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Visa runs
Langkawi
It's usually difficult to obtain a visa extension
in Malaysia, but from Langkawi renewing your visa couldn't be easier
by taking the short ferry ride to Satun in Thailand, then returning
to get a new entry stamp.
There are four ferries a day (RM20, one hour), at 0930,
1100, 1500 and 1700 to Tamalang Pier, about 10km south of Satun. Check
in and then catch the next ferry back (the last leaving Tamalang at
1600 Thai time — an hour behind Malaysia), or take a song taew
(10-20 baht) or a taxi (40 baht) into Satun to spend the day or longer.
Satun is a pleasant little city where crews based in
Langkawi often come to get a taste of Thailand. It's predominantly
Muslim, with not a lot to see, but its lack of tourists is part of
its charm. It's a interesting place to spend a couple of days. People
are genuinely friendly.
Also there are at least two decent hardware stores in
Satun where you can find bargains on stainless bits, though don't
expect yacht chandlery.
This is also the easiest route for travelling overland
to Phuket, Hat Yai or Bangkok. See getting away.
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Yachting guide to Phuket, Langkawi & the
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