My “beachy” holiday

Ya. Finally, I have gotten my long-waited beach holiday. Didn’t go to Cathedral Cove as I was planning to, but this trip was more fun, adventurous and unforgettable.

A happy cherry

TIPS to travel in Langkawi

1) Able to speak malay is an extra BONUS
Most of the locals can’t speak English. It is sad when you need to ask for direction or general help. And of course, bargaining in Malay can give you good deal!

2) Do research online before renting a car
I found a dealer online and called him before going to Langkawi. And of course, must speak malay. At the end, I rented a decent car for RM50 a day.

When I collected my car at the airport, we found out that it was going for RM100 a day, as written on the flyer if we would to rent the car from the counter. *gulp* We saved 50%!

Me enjoyed being at the back seat once in awhile.

3) Rent a car
It is extremely convenient if you rent a car. We traveled around the island and it was convenient when it came to rainy season. Traveling with a comprehensive map is fun and thrilling. Also, we got to explore many nice restaurants and chill-out bars around the island.

This bar was cool! Great retro music and atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff. We were “dragged” by a drunk American to dance. I LOVE TO DANCE!

We were the only Asians in the bar. Can you spot me?

Since it is a duty-free island, the beer and liquor are very very cheap. This Calsberg only costs RM4! (less than SGD 2!)

4) Collecting flyers from different spa to compare prices
Having a car also allows you to travel around to collect flyers on the way. Compare prices before choosing one. I went for massage twice!

5) Bargain for tour packages
Bargain if possible. I called the same guy who rented us the car for snorkeling packages. We save RM40 per person!

Pulau Payar – It was great to travel with a “photographer” and a “creative director”. They made me do funny poses. So funny that I have decided not to share them here.

Some decent ones..

Sea urchins. Looks scary but tasty…

7 wells (telaga tujuh). Be ready to climb many many many stairs to reach to the top. Beautiful scenery. Though I was “half-dead” climbing the stairs, the waterfall was magnificent.

Note: The feeling of dipping my warm feet into the icy-cold water after trekking was…. indescribable.

We spent most of the money time on food actually. The seafood was so-so and wasn’t cheap.

It was such a fun trip that we had problem adjusting to our work and life back in Singapore. The folks in Langkawi live a simple life. The folks in petrol kiosk just sat there, fanning and waiting for customers. Otherwise, they would just sit there and watch the cars go by.

It is that simple and it was hard for me to comprehend their purposes in lives. But it is so sad that if our purpose in life revolves around our work. The journey really got me thinking and reflects on my life.

We met a few Japanese who have set up restaurants and spas in Langkawi for years. Asked them why they moved to such as deserted island. They said:”Tokyo was too hectic and busy for us. You know..traffic jams. I like nature and this is the place for me!”

I told my friends that I would set up an art studio, selling paintings and conducting drawing classes in Langkawi for tourists when I am 50. After all, Langkawi is only 2 hours boat ride to Penang, the place where I truly belong.

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