Island Getaways

I went to Europe in June, and just came back from Singapore last week. And yet, I still can't help surfing rates for beachside resorts. I guess I just need another holiday! And it's got to be a beach/island getaway the next time. As if right on cue, MSN Malaysia featured their list of some of the best islands to visit in Malaysia. Here are my picks for possible future trips:-

1. Langkawi, Kedah
Despite it probably being the most famous island destination in Malaysia, I've never been there. If I were to go, though, I may have to wait when it's not school holiday time! I may also need to research on which areas to go to avoid the crowds, although Cenang Beach is the one for you if you're looking for the most happening place there. Tanjung Rhu beach seems to be the best bet on the main island, but there are always the 98 other islands to explore! A quick search suggest Pulau Payar as the best place to snorkel, sunbathe and feed sharks.

Image by Annie Hiew/sxc.hu

Image by John Philip/sxc.hu

2. Perhentian Island, Terengganu

I have been wanting to go here for the longest time! And recently, I interviewed someone who said that her friends from France have come here for vacation two years in a row. The French family loved it so much that when they had to leave to go back home, the kids cried! Awwww! No wonder, I guess, when you look at these pics below.

Images by Tourism Malaysia via MSN Travel

3. Pulau Kapas, Terengganu

I've heard that this island is pretty gorgeous and the pic below seems to prove it! Worth checking out, I think!

Image by Tourism Malaysia via MSN Travel

4. Tioman Island, Pahang

I've been here before, but sure wouldn't mind going again! That was probably the most blissfully peaceful day of our lives!

View from the jetty

There's live music and seafood barbecue as well!  

Production of salted fish in action. This wasn't on the island, but in Mersing on the mainland, where you can get a ferry to get to Tioman. There are lots of enterprises like this along the roads in Mersing, and you're welcome to watch the people at work.

5. Pulau Tinggi, Johore

I've never ever heard of this island before, but after seeing the pics, this might just be the island we'll be heading to! It's closer to the Johore mainland compared to Tioman Island, too (which, although situated in the state of Pahang, is actually easier to get to from Mersing, in Johore), so the boat ride should be much shorter. Hello sun and sand!

Part of a screen shot of Google results for "Pulau Tinggi Johore". 

For a complete list as featured in MSN Travel, click here.