Pulau Langkawi

Read the guide and it tells you that it is all about booze and crowds. I will remember Langkawi for its superb mango juice and for the screaming waves.

Langkawi is big folks, writes the Lonely Planet. Well, it is true. half an hour taxi ride to go anywhere. At least you don't pay more than 6-7 euros each ride. Btw, for peace of mind, tariffs are regulated, in case you are wondering.

My perfect day in Langkawi started with a walk in the bat cave and a cruise on the mangroove river, where vegetation is thick, eagles go hunting and monkeys steal your pastic bags. The visit included first feeding the fish in the fish farm, then tasting the well-fed fish in the fish farm restaurant.

A stop at the cable car to witness the beauty of the island from above was complemented by a chat with the occasional Malays going up or down with you - short ride but long enough for them to chat you up, take a photo of you and ask for the email address of this exotic tourist from Europe.

Back to base, a little roasting in the afternoon sun, dinner cooked by some Malay mama at the port and listening to the sound of the waves splashing the golden sand: one of those days you wish could not end.