Hooked On Asia

Courtesy of Tanjung Rhu Resort, Langkawi

I was pleased to read that the Malaysian government has agreed to Air Asia operating direct flights between Singapore and Langkawi.

The timetable operated by Malaysia Airlines and SilkAir is limited (currently there is no flight on Mondays for example) and thus to have more capacity on the route is a good thing for consumers. Admittedly whether it is good for the airlines is another matter: the local Chinese community seem to believe there is enough traffic so let’s hope so.

From the longhaul perspective I would say that if consumers see there are more flight options they are more likely to consider Langkawi as an end destination. Certainly from my point of view I would. On my last visit to Asia I couldn’t decide between Langkawi or Ko Samui: flight availability and cost were two of the factors I considered and I chose Ko Samui.

I will though be returning to Langkawi and a 2-centre Singapore/Langkawi for me is a good holiday combo. I enjoy just pottering around Singapore and contrary to what some people think there are little gems to be discovered. On our last visit for example we wandered around Chinatown and stumbled upon the Chinatown Heritage Centre on Pagoda Street. (Ok, I know had I read a guidebook I could have saved the ‘stumbling’ but I enjoy just discovering!).

We met a very charming man, Andrew Yip, on one of the stalls outside the Centre and we now have 3 stunning black and white prints taken by his late father Yip Cheong-Fun, an award-winning photographer. You can see some of his work here .

Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi, on the other hand, is somewhere you go pretty much just to relax. The beaches are good and the scenery on the north coast is stunning. During our last visit we took the cable car ride at Gunung Machinchang. I am not a great one for heights but the views were worth the anguish!

The best time to visit Langkawi, weather-wise, is December through to March. Any other time there is a risk of rain although generally the sunshine is not too far behind. I usually go May/June when it is quieter and the hotel rates are just about at their lowest. You do get very spoilt though having swimming pools all to yourself, which we have had on many an occasion.

So I look forward to seeing the start of an Air Asia service between Singapore and Langkawi before our next visit!