islands that lie off the coast of Langkawi. The marine park is extremely popular with tourists who come to snorkel in the calm, shallow waters. Because it gets so busy, Payar Island isn’t the place to go for a serene diving experience – there are too many swimmers! It is the place to go, however, to check out the abundance of tropical reef fish that call the island their home, including colorful angelfish, sergeant majors, butterflyfish, moray eels and stingrays. Baby blacktip sharks skirt around swimmers in the shallow water and it’s not unusual for the odd barracuda to make an appearance. Another great way to experience the marine life is to hire a glass-bottomed boat and circle the island.
3. Go on a dive trip
While Langkawi doesn’t have as beautiful dive sites as other parts of Malaysia, it has the advantage of being accessible year round. (Dive resorts on the east coast of Malaysia are closed during the monsoon season from November to February.) You can organize a dive trip with one of the many dive operators in Langkawi. Some of the larger resorts have their own dive shops. It takes about an hour to reach the dive sites located not far from Payar Island and the many smaller islands that comprise the protected marine park area. While visibility is sometimes limited, the abundance of marine life more than makes up for it.
4. Take a boat to a nearby island
The mystical Island of the Pregnant Maiden is a 15-minute boat ride from Langkawi. It’s a spectacular setting, with a huge limestone hill in the middle of the island rising high above a dense rainforest. A strenuous hike and an equally tough uphill climb takes visitors to the Cave of the Banshee, which locals believe is haunted by a spirit who lures people to the cave and, like a tropical version of Dracula, sucks their blood. There are no stalactites and stalagmites in the cave but there are thousands of bats. There is also a large freshwater lake on the island which is a good place to swim. Also, if you happen to be trying for a baby, take a swig of lake water, which is reputed to possess magical qualities and endow fertility to those in need!
5. Swim at the Seven Wells waterfall
The Seven Wells waterfall is group of seven pools connected by a series of waterfalls flowing down the side of Mat Cincang Mountain on Langkawi Island. Drive to the foot of the mountain and walk up the steps to the lowest pool. You’ll need to trek uphill to reach the other pools, but it is well worth it. The locals believe the area is a favorite haunt of mountain fairies who bathe in the cool water of the wells. Fairies or not, the pools are ideal for swimming and the perfect spot for a picnic.
6. Go on a cable car ride
A recent addition to Langkawi is the Swiss-made cable car system. Visitors can take the cable car ride up the mountain and get a magnificent view of Langkawi and the surrounding islands. Southern Thailand and mainland Malaysia are visible from the lookout point at the summit. Another cable car ride takes you to the next mountain top. There’s also a drop-off point for a jungle trek.
7. Try canopy trekking
Langkawi is one of the very few places in the world that offers this obscure sport. To canopy trek you need to abseil, climb, rappel and glide over treetops on a cable system 100 feet above the ground. The canopy trail in Langkawi was developed by a German expatriate with the help of the local forestry department. The sport is physically and psychologically demanding but the feeling of gliding from tree to tree and rappelling down is too exhilarating to miss.
8. Tour mangrove swamps
In the north of the island at the beautiful beach of Tanjung Rhu, you can go on a mangrove tour by boat. This boat trip takes you through several limestone caves, mangrove swamps and further inland, to dense forest.
9. Go birdwatching
Langkawi is a great destination for birdwatching both for the indigenous bird species and the migratory birds who flock to the island from September to March. Gunung Raya, the forest reserve at the center of the island and the mangrove swamps on the coast are good places to look for birds. Some birds to spot include the Sooty Tern and other tern species, the Purple Heron, the Brahminy Kite and the Sea Eagle.
10. Buy traditional crafts
Spend a few hours shopping for souvenirs in Langkawi. The Langkawi Craft and Cultural Center is a good place to buy traditional batik fabrics, wood and marble ornaments, paintings and other crafts. The center also displays the work of local artisans.
(Note: Langkawi Island was spared the worst effects of the 2004 tsunami that ripped through Phuket Island which lies to its north. Experts believe that the many smaller islands surrounding Langkawi proved to be an effective buffer against the hardest impact of the waves.)

Friday, December 18, 2009

Langkawi

I'm back from Langkawi and I truly miss that freaking place . Freaking ???!!! Ah , not exactly freaking ...... its just that the place is quite nice and I think dad will take us there again , probably next year ...... March ??? I'm not having the idea for it but I guess , yeah ...... we'll surely get back to Langkawi for our "mission" . Hah , "mission" . This "mission" shall be the greatest one which I ever had . LOL !!! Ok , not to crap anymore ...... let's go over the days in Langkawi . Don't worry , it won't take you long ...... probably 15 minutes till 45 minutes ??? The journey I had in Langkawi , 3 days 2 nights begins now !!!
Damn it , I don't even know where to start . On the first day or all three in one ??? I've got no idea . But never mind , I guess that I'll be using my own style . Ok , here we go . On Day 1 , which is Tuesday , our limo arrived right on time , 8.30 am . Got all our luggage behind the limo boot and then , we all headed to KLIA . The journey isn't that long that I've expected . Probably it's because the driver drove really fast . Umm ...... probably 100km per minute ??? LOL !!! I've got no idea about this . Ok , continue . Reached KLIA about 9.25 am . Put our luggage on a trolley which is provided by the airport .
Next , we went to check-in . Had all our tickets at 9.40 am and we then stroll around the airport , it's quite quiet there . As our flight was at 11.00 am . And we had an hour more to ourselves . Quite bored in there . Read my novel which I brought along , "Bliss" by Karen McCombie . Finished right before we've got to get into the plane . Hah , great . That's the whole idea of why I'm bringing the book along , to finish it .
Ok , I know that you'll be wondering what plane I'm taking - Malaysia Airlines aka MAS . Many people thought that we'll be taking Air Asia , especially my relatives and violin teacher . LOL !!! Why is everyone thinking that we'll be taking Air Asia ??? Probably it's cheaper than MAS ??? But actually , MAS is cheaper as dad had 70% discount for MAS . Thus , the price of our flight (to and fro) was just RM1000.00 something , for five of us . My parents , siblings and I . Is it cheap ??? I've got to say , it truly is .
Reached Langkawi International Airport at 11.55 am . Then , we went to our hotel - City Bayview Hotel in Kuah Town , the capital of Langkawi . Checked-in and then had lunch at the hotel . Our rooms are on Level 7 . Dad and my brother's room is room 727 while we girls (mum , sister and I) had room 728 all to ourselves . After lunch , our tour guide was waiting for us and another family from India . When both families were ready , off we went for our first destination .

Our first destination was Underwater World Langkawi , a place where there's lots of sea creatures and also birds . Saw penguins , small sharks , starfish , fishes , jelly fish , sea horse , small crabs , small prawns , small lobsters and even stingrays . Snapped lots of pictures . Will upload those which are nice and will truly surprise you guys . Hah , don't worry ...... I promise that I'll upload those pictures , so that you guys will be thrilled . And here you go , those really THRILLED pictures .

Next , we went to Makam Mahsuri . Dad got to pay for the entrance fee . Damn it , those people were really bad . But fine , I guess that they need us to pay for those entrance fee is because dad said that everything changed there . Those people built a museum of Mahsuri , rumah tinggi and stalls too . Took some pictures of the rumah tinggi and also Mahsuri's well . Wanted to take some pictures of Mahsuri's tomb but dad insisted that I not to as Chinese is quite "pantang" of cemeteries and tombs . Thus , no pictures of Mahsuri's tomb . I didn't see a well in my life before , but now , I finally got the chance to see how a well looks like . Mahsuri's well was deep and the water was chilling , refreshing !!! Look at these pictures , aren't they nice ???

After that , we went to a chocolate factory . Not exactly a chocolate factory , but that place sells chocolates . I wanted to buy some but mum said that I can't as when I eat chocolates , I'll fall sick pretty fast . Dad said that he'll buy some next time . LOL !!! Next time , I wonder when ...... nothing much there , all chocolates . Chocolate cakes , hot chocolate and more chocolates . I love chocolates , especially white chocolate . The taste is nice . Guess that I'll buy some without my mum noticed .
Later , we went to Eagle Bay . There's a jetty nearby and thus , the place was windy and I could even smell the sweet sense of the sea water . Things there were cheap . You can get a can of coke for RM1.00 and an ice cream for RM1.00 too . I bought Ice Lemon Tea there . It was damn refreshing as I was sweating . LOL !!! Wanted to eat an ice cream too , but mum said that we'll be having dinner soon . Thus , no ice cream for me . But I still got some pictures , just pay me some money to see it . LOL !!! Just kidding , don't take it serious . Below are the pictures .

After the last tour , we went back to our hotel . After taking a shower , we walked to the nearby restaurant for dinner . I know you guys must be asking why did I walked . Well , that's because dad's car , I mean the car dad rented will be coming the next day . Thus , we've got to walk . After dinner , we went to some stores nearby . Bought a nightgown , mum bought one too . Mine is pink in colour while hers is blue and white . Mine is 90% cotton and 10% silk , guess how much it cost . Mum's nightgown is quite alike with mine but the price is more expensive than mine . Hers is 50% silk and 50%cotton , and hers is about RM34.00 . Mine cost ...... RM14.00 only !!! Cheap is what I can say . It's because Langkawi is a duty free island .

The next morning , which is Day 2 , Wednesday , we went down for buffet breakfast . Guess what I had . It'll totally shock you . LOL !!! Hah , just kidding . I had cereal , toast , cheese , ham , fruits and juice . Was totally full that time . After breakfast , we went back to our rooms . Watched some movies for awhile and then , the car dad rented came . Guess what car is it . Well , it's a Sentra . I told dad to rent Avanza or Innova or some bigger car but dad said that Sentra is the standard size . Whatever , I've got no idea what he means about standard size .
After the car arrived , we jumped into it and off we go for our first drive . Dad took us to Langkawi Crocodile Farm first . Saw lots of crocodiles there . All so huge and big . Felt a bit scared as those crocodiles ...... forget it , I can't say that I'm scared as I'm Fearless Fay . LOL !!! Fearless , but sometimes ...... I can get pretty scare of something , especially lizards !!! Lizards are quite alike with crocodiles . Thus , I get so pale when I see lizards . Not exactly pale , but scared . Took some shots there . By the way , I got to see how crocodiles eat . Their eating ways are cool . Hah , but the place ...... urgh , it STINKS !!! Well , here are some pictures of those crocodiles , enjoy !!!

Next , we went to Black Sand Beach aka Pantai Pasir Hitam . The sand was black , so it suits the name of it . Took some pictures there . The sun was so hot at that time . Ah , but it's the perfect view for the beach . Beach , must have sun . This will be the best combination . The clouds there were white like snow and the sky was blue , a very nice blue . Combination of white and blue plus the beach . Ah , the perfect view of nature .
After that , we went back to our hotel . We were all exhausted although we had quite little activities . When we reached back to our hotel , damn it !!! I found out that I'd lost my pen-drive !!! Damn , damn , damn . And my brother , he lost the room card . Both of us lost something at the same day . I was quite sad as there's a lot of information in my pen-drive . Told my parents about it and they said that probably our bad luck had gone . Thus , we will lost our things which contains bad luck . True , Chinese believe like that . Fine ...... guess that I don't even have the opportunity to kiss my pen-drive goodbye .
In the evening , we went to Wan Thai for dinner . Thai food , which made my sister sighed . She don't eat spicy food and that's why she sighed . Those food there was excellent . We had really a great dinner . And the price , it's cheap ...... my parents said so . It cost RM100.00 something . But not more than RM120.00 . After dinner , dad took us to Hotel Bahagia .

Hah , when dad mentioned Hotel Bahagia , I was like "Huh , dad ??? Hospital Bahagia ???" Then my dad went "What are you talking about ??? What Hospital Bahagia ??? I said Hotel Bahagia and not Hospital Bahagia . Why did you suddenly mentioned Hospital Bahagia ???" I was stunned for a moment but just said "Nothing , just ...... crapping ???" My dad don't know what I was up to as I heard him said so to my mum . LOL !!!

Next , we went to Langkawi Fair Shopping Complex . We walked around there and guess what . I saw a very pretty and nice , cool and awesome gladiator sandals . Bought it immediately . The sandals were quite cheap . Only RM39.90 . Mine was silver plus grey , the colour came out to be really cool . Check them out below . Hah , aren't they awesome ???!!! I too bought a pair of dark blue jeans . Dad said things in Langkawi are really cheap and we can buy what we want . LOL !!! I guess that he's probably joking .

After that , we went back to our hotel as it was quite late and we'll be going ISLAND HOPPING the next day !!! Dad bought 10 bottles of mineral water there and we headed straight back to our hotel . Watched a movie and then went to sleep . Got to get up really early the next day . Hah , did you guys notice something in Langkawi ??? I've got to say is that ...... THERE'S NO MOSQUITOES IN LANGKAWI !!! Am I right ??? I truly am . If you don't believe me , tell your parents to take you to Langkawi and you'll see whether am I lying or not . LOL !!!
And finally , Day 3 !!! Thursday , the last day we are in Langkawi . Waked up at 8.00 am . Went down for buffet breakfast at 8.15 am after brushing our teeth , washed our face and changed into our clothes . Had to stuff myself with food as we're not having lunch when we're Island Hopping . Got myself cereals , noodles , mashed potatoes , cheese , ham , sausages and juice . Had omelet and two sets of soft boiled eggs . I truly stuffed myself with food as after breakfast , I felt like puking . Too much food for me . Guess that I put on more weight this time .
After breakfast , we went back to our rooms and packed all our luggage . Checked out one room first , and put all the luggage in the girls' room . Then , we hopped into the car that dad rented and headed to Jetty Point . Reached there about 15 minutes . And off we go , for our first experience of Island Hopping (besides mum , because she went Island Hopping before) . Dad rented a boat , which made him get RM250.00 out from his pocket . Hah , our private boat ...... pro , right ??? LOL !!!
Our first destination was Pulau Beras Basah . The place was very tropical , and I can also listen to the nice rustling of the leaves when the monkeys there came down for bananas and nuts . Ah , the place is very tropical and there was also net swing there . I lay on the net swing , enjoying the sound of nature and the gushing of sea water . Perfect , for a holiday vacation . That's always what I want in my life , lay on a net swing and listen to the sound of nature .
Next , we went to a place where they rear fishes . We went up there and went to look at the fishes . Fed those sharks with fish vitamins and bread to small fishes . I even got to touch the Tiger Shark too !!! Its skin is so rough and I was getting on my nerves when I touched its skin . And my hand , urgh ...... they smell bad . Not bad , but extremely bad . Damn it , wanted to wash my hands but you know what ...... there's not even a toilet there . I wonder how the tourists will react . Will they react like me ??? Probably .
After that , I've got to bear the smell and we went for eagle feeding . Those eagles were not big , quite small . But there was a lot of eagles . Didn't manage to snap any pictures , thanks to those smelly hands . LOL !!! I was wondering if they were using meat or chicken fats . Dad said they used chicken fats while mum said they used meat . I still don't even have any idea about it . I went online to search about eagle feeding before and they said they used meat and chicken fats together . I guess that my parents are both wrong , but those information are probably not correct . Hah , I wanted to ask the man but ...... ah , fine . Didn't ask in the end .
Later , we went to Kilim Geoforest Park . Luckily there was toilets there . Washed my smelly hands a few times and finally , they don't smell bad . We went for paddle boat too . My siblings and I , RM15.00 each . At first , I don't know how to drive it , but later ...... I got to know how to drive it . Paddle boat was fun but tiring . I paddled until my legs ache , but never mind , this is the best opportunity for me to experience paddling boat . After spending about an hour there , we went back to our boat .
When all of us were on the boat , we headed back to the jetty as our Island Hopping had ended . Took some pictures in the boat as my hands were nice and clean . About half an hour later , we finally reached the jetty . Got down and walked to our car . Dad then drove us back to our hotel and we checked out the other room . We left our luggage at the reception as we're going for our high-tea . After that , we went to Langkawi Parade . Went windows shopping . Around 5.00 pm , we went back to our hotel and dad gave back the car to the owner .

Soon , the limo which will take us to the airport came . We reached the airport around 5.30 pm . When we reached the airport , we went to check in and got our tickets . Our flight was at 7.00 pm , thus , we went walking around the airport . Saw a very nice shirt there , wanted to buy but the price was damn expensive . RM99.00 for a T-shirt , they'd better go and rob a bank . LOL !!! Just kidding .
At 6.55 pm , we went into the plane . Put on our seat belts and then ...... whoosh !!! Off we headed to KLIA , felt a bit tired in the plane ...... take a snooze but my mum waked me up . She said we reached KLIA already . OMG !!! So fast ??? I was asking myself this question . Hopped of the plane and went for dinner in the airport . After dinner , we went straight to get our limo . Reached home around 10.15 pm . Felt tired and immediately washed myself and went to bed . Ah , a tiring day .

Thursday, December 17, 2009

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Announces The Debut Of The Andaman Langkawi

The Luxury Collection Invites Global Explorers to Experience Rich Cultural Offerings and Indigenous Adventures in the idyllic beach-front setting of Langkawi

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, a glittering ensemble of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries, proudly announces the recent debut of THE ANDAMAN LANGKAWI.

Nestled in the midst of a 50-million year old virgin rainforests, THE ANDAMAN is cradled between the Mat Cincang mountain range and the Andaman Sea. The 186 rooms and suites display the rich and contemporary Malaysian style, with magnificent views of the Andaman Sea and lush rainforest surrounding. Located on the most northwestern tip of Langkawi, guests have exclusive access to the Datai Bay, Langkawi’s best stretch of beach where the views of sunset are simply breathtaking.

Three inviting restaurants and two lounge bars provide an epicurean journey for the guests. The Restaurant offers all day dining and The Japanese Restaurant presents authentic fare specially crafted by renowned Japanese Chef. The Poolside Terrace is perfect venue for a snack or wood fired pizza in an enchanting tropical setting.  Beach Bar or Lobby Lounge sets the tone for a relaxed evening with colorful cocktails before a sunset.

For guests looking to unlock the treasures of a distinct local, The Luxury Collection’s world-renowned concierge service offers exclusive Destination Discoveries – custom curated adventures designed to offer travelers exceptional indigenous experiences.  The hotel has a naturalist who could provide first hand guide for guests during the nature tour, which could include exploring the local area on mountain bikes; bird watching on Gunung Raya, the highest point of the rainforest as well as observing Langkawi’s magnificent views above the rainforest canopy.

Tee off with luscious views of rainforests at the 18 hole championship Datai Bay Golf Club which is adjacent to THE ANDAMAN LANGKAWI and visits to Langkawi’s local markets and cultural centre would enrich your experience and cultural knowledge of the island.

The resort is blessed with pristine beaches and azure water. The Spa is an intimate and nurturing sanctuary for men and women who want balance and harmony in their lives. Every detail has been fine-tuned to evoke a state of health, vitality and total well being.

“We are proud to unveil The Andaman and invite sophisticated global explorers to uncover the indigenous offerings, heritage and treasures within this destination resort,” said Chuck Abbott, Regional Vice President, South East Asia.  “For today’s travellers, The Luxury Collection is the curator of extraordinary experiences where guests will experience not only an exceptional level of service but perfect location and indigenous personal offerings.”

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

The Andaman Langkawi joins The Luxury Collection

The Andaman Langkawi has joined Starwood’s The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resort. Nestled in the midst of a 50-million year old virgin rainforests, the 186-room Andaman is cradled between the Mat Cincang mountain range and the Andaman Sea on the most northwestern tip of Langkawi. Guests have access to the Datai Bay, one of Langkawi’s best stretches of beach where views of sunsets are truly magnificent.

Three restaurants and two lounge bars provide an epicurean journey for guests. The Restaurant offers all day dining and The Japanese Restaurant presents authentic fare specially crafted by a Japanese Chef. The Poolside Terrace is a perfect venue for a snack or wood fired pizza in an enchanting tropical setting, while the Beach Bar or Lobby Lounge sets the tone for a relaxed evening with colorful cocktails before a sunset.

For leisure, guests can explore the local area on mountain bikes, bird watch on Gunung Raya - the highest point of the rainforest, as well as observing Langkawi’s magnificent views above the rainforest canopy. Golfers can make the most of the 18 hole championship Datai Bay Golf Club which is adjacent to hotel. The Spa is an intimate and nurturing sanctuary for men and women who want balance and harmony in their lives.

“We are proud to unveil The Andaman and invite sophisticated global explorers to uncover the indigenous offerings, heritage and treasures within this destination resort,” said Chuck Abbott, Regional Vice President, South East Asia. “For today’s travellers, The Luxury Collection is the curator of extraordinary experiences where guests will experience not only an exceptional level of service but perfect location and indigenous personal offerings.”

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Monday, December 14, 2009

Langkawi Cable Car Experience

Included in a must visit place in Langkawi the Langkawi Cable Car offers visitors a spectacular 360 degree panoramic view form Gunung Mat Chinchang Mat Chinchang Mountain.

Located in at the southwest coast of Langkawi the cable car entrance is located inside the Oriental Village which has duty free shops cafes and a hotel to offer visitors.
Tickets are sold at RM25.00 Adult and RM18.00 Child for a round trip.

The bubble shape cable cars will take you up the 45 degree incline ride. It covers a total distance of 2.2km linking the Base Station at the foothill of Mat Chinchang to the top most station call the Top Station with a total time of between 1520 minute.

Along the route up one are able to see numerous geological features and species of flora and the breathtaking view of the famous Seven Wells Waterfall known locally as Telaga Tujuh.

There are a total of 2 viewing platforms on the top station. The platforms provide a 360 degree panoramic views of the seas the many islands of Langkawi and even the neighbouring Thailand.

Another attraction on the mountain is the unique Curved Suspension Bridge. The steel bridge is an engineering marvel that really worth a visit.

To get there one will have to disembark at the Top Station second station and head down on a short and well marked jungle trail.

The 125 metre curved bridge is suspended about 685 metres above sea level. Walking the curve path high above with the breathtaking view of the forest and to feel the bridge slightly swayed is fun and experience one can never forget.

My verdict.. The Langkawi Cable Car ride is a value for money and one should never miss if you visit Langkawi. Enjoy the fresh air awesome view trill and stunning sunset from Gunung Mat Chinchang. Its fun all the way!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Langkawi Trip

Seem like many ppl had their good time spending on to trip at this holiday , and blogged their experiences here to share with all others . Well , for me also recently I just went for Langkawi as my holiday trip with my family , but I felt kinda lazy to blog It coz I think It will be too long winded , feel like just copy and paste my brother blog on the langkawi trip straight on here XD Guess i shouldn't do it ..haiz ~

Let's make It short and simple and memorable =)

That's was an 3 days 2 nights trip and we went there by Air Asia .

PS* wow , Air Asia Flight Attendance , HOTss ~ wearing skirts and red white uniform with slim cut , perfectly shown their nice body shape , Lolx ... Ahem , its not like I hamsap want to look at them so much , the idea here Is comparing them with Mas Flight Attendance ~ INCOMPETENT ! haha .

I had take few snap of the Flight picture , check's it out ~


Reaches Langkawi ~ ;-)

We rent a Vios as our vehicle to travel around the langkawi . Due to peak season , the price were bloody expensive , 3 day 2 nights for rm 300 some more need to pay for the petrol -.-

Ps: Overall , driving at langkawi Is really a pleasure indeed , coz they were NO BUMPER and no traffic jam . The road were straight ahead and you can speed like you never speed before ;-) And the performances of the Vios Is worth commented at here , Its kinda fuel economic coz 3 days of driving around Langkawi from town to town with average speed of 80kmh and engine rpm of 3k for rm 20 of petrol only , at the end still got leftover petrol unfinish . Mention about the pick up of the car -Not bad , we been taking over car one after another xp

We staying over at the langkasuka resort hotel .

About this hotel , Its very near to the airport just around 5 minutes journey with car . What's good that lies within the Hotel Is that This Hotel own a private beach just next beside the Hotel , and each room were quite spacious and provide with its own balcony that facing to the beach view , too bad my room were not -.-

 

What's good to have a private beach ?

The private beach were clean from time to time and Its free from Rusbish nor those glasses or the trees branches . Feel free to walk along the sea side anytime with ur bare foot ~ Not to forget a must thing , walk at the beach at the night or even the sunset time , It will be more perfect if you are together with ur loved one walking side by side along the beach enjoy the scenery of sun set . The surrounding given you kinda a romantic atmosphere ~

Ps: At night there will be lot of small jelly fish appear at the sea shore, just becareful with ur step.

Next up is the activities at there .

There were several package been offer there such as Island Hoping , snorkeling , Eagle feeding and all sorts of activities with price state . Well , again Is the peak season fault the Island Hoping package that we take cost rm60 per pax ....wakao .... The activities Is about visiting to three island out there with riding boat . Ignoring the price fact , these activities were quite fun and enjoying at all , first Is with the riding boat . Its the first time I been riding on boat and dashing across the sea as if it was at the land ~ Cuts the name of the Island I been went to , I had forget the island name because I were enjoying from time to time . Let's the picture do the speaking xp

Here the monkey at the Island .

Boat riding( see the island like a pregnant maiden ? )

Great view along the boat riding


That me xp

The batu karang

That the Eagle feeding , hmm , guess cant see well ....

the Eagle ~

The Island Hoping takes around 4 hour + + .... That's not all about the Island Hoping , there were still tons of thing I haven't describe here , want to know more then get yourself to the Langkawi to experiences yourself , there ain't any words to describe the joy ~

What's most important In a trip ?

Sure Is the food . No matter Is the local food or the western food , as long there are good food anything will do =) At this 3 days 2 nights trip , been feasting on lots of good and delicious foods . Of cause , there were local foods shop that's been recommended at the nets , you wont know unless you try It . We been searching around the Kuah town for good food restourant . Well , there Is one sign of a delicious food store , just see the tourist crowd then you will know where to go ;-p

Most recommended by me !

Delicious ~

Breakfast buffet at the Hotel.


Recommended at the net , so so only , not that special .

never to forget our food partner - The KFC...Lolx

This sure wont let us disappointed ~

Night at the town .

We spend our time shopping at the Kuah town . This place Is such that a shopping paradise , the never ended tourist comes and goes every minutes to have their puchase as if It dont need money . They just grab and grab the sale item . Well , we are the part of it also . We grab tons of chocolate and liquors and some snack . Indeed the item there are relatively cheap , because it - DUTY FREE ...wakaka .... Shop shop shop and shop ~

Stock up liquor and partay night at hotel ~

After Eight ~

Its all DUTY FREE !!!

A must place to visit .

I've been told by my brother that If you dun have visit to that place , you cant called yourself that you had been visit to Langkawi at all .That Is the Cable Car at the Oriental Village somewhere near the ' Telaga Tujuh ' . Well , you may ask what so special about the cable car there , even at Genting also got lah . There always a discrepancy , which Is the cable car there Is much sloper than the Genting one , It brings you at the ground to 1 mountain after another and its damn High about 700m++ above the sea level . Up there my leg were shaking and my palm were fill with my cold sweat ~ there were new facility done recently , that was the Bridge hanging between two mountain . I challenge myself to cross the bridge , after all what I could said Is the bridge Is sturdy and safe , despite that I still droped my cold sweat across the bridge due to my ' Gayat tinggi ' -.-lll

that the cable car arrive .

Reach the Top , high right ?

View from above, magnificent

 

That the Bridge , picture before cross ...

Looking Back ..

 

And successfully reach the other end ...wow ~

Happy time goes faster than usual , guess its the time to head back to KL to home , home sweet home ~ All thx to my Father for bringing us to this trip , Xie Xie ~

Chocolate Hunt.

Well , I find myself earns few kg of weight after back from this trip , lolx ... And plenty of chocolate stock in the chocolate hunt back then in the Kuah town :-) I Indulging myself into these fine chocolate ~ yaww ~

That all my stock ..Woohooo ~

The best of All !

 

Its been a long long dream to own this ~

 

Hmm , 1 not enough I want two !

 

Nope , not enough . I want ALL ...kakax !

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Show 2009

Guy,
I hope you will be able to give your comment. This is my first shot for Aerospace event. I'm not really happy with the result maybe lack of experience.


Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Quiet Affairs For Armed Forces During LIMA 2009

LANGKAWI, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- The just-concluded Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition (Lima 2009) proved to be a quiet affair for the armed forces, especially for the navy and air force.
Due to the crunching impact of the global financial crisis, the government had had to slash its defence spending, forcing it to defer several major arms procurements.
One of the major deals that was expected to be sealed during this year's edition of Lima, but failed to materialise, involved the government's contract for the purchase of the Eurocopter EC-725 Cougar Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) helicopter.
The goverment, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is also the Finance Minister, needed to work out its financial capabilitity and affordability.
Speaking to reporters on the second day of Lima 2009, he, nevertheless, acknowledged that the French-made Cougar helicopter is a very high performance aircraft and the best candidate to replace the ageing RMAF Nuri helicopters.
With the decision to delay the purchase of the Cougar, the government, according to several sources, could possibly opt to upgrade the Nuri helicopters and enable the Royal malaysian Air Force's (RMAF) workhorse to serve until 2025.
The belt-tightening measures taken by the government not only impacted on the RMAF, but also the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN).
The RMN had hoped for a strong indication from the government during Lima 2009 on its proposal for the purchase of the second batch of Offshore Patrol Vesssel (OPV).
The first batch of six OPVs had been delivered to RMN and the navy, along with the local contractor, Boustead Naval Shipyard (BNS), are hopeful that the government will agree on the purchase of the second batch.
BNS senior general manager engineering and technical services division Syed Amir Shahbudin, in an interview with Bernama during the exhibition, pointed out that the livelihoods of more than 2,000 local vendors depended on the continuation of the national project.
"The second-batch project has a huge multiplier effect on the local economy," he said.
During Lima 2009, there was no word from the government regarding RMN's plan to have a second batch of two Lekiu-class frigates, with one proposed to be constructed in Labuan and the another in the United Kingdom.
The addition would make the RMN's frigates squadron among the most potent in the region.
While the RMN did not get what it wanted, the RMAF meanwhile bade farewell to its MiG-29N air interdiction fighter aircraft which would be decommisioned next year and replaced with a Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA)-type fighter aircraft.
With the decision to phase out the MiG-29N, the government has started its search for a replacement and the international aviation company has pounced on the announcement and offered several makes of fighter aircraft.
Although Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahidi said that the ministry had listed five types of MRCA for possible replacement of the MiG, the usual suspects, according to well-informed analysts, would fall on Sukhoi SU-30MKM and F-18 E/F Super Hornet.
The RMAF currently employs 18 Sukhoi SU-30MKM in its arsenal, along with a squadron of eight older versions of the FA-18 C/D Hornet.
-- BERNAMA

Sunday, December 6, 2009

LIMA Relevant As Business Platform For Aerospace, Defence Industries

LANGKAWI, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) is still a relevant business platform for the aerospace and defence industries.
Despite the impact of the global financial crisis still being felt, RM4.7 billion worth of contracts were clinched in five days during the 10th edition that ended on Saturday.
It shows that opportunities for future business in the aerospace and defence industries are still promising.
Some of these contracts were secured by Malaysian companies, reflecting their growing reputation and global recognition.
Even though the value of contracts during LIMA 2009 was lower compared with RM11 billion in the previous edition two years ago, the fact that business deals did come through is a reflection of optimism of industry players, locally and internationally.
Malaysian companies especially have shown their true capabilities and gained greater reputation and recognition with many having been awarded contracts by global aerospace and defence companies like BAE Systems and Boeing.
Composite Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd, for example, has a current book order of RM2.8 billion from various customers to manufacture Airbus and Boeing parts.
Surely, the company will not stop there as former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has thrown them a new challenge -- to create, design and build a cheaper single-seater aircraft on its own entirely based on the Eagle 130B aircraft frame which the company has successfully manufactured.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Malaysian companies had surely shown their true capability with the introduction of new products such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)s.
This, he said, could further strengthen the industry and help support LIMA 2011 to become a defence industry hub for Asean.
Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) senior vice president (intelligence and research) Lt Col (R) Ir Kamarulzaman Zainal said Malaysia had the capacity to emerge as a regional aerospace centre by 2015 since the country was now well equipped with all the basic requirements to be a regional major player.
Despite the global economic slowdown, he said, the local aerospace industry was forecast to grow at a comfortable rate of about eight per cent next year due to the expansion of the aero-manufacturing and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) sub-sectors.
He said the industry's turnover was expected to increase to RM26 billion this year from RM25 billion last year despite the global economic slowdown.
The pressure of lowering production and operating costs due to the global economic slowdown would further promote more new investments and outsourcing activities in Malaysia, he added.
Malaysia had attracted more than 13 foreign aerospace investments between 2006 and 2008, including the plan by a first tier manufacturer to establish their business in the country.
The total value of new and reinvestment projects during the period was more than RM1.4 billion with a threefold increase seen from 2007 to about RM990 million in 2008.
Since 1991, LIMA has emerged as the premier destination for aerospace and maritime players, targeting the Asia-Pacific market in the civil, defence and enforcement sectors.
-- BERNAMA

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia

Well the 'super fast ferry' to Langkawi was indeed that.  Full throttle, shuddering and creaking at a scary pace that left me vomitting in the toilets for a fair bit of the 3hr journey:((((( not pleasant.  Never been seasick before, also the toilets had a very unpleasant fishy odour which didnt help the nausea.......
Arrived to the paradise island and my god its hot! 91degrees!!!! got an extortionatly expensive taxi to Pantai Cenang, one of the beach areas with the hotels and after much traipsing with backpacks in the heat we found a little british run guesthouse that is very cheap (which pleased al!!) and not far from the beach, plus they have very cute tame monkeys in the back garden.
We headed for the beach the next day and returned home resembling a pair of lobsters, the sun was obvioulsly a lot stronger than either of us realised! the pain stayed for a couple of days but is settling now.  There are jellyfish eveywhere here, all over the beach and in the water so you have to be very careful when you go for a swim - I had visions of having to wee in public should either of us have gotten stung the camp guesthouse monkey

the camp guesthouse monkey

!
The next day we hired a car (al chickened out of bikes - big baby) and we headed aroud the east part of the island, its a really small island and you can drive around the whole island in less than an hour.  We headed to the national geopark which houses quad biking, animal areas, waterfalls, forests and the langkawi cable car.  This takes you to the highest peak on the island and its the longest free standing cable car in the world - it is also the steepest and we had never seen anything like it! It will be difficult to see from the pictures but it is so steep!! very scary going on it but exhilirating also
After that we headed to Kuah which is the main jetty town and had a look around, everything here is duty free so fags and booze are cheap.  In line with that al then got very drunk at the hotel (too hot for alcohol for me) and collapsed into bed.
Last day with the car so we headed up to the tip of the island to tanjung rhu beach which is suppsed to be the most beautiful beach on the island.  It was a tad overcast so we couldnt appreciate its full potential but it was stunning.  There are several little islands off the coast and because of the way the tide turns it has created sand banks which means you can walk/wade over to them and to the naked eye looks like people are walking on water! We had a good old wade and saw all sorts of marine life up close and personal, some sort of squid/jellyfish hybrid that got annoyed with al prodding it and started releasing some foul purple ink!

We headed down the coast to the durian waterfall which afetr a bit of mild rock climbing we found, very pretty with ice cold water and lots of bugs!! also varying lizards which we watched stalk and devour their pray for a bit
Not sure whether its good or not but in langkawi this week is the international air show, the hotels are booked and resteraunts are crowded and everyday there are very noisy jets taking off waking us up.  We couldnt get tickets for the one day that visitors were allowed so the following day we did the next best thing and went to the side of the airfield (with all the other locals) to watch the arial display.  Alas again my attention span was at its smallest and I became bored after about.....ohh......the second plane?? Al however was entranced and stood there videoing everything with all the other 'enthusiasts' whilst i tried to have a little nap in the car, no such luck though - those planes dont half make a racket! Returned the car and booked out tickets to Krabi in thailand, hour boat ride and 4 hours by minibus, another day of dehydration for me then!!
Final day and al decided it was far too hot for him to possibly leave the room or the computer so I headed on down to the beach and spent an enjoyable afternoon reading and avoiding jellyfish, he managed to make it to the guesthouse bar where he remained drinking and talking to people with dreadlocks into the small hours, i got an early night as we are off to thailand at 8am, praying i dont get seasick!!!
So we leave Malaysia for Thailand, its a wonderful country and I hightly recommend it - especially Langkawi!!!

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition 2009

If you are in Langkawi these few days, you'd get the chance to experience the thrill of LIMA. It’s all systems go for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition 2009 with military aircraft and warships on showcase from today till Saturday, Dec 1-6.
The world-class platform for the aerospace and maritime industries is recording several firsts.

Swing-wing jet: An F-111 of the Royal Australian Air Force rehearsing for the air show in Langkawi yesterday.


The Royal Malaysian Navy’s first submarine KD Tunku Abdul Rahman will make its maiden appearance at the maritime segment show at Awana Porto Malai. (Awana Porto Malai is where StarCruise ships dock in Langkawi.)
The Scorpene-class diesel-electric submarine is expected to be the main draw of the maritime show.
The exhibition has also recorded the largest number of ships anchored off Porto Malai – a total of 99 warships and vessels of all kinds.
Another first is the first appearance by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) with its AH-64D Longbow Apache helicopter and F-16 Fighting Falcon jets, which are expected to carry out aerial displays to thrill the visitors.
Another debut is the huge B-52 bomber of the United States Air Force, which is expected to make a low-level fly-past routine.

Underwater defender: Malaysia’s first submarine, the ‘KD Tunku Abdul Rahman’, being moored at the Awana Porto Malai jetty yesterday. Yes, the water is that pristine around Langkawi.

New boys in show: The Republic of Singapore Air Force is to make its first appearance with its F-16 Fighting Falcon and AH-64D Longbow Apache helicopter. — Bernama


Tickets to the event cost RM10 each, while children below 12 are allowed free entrance.
The air show will only be opened to the public on Saturday.
A total of 325 exhibitors from 25 countries are participating in Lima this year.