Penang to Langkawi

The ferry from Georgetown to Langkawi leaves at 8:15 (with stop Enroute) or 8:30 (direct). Cost is 60RM and takes around 2.5 hours.

 

The ferry is insanely cold so bring warm clothes or move to the upper deck outside which is very noisy.

 

Freezing on the ferry:

 

Upon arrival in Palau Langkawi you will likely want to move to Pantai Cenang (Cenang beach). The only option is taxi or hire car (light travelers can opt for a motorbike) taxi stand is outside and costs 26RM fixed price so find some fellow travelers to reduce the cost. Trip is only 20-30 minutes.

 

View of Langkawi from the ferry:

 

 

I can highly recommend Gecko Guesthouse for accommodation, dorm from 18RM, private room with ensuite and two beds for 60 RM.

Pre-drinking is technically not allowed, but is obviously much cheaper, when you head to Babylon the staff from Sub Bar often hand out free drink vouchers to girls, so stock up on these.

Kuala Lumpur to Penang via Rail

KL to Penang can be done via train, bus or plane.

I decided on rail as the six hour journey would be scenic (it was) airports are stressful (can't have that on my holiday) and the time from leaving the hotel to getting to Penang is only two hours more once check in, transit to the airport etc is factored in.

The train leaves KL Sentral, three times daily, morning, afternoon and a night sleeper train.

The six hour journey was brilliant and first class tickets for 59 RM ($20 US). Is incredible value. Second class was 30RM.

Upon arrival at Penang station a 2 minute walk to the ferry and 1.40 RM we were in Georgetown.

Unfortunately the taxi drivers in Georgetown have inflated prices. The backpacker district is less than 1km from the taxi's. Walk to the main road, turn left then take the second right, 200m and you will start to find an assortment of budget accommodation or you could pay the inflated 20RM fee, however I refuse on principal not cost.

Dorm rooms here are cheap, I found 18RM and 80 for a hotel room, this was art the end of Chinese new year however so might get cheaper.