Langkawi Practical Information is a great source of information for travelers embarking on a trip to the Langkawi region of Malaysia. Langkawi, Malaysia is recognized as a World Geopark by UNESCO, and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Malaysia. Visitors flock to this serene cluster of islands in the Adaman Sea for it's clear waters, pristine beaches, and superb scuba diving.

Location 

Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands (the exact number of islands in the archipelago is heavily debated, as some of the islands appear and disappear with the changing of the tides, but most sources agree that the number is at least 99) in the state of Kedah, and officially known as the Jewel of Kedah. The Langkawi archipelago is located approximately 20 miles off the coast of northwestern Malaysia in the Adaman Sea, very close to the international border with Thailand in southeast Asia. The Strait of Malacca divides Langkawi from mainland Malaysia.

Population 

It is estimated that the combined population of all the islands is between 64,000 and 65,000 inhabitants.

Language 

The official language of Langkawi is Bahasa Malaysia, but English is also wide spoken in Langkawi and throughout Malayasia.

Time Zone  

The official time zone is called Malaysia Time (MYT), but the time zone is also, and more commonly, referred to as Greenwich Mean Time plus 8 hours (GMT +8).

Climate 

Langkawi keeps a very warm climate year round, and can get quite humid at times. The rainy season for Langkawi is usually between August and September.

Currency 

The official currency of Langkawi, as well as all of Malaysia is the Malaysia Ringgit (RM). The Ringgit coins (sen) that are used are 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, and 50 sen. The paper Ringgit notes are the 1 RM, 5 RM, 10 RM, 50 RM, and 100 RM. The best place to exchange foreign currency to the Ringgit is at a major bank, a licensed money-changer, or at most major hotels that provide a currency exchange service. ATMs can also be an easy way for foreign visitors to withdrawal cash from their local bank and ATMs can be easily found in the Langkawi Airport, or Kuah Town. It is a good idea to check with your local bank to make sure your ATM card will work in Langkawi before departure. Major credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants, and hotels in Langkawi, but it is always advisable to carry a small amount of cash for tipping and for shopping with local vendors. Tipping is not compulsory but is greatly appreciated in Langkawi.