Kuala Lumpur: Selepas mengesahkan tarikh perlumbaan Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) 2024 29 September hingga 6 Oktober di media sosial semalam, satu lagi khabar gembira buat peminat berbasikal ialah saingan tahun ini bakal kembali diadakan di pulau legenda, Langkawi.
Perkara itu disahkan Ketua Pegawai Operasi (COO) LTdL 2024, Emir Abd Jalal bahawa perlumbaan berstatus ProSeries (2.Pro) akan bermula di Langkawi dan bakal dijadikan peringkat pertama perlumbaan.
"Bagi peringkat sekarang kita masih lagi mengadakan tinjauan laluan untuk di bahagian semenanjung dengan terdapat beberapa pilihan. Bagaimanapun, kita tidak boleh mengumumkan sekarang negeri yang bakal dilalui oleh pelumba selepas memulakan perlumbaan di Langkawi," katanya.
Ujarnya, setakat ini dalam peringkat cadangan terdapat dua pilihan untuk laluan bagi saingan 2024 dan hanya boleh mengesahkan perlumbaan akan bermula dari bahagian utara semenanjung.
"Dari segi bilangan peringkat perlumbaan memang kalau boleh hendak ditambah tapi berbalik kepada kos. Begitu juga dengan perlumbaan klasik atau 1.1, jika diadakan ia akan membabitkan nilai jumlah hadiah kemenangan yang baharu.
"Cuma kita mengharapkan tahun ini lebih baik berbanding tahun lalu, bersempena dengan ulang tahun ke-50 Petronas iaitu penaja yang mengikat kontrak selama tiga tahun bermula tahun lalu," kata Emir.
Tambahnya, perlumbaan mesti dianjurkan lebih luar biasa berikutan signifikasi nombor ulang tahun berkenaan dan mereka sedang berusaha agar sambutan kali ini lebih besar.
Ditanya mengenai perkembangan lain, Emir juga mengesahkan mereka sudah mula mengadakan perbincangan dengan pasukan berstatus WorldTeam dan ProTour untuk dijemput menyertai perlumbaan edisi ke-28 itu.
"InsyaAllah kami dalam proses mendapatkan pasukan bakal mengambil bahagian dan cuba mendapatkan tambahan dari WorldTeam. Kemungkinan besar EF Education-Easypost akan datang untuk mempertahankan kejuaraan (Jersi Kuning dan pasukan keseluruhan). Begitu juga dengan Astana Qazaqstan Team hadir seperti tahun lalu."
Ditanya mengenai kehadiran Malaysia Pro Cycling (MPC), Emir berkata, mereka selaku penganjur juga mengharapkan pasukan baharu berstatus benua itu dapat mengambil bahagian pada edisi kali ini.
"Kami tidak pasti bagaimana urusan mereka dengan Kesatuan Berbasikal Duni (UCI) tetapi harapan kami agar ada dua pasukan benua dari Malaysia (termasuk Terengganu Cycling Team).
"Kita berharap MPC dapat menguruskan status mereka secepat mungkin agar boleh bersaing dan pelumba negara mampu menghadirkan sedikit cabaran buat jaguh luar negara," katanya.
Langkawi, Malaysia, is once again hosting the Royal Langkawi International Regatta (RLIR) 2024, marking a significant milestone as the event celebrates its 20th edition. Scheduled from January 15th to 20th, the regatta is set to position Malaysia, and particularly Langkawi, as a premier sailing destination in Southeast Asia.
This year’s RLIR, held at the prestigious Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, guarantees a thrilling contest with 33 boats and over 250 participants from around the globe. The event draws teams from Malaysia, Thailand, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, the USA, Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, China, and Vietnam, showcasing a diverse and international fleet.
The Royal Langkawi International Regatta (RLIR) will see competition in 7 classes – Racing, IRC1, IRC2, Multihull, Sports Boats, Club Class and Ocean Rover/White Sail. The winners of each class will be awarded the following prestigious trophies, namely: the Prime Minister’s Challenge Trophy (Racing class), LADA-IRC Challenge Trophy (IRC 1 class), RLIR-IRC 2 Challenge Trophy (IRC 2 class), the Commodore’s Challenge Cup (Club class), the Langkawi Sports Trophy (Sports Boat class) and Malaysia Multihull Challenge Cup (Multihull class).
A unique aspect of the RLIR is the Tunku Abdullah Sportsmanship Award, recognizing the team that exemplifies exceptional sportsmanship both on water and land. This award highlights the regatta’s commitment to fostering a spirit of fair play and camaraderie among participants.
The RLIR 2024 is not just a sporting event; it’s a significant contributor to sports tourism in Malaysia. By attracting sailing enthusiasts and spectators from across the world, the regatta boosts local tourism and highlights Langkawi’s natural beauty and sailing conditions.
The event’s success is attributed to its strong partnerships and sponsors, including the Belt and Road Regatta (BRR), Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), the Kedah State Government, and several corporate sponsors. These collaborations underscore the event’s importance in the international sailing calendar.
Media coverage by partners are Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), TRAXXfm, HOMME, Sea Yachting, and Digital Vision Advertising (DVA).
Supported by the Malaysia Sailing Association (MSA), World Sailing, and the Aseanarean Bluewater Alliance, the RLIR 2024 is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of sailing, sportsmanship, and international unity. As the regatta sails into its 20th edition, it continues to enhance Malaysia’s reputation in the world of sailing and sports tourism.
For more information, kindly visit www.langkawiregatta.com.
Island vacations can be a blissful combination of thrilling adventures, sun-kissed beaches, and vibrant cultures. Some islands offer adventure and water activities, others offer a tranquil escape. But the best islands are a marriage of the two.
How Voting Works
Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).
For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.
What Readers Loved
The top three favorites are iconic island getaways: Australia’s Great Barrier Reef Islands, The Maldives, and Indonesia’s Bali. Greece, which has more than 6,000 islands and islets, has three winners on the list: Paros (No. 11); Rhodes and the Dodecanese (No. 19); and Santorini (No. 25). Portugal had two (Madeira at No. 4 and the Azores at No. 17) and Thailand had two in the top 10 (No. 5 Phuket and No. 7 Koh Samui.)
Read on to discover why Australia’s Great Barrier Reef Islands claimed the No. 1 spot and which other islands were crowned the world’s best.
The Full List
Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia
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The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for 1,400 miles off Australia’s northeastern coast, is home to the world’s largest collection of coral reefs – almost 3,000 in all. It’s also home to a group of roughly 900 islands that T+L readers have voted their favorite in the world. A T+L reader who has more than once stayed on Hamilton Island said, “The physical beauty of the area is without equal. Just love the island and the people of Australia.
Reader Score: 96.11
The physical beauty of the area is without equal.
— T+L Reader
Maldives
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The Maldives is made up of 1,192 islands — and only 200 of those are currently inhabited. Home to about 3 percent of the planet’s reefs, the Maldives is also known for its clear emerald waters, luxurious overwater bungalows, and providing travelers with an isolated retreat. According to a T+L reader, it’s “heaven on Earth.” The best time to visit is the dry season, which typically runs from November through April.
Reader Score: 95.68
Bali, Indonesia
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From the bustling streets of Ubud and the trendy beach clubs of Seminyak to the serene retreats of the north shore, there’s something for everyone on Bali. Also called the "Island of the Gods,” Bali is renowned for its world-class resorts, luxury spas, and wellness retreats. The island is deeply rooted in spirituality and tradition, so visitors can also immerse themselves in the island's culture, whether it be exploring ancient Hindu temples, participating in a melukat ceremony, or witnessing a traditional dance performance.
Reader Score: 94.40
Madeira, Portugal
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Travelers are treated to idyllic scenery at every turn on the Portuguese island of Madeira, whether they’re hiking alongside the famous levadas (irrigation channels), exploring the enchanting Laurissilva Forest, or simply taking in the panoramic vistas from Pico do Areeiro. One T+L reader said, “The diversity of the island, from rocky beaches to fogged-in mountains, has something for everyone.” And no visit would be complete without indulging in the fortified wine and the fresh seafood for which the island is famous.
Reader Score: 94.33
Phuket, Thailand
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Known as the “Pearl of the Andaman Sea,” this tropical paradise offers stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and boundless adventures. Travelers can relax and soak up the sun on its world-famous beaches or do more outdoorsy things like snorkeling around vibrant coral reefs and exploring the hidden coves. Phuket, known for its nightlife, is a two-hour boat ride from the nearby Phi Phi Islands. Among the many hotels, an honorable mention goes to Amanpuri, which readers voted their third favorite resort in Southeast Asia this year.
The archipelago, off the western coast of Scotland, offers white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and ancient ruins. Skye, known as the "Misty Isle," boasts dramatic cliffs, majestic mountains, and picturesque lochs. One T+L reader said the islands are “nature at its best.” Whisky enthusiasts can embark on a distillery tour to savor the renowned Scottish spirits, while music lovers can sit in on a cèilidh — a sort of Gaelic jam session – at one of the local pubs
Reader Score: 94.13
Koh Samui, Thailand
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Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui has it all: idyllic beaches, culture, and luxurious retreats. You can unwind on popular beaches like Chaweng and Lamai, or explore the island’s spiritual traditions at Wat Plai Laem or the Big Buddha Temple. And for a glimpse into the local lifestyle, there’s no better place than the bustling night markets. According to one T+L reader, Koh Samui is “the most beautiful and paradisiacal island on the planet.” As for where to stay, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort readers favorite resorts in Southeast Asia.
When it comes to untouched landscapes in the Caribbean, Dominica — nicknamed the “Nature Island” — stands apart from other islands. Its lush landscape includes volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Where to stay? Secret Bay in Portsmouth secured the No. 1 spot for Best Hotel in the Caribbean this year, too.
One of Malaysia’s most popular islands, Langkawi has something for everyone: beaches, a great food scene, diving spots, and vibey nightlife. Visitors can take the SkyCab to the top of Gunung Machinchang, where they’ll be rewarded with dramatic 360-degree views; visit Pantai Pasir Hitam, the island’s black sand beach; or experience the impressive Seven Wells Waterfall.
Reader Score: 93.65
Boracay, Philippines
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More than 7,000 islands make up the Philippines, and Boracay still manages to stand apart from the rest. The tiny island — just 4.5 miles long — is known as “the island that never sleeps” for its parties and nightlife. One T+L reader called the island “the best leisure vacation destination.”
Reader Score: 92.94
Paros, Greece
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Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, Paros offers a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, idyllic beaches, enchanting whitewashed villages, and rich cultural heritage. It’s also a hit with history buffs, as it has ancient ruins like the Sanctuary of Apollo and the Venetian Castle. Mix in pristine sandy shores, delicious Greek cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best islands to visit.
Reader Score: 92.47
Fiji Islands, Fiji
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Tucked away in the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific, these islands boast lush tropical landscapes and vibrant coral reefs. Fiji is a slice of paradise for all, but especially so for those who enjoy cliff jumping, zip lining, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Beyond its beaches, travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting crafts markets and participating in traditional kava ceremonies.
Reader Score: 92.29
Golden Isles, Georgia
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The Golden Isles in Georgia — encompassing Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Sea Island — is a captivating destination with pristine beaches, natural beauty, and rich history. Jekyll Island, once a private retreat for America's wealthiest families, offers a glimpse into the opulent Gilded Age with its historic mansions. Little St. Simons Island is a secluded paradise, providing an exclusive escape for nature enthusiasts, with its diverse ecosystems and unspoiled beaches. Meanwhile, Sea Island is known for its luxurious resorts and offers world-class amenities, including golf courses, spas, and fine dining experiences. St. Simons Island is home to a charming coastal village with a stunning lighthouse and a vibrant arts scene.
Reader Score: 92.15
Moorea, French Polynesia
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Known as the “Magical Island,” Moorea is an unforgettable tropical getaway. It has hiking trails through its tropical forests with panoramic viewpoints, like Mount Rotui, and secluded waterfalls. The island's rich Polynesian culture can be experienced through traditional dance performances and visits to local markets. One T+L reader raved that it’s one of their favorite islands of all time.
Reader Score: 92.15
Zanzibar, Tanzania
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Pristine beaches and picturesque sunsets are a guarantee in Zanzibar. Travelers can also visit one of the many local spice farms to learn about the role that cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon played in the island's history. Whether you’re walking through the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or trying to spot the Zanzibar red colobus monkeys at the Jozani Forest Reserve, Zanzibar offers travelers an experience that merges relaxation, adventure, and history.
Reader Score: 91.53
The Seychelles
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The Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is known for its powdery white-sand beaches. The islands also boast lush tropical forests and nature reserves, such as Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where rare Coco de Mer palms can be found. Hikers can follow trails to breathtaking viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and hidden coves. Seychelles is also home to unique flora and fauna, including giant tortoises, rare birds, and exotic plant species.
Reader Score: 91.47
The Azores, Portugal
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The Azores are a hidden gem in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that some call the “Hawaii of Europe.” The archipelago comprises nine lush volcanic islands, each offering a unique experience. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy São Miguel's picturesque lakes, waterfalls, and forests. Hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, such as the Sete Cidades crater, where visitors can marvel at the contrasting colors of the twin lakes. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with fresh seafood like rockfish and barracuda, São Jorge cheese, and sweet pastries like filhóses to tantalize the taste buds.
Reader Score: 90.92
Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
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Known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," Bora Bora is a dreamy destination with turquoise lagoons and iconic overwater bungalows. It comes as no surprise that the island's crystal-clear waters offer world-class snorkeling and diving experiences, but there’s a variety of other thrilling activities, like Jet Skiing, parasailing, and helicopter tours. Local guides can arrange workshops that teach visitors about Polynesian traditions, dance, and cuisine. A T+L reader called the island "otherworldly," while another said it's an "amazing location for anyone."
Reader Score: 90.80
Rhodes and the Dodecanese, Greece
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Rhodes, known as the "Island of the Knights," is steeped in history, with its medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing ancient ruins, fortified walls, and grandiose architecture. Beyond history, Rhodes offers stunning beaches, like those in Faliraki and Lindos. Travelers can also venture to the other Dodecanese islands, each with its own unique charm.
Reader Score: 90.67
Mackinac Island, Michigan
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Mackinac Island is unique in that cars and trucks are banned, so residents and visitors rely on horse-drawn carriages and bicycles for transportation. Its historic downtown has cozy cafes, quaint shops, and plenty of well-preserved Colonial, Georgian, and Greek Revival architecture. One T+L reader sums up the destination perfectly: “there’s no place like it.” (Mackinac is home to three of T+L readers' 10 favorite midwest resorts: Hotel Iroquois, Island House Hotel, and Grand Hotel.)
Reader Score: 90.67
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
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The Galápagos Islands, in the Pacific Ocean, are famed for their extraordinary biodiversity. Exploring the islands offers up-close encounters with remarkable creatures (think giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies) in their natural habitats. Visiting the Galápagos also gives travelers a chance to gain a deeper understanding of evolution and the fragility of ecosystems through educational programs and guided tours.
Reader Score. 90.60
Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
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Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands in Croatia offer travelers a unique Mediterranean experience. Hvar, known as the "Queen of the Dalmatian Islands," has lavender fields, vineyards, and magnificently clear waters. Visitors can explore the charming old town of Hvar, which has picturesque squares, historic buildings, and a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the harbor and the Adriatic Sea. Hvar's vibrant nightlife scene is also a draw, with trendy beach clubs and bars energizing the evenings.
Reader Score: 90.20
Sicily, Italy
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Steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, Sicily is a must-visit destination. Not only is it home to rich historical sites (like the Greek Theatre of Syracuse, the Villa Romana del Casale, and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento), but it also has stunning nature, between Mount Etna and the beaches overlooking the crystal-clear Mediterranean. The island’s culinary scene is equally exciting: visitors can sample delicious street food like panelle and crocchè, and indulge in local dishes like pasta alla Norma.
Reader Score: 90.13
Anguilla
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Anguilla, a British territory in the Caribbean, is a secluded getaway with 33 beaches. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla and Frangipani Beach Resort both ranked as two of the best resorts in the region. Hike to the top of Crocus Hill for views, go on a self-guided walking tour of the Anguilla Heritage Trail, and don’t forget to try a Johnny Cake — a staple in Anguilla's local cuisine.
Reader Score: 90.10
Santorini, Greece
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Often touted as one of the most romantic islands in the world, Santorini is known for its whitewashed buildings with blue domes. Overlooking the Aegean Sea, the volcanic island is home to several picturesque villages like Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. One T+L reader raved that the island has “beautiful sunsets” and “wonderful views,” plus excellent food and friendly locals.
TOURISM players in Langkawi do not want the island resort to be compared with southern Thailand's biggest city of Haadyai since both places of interest have varying attractions when it comes to tourism.
Haadyai is by most accounts, a regional mid-range destination just like Johor is to Singaporeans, said Tropical Charters Sdn Bhd owner Datuk Issac Alexander.
The operator of a cruise charter service here said Singapore does not complain if many of their citizens flock to Johor, especially over the Christmas - New Year festive period.
“This is similar to how some 140,000 Malaysians visited Thailand over the seven-day year-end period … Why should there be any concerns?” asked Alexander.
He said Haadyai for the longest time, was always a frequent destination for Malaysians since the 1970s.
Haadyai is a regional destination, and can maintain a cost-competitive advantage whereas Langkawi is regarded as an international one, Alexander said.
"Hence it is unfair to compare Langkawi with Haadyai. Both have different attractions and both can complement each other," said Alexander.
Haadyai is mostly about street shopping, food and entertainment whereas Langkawi is about beaches, eco-tourism, geo - parks and recreation besides its duty-free shopping.
He was responding to reports questioning tourism players if something could be done, as Malaysians are flocking to Haadyai instead of Langkawi.
Alexander said contrary to some reports, Langkawi enjoyed brisk business during the year-end festive period with some holidaymakers extending their stay there.
But the arrival figures would pale in comparison to the likes of Haadyai and Phuket (Langkawi's main competitor) because the latter had teething issues over the tides, which was caused by extreme sediments accumulation at the base of the Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah ferry terminals, said Alexander.
He added that this was further complicated as airlines could not find ways to lower the airfare and increase flights to Langkawi due to the irregular demand load factors.
Given time, Alexander said that Langkawi can compete with Haadyai over the number of tourists but it is pointless to compare both destinations.
"They are not in the same leisure market. Langkawi has more five-star properties compared to Haadyai."
Tourism Langkawi coordinator Ahmad Pishol Isahak said that tourism on the island resort caters to all market segments but although it may not be wise to compare, Langkawi can emulate Haadyai in some ways.
Firstly, Pishol said that the private sector there was united, so likewise in Langkawi, the entire field of travel trade members need to be on the same page.
"Unfortunately, the private sector in Langkawi is riddled with cliques with some five associations jostling to see who can best represent the industry."
Secondly, Pishol said that packaging is important, as it can drive down costs.
"Now, there is even a free tut-tut service from the border checkpoints into Haadyai."
Langkawi can do more with its connectivity points, Pishol said, adding that Penang Port Sdn Bhd must also assist by allowing the revival of the sea route between Penang and Langkawi to resume after it was suspended for the past three years.
Having better accessibility to a destination strengthens its tourism clout, said Pishol.
He added that the private sector in Langkawi must find ways to drive down costs, especially in hospitality charges and vehicle rental, as well as food.
"Langkawi is a one-stop tourism destination. It caters from budget to up-market travellers. We must cater for all and we must package it as a must-see destination."
There is also a need to animate the attractions in Langkawi, so more local tourists will find it appealing enough to come, he added - The Vibes, January 4, 2024.
