Flutter of feathers fill paradise

One of the most memorable stops on Langkawi is the island's bird paradise. Opened a little over two years ago, the one-hectare park houses some 2,500 birds representing 150 species from all corners of the world.

Cockatoos of all colors parade in the cages closest to entrance. Slender flamingos wade in a shallow pond with ducks, while white peacocks rest under the shade of trees.

Visitors can also walk into an aviary situated along a large pond and watch exotic birds like bulbuls, parrots and parakeets pick at slices of papaya.

Pelicans stand proudly atop a manmade waterfall, while white swans swim gracefully through the waters below.

Other birds include the bird of paradise -- which are indigenous to Indonesia -- hornbills, ostrich and cassowary.

Children will get a chance to feed cockatoos and rabbits from their hands or watch the keepers feed their pelicans and white swans.

Make sure you have enough time to appreciate the Langkawi Bird Paradise -- especially if you want to satisfy your shutterbug's appetite -- as there is nothing more annoying than a tour leader calling you back to the bus after a token half hour. -- Leony Aurora