Friday, August 16, 2024 Industry players in Langkawi have recently addressed and refuted the growing perception that the island is an expensive tourist destination, particularly when compared to nearby tourist locations such as Hatyai, Thailand. According to several key figures in the tourism industry, the costs associated with visiting Langkawi can be quite reasonable, especially when tourists plan their trips carefully. This clarification by Langkawi’s tourism industry is expected to have a significant impact on the global perception of the island as a travel destination.
By emphasizing the affordability and value that Langkawi offers, industry leaders aim to attract a broader range of international travelers who might have previously overlooked the island due to cost concerns. The messaging is clear: with proper planning, travelers can experience Langkawi’s beauty and amenities without breaking the bank. This could lead to an increase in tourist arrivals, boosting the local economy and solidifying Langkawi’s position as a premier destination in Southeast Asia.
Datuk Alexander Isaac, the Chief Executive Officer of Tropical Charters Sdn Bhd, highlighted that comparisons between Langkawi and Hatyai are not entirely fair. He argued that Langkawi should be compared with destinations like Bali in Indonesia and Phuket in Thailand, which are more similar in terms of the range of offerings and price points. Isaac pointed out that while Hatyai is popular, particularly in the northern regions, Langkawi stands out as a family-friendly destination with a diverse array of attractions.
In his view, the notion that Langkawi is more expensive than other destinations is misleading. He noted that like Bali and Phuket, Langkawi offers a variety of accommodation and dining options, catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking luxury. The key to enjoying an affordable stay in Langkawi, he emphasized, lies in careful planning and making informed choices about where to stay and eat.
Alexander also stressed the importance of using licensed travel agents when planning a trip to Langkawi. He cautioned that while social media is full of offers and packages, not all of them are reliable. Tourists who book through unlicensed agents risk being misled and facing difficulties upon arrival.
By choosing licensed agents, travelers can ensure a safer experience, with recourse available in case anything goes wrong. This advice is particularly relevant for international tourists who may not be as familiar with local practices. Syed Muhammad Firdaus Syed Putra, General Manager of Hotel Adya Langkawi, also weighed in on the issue, noting that the perception of high costs is often propagated by those who do not fully understand the market dynamics in Langkawi.
He compared Langkawi to other popular destinations like Phuket and Krabi in Thailand, where similar price variations exist. According to Syed, just like in those destinations, Langkawi offers both expensive and affordable options, depending on the preferences of the traveler. Syed further highlighted Langkawi’s unique appeal, particularly its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.
Unlike some other tourist destinations, Langkawi offers a clear distinction between entertainment areas and other attractions, making it easier for families to enjoy their vacation in a safe and pleasant environment. He argued that this unique selling point, combined with the island’s affordability, makes Langkawi an attractive option for both local and international tourists. In conclusion, the tourism industry in Langkawi is actively working to dispel the myth that the island is an overly expensive destination.
By offering a range of options to suit different budgets and promoting the use of licensed travel agents, Langkawi aims to attract more visitors and enhance its reputation as a versatile and affordable destination. As these efforts continue, it is expected that the global perception of Langkawi will shift, leading to increased tourism and economic benefits for the region..
