Those Tropical Sunset Cruises

Langkawi’s archipelago is comprised of 99 islands (104 at low tide!) with towering limestone cliffs, tropical rain forest, coral reefs and deserted beaches. To appreciate this beauty even more, an offshore excursion is just the ticket.  Exploration of those outer islands and the views from the sea can be experienced with day or sunset cruises
and they are a lot more affordable than most people realize.

All aboard!

All aboard!

Tropical Charters of Langkawi offers day and sunset cruises that are not only reasonably priced, the memories will indeed be priceless. Tropical Charters
55′ catamaran Seasation is just the vessel for your introduction into the world of offshore cruising.
As you board Seasation from the dock at Porto Awana the crew is on hand for assistance as you gain your sea legs   and will put even the most first-time-on-a-boat-land-person at ease. On a sunny afternoon the upper deck is a bird’s eye view of the surrounding vista or the comfy lounging mats on the foredeck beckon the sun lovers. Even with the maximum capacity of 60 people on board this large vessel never feels crowded and
you’ll find the perfect spot to call your own.

Mixing and mingling on Seasation is a guaranteed good time!

Mixing and mingling on Seasation is a guaranteed good time!

Once the Captain orders the lines cast off, the crew comes around to offer  beverages of choice; cocktails, beer, wine, juice or soft drinks. Passengers have already settled into  ‘cruise control’ comfort as the Seasation  glides past the harbor entrance into the main channel towards the setting sun.  An easy and effortless introduction to cruising the islands is what this adventure is all about as well as a chance to see some spectacular
scenery.

Ahh..the archipelos.

Ahh..the archipelos.

As Seasation enters the calmer and the more protected outer island channel the crew launches a large rope net behind the boat to create what has become known as the ‘Saltwater Jacuzzi’. The net is slowly pulled through the water as the boat continues its journey in amongst the islands. Even for the more faint at heart the crew is always on hand to assist you in and out of the net!

'Red Sky" at night, sailor's delight.

‘Red Sky” at night, sailor’s delight.

The aroma of the barbeque wafting through the galley is the perfect addition to the sunset cruise experience, as Seasation turns her bow turns to the western horizon with the sun  slowly makes its sunset decent. The Captain announces that dinner is on and yes dinner is on! A huge spread of Satay, Chicken and Prawns hot from the grill, Beef Rendang, Salads, Nasi Goreng and a variety of noodle dishes such as Mee Goreng Mamak are spread out on the long buffet counter in the main cabin ‘family’ style.

Tasty BBQ!

Tasty BBQ!

After the last remnants of the meal are cleared away platters of fresh fruit are brought around as the beat of the music from lower cabin’ speakers creates a floating dance party Tropical Charters style. And for those who don’t have ‘dance fever’ the upper deck and front of the boat offer a respite from the often lively crowd within.

No dance partner needed!

No dance partner needed!

Sea air, good food, beautiful tropical islands drifting by as the sun sinks as a fiery red globe beneath waves. The Red Sky  at night is indeed a sailor’s delight and reaffirms that Langkawi’s archipelago is truly paradise.

Tropical Charters
Kedai No. 3, Jalan Telok Baru, Pantai Tengah, Langkawi
Tel: (04) 955 3407 / H/P: (01 )2 588 3274
Fax: (04) 955 4407
info@tropicalcharters.com.my
www.tropicalcharters.com.my/

 

Jet Skis: the good, the bad and the just plain fun

Jet Skis are present everywhere these days and many only see them as the loud crafts that speed up and down the waterfront invading erstwhile swimmer’s  space. Some would like to see them banned from certain areas all together due to the noise, pollution and potential danger to wildlife (and people). But there’s another side to Jet Skis and what they offer, especially in Langkawi.

Low emission jet skis? Who knew!?

Low emission jet skis? Who knew!?

Mega Water Sports is one of the newer and ‘eco-friendly’ operators on the Island. They have invested in a fleet of low emission Jet Skis that reduce sound levels, air and water pollution. They also enforce a pragmatic safety program and everyone that contracts with Mega Water Sports goes through a comprehensive safety orientation. So no shore-line trick riding for these folks.

Learning the secret safety signals prior to take off.

Learning the secret safety signals prior to take off.

I was a bit skeptical about this new sightseeing vehicle, especially in Langkawi.
But I have to say that Mega Water Sports not only cares about the environment, they’ve opened up an entirely new way to see the magnificent islands and geological formations of the Langkawi Archipelago.

Saying hello to one of those 99 magical islands.

Saying hello to one of those 99 magical islands.

It’s also their policy to keep the tours away from populated beaches as much as possible, as well as reducing speeds when near those shore lines. And just in case an occasional errant ‘rebel-rider’ has other ideas, each of these top-of-the-line Jet Skis also has a speed governor to prevent riders from exceeding a safe speed limit.

Most guests can appreciate their responsibility to follow the 'rules'.

Most guests can appreciate their responsibility to follow the ‘rules’.

Before you board your Jet Ski you go through a briefing on water safety, how the tour is going to work, how the Jet Ski is run and how you deal with issues that may arise once you’re out on the water. Trained staff members explain this in an easy to comprehend ‘first-timer’ language.

Proper jet ski operating is explained in detail.

Proper jet ski operating is explained in detail.

The staff spends up to a month in training before being awarded the position of a tour operator. This training includes water rescue, evacuation procedures and how to deal with sometimes unruly participants. Alcohol and Jet Skis don’t mix and there’s a zero tolerance policy at Mega Water Sports.

Guides you can trust!

Guides you can trust!

Having a slight prejudice from my own shore based experience of witnessing
Jet Ski rider antics; I was surprised by just how much fun this form of water adventure can be. Especially when done responsibly. This was obvious by my ear-to-ear grin as I followed the tour leaders across the water. Seeing the outer islands on a jet ski brings you much closer to the surrounding offshore nature and it’s certainly a “Wow” experience well worth experiencing at least once in your lifetime.

A stop at the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.

A stop at the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.

Running almost underneath the tall limestone formations, taking a swim out in the bay and seeing sea life and birds such as the Sea Eagle and Brimini Kite fly in formation was an eye opening experience.  The guides take great care not scare the wildlife and travel as unobtrusive as possible into their environment.

The tranquility of an offshore island.

The tranquility of an offshore island.

Using a Jet Ski to explore places that are not as approachable by more conventional craft opens you to new insights and creates a better understanding of the complex environment of the Langkawi Archipelago. It’s educational as well as fun and often times those ‘rebel’ riders give Jet Skiing a bad rap, so signing on with a reputable company helps ensure higher standards.

It's great for families too!

It’s great for families too!

Jet Ski tours at Mega Water Sports are best booked directly through their website or by phone if you’re looking for the best price. But this is one experience where you’ll not question the value for the ringgit. And remember, although reputable companies may be a bit more pricey there’s a direct correlation in proper equipment maintenance and staff training to ensure the balance between safety and savings.

Mega Water Sports in Pantai Cenang
Tel: (60)1 2389 0801 / (60)1 2200 2155
sales@megawatersports.com
www.megawatersports.com
see location ( HERE )

 

Red Sky Restaurant & Bar

Considering Red Sky Restaurant & Bar ended up located next to a restaurant with a similar name, they’ve carved out their own Pantai Cenang niche becoming one of the favored landing spots for locals and tourists alike. Sometimes overlooked within their foliage laden enclave, the shady street-side restaurant and bar creates a perfect little tropical oasis.

The early afternoon shady haven.

The early afternoon shady haven.

Since day one, their decor has stayed minimalist and clutter free creating a slightly edgy seaside dining venue. The contemporary wall graphics, stone faced bar and simple but modern furniture give Red Sky a more progressive ambiance than most of the other restaurants on Langkawi. Add to that, the consistency
of quality in both food and service in addition to eclectic combinations of international flavors and you indeed have “Big City Variety , Small Town Prices“.

Edgy decor that works.

Edgy decor that works.

Red Sky’s hours coincide well with their competitor next door, opening in time for lunch and closing at 11pm results in an inviting hotspot for the late dinner crowd as well as  those looking for a place to start their evenings with a cold beverage. Red Sky also has happy hour(s) from 4pm to 8pm with all beer, wine and well drinks discounted.

They also 'Ace' customer service!

They also ‘Ace’ customer service!

And if you order a jug of beer it comes with a side of their delicious Onion Rings or French Fries. And for those getting revved for the evening order a beer tower and you’ll score a free order of their famous Chicken Wings.

Chicken wings? Check!

Chicken wings? Check!

The menu offers an extensive menu of both Malaysian and Western food.  The homemade spring rolls, nachos, fresh satay and of course the chicken wings is a great way to start the meal. The Red Sky Chicken Curry and Green Curry are consistent crowd-pleasers as well as their famous Moroccan Lamb Shank. And for those looking for pizza? The Red Sky’s pizzas are all baked on the daily made ‘Dato’ crust ‘created’ by none other than owner Dato Alex. All are 12″ pizzas and the crust is thin and perfectly baked!

Morroccon lamb, lamb on the spit? Check!

Morroccon lamb, lamb on the spit? Check!

With a comfortable seating capacity of 50, Red Sky’s indoor-outdoor venue under the stars is also great for private parties as well as large groups. And now the evenings don’t have to end there, as the new D’Upstairs Jazz Club is well, just upstairs. The low lighting, comfortable seating and softly lit back bar is a
one-of-a-kind entertainment venue in Pantai Cenang with music from both local and visiting musicians.

Sometimes the upstairs entertainment comes downstairs!

Sometimes the upstairs entertainment comes downstairs!

It may not be common knowledge that “Red Sky” is also a sailing term referring to fiery sunsets (quite similar to Langkawi’s) being predictive of a gorgeous following day, calm seas and happy sailing. The kind of day most people embrace.
Red Sky Restaurant & Bar has raised the bar on dining and entertainment in Pantai Cenang and you just can’t beat the “Big City Variety , Small Town Prices“.

Red Sky Restaurant & Bar
No. 6, Casa Fina Avenue,  Pantai Cenang
Tel: +604-955 8734 / +604-955 8736
Email: info@redsky.com.my,
http://www.redsky.com.my/

The Datai, Luxury in the Rainforest

 One could easily get lost at The Datai, with the maze of trails intertwined within her lush jungle premises, but a pondering soul could ‘find’ themselves as well. It’s difficult to think beyond the immediate when one’s mental workings are competing with the vast beauty of a rainforest and the many nuances of nature.

It's a jungle out there, in a good way.

It’s a jungle out there, in a good way.

And that may be one of the things that set The Datai on its own resort pedestal, at least in my opinion. A stay at The Datai is a sensory smorgasbord and perfect for anyone in need of a relaxing complication-free holiday. A respite for the think-too-much weary.

The sacred Lotus welcoming committee.

One of the many stress-free zones.

As a self contained rather isolated resort complete with luxury accommodations, exquisite dining options and on-site award winning spa services, decision making embraces the ‘be here now’ concept. The Datai’s customer service team is so in-tuned to guest’s comforts that no stone is left unturned in the pampering department, from the daily smiles to the turned down bed at night.

Attention to detail goes a long way!

Can’t see the ‘forest’ for the trees? That’s the point, right?

For single travelers The Datai allows time for reflecting. For families, with uninterrupted time together often all too precious, a chance to reconnect. But for the romantically inclined? the lingering romance factor is irresistible. The combination of luxury and primordial rainforest can be a powerful aphrodisiac!

The romantic inspirations of nature abound!

Did I mention the oh-so-comfortable beds?

The Datai has 124 accommodation styles to choose from, each unique in design and location from Jungle and Beach Villas to Poolside Suites. The rooms are all luxuriously spacious starting at a comfortable 62.5 square meters to the enormous 258 square meter  Datai suite.

My beautiful Jungle Villa.

One of the cosy alcove day beds.

The choices don’t end there. The Beach Villas offer even more privacy and a secluded enclosed garden. They open onto a 10-meter pool and sundeck and have a view of the beach beyond.

Romantic, no?

Another stress-free zone.

But for those visitors wanting even more… the Villa Hutan Datai with 550 square meters is perched on the hillside among the trees of the rainforest.  The ultimate opulent hideaway. Whether traveling with a group or family to the single guests or romantically inclined The Datai will leave you with irreplaceable memories.

Nothing beats a luxurious private pool.

Did I mention the exquisite view? Villa Hutan Datai takes the gold!

Even after 20 years, The Datai is breathtaking. Nature’s landscaping at its finest and enviable interior decors are beyond picturesque. The surrounding calls of the jungle are natures continual relaxing soundtrack announcing all is well. Beach enthusiasts will also appreciate the quiet serene seaside as the perfect place to do nothing. When your vacation plan is to have no plans? The Datai is perfect.

The Datai Langkawi
Jalan Teluk Datai , Pulau Langkawi
Tel : +60 4 959 2500
Fax : +60 4 959 2602
Email : infodatailangkawi@dataihotels.com
http://www.dataihotels.com/home

 

Sharing Cultural Heritage in Southeast Asia, Through Blogging

Blogging has become an important communication tool for the world and the passionate voices that emerge from this not-so-new venue inspire, enlighten, educate, amuse, inform and give hope. For some it’s a set-in-stone format and for others simple on-line diatribes with no rules. Grammar, format, photo layout be damned! This is one of the things that inspires me, because anyone can be a blogger and be heard…even me.

'Fellow' BLOGGERS inspire!

‘Fellow’ BLOGGERS inspire!

As I’ve rather recently jumped into this amazing arena of new wave journalism, I’ve met many people and seen the vast world through their eyes. Those real voices speak to me much louder than fluffy reviews or advertorials, especially when it comes to restaurants, hotels, sightseeing and even spas.

What tales will these people share of their travels?

What tales will these people share of their travels?

In fact a recent ‘review’ of a spa convinced me to go there only to be sadley disappointed when the polish immediately rubbed off my toes and my newly manicured finger caught on fire the next day! Ouch indeed on both accounts. So yes, I give much more credence to the ‘real’ voices that are emerging these days through blogging. I also try to adhere to those guidelines myself, without being unkind with thoughtless words and criticisms.
*Just a note, I did return to that particular business to politely inform them, but they didn’t seem as shocked as I was or offer a refund… go figure right?

I really appreciate good food, friendly staff and great customer service.

Having read far more blogs these past couple of years than any advertorial journalistic pieces in ‘tourist’ rags, I’ve learned of some of the best inside scoops on travel, food, culture and society. And I applaud any country that takes their blogging community seriously, especially when it comes to tourism and travel.

Reading people’s first hand travel experiences can be priceless information.

And the beauty of tourism and travel is that they embrace every nuance of the world, from architecture to food, from customer service to culture. Those aspects get me excited about travel, cultural experiences and especially meeting new people!

And I love meeting new people!

And I love meeting new people!

Malaysia has in the past two years embraced their blogging community with two successful blogger conferences and social media events, Malaysian International Tourism Blogger Conference & Awards 2012 and 2013. I attended both MITBCA events and was honored to be a guest speaker in 2013. Am I inspired? You bet! Has it raised my desire to see and do and blog even more? Absolutely!

Embracing the many aspects of local culture inspires me.

As I do my daily search on line for usable content for my website and social media endeavors, I often find hidden gems. A link in one place leads to a link somewhere else and my morning path goes off in many directions, all filled with glorious information. Time consuming but a fascinating look at the world around me. May sound corny to some, but I love it!

Social media rocks, no?

Social media rocks, no?

And that’s how I met Asianita, the spokes diva for Air Asia, one of the sponsors of  the ASEAN Blogger Festival 2013 event…
Screen Shot 2013-04-03 at 1.25.47 PM

As I went to Facebook ‘message’ a fellow blogger , I noticed another blogger had told him about a blogger conference coming up in Indonesia..hmm, how come
I hadn’t heard about that?
And as I  investigating further, I found an entire community of bloggers were converging in Jakarta to celebrate their unified Southeast Asian voices at  ASEAN Blogger Festival 2013, set for May 10-12, 2013.
asean
ASEAN is the brain child for a unified Southeast Asia ‘region’; a region rich in culture and history. Do I want to participate in this event? Absolutely! To put faces to the many ASEAN blogger voices will be further inspiration for my own ‘voice’ as well as how I see Southeast Asia. And I plan to see a lot more of Southeast Asia, because thanks to Air Asia, now everyone can fly, even me!