(PRWEB) August 12, 2005
A new cross border ferry service from Langkawi, Malaysia, to Ko Lipe is opening up Thailand’s Tarutao islands to year round tourism.
The ferry service is the result of government cooperation between the Thailand and Malaysia and the recent opening of a Thai Consulate in Langkawi.
The islands in Thailand’s Tarutao National Park were for centuries famous as a pirate base that made sea travel in the area dangerous. Later they were given by the Thai government to local Sea Gypsies, or Chao Leh people who have roamed the islands for centuries harvesting fish, shellfish, coconuts and plants. These ancient people have their own language, maternal culture and animist religion.
The islands have until now only been accessible by small boat from Satun which operates for 6 months per year. With strong year-round tourism, Langkawi island is expected to provide a steady and growing stream of day-trippers to Ko Lipe and Ko Adang, which will provide a strong economic boost to the Thai islands.
The ferry service already leaves from Telaga Harbour Park in Langkawi for the one-hour trip to Ko Lipe every Saturday. From September 2005, the service will operate daily.
All day island hopping tours stop to enjoy the best snorkeling spots and explore five or more of the 50 islands that comprise the Tarutao National Park.
Alternate tours including scuba diving, game fishing (catch and return), bird watching and eco tours with trained naturalists are offered. All tours are eco-friendly with great care being taken not to damage the unspoiled island environment.
The Tarutao National park islands offer some of Asia’s best underwater coral and marine life. More than 130 species of coral have been identified and a huge variety of colorful tropical fish are abundant. Other marine treats include dolphins, whale sharks, whales, turtles, shellfish and large fish. The area is famous for its crystal clear azure water and sparkling white sand beaches, with many visitors proclaiming them fantasy islands.
LANGKAWI
Langkawi island is one of Malaysia’s leading tourism destinations for honeymooners with idyllic nature, ancient rain forests and mountains, stunning colorful birds, caves, mangroves, a cable car and its own international airport with direct flights from London. It hosts one of Asia leading yachting regattas, a leading international bicycle race and was chosen by Four Seasons Hotels as the perfect Asian destination for their latest hotel and sap which opened here recently to international acclaim.
The opening of a new Thai consulate in Langkawi is sure to make this a favorite venue for visa renewal by expats living in Thailand. The island’s duty free status means that liquor, cigarettes, perfumes and other items are much cheaper than almost anywhere else in Asia.
Access Langkawi by air direct from London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Flights are expected to start soon from Bangkok and Phuket, and ferry service to Langkawi runs daily year round from Penang, Satun and Alor Star. Star Ferry cruises also stop in Langkawi to enjoy the many sights and experiences the island has to offer.
For latest information, photos and trip booking please visit http://www.langkawi-insider.com.
For further information & story verification please contact:
CONTACT 1 (online information & booking)
Bill Gee – Chairman
Tourism Online Promotion
TOP-Lah Promotion Sdn Bhd
Tel + 6017 466 1022 (Malaysia time GMT + 8 hours)
CONTACT 2
The Royal Thai Consulate – Langkawi
Kampung Tok Senik
Langkawi 07000 Malaysia
Tel +604 955 5240 / 3240
CONTACT 3
Lambaian Pelangi Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd
Managing Director: Mr Mahadzir
Lot 1577 Tok Senik
Langkawi 07000 Kedah, malaysia
Tel +604 955 7260
H/P 019 518 1618
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Thai Sea Gypsy Islands Get Year Round Access
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