LangkawiThe 99 islands of the Langkawi archipelago liesome 20 miles off the northwest coast of Malaysia in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. This serene, tropical island paradise of myth and legend has a thickly-jungled interiorencircled by white, velvety sands. Some ofMalaysia's finest beach resorts are sprinkled alongthe island's secluded north coast and there aresmaller properties dotted on the lively strip ofPantai Cenang. You can play a round of golf,enjoy a boat trip around the archipelago or simply lie back and rejuvenate on one of theperfect beaches.92Datai Bay, LangkawiLangkawi at sunset

THEDATAI, LANGKAWIThis is one of Asia's most exclusive beach resorts,set in ancient tropical rainforest in the secludednorthwest corner of the island. The main building,with 54 guest rooms and 13 suites, sits high onthe hillside, while 40 villas are set in the forest, all with private verandas and some with their own plunge pools. All areas of the resort areappointed to the highest standard and the serviceis second to none. There are two swimmingpools, a superb spa and an excellent choice ofdining options. Datai Bay itself is one of the mostpicturesque hotel locations in Southeast Asia.TANJUNGRHURESORT,LANGKAWITucked away on the northern tip of the island on a stunning stretch of white sand beach, theTanjung Rhu is an idyllic hideaway that looks over the sea, dotted with the sheer islands ofjungle-clad limestone karsts. All 136 guest roomsand suites are set in exotic landscaped gardensand the three pools are a real feature of theproperty. There is a peaceful reading room and a spa as well as three main restaurants that offera fine range of world cuisines. Alternatively, dineby candlelight on the beach, a fantastic way tomake the most of the breathtaking sunsets.THEDANNA, LANGKAWIThe Danna is located on the beautiful white sand bay of Pantai Kok next to Langkawi's Telagamarina. There is a beautiful courtyard whichresembles a mini rainforest with a pond andwaterfall feature. The 125 colonial-style rooms andsuites all have their own balcony with views of thecourtyard, sea, marina or surrounding hills. Eachdouble room has timber flooring, colonial artwork,handcrafted woodwork and furnishing as well as afour poster bed. The swimming pool is one of thelargest on Langkawi and there is a kids club, a spa,a games room and a fitness club. Six restaurantsand two bars offer a range of dining options.THEFRANGIPANI, LANGKAWILocated on the lovely Pantai Tengah beach, which is at one end of Pantai Cenang, theproperty has just over 100 rooms and facilitiesinclude two swimming pools, a spa, bar andrestaurant. All rooms are well appointed and thehotel has an award winning responsible travelpolicy. Recycling is encouraged across the resort:there is a water treatment plant to recycle theresort's waste water, they make use of solarpower wherever possible and have their ownsustainable garden.www.audleytravel.com/malaysia ?01993 838 130 ?Malaysia93Sunset pool, Tanjung Rhu ResortYoung child fishing, LangkawiLocal women relax on the beach, LangkawiUpper pool, The Datai, LangkawiThe Danna, LangkawiFrangipani's beach, Pantai Tengah, Langkawi