Listed as one of the 10 most beautiful islands on the planet, easily accessible and with duty-free status too, it is surprising that it remains such a hidden gem. The island of Langkawi is 30km (19miles) off the west coast of Malaysia, close to the border with Thailand. It is just 100km north of Penang (a day trip by ferry) and is the main island in the 100 islands which make up the Langkawi archipelago.Langkawi is beautiful, but it is not just the natural beauty Sunset cruise langkawi which draws visitors. The white beaches fringed with palm trees, the calm blue waters, the year-round warm temperatures and the glorious sunsets make this an idyllic destination for a relaxing beach holiday. But there's more! Inland there are high mountains, gushing waterfalls and jungle greenery. There are plenty of excellent roads providing a scenic tour as you drive around the island, a total of 70km. Along the way you will see plenty of wildlife, including black and white colobus monkeys and if you are lucky, a colorful hornbill. Stop at one of the five-star resorts and take a cool breezer or afternoon tea on the terrace, overlooking another view from paradise. The only significant town on the island is Kuah. It has an air-conditioned mall, a few chain restaurants and plenty of local shops which offer bargains in fabric, household goods, luggage, designer clothing and shoes. The Yacht Club at Kuah marina is the place to enjoy a meal with excellent service and stunning views. The food in Langkawi is good everywhere. Try satay from the street vendors, cashew nut chicken at the local Chinese eatery or enjoy a very reasonably priced meal at an upmarket hotel restaurant, the choice is yours. One of the local attractions is the 'Seven Wells'. It is quite a climb in the heat, but the river runs through a series of shallow pools with a natural rock slide between each - a great ride, until the river plunges over a vertical drop! Other waterfalls make cool places for a picnic and a paddle, and often you have the place to yourself. The International Book Village is an interesting place to visit, even if you are not a book-worm. Set in extensive landscaped gardens along the side of a stream, it is beautiful place for a stroll. Boat rides offer the very best trips. You can visit the street markets and beaches of Penang on a day trip, or explore the mangroves with a local guide who will put pieces of chicken in the water to attract the magnificent eagles (langs) and brahminy kites which swept down to pluck these tasty treats from the water. Other trips include a three-island tour, culminating in a swim in the freshwater lake on the Island of the Pregnant Maiden, so named for the shape of the mountains! Most peaceful of all is a sunset cruise on a private schooner; a perfect end to a perfect day.