"Kedah Darulaman" Negeri Kedah by Yatie

Kedah is located in the north of West Malaysia near the Thai border. It's known as the "Rice Bowl" of Malaysia. It's capital state is Alor Setar. This is where I live. It's beauty and tranquility invite you to just lay back and relax with a hot cup of coffee and a plate of 'baulu" next to you. The flat expanse of padi fields against a backdrop of rolling hills provides a picture of utter serenity that lulls the senses.

My husband and brother on the Black Sand Beach

Along the western shores of Kedah lies Langkawi Island. Easily the most popular resort location in the country for tourists and locals alike. Although I've only been there 3 or 4 times but I must say that it has developed greatly in the past 10 years. It's also THE place to watch the aviation exhibition thingy called LIMA.
You'll fine long stretches of yellow sandy beaches (and also a black one!) around Langkawi. It's full of legends and myths that would draw you to the place.

• Pros:Not too noisy, no heavy traffic
• In a nutshell:Away from big city life yet not away from the living either!!