| FUN FACT
 INSIDER TIP
Visitors can journey to Tarutao National Park in neighbouring Thailand by riding the Langkawi Cable Car to the summit of Mt Machincang.
SHOP TALK
As a duty-free island, Langkawi boasts many places to shop and Malaysians flock to the Langkawi Fair on weekends to snap up household goods and enjoy the wide range of restaurants. Jln Persiaran Putra, Kuah, tel: +60 (0)4 969 8100
JAVA JOLT
The Loaf serves a unique “deep-freeze latte” using frozen coffee ice blocks, sugar syrup and milk. Just the thing to beat the heat and at RM9 (S$4/A$3) it leaves change to buy some of the shop’s delicious Japanese pastries. Perdana Quay, Telaga Harbour, tel: +60 (04) 959 4866, www.theloaf.net
CHEAP EATS
One of a number of eateries near the airport specialising in nasi campur (a lunch of rice, meats and vegetables), B&Z Sempoy offers a selection of about 30 curry and vegetable dishes at remarkably low prices. Arrive early or risk missing out. Padang Matsirat
TOP TABLES
Laidback eatery L’Osteria serves authentic Italian favourites courtesy of Chef Lorenzo. Try his osso bucco (braised veal shanks) and delicious pizzas and order from a drinks list that features both wine and grappa. Jln Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, tel: +60 (0)4 494 9235
AT YOUR LEISURE
Take an early-morning nature walk with famed naturalist Irshad Mobarak of Langkawi Nature, Wildlife and Birding Tours and feast your eyes on the beauty of the archipelago’s lush rainforests. www.junglewalla.com
LATE & LIVELY
Sunba gets loud when the band gets into high gear. Until then, drink, play pool and relax in this rustic but welcoming bar. Jln Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, tel: +60 (0)4 953 1801, www.. sungroup-langkawi.com
OVERNIGHT
Located on the west coast of the island, Meritus Palangi Beach Resort & Spa sits on 30 acres of beachfront. Designed to depict a kampong or village, the resort’s 51 chalets are equipped with every modern convenience. Pantai Cenang, tel: +60 (0)4 952 8888, www.. meritus-hotels.com
LANGKAWI: DAVID BOWDEN
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