Langkawi: the jewel of Kedah

On the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi is a mountainous group of 99 islands that, partly thanks to their duty-free status, are some of Malaysia’s most visited. On the main island, ride the SkyCab cable car up into the tree-blanketed hills for glistening views, or take your towel down to sandy Cenang Beach for some sunbathing and a drink at a beachside bar. For a day trip, book onto a boat tour heading south to the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden on Langkawi’s heavily forested sister island, Dayang Bunting. You’ll find a monkey colony with residents who are happy to join you for lunch – or swipe it out of your hands altogether.