Langkawi, "the jewel of Kadah", is made up of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea off the northwest coast of Malaysia, with the main island, Pulau Langkawi, being only one of two that are inhabited. This tropical paradise has clear turquoise waters that encourage scuba diving, sailing, yachting, and other water sports, gorgeous white sand beaches, secluded coves, forests, mountains, paddy fields, and spectacular marine life. The rain forest has lush flora and fauna and interesting wildlife.

Being a duty-free island, Langkawi is also a shopper’s delight with the main desired items being booze, chocolate, and cigarettes.

The magical beauty creates a perfect getaway on the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia. Many of the hotels are waterfront or close to the beach, and quite a few are within just kilometers of the airport. Although there are luxurious accommodations, you will also find a great many budget to mid-range hotels. The restaurants serve delicious seafood such as giant tiger prawns, local favorite selections, and western fare.

The Langkawi International Airport is about a 25-minute drive from the town center of Kuah. The main attraction is the biennial Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition, which is an international event for the aviation industry to show their latest products and technology. It includes one of the world’s major air shows that is a flying display that goes on for four hours daily throughout the event.

If you are a golfer, a place to enjoy is the Golf Club Datai Bay north of Langkawi. This is a 73-par 18-hole international-class golf course with the challenge of tropical trees that have been retained in the landscape.

The Sky Bridge is an awesome experience. This pedestrian bridge is suspended 700 meters above sea level and is curved to give different views of the Andaman Sea and Thailand’s Tarutao Island. Triangular platforms provide areas where you can sit and rest. For security there is a double steel railing and wire mesh at upper body level.

You can take the Cable Car, which drops you off near the Sky Bridge. This is a 1.4 mile trip from the Oriental Village that gives a fantastic panoramic view.

Underwater World is a fresh water and marine aquarium that is one of Asia’s largest and is located on 6.2 acres of land. There are more than 5,000 varieties of fish in over 100 tanks. The highlight is the huge walk-through tunnel tank with clear glass walls for viewing larger sea creatures.