Local Knowledge

Taxis

Taxis are cheap in Langkawi. In the more developed areas of the island, such as Pantai Cenang or Pantai Tengah, you can easily flag one down outside of your hotel. Otherwise, ask the concierge or a member of staff to call one for you.

Tipping culture

Not the norm; most establishments add a 10 per cent service charge to your bill.

Siesta and fiesta

Most shops open at 10.30am or 11am and close between 6pm and 7pm. Restaurants and cafés ply their trade in the evenings from about 6pm onwards; many also serve lunch or mid-afternoon snacks.

Packing tips

Light cotton and linen clothes that scream, ‘I’m in a ridiculously relaxed, sunny frame of mind’. Mosquito repellent to avoid becoming an insect buffet; jungle attire for trekkers.

Recommended reads

IB: A Life – The Autobiography of Ibrahim Hussein, celebrating the respected Malay artist whose work is exhibited on Langkawi. Take stock with A Short History of Malaysia: Linking East and West by Virginia Matheson Hooker.

Cuisine

Blending rice, spice, noodles and seafood, traditional Malay food is a must-try. For the most popular dining areas, hightail it to Kuah town, Telaga Harbour, Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah. The latter two brim with every kind of restaurant imaginable – from upmarket, trendy eateries to backpacker cafés. Chow down on char kway teow or nosh on nasi campur for some local street cred.

Currency

The Malaysian ringgit (RM) – the exchange rate is roughly RM7 to £1; RM3 to $1.

Time zone

GMT +8 hours

Dialling codes

Malaysia: +60; Langkawi: 4 (04 when dialling within Malaysia).

Do go/don't go

Langkawi enjoys consistently good weather all year round. Showers during the August and September rainy season are usually short and sharp, providing just enough downtime for a quick nap.