Day 33: A Day at the Pool – Langkawi 101

Today is a day for relaxation. We’re lounging by the pool in the lush gardens of our hotel, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. It also seems like the perfect opportunity to share some background on Langkawi.  

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Dear Malaysian readers: 
AWAS! This blog post might be boring for you—but enjoy the photos and pool stories!  

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Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands in Malaysia's Andaman Sea, right at the border with Thailand. Known for its breathtaking rainforests, scenic beaches—both lively and secluded—and its UNESCO-recognized geopark with mangroves, limestone caves, and unique rock formations that tell stories millions of years old. The name “Langkawi” is believed to come from the Malay words helang (eagle) and kawi (reddish-brown), referencing the majestic Brahminy Kites that soar over the island. These striking reddish-brown and white birds have become a proud symbol of Langkawi.  

Brahminy Kites with a wingspan up to 130 cm. Source Wikipedia

However, Langkawi wasn’t always the jewel it is today. Compared to its southern neighbor, Penang Island, Langkawi was once considered the “gray, underdeveloped sister.” That changed dramatically in 1987, when Malaysia’s Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad spearheaded an ambitious plan to transform Langkawi into a major tourist destination. Declaring it a duty-free zone was the catalyst for growth and rapid development of infrastructure, resorts, and attractions that brought international recognition.  In the years since, Langkawi’s population has nearly doubled to around 100,000 people, the majority of whom are ethnic Malays (~84%).

Important: the weather

The weather here is wonderfully simple—almost the same all year round.

You’ll always know what to wear: t-shirts and shorts. Just remember, colors matter! Temperatures hover comfortably between 25°C and 33°C, with humidity levels ranging from 75% to 85%. The only thing that changes is the number of rainy days, which can vary between 3 and 23 days per month—and the rainfall? Nearly double what you’d see in Germany.

My advice? Leave the sweaters and snow boots behind, but don’t forget to pack an umbrella—it’s your best friend for both the blazing sun and sudden downpours.

And now, back to poolside serenity… 🌴☀️

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Choosing the right place for the day:
A Malaysian version of a German Strandkorb

Another model for newly married couples

Garden pond in front of the restaurant

My favorite plant: Bougainvillea
Crooked like a bonsai but 3m high


Location: Pantai Cenang, 07000, Kedah, Malaysia

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