10 Week Holiday Preparation Plan

Week 1: Planning and Clutter

 

This week, we need to set up command central for all of our holiday preparations. The most important thing we do this week will be to set up a holiday organizing notebook. You need one place where decorating ideas, neighborhood nativity display notices, and receipts for gifts purchased need to be kept. This week is also important because we'll be clearing out a lot of clutter. Plan to go room by room in your house removing items you no longer need. We're making space for the influx of stuff that is headed our way during the holiday season.

Week 2: Budgets and Living Areas

One of the other most important parts of holiday planning is in creating a budget. We need to figure out our expenses for the upcoming weeks so that our plans can be made to fit that budget. Also this week, now that we've cleared clutter from our home, we can start making our living areas ready to be deep cleaned and ready for their holiday best.

Week 3: Kitchen and Pantry

For many of us during the holidays, food plays a major role in our gatherings. Let's make sure our kitchens and pantries are ready to handle the added work. This week we'll clean out kitchen cabinets and go through the corners of our pantries. Use this chance to get rid of expired and out of date foods. It's also a great time to clear clutter dishes and appliances. Make room for some new ones and add them to your Christmas list.

Week 4: Dining Rooms

By week 4, Thanksgiving will be just around the corner. Lets get our dining rooms ready to host. Taking a few steps now to get your dining room in shape will relieve the stress during this season of entertaining. We're well into our gift making, buying and wrapping this week, as well. So we'll combine the work of cleaning with the fun of giving.

Week 5: Bathrooms and Guest Rooms

 

Whether your guests are planned or unexpected for the holidays, your guest rooms and bathrooms will be spiffed up and ready to go. You'll be glad that these guest areas are neat and clean when unplanned guests show up. Take this week to prepare guest spaces and bathrooms as we continue to put plans in place to enjoy the holidays.

Week 6: Bedrooms

 

While your last minute preparations for Thanksgiving are underway, we'll take some time to get our bedrooms in order as well. This is a great week to delegate chores to each family member, giving them responsibility for getting their rooms in order. You'll have less to do and everything will still get done.

Week 7: Closets and Storage

One holiday down, but there is still more work to do. This week, let's check out closets and storage areas in our home that need to be looked after. While these hidden areas aren't often seen by our guests, they represent a nerve center for our home, storing and holding items that will be needed later.

Week 8: Quick Clean

 

After all your work in the previous weeks, this week we are focusing on super speedy cleaning tips that will help you do more with less time. We're getting close to Christmas now, and things begin to get hectic. Quick 15 minute cleaning sessions can do so much for your home as you focus on other areas of holiday enjoyment.

Week 9: Maintain the Clean

We've got some last-minute things to do this week, but maintaining the clean house we've already worked for doesn't take much time at all. Focus in on the fun of the season, using short cleaning bursts to keep your home ready for the holidays. We only have 1 more week.

Week 10: Celebrate and Recover

We did it. We made it to the celebration week. Enjoy time with friends and family. Enjoy traditions old and new. Take time to relax and enjoy life. Find out how to help you and your home recover from all the celebrations.

10 Reason Why We Should Holidays

1. Regain your fitness

 Experts believe that we can reclaim up to 30 per cent of our fitness just by going on holidays. Vacations force us to exercise because we walk greater distances, swim, chase the kids around and play sports. Just standing upright instead of sitting down at a desk all day help you look and feel fitter. Regular movement during the day also boosts your circulation and gets your blood pumping which ups your heart rate and immune system.

2. Rebuild your body

Without the stress of the nine to five grind our bodies have enough time and freedom to repair themselves. It's easier for our system to fight sickness when we're on holidays because it's not working so hard trying to fend off all the other environmental baddies. It's a widely accepted truth that chronic disorders, such as back pain, migraines and sore throats, also disappear when we're on a break. "I have Irritable Bowel Syndrome and when I'm at work I suffer from the worst cramps," says Emily, 29. "But last year I took myself off to the Whitsundays for three weeks and it miraculously vanished. I could eat whatever I wanted to and the pain was gone!"

3. Breathe easier

Ever camped in the mountains and thought, "Gee, the air feels clean here?" Well, you're right. City pollution means the air in urban areas is more congested and dirty. To give your lungs and bloodstream a chance to clear you need around 72 hours in pure, fresh air every few months. And where will you find this? In holiday spots that are less populated, towns that are high above sea level, the snow fields, and places that are near rainforests. Your lungs are built to repair themselves so as long as you give them time to dispel any unwanted carbon monoxide you should be breathing better in no time.

4. Feel inspired

If you've lost your gusto for work then it's time for an inspiration top up. Visiting places that move you and doing things that you're passionate about are an instant fast-track to idea heaven. Stagnant surroundings make for a bored and dull you, so get your juices flowing by pumping some good endorphins into your body. And how do you do that? Sunlight, laughter, healthy food, exercise, sex and fresh air are all guaranteed to have you bouncing off the walls with enthusiasm.

5. Reconnect with your partner

Tiredness and stress are instant sexual zappers. Holiday sex on the other hand, is always hot. So the best way to reclaim that intimacy and passion is to move out of your boring, old bedroom and get it on somewhere foreign and fabulous like a secluded mountain cabin or a seaside bed and breakfast. Studies have also shown that female and male fertility rates are higher outside of polluted and congested cities. Bonus!

6. Heighten your senses

Takeaway food, cigarette smoke, pollution and sickness all affect our sense of taste and smell. "I love nothing more than tucking into a beautiful steak over a nice glass of red wine, followed by a rich chocolate pudding," says Belinda, 28. "But I've found that lately I'm just not enjoying my food as much as I used to. I'm either too busy worrying about my never ending to-do list, or I'm fighting off a cold so I can't taste anything anyway." So if you truly want to enjoy a nice, wholesome meal you need to do it on holidays.

7. Sleep better

Lower stress levels and the relative peace and quiet that comes with any good holiday are key in helping you catch up on lost sleep. There is a reason why traffic controllers are required to take break every 15 minutes, you know! Cities are noisy and traffic, boisterous colleagues, nasty neighbors and exuberant air-conditioning can all raise your cholesterol, blood pressure and the likelihood of headaches. So find somewhere peaceful to chill out and turn the volume down in your head.

8. Do your kids a favor

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics an increasing number of children are growing up in a family where both parents work full time with more than a quarter of Australians working more than 49 hours a week. Not only does this means that parents are missing out on quality time with their family, but children are being forced to hang out with their mum and dad when they're stressed, tired, moody and touchy. So why not do everyone a favour and take some time off together?

9. Be more productive

Ever ventured into the countryside and thought, "Wow the hills are so green and the sky is so blue?" There's a good reason for that you know. We're so used to the drab greys and blacks of the city that our eyes forget how much we love color. The same goes for our brain cells too. Seeing and doing the same thing every day reduces our mind's efficiency so we need new stimulants to ensure we're operating at our peak. This means taking a holiday will help you perform better at work when you get back. Is there a better excuse than that?

10. Become a nicer person

Naomi, 32, is the manager of her own fashion company and says that when she comes back from holidays her staff always comment on how much nicer she is. "It's a confidence boost for me because it reminds me that I can be a pretty cool person when I want to be," she admits. "Seeing how people respond to me when I'm calmer and more relaxed is an incentive to try and act like that all the time. When you strip away the hustle and bustle of the working week, you get to the core of who you really are. So I have vowed to take more leave in the hope that my "nice" months start to outnumber my bad ones."

Beauty of Cenang Beach, Langkawi

Pantai Cenang – Langkawi’s main vein – may not be as rowdy as the Las Vegas strip but it is Malaysia’s most developed west-coast beach; its shores are a gorgeous mix of white sand, crystalline turquoise-blue waters and verdant palms.

Crammed with mostly budget to mid-range hotels, Pantai Cenang – located 25 km west of Kuah – is also home to more than a few high-end resorts. When the sun goes down a peculiar jumble of backpackers, expats, Asian tourists and families throng the main road to eat, drink and window shop.

Discover Southeast Asia’s First UNESCO World Geopark.

In June 2007, the archipelago of Langkawi was declared Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO World Geopark. Showcasing 550 million years of geological history, including some of the world’s oldest and most intriguing naturally formed gems, Langkawi was shaped by plate tectonics, volcanic activity, ocean submersion and erosion. Today, many different rock formations have evolved into exciting natural habitats. Areas as diverse as mangrove forests and rain forests, sandstone mountains and tidal flats, caves and reefs coexist in abundance and harmony.
- See more at: http://magazine.fourseasons.com/travel-food-style/things-to-do/experiences/beach-vacation-in-langkawi#sthash.Bnw9KrHj.dpuf

scover Southeast Asia’s First UNESCO World Geopark.

In June 2007, the archipelago of Langkawi was declared Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO World Geopark. Showcasing 550 million years of geological history, including some of the world’s oldest and most intriguing naturally formed gems, Langkawi was shaped by plate tectonics, volcanic activity, ocean submersion and erosion. Today, many different rock formations have evolved into exciting natural habitats. Areas as diverse as mangrove forests and rain forests, sandstone mountains and tidal flats, caves and reefs coexist in abundance and harmony.

Embark on an exotic mangrove safari.

Explore Langkawi’s spectacular wetlands, limestone caves and secluded coves by boat and discover a unique natural oasis teeming with wildlife. A magical ecosystem of unexpected surprises, these forests of the sea are veritable mazes waiting to be discovered—from walking fish and colourful fiddler crabs to majestic eagles and scurrying monitor lizards. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Langkawi’s rich ecology with a naturalist-led boat safari direct from the Resort’s beach, and learn how the mangroves contribute to the essential cycle of life. Amid this nursery for reef creatures and marine birds, you might even glimpse elusive otters, dancing dolphins and sleeping bats.

Sail among picturesque islands.

Comprising 99 islands surrounded by placid waters, Langkawi offers perfect sailing conditions for a sunset cruise or a day of island-hopping. In recent years, Langkawi has become a recognized boating destination with four marinas, playing host to events such as the annual Royal Langkawi International Regatta. Charter a private yacht, moor on a quiet sandy bay for a picnic and swim in the tranquil lagoon before witnessing a magnificent sunset on glittering waters.

Encounter myths and legends.

Nestled in the verdant valley of Pulau Dayang Bunting lies Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden). This tranquil freshwater lake was formed when a huge limestone cave collapsed. The name was bestowed because the marble and granite bedrock formed a figure resembling a pregnant woman lying on her back. Locals believe that the lake, famed for the legend of celestial princess Mambang Sari, possesses mystical powers.

Experience Langkawi’s local side.

Pedal around on a guided bicycle excursion that meanders through Langkawi’s rural villages, and enjoy the bucolic beauty of rustic stilted wooden houses amid far-reaching vistas of rubber plantations, lush padi fields and mud-soaked water buffaloes. Watch the fisherfolk return with their day’s catch at the fishermen’s village, Kuala Teriang, then break for an afternoon tea ritual and sample delicious deep-fried banana fritters with local milk tea, freshly prepared and sold—in the afternoons only—at wooden stalls by the roadside.

Explore the magical rain forest.

At 1 million years old, Langkawi’s rain forest is one of the oldest jungles in the world. Trek the ancient tropical landscape on foot or reach remote locations by bike to discover native exotic species, including unique lime plants and sintuk (a climbing plant), rare varieties of butterflies and birds, and even giant flying squirrels. One must-see spot is Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall, a beautiful location with an unmistakably magical quality. Legend has it that it is home to mountain fairies. Shower under the cool, clear waters that cascade from the seven waterfalls, bathe in the interconnected natural pools, or simply lounge on the wide rocks and enjoy a romantic picnic beneath the tropical foliage.

Sample savoury Malaysian cuisine.

Langkawi is a paradise for gastronomes, offering a wide variety of wholesome, flavourful cuisines from Malay-Indo and Indian to Chinese and Thai. For a taste of authentic and reasonably priced Pan-Asian food, visit Langkawi’s colourful night markets, open every night at different locations around the island. In addition, two of the best local eateries to visit are Wonderland and Orkid Ria.
Established since 1993, Wonderland has a welcoming atmosphere, with an open kitchen that invites diners to view the chefs at work. Located in Kuah, it serves seafood delights such as butter lobster, juicy deep-fried squid and char-grilled tiger prawns. Simple yet delicious, the perfectly cooked food reflects Chef Soon’s motto: “Honest food for everyone from everywhere.” Head to Pantai Cenang to find Orkid Ria, another excellent seafood restaurant set in a beautiful orchid garden. The sumptuous menu includes flavourful scallop sambal and Thai-style deep-fried snapper.

Ride a cable car to Mat Cincang Peak.

The Mat Cincang mountain range is one of the oldest rock formations in Southeast Asia. To experience it fully, take an exhilarating 2.2-kilometre (1.4-mile) aerial ride in a cable car over the forest canopy and up the mountain escarpment to the summit at 708 metres (2,323 feet). Observe the 550 million-year-old sandstone outcrops, waterfalls and verdant mountain flora below while marvelling at the breathtaking 360-degree view of Langkawi’s peaks, coastline and surrounding islands.

Bird-watching on Gunung Raya.

At 881 metres (2,890 feet), Gunung Raya is Langkawi’s highest mist-covered peak. Reach the top via a winding 13-kilometre (8-mile) road or an exciting jungle trek. From the peak, you’ll see the islands of southern Thailand, Mat Cincang Mountain and the Kuah harbour. Amid the foothills of Gunung Raya, find forest birds in their natural habitat. Listen for the unique cackling noise of the great hornbill returning to nest. Bird-watching in Langkawi, home to over 190 species of birds, is best between the months of October and April, when the winter migrants visit.

Observe underwater wonders at the Pulau Payar Marine Park.

Pulau Payar, one of the most beautiful marine parks in the region, is surrounded by well-protected coral reefs that are home to numerous marine species. Enter the warm waters for a quick snorkel or slow scuba dive and discover the fascinating underwater life of the Andaman Sea. In a variety of diving conditions from flat terrain to more challenging slopes, visibility can go up to 15 metres (49 feet). Those preferring terra firma can step into the underwater observation chamber to view marine life. The largest of three other jade green islands in the marine park—Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca—Pulau Payar lies 30 kilometres (19 miles) southeast of Langkawi and is just under an hour’s boat ride away.
- See more at: http://magazine.fourseasons.com/travel-food-style/things-to-do/experiences/beach-vacation-in-langkawi#sthash.Bnw9KrHj.dpuf

scover Southeast Asia’s First UNESCO World Geopark.

In June 2007, the archipelago of Langkawi was declared Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO World Geopark. Showcasing 550 million years of geological history, including some of the world’s oldest and most intriguing naturally formed gems, Langkawi was shaped by plate tectonics, volcanic activity, ocean submersion and erosion. Today, many different rock formations have evolved into exciting natural habitats. Areas as diverse as mangrove forests and rain forests, sandstone mountains and tidal flats, caves and reefs coexist in abundance and harmony.

Embark on an exotic mangrove safari.

Explore Langkawi’s spectacular wetlands, limestone caves and secluded coves by boat and discover a unique natural oasis teeming with wildlife. A magical ecosystem of unexpected surprises, these forests of the sea are veritable mazes waiting to be discovered—from walking fish and colourful fiddler crabs to majestic eagles and scurrying monitor lizards. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Langkawi’s rich ecology with a naturalist-led boat safari direct from the Resort’s beach, and learn how the mangroves contribute to the essential cycle of life. Amid this nursery for reef creatures and marine birds, you might even glimpse elusive otters, dancing dolphins and sleeping bats.

Sail among picturesque islands.

Comprising 99 islands surrounded by placid waters, Langkawi offers perfect sailing conditions for a sunset cruise or a day of island-hopping. In recent years, Langkawi has become a recognized boating destination with four marinas, playing host to events such as the annual Royal Langkawi International Regatta. Charter a private yacht, moor on a quiet sandy bay for a picnic and swim in the tranquil lagoon before witnessing a magnificent sunset on glittering waters.

Encounter myths and legends.

Nestled in the verdant valley of Pulau Dayang Bunting lies Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden). This tranquil freshwater lake was formed when a huge limestone cave collapsed. The name was bestowed because the marble and granite bedrock formed a figure resembling a pregnant woman lying on her back. Locals believe that the lake, famed for the legend of celestial princess Mambang Sari, possesses mystical powers.

Experience Langkawi’s local side.

Pedal around on a guided bicycle excursion that meanders through Langkawi’s rural villages, and enjoy the bucolic beauty of rustic stilted wooden houses amid far-reaching vistas of rubber plantations, lush padi fields and mud-soaked water buffaloes. Watch the fisherfolk return with their day’s catch at the fishermen’s village, Kuala Teriang, then break for an afternoon tea ritual and sample delicious deep-fried banana fritters with local milk tea, freshly prepared and sold—in the afternoons only—at wooden stalls by the roadside.

Explore the magical rain forest.

At 1 million years old, Langkawi’s rain forest is one of the oldest jungles in the world. Trek the ancient tropical landscape on foot or reach remote locations by bike to discover native exotic species, including unique lime plants and sintuk (a climbing plant), rare varieties of butterflies and birds, and even giant flying squirrels. One must-see spot is Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall, a beautiful location with an unmistakably magical quality. Legend has it that it is home to mountain fairies. Shower under the cool, clear waters that cascade from the seven waterfalls, bathe in the interconnected natural pools, or simply lounge on the wide rocks and enjoy a romantic picnic beneath the tropical foliage.

Sample savoury Malaysian cuisine.

Langkawi is a paradise for gastronomes, offering a wide variety of wholesome, flavourful cuisines from Malay-Indo and Indian to Chinese and Thai. For a taste of authentic and reasonably priced Pan-Asian food, visit Langkawi’s colourful night markets, open every night at different locations around the island. In addition, two of the best local eateries to visit are Wonderland and Orkid Ria.
Established since 1993, Wonderland has a welcoming atmosphere, with an open kitchen that invites diners to view the chefs at work. Located in Kuah, it serves seafood delights such as butter lobster, juicy deep-fried squid and char-grilled tiger prawns. Simple yet delicious, the perfectly cooked food reflects Chef Soon’s motto: “Honest food for everyone from everywhere.” Head to Pantai Cenang to find Orkid Ria, another excellent seafood restaurant set in a beautiful orchid garden. The sumptuous menu includes flavourful scallop sambal and Thai-style deep-fried snapper.

Ride a cable car to Mat Cincang Peak.

The Mat Cincang mountain range is one of the oldest rock formations in Southeast Asia. To experience it fully, take an exhilarating 2.2-kilometre (1.4-mile) aerial ride in a cable car over the forest canopy and up the mountain escarpment to the summit at 708 metres (2,323 feet). Observe the 550 million-year-old sandstone outcrops, waterfalls and verdant mountain flora below while marvelling at the breathtaking 360-degree view of Langkawi’s peaks, coastline and surrounding islands.

Bird-watching on Gunung Raya.

At 881 metres (2,890 feet), Gunung Raya is Langkawi’s highest mist-covered peak. Reach the top via a winding 13-kilometre (8-mile) road or an exciting jungle trek. From the peak, you’ll see the islands of southern Thailand, Mat Cincang Mountain and the Kuah harbour. Amid the foothills of Gunung Raya, find forest birds in their natural habitat. Listen for the unique cackling noise of the great hornbill returning to nest. Bird-watching in Langkawi, home to over 190 species of birds, is best between the months of October and April, when the winter migrants visit.

Observe underwater wonders at the Pulau Payar Marine Park.

Pulau Payar, one of the most beautiful marine parks in the region, is surrounded by well-protected coral reefs that are home to numerous marine species. Enter the warm waters for a quick snorkel or slow scuba dive and discover the fascinating underwater life of the Andaman Sea. In a variety of diving conditions from flat terrain to more challenging slopes, visibility can go up to 15 metres (49 feet). Those preferring terra firma can step into the underwater observation chamber to view marine life. The largest of three other jade green islands in the marine park—Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca—Pulau Payar lies 30 kilometres (19 miles) southeast of Langkawi and is just under an hour’s boat ride away.
- See more at: http://magazine.fourseasons.com/travel-food-style/things-to-do/experiences/beach-vacation-in-langkawi#sthash.Bnw9KrHj.dpuf

scover Southeast Asia’s First UNESCO World Geopark.

In June 2007, the archipelago of Langkawi was declared Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO World Geopark. Showcasing 550 million years of geological history, including some of the world’s oldest and most intriguing naturally formed gems, Langkawi was shaped by plate tectonics, volcanic activity, ocean submersion and erosion. Today, many different rock formations have evolved into exciting natural habitats. Areas as diverse as mangrove forests and rain forests, sandstone mountains and tidal flats, caves and reefs coexist in abundance and harmony.

Embark on an exotic mangrove safari.

Explore Langkawi’s spectacular wetlands, limestone caves and secluded coves by boat and discover a unique natural oasis teeming with wildlife. A magical ecosystem of unexpected surprises, these forests of the sea are veritable mazes waiting to be discovered—from walking fish and colourful fiddler crabs to majestic eagles and scurrying monitor lizards. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Langkawi’s rich ecology with a naturalist-led boat safari direct from the Resort’s beach, and learn how the mangroves contribute to the essential cycle of life. Amid this nursery for reef creatures and marine birds, you might even glimpse elusive otters, dancing dolphins and sleeping bats.

Sail among picturesque islands.

Comprising 99 islands surrounded by placid waters, Langkawi offers perfect sailing conditions for a sunset cruise or a day of island-hopping. In recent years, Langkawi has become a recognized boating destination with four marinas, playing host to events such as the annual Royal Langkawi International Regatta. Charter a private yacht, moor on a quiet sandy bay for a picnic and swim in the tranquil lagoon before witnessing a magnificent sunset on glittering waters.

Encounter myths and legends.

Nestled in the verdant valley of Pulau Dayang Bunting lies Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden). This tranquil freshwater lake was formed when a huge limestone cave collapsed. The name was bestowed because the marble and granite bedrock formed a figure resembling a pregnant woman lying on her back. Locals believe that the lake, famed for the legend of celestial princess Mambang Sari, possesses mystical powers.

Experience Langkawi’s local side.

Pedal around on a guided bicycle excursion that meanders through Langkawi’s rural villages, and enjoy the bucolic beauty of rustic stilted wooden houses amid far-reaching vistas of rubber plantations, lush padi fields and mud-soaked water buffaloes. Watch the fisherfolk return with their day’s catch at the fishermen’s village, Kuala Teriang, then break for an afternoon tea ritual and sample delicious deep-fried banana fritters with local milk tea, freshly prepared and sold—in the afternoons only—at wooden stalls by the roadside.

Explore the magical rain forest.

At 1 million years old, Langkawi’s rain forest is one of the oldest jungles in the world. Trek the ancient tropical landscape on foot or reach remote locations by bike to discover native exotic species, including unique lime plants and sintuk (a climbing plant), rare varieties of butterflies and birds, and even giant flying squirrels. One must-see spot is Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall, a beautiful location with an unmistakably magical quality. Legend has it that it is home to mountain fairies. Shower under the cool, clear waters that cascade from the seven waterfalls, bathe in the interconnected natural pools, or simply lounge on the wide rocks and enjoy a romantic picnic beneath the tropical foliage.

Sample savoury Malaysian cuisine.

Langkawi is a paradise for gastronomes, offering a wide variety of wholesome, flavourful cuisines from Malay-Indo and Indian to Chinese and Thai. For a taste of authentic and reasonably priced Pan-Asian food, visit Langkawi’s colourful night markets, open every night at different locations around the island. In addition, two of the best local eateries to visit are Wonderland and Orkid Ria.
Established since 1993, Wonderland has a welcoming atmosphere, with an open kitchen that invites diners to view the chefs at work. Located in Kuah, it serves seafood delights such as butter lobster, juicy deep-fried squid and char-grilled tiger prawns. Simple yet delicious, the perfectly cooked food reflects Chef Soon’s motto: “Honest food for everyone from everywhere.” Head to Pantai Cenang to find Orkid Ria, another excellent seafood restaurant set in a beautiful orchid garden. The sumptuous menu includes flavourful scallop sambal and Thai-style deep-fried snapper.

Ride a cable car to Mat Cincang Peak.

The Mat Cincang mountain range is one of the oldest rock formations in Southeast Asia. To experience it fully, take an exhilarating 2.2-kilometre (1.4-mile) aerial ride in a cable car over the forest canopy and up the mountain escarpment to the summit at 708 metres (2,323 feet). Observe the 550 million-year-old sandstone outcrops, waterfalls and verdant mountain flora below while marvelling at the breathtaking 360-degree view of Langkawi’s peaks, coastline and surrounding islands.

Bird-watching on Gunung Raya.

At 881 metres (2,890 feet), Gunung Raya is Langkawi’s highest mist-covered peak. Reach the top via a winding 13-kilometre (8-mile) road or an exciting jungle trek. From the peak, you’ll see the islands of southern Thailand, Mat Cincang Mountain and the Kuah harbour. Amid the foothills of Gunung Raya, find forest birds in their natural habitat. Listen for the unique cackling noise of the great hornbill returning to nest. Bird-watching in Langkawi, home to over 190 species of birds, is best between the months of October and April, when the winter migrants visit.

Observe underwater wonders at the Pulau Payar Marine Park.

Pulau Payar, one of the most beautiful marine parks in the region, is surrounded by well-protected coral reefs that are home to numerous marine species. Enter the warm waters for a quick snorkel or slow scuba dive and discover the fascinating underwater life of the Andaman Sea. In a variety of diving conditions from flat terrain to more challenging slopes, visibility can go up to 15 metres (49 feet). Those preferring terra firma can step into the underwater observation chamber to view marine life. The largest of three other jade green islands in the marine park—Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca—Pulau Payar lies 30 kilometres (19 miles) southeast of Langkawi and is just under an hour’s boat ride away.
- See more at: http://magazine.fourseasons.com/travel-food-style/things-to-do/experiences/beach-vacation-in-langkawi#sthash.Bnw9KrHj.dpuf

Island Hoping Langkawi Video

This trip is by a fast boat which will take four hours to cover 3 islands. 
One of the island that you will stopover is the Pulau Dayang Bunting (Island of the Pregnant Maiden) with the Pregnant Maiden Lake (a freshwater lake). 

This beautiful island has a unique and interesting legend about the fairy princess who lost her child and decided to lay her child to rest in peace in the lake. And for that, she blesses all the childless and infertile women to be conceivable after bathing in the lake.
Then, the Pulau Singa Besar, the untouched island, being undeveloped to preserve its precious nature, with no basic amenities. The last island of the tour is Pulau Beras Basah - one of the most well-known islands, a perfect getaway with its white sandy beach and the lush green forest that surrounds the island for you to relax and clear all your tensions.  


Daily departures:  9.00 am and 2.00 pm
You will be picked-up from your hotel and brought to the jetty in Teluk Baru.
                                       
1.  Pulau Dayang Bunting (Pregnant Maiden Island)
     You will haver one hour to roam about or trackking down to  
     the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden (a freshwater lake).  You can 
     swim, paddle and canoe in the lake.

2.  Pulau Singa Besar (Big Lion Island)
     Stopover to watch the eagle feeding.

3.  Pulau Beras Basah (Wet Rice Island)
     Here we have an other hour for swimming, sunbathing,  
     snorkelling and other beach activities. It is a private island  
     where there is an eating stall, a chalet and basic
     utilities.

Picture Tourist Guide with Customers

Langkawi Tourism Video

Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah (Malay: Langkawi Permata Kedah) is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah, which is adjacent to the Thailand border. On July 15, 2008, Sultan Abdul Halim of Kedah had consented to the change of name to Langkawi Permata Kedah in conjunction with his Golden Jubilee Celebration. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 64,792, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district with the town of Kuah as largest town. Langkawi is a duty-free island.

Top 10 Things to Do in Langkawi

1. Cable Car & Skybridge

Taking you on a vertiginous 20-minute ride to the apex of the imposing Gunung Machinchang, this experience offers some pretty spectacular views of the lush surrounding mountainside greenery as you ascend in gondolas. You can purchase tickets at the Oriental Village – a charming pseudo-French old-style Chinese town. At the top of the mountain is the Skybridge – a curved suspension bridge – which affords awesome views of the island.

2.  Al-Hana Mosque

 Located in Kuah, this golden onion domed mosque features intricate Moorish architecture. Although located within the bustling streets of Kuah, this house of worship manages to maintain its imposing mystique. Featuring motifs and carvings from Uzbekistan along with time-honoured Malay elements, it is the best-known mosque on the island as well as the largest.

3. Dataran Lang

Also known as ‘Eagle Square’, this massive 12-metre tall monument of a sea eagle preparing for flight stands beside the Kuah Jetty and greets arriving visitors to Langkawi. This attraction is surrounded by landscaped ponds, terraces and bridges. You’ll be most comfortable visiting during the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat.

4. Galleria Perdana

 Housing a variety of gifts offered to former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahatir, this museum is actually a good way to gain insight into some of Malaysia’s political accomplishments. Gifts from a variety of global leaders are displayed throughout the museum, ranging from lovely Malay wooden architecture to an ample collection of motor vehicles. The out-of-doors greenhouse is home to a collection of plants from various regions of the world.

5. Legendary Langkawi In the Garden

 Located within Kuah this 50-hectare ‘folklore’-themed park is basically a skilfully landscaped garden. Featuring a narrow strip of manmade beach this recreational park boasts 17 multihued statues depicting Langkawi’s myths and fables. The park has four manmade lakes and is a popular spot for joggers.

6. Langkawi Bird Paradise And Widlife Park

This Langkawi attraction may not seem like much from the outside – the interior, on the other hand, is home to a tropical garden brimming with over 150 species of exotic birds, including toucans, hornbills and flamingos. This is a not-to-be-missed Langkawi attraction especially on a rainy day, since the walkways are covered.

7. Mahsuri's Tomb

 Mahsuri Tomb is a historical complex that houses the shrine of a Malay princess who was unjustly accused of adultery and sentenced to death. The grounds are dominated by an enclosed slab of white stone as well as a recreation of a traditional Malay house. The attraction is also home to a theatre – where musical performances take place – and a few food shops.

8. Sungai Kilim Nature Park

 This tour will get you up close and personal with Langkawi’s famous brahminy kites and sea eagles as well as give you a closer look at some spectacular mangrove swamps. The boats are located at the pier and they take you down the winding river to the swamps where you can see a lush collection of flora and fauna.

9. Sunset Dinner Cruise

The sunset dinner cruise is quite possibly the ultimate way to savour Langkawi Island’s raw lush beauty. Hop onto this cruise ship and spend some time ‘riding the waves’ Jacuzzi-style via a trawling net before you sample some simply sumptuous barbecue fare. Later sip on a cocktail, from the open bar, and kick back, relax and take in the sights of some of Langkawi’s most beautiful islets. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a romantic evening with your partner and also an all-round fun time.

10. Underwater World

Voted the 1996/1997 Best Manmade Tourist Attraction in Malaysia by the Tourism Malaysia Awards, Underwater World Langkawi is a complex that houses more than 100 specially designed tanks and over 500 species of animals and sea creatures. The family-friendly complex is divided into three sections – Tropical Rainforest, Temperate and Sub-Antarctic. One of its highlights is the 15-metre, six million litre walk-through underwater tunnel tank, home to sharks, giant stingrays and green turtles.

info from :  http://www.langkawi-info.com