Just Back: Malaysia (Penang & Langkawi)

cocktails on the beach at The Datai Langkawi

During my recent trip to Malaysia with EXO Travel, we started our journey in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, which I shared in a recent post. After leaving Ipoh, we traveled north to Penang and then to Langkawi which could each merit their own trip. Some travelers add Penang and Langkawi to an itinerary that starts in Singapore or Bangkok. Penang is quite well connected for international flights, but Langkawi is not. You may also come through via a cruise ending in Penang or KL and want to add on a post-cruise experience in at least one of these destinations. And Belmond recently launched their Eastern & Oriental luxury train itineraries that take you from Singapore to Langkawi by rail in 3 days - adding on a few nights in Langkawi sounds like the perfect end to this trip. 

Penang

Penang was the only destination in our itinerary that I had already visited. Penang is an island in the northwest of Malaysia; the main historical part is George Town and this is where the majority of the population resides. It’s also where most visitors stay, especially for their first visit. Penang, specifically George Town, is a fun city, smaller in scale than KL, but with many restaurants, bars, and shopping streets. It’s also known for its street art and you’ll find it all over town. 

Penang really excels at history and food - those were the primary experiences we had during our stay. We did both a food tour and a heritage walking tour while in Penang, though there are plenty of excursions that can take you out into nature should you want a break from the city. 

In George Town we stayed at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, a historic (and very large) property on the water. This was probably my favorite hotel we stayed in while in Malaysia. You are immediately taken back in time to 1920 when you arrive and there is a wealth of history and charm to be found around each corner. The rooms are all suites - with butler service - and you’ll find historic touches like old-school light switches in the rooms. 

After one night in George Town, we traveled to the northern coast of Penang, Batu Feringgi, which is the resort area on the island. It’s an option if you aren’t traveling anywhere beachy during the rest of your time in Malaysia, but otherwise can be skipped in favor of Langkawi. While in Batu Feringgi, we stayed at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, a sprawling resort with stunning views of the water and a gorgeous spa on site. This is a very family friendly property, but because of its size, the hotel’s wings are split so one is more family focused while the other is more adult-oriented. 

Highlights: Penang is a foodie destination and great for food tours, cooking classes, and more. The city is charming, and you will find photo-worthy streets lined with boutiques and cafes. You can also get out of the city and into nature with extra time, including a stay in Batu Ferringi if a resort is on your list. (If you are going to Langkawi, skip Penang’s beaches!)

How Long to Stay: At least 2 nights, but would suggest 3 nights especially if you want to explore outside of George Town. 

When to Go: Best time to visit is December through February (dry and pleasant weather, though peak for tourists). Or opt for shoulder season in April-May and September-October. 

Langkawi

Our final destination was the one we were most excited about - Langkawi. Langkawi is made up of about 99 islands and is a short flight from Penang (about 35 minutes). This is a resort destination ideal for nature lovers and those that want to chill out in paradise. 

What’s great about Langkawi is that it is still relatively undeveloped compared to other resort islands in the region. I overheard someone say that Langkawi is what Bali was 30 years ago. There is infrastructure on the island, there are five luxury hotels scattered around the island - but you won’t find many shops, malls, restaurants, or other development as you drive around the island. It’s quiet and relaxed, with a strong focus on nature and wildlife preservation. This is the type of destination that still feels like a bit of a secret. 

Langkawi is just 22 miles from Thailand - our phones thought we were in Thailand a few times - and it’s easy to pair this destination with places in Thailand…just be aware of travel logistics. It’s not so easy to fly between various islands in Southeast Asia, and many times you will be made to fly through a hub like Singapore, KL, or Bangkok. However, Penang is relatively connected and an easier option for getting between some of the tropical islands. 

We stayed at The Datai, the most eco-luxe and jungle luxury hotel on the island. This is a sprawling resort and the staff can take you around the property by golf cart (or buggy) with a quick phone call. There are a mix of rooms and villas, some on the beach and with private pools, as well as many dining options on site and two pools along with beach access. Because you are in the jungle, expect to see wildlife just outside your window. There’s a Nature Center on site where you can take rainforest tours (morning and evening) and learn more about life on the island. It’s a stunning hotel and ideal for those who want to surround themselves with nature (with all of the luxury amenities). The hotel offers a wide range of activities for guests on and off site; most guests don’t really leave the property once they arrive since the drive is about 30-45 minutes anywhere you want to go on the island. 

While on the island, we also toured The Danna, a more colonial style hotel, which also has gorgeous beach villas. It’s far less of a jungle environment and more of a polished beach resort. I really liked this property as an alternative to The Datai because it’s 1) fully air conditioned and 2) has a more historic vibe. The villas are incredible and offer a more modern style accommodation with direct beach access (and a private pool). There’s something for everyone on Langkawi! 

Highlights: Take a mangrove tour for the best chance to see the island’s iconic wildlife, including the eagles the island is named after (Langkawi translates to island of the reddish-brown eagle). Check out the island’s cable car and skybridge for breathtaking views of the island and surroundings (including nearby Thailand).  

How Long to Stay: As long as you can! Many guests stay for at least 7 nights, if not longer. Ideally paired with time in Penang or could be tacked on to the end of a cruise or train itinerary that ends nearby. The Datai is one of Belmond’s partners for their E&O train so guests can disembark from the train and spend time relaxing on the island. 

Where to Stay: The Datai is great for nature lovers and those looking for an eco-luxe resort. Opt for The Danna if you want 5-star accommodations at a lower price point with a gorgeous pool and beach area. The Four Seasons Langkawi is the best beach luxury hotel, now adding two-bedroom villas to better accommodate families. If you are interested in a more modern and contemporary option, consider the Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis. 

When to Go: The dry season runs from November to April. You’ll have more rain May through October. 

If you’re curious about where to go in Malaysia or how to plan your own trip to Southeast Asia, let’s chat.