The Startling Trip to Langkawi Islands

It was late Friday night in September 2018. I was preparing to hit the bed, when my phone rang.

“Hey Rich, we have a burning issue in Malaysia, can you fly tomorrow?”, requested my boss, her voice sounding perturbed.

A new travel destination, a new restaurant or a new book- the very idea of treading the unknown path is exciting to me. I didn’t even blink before thrusting my neck out- after all, I was excited to see Malaysia, a melting pot of culture.

Without losing any time, I assumed charge and flew to Kuala Lumpur next morning. I was incredibly excited to meet my local team with whom I brainstormed ideas and devised strategy. Building synergy with the client started showing positive results during the first week. Weekend was approaching and I was determined to do something adventurous before an upcoming overloaded week at work.

“There will be a few times in your life when all your instincts will tell you to do something, something that defies logic, upsets your plans, and may seem crazy to others. When that happens, you do it. Listen to your instincts and ignore everything else. Ignore logic, ignore the odds, ignore the complications, and just go for it”- Consumed by wanderlust and a vibrant heart for the unknown, I set forth on a solo-trip to Langkawi Islands on Saturday morning, without much planning or homework.

I started with the cable-car adventure and was electrified by the sight of turquoise sea and the picturesque paddy fields. I was staying in a resort along Pantai Cenang -close to the clear waters and the white sands. I booked a mangrove tour package next morning at 9am.

But man proposes, and God disposes. I woke up next morning half past nine, and missed my trip. Time for change of plans!! I grabbed a ‘Grab’ for the Eagle square, the landmark of the Island. And yes, the best moment was the much coveted-selfie with the majestic Eagle-the emblem of the Island. Next, I strolled across the duty- free shops and after a bit of bargain-hunting, got exquisite batik shirts, souvenirs, tax-free alcohol, and confectionary products. Langkawi is undoubtedly a shopper’s paradise.

It was mid-day and I stopped by for lunch where I soon learnt that there were solo-mangrove trips offered during the day from Tanjung Rhu beach, of course at a premium price. As a wildlife enthusiast, I did not want to miss the chance to explore the serene Kilim Geoforest park. The 2 hour private boat tour turned out to be totally worth it. The friendly boat driver guided through the mangroves. Watching the eagles, the fish farm and the bat cave was a highlight and indeed, a very unique experience.

I spent my evening relaxing on the beach and enjoyed the sunset with a cocktail and live music in the Thirst Day Bar. The short and sweet trip to Langkawi Islands was coming to an end.

Next morning, I took an early morning flight to resume work at Kuala Lumpur. As, I look back, I can’t believe I did it and I felt happy for "its better to see something once, than hear about it a thousand times.”