#of course all snakes can swim and all of them benefit from a bath in the tank

[2024skin]

I'm not interested in keeping an anaconda but I did get curious about anaconda husbandry and from my research I've concluded that a lot of articles on proper care for captive snakes will toe around the fact that if you want a semi-aquatic 15+ foot snake, you need to be prepared to invest thousands of dollars into it. I read one article that was basically like "[green anacondas] prefer enclosures with submersible baths, but filtering and sanitizing the water in these tanks can be so challenging and expensive, it's safer to make an enclosure without it" how about if you can't afford to filter a water tank for an aquatic animal larger than yourself, you should not be keeping that animal????

[btgalaxy]

Moonlight ~ Jungkook wolf!au

➳ pairing: jungkook x reader

➳ genre: wolf!au, a little bit of everything tbh; angst, fluff, smut

➳ word count: 3.8k

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Chapter 7

      A firm rapping at the door disturbs you and Jin from your watching of ‘Gone with the Wind’, the two of you swimming in a sea of snacks on the bed he collected earlier from the kitchen. After you’d talked things through, you decided it would be best to chill out for a bit, so you drained the bath and took a quick shower and you’ve been laying lazily on the bed ever since, mimicking Vivien Leigh’s Southern accent.

You frown nervously at Jin when the noise resonates through the room.

“It’s Jungkook,” your mate calls from behind the door. Your eyes widen as the two of you share a nervous look, before Jin slowly gets up from the bed, an undecipherable expression on his face as he picks up the bowls and bags of snacks to hug them in his arms.

“Wait, Jin, you don’t have to go,” you tell him quickly, and this triggers the door to suddenly swing open, Jungkook striding in with a huff as he observes the scene in front of him and glaring about like some predator.

Jin freezes under the harsh gaze, “Alpha.”

“I need to talk with my mate,” Jungkook glowers, analysing every moment in abundant detail as he takes very deliberate breaths, clearly trying to sniff out how much of Jin’s scent lingers in his bedroom.

“Of course, Alpha,” Jin hurriedly gathers the rest of the food, struggling with it in his arms as he scurries to the door. He turns to you under the arch, nodding curtly, “Luna.” He finally gives a small smile before leaving, with the sound of clattering some moments later.

You sigh, avoiding Jungkook’s eyes, “I should help him.” But before you’re able to reach the door, your mate steps into the way to stop you.

“He’ll be fine,” he insists, “Won’t you talk to me?”

You curl your lips in an irritated manner, “You seem to do as you please no matter what I say, Alpha.” Jungkook winces at the memory, clearly trying to maintain control over his wolf despite your provoking; he’s determined not to yield to those primitive instincts biting at his tongue, telling him to tower over and intimidate you into submission. But he won’t do that- he won’t allow his actions to be governed by nature this time, this time he’ll think.

“Y/N,” He looks at you wholeheartedly, with a sense of sincerity that cannot be feigned, “Y/N, I’m so unbelievably sorry for what happened that night; just- I cannot even think about the way you were crying and trying to stop me and-“ He cuts himself off, trying to find a way to phrase it that doesn’t sound so entirely morbid.

You stay standing a good metres distance from him as he slumps on the foot of the bed, head held in his hands as they rub over his cheeks, “I hate myself for getting out of control the way I did,” he continues, “It was wrong and I admit that I honestly would do anything to undo it.”

“You can’t undo it,” you bite back, desperate not to look at him else you have a feeling you could cave.

“I know it’s unforgivable. And I know if we were human and not mated then I would have no chance on earth of you ever being able to look at me lovingly or caringly and be able to forgive me fully ever again, but we’re mates and I- I can’t lose you I-,“ When his voice breaks your heart lurches enough to make your stomach churn. He exhales deeply to level out his breathing, “I understand if you hate me right now. I also understand if you’re overwhelmed from going from Theta to Luna, I-“

“I’m not,” you interrupt, cautiously, “I’m not overwhelmed by it.”

He lets a small smile slip through in admiration, wondering how in hell’s name he could ever hurt you the way he did, “It’s okay if you are. And it’s okay if you-,” He pauses, trying to form the words with profound difficulty, “It’s okay if you want to be separate from me for a while. If that means living separately, or- or not seeing each other so you can have some space then that’s okay.”

It’s an automatic response that your brows are raised and lips part slightly in shock. Are you hearing this right? You watch as his body tenses, head falling back to face the ceiling with his eyes squeezed shut, trying to contain his emotions.

When he looks at you again, you feel his pain, “When you ran, when Jin came running to tell me, I’ve never felt so out of control. I have control over everything; my pack, my life, my money, my land, my- my anything. But you’re the one thing that I can’t control and- and I want to give you more freedom, even though you’ve got to know my wolf is telling me not to. And especially after finding you with Taehyung I just couldn’t even control- I mean, I couldn’t stand you being with another wolf, let alone another Alpha, so- so, I’m shit at this.” He shakes his head, scolding himself.  “I’m just trying to say that I’m fighting everything I am to try and make this work, so please, please, will you just understand?”

The room falls quiet with contemplation from the both of you, trying to piece together the shattered pieces of your relationship with some desperation. You’ve never seen an Alpha this way, so vulnerable and open. By nature, they’re inclined to keep their emotions reserved and at bay, and you’ve no doubt it was his Beta to coax him into doing this, but nonetheless he’s opened up to you, and that in itself is an achievement; a step forwards.

Forgiving him may be a stupid idea. Maybe this is all an act, just a way to coverup his lack of control and manipulate you into forgiveness till he does something worse. But he’s also your mate, the only man on this earth that could ever make you truly happy, and you’ve really nothing but the option to give him the benefit of the doubt.

You gulp, breathing heavily, slowly deliberating your actions, “I- I want some days to myself.”

His head snaps towards you, “What?”

“I- ,” You drag your lower lip between your teeth, “When I want time to myself I want you to give it to me. I want my own space too.”

“Like your own room?” He near chokes out with reluctance, and you have to stop yourself from rolling your eyes in response.

You sigh, “Not exactly, just some place that is only mine. But if I were to want my own room then-“

“Then you’d get it.” Your mate stands up, a small smile poking at the corner of his lips.

As he takes a step towards you, you aren’t even sure what to do, where to go. You hate feeling this nervous around your mate, but simultaneously there’s the wolf part of you that just wants to forgive him at this point- to just launch yourself into his arms and embrace him with the love of newlyweds. You’ve never felt so conflicted in your life. And you’ve no more time to think as he approaches you hesitantly, head bowed slightly with a nervous posture.

“So-,” he stammers slightly, “Is- I don’t mean to pressure you, I just-“ His difficulty to ask for forgiveness prompts you enough to speak up, not really thinking.

You interrupt him rapidly, quick to justify yourself, “It’s your only chance of a fresh start. I’m not going to go through that again. I want my mate, not an Alpha that I’m scared of being with. And if you do then I’ll-”

“I’ll never hurt you.” He finally gives into his instincts, bringing you into his arms and squeezing you against his chest tightly. You forgot how good he smelled, wafting up your nose like the aroma of a fresh bakery, and sprigs of lavender in the summer. You’re already intoxicated.

It’s muffled, but you hear him mumble into your shoulder, “Please don’t run again. I can’t handle that. Anything but that.”

It feels so incredible to be close to your mate again, and you too feel the pull of your wolf aching to hold him, so you hesitantly bring your arms up to snake around his waist, feeling the muscle ripple beneath your touch. He responsively curls closer into you, bringing your bodies as close as humanly possible, clinging desperately like magnets.

He pulls back briefly to rest his forehead against yours, igniting your whole body alight with warmth and security; worlds away from after that night.

“I want to take you away. I want to go somewhere it’s just you and me and there’s no Rogues, nor packs to worry about, and no damn Epsilons getting in the way.”

You let out a small laugh, looking up at him with a tender glint in your eye, “I’d like that.”  

“You would?” He seems taken aback, and you subconsciously lean into him as his doe eyes glimmer at you with surprise, revelling in the effect you have on him. What you don’t expect, however, is him to take your movement as an opportunity to lean in and kiss you. The moment his lips press to yours, you snap back, equally as shocked.

He sucks in a shallow breath, stuttering for a second, “Fuck, sorry, I- that wasn’t-“

You swiftly lean back into him, pulling his lips back against yours with fervent desire, fuelled by his hands instinctively falling to your waist and holding you against him. You back up slowly against the force of his kiss, desperately savouring the taste after he so nearly lost you. The strength of the wall offers a brace for you to push harder against your mate, the feel of his tongue softly gliding across your lower lip sending you and your wolf into a frenzy as your hands run up his back and into the strands of his hair, clutching onto the dark locks.

A moan slips through your lips when he rolls his hips into you, and you fleetingly open your eyes to look at each other to see your mate’s usual chocolate orbs have turned a lustful black, shining with desire. He rapidly darts into your neck, pressing his lips to the outline of your mark and a shot of adrenaline pulses through you like bullets, making you weak in the legs enough so that his hands slip under your shirt to hold you up.

The feel of your bare skin under his touch urges him to bring the fabric up higher till his hands are able to reach up to the wire of your bra, tracing the outline of your breast when suddenly the door clicks open.

“Get out!” Jungkook roars, immediately pulling back and instinctively pressing himself against you to cover your hitched up shirt, hands slammed against either side of your head.

“Oh-“ The door slams shut, and Jin retreats back into the hall at the speed of light, although you’re somewhat thankful of his intrusion. You’ve no idea what would’ve happened had he not.

Jungkook looks at you, realising his position and moving back to allow you to pull your shirt back down and step away from the wall.

“I’m sorry,” he coughs, rubbing at his eyes and you try to look anywhere but the intimidating tent that has formed in the crotch of his trousers.

You attempt to obscure a laugh as he ‘adjusts’ himself, “It’s okay.”

He notices your concealment, tilting his head with a humorous glint, “Something funny?”

“No.” You close your eyes, unsuccessful in refraining from smiling widely, entirely entertained by the situation.

“Oh, really?” He challenges, approaching you again with his hands curled as you retreat back with profuse apologies. However, he doesn’t acknowledge them, instead pouncing forwards to begin pinching at yours sides and your belly, making you squirm and squeal beneath him through bouts of laughter.

“No, no, no!” You cry, laughing loudly when Jimin comes bursting through the door, glancing around frantically as if he were on a police raid. When he processes the two of you, however, he falls timid, lowering his gaze to the floor and bowing his head.

“Alpha, Luna, I- I’m sorry, I thought- I thought something else had…,” he trails off, immediately dampening the mood as Jungkook removes his hands from you, everyone thoroughly uncomfortable, bar Jin who stands behind Jimin in the corridor, unenlightened on the situation.

“I’m sorry for intruding,” Jimin reasserts himself, “But there’s a code green down at the South border; it’s Rogues, Alpha.”

Jungkook mutters a curse under his breath, dismissing the two wolves hastily and turning to you with an apologetic look, and you already know what he’s going to say; expect it, even.

“It’s okay.” You stop him, giving him a pitiful smile, “You have Alpha things to do.”

“I’ll be back later, I promise.” He kisses you gently on the forehead and squeezes your hand before making a prompt exit, and you’re left alone again.

“She what?” You smile down the landline at your father, curling your arms around your knees to bring them in closer to your chest.

“She thought I was cheating, she was trying to test me,” he explains, chuckling throatily at the same time.

“Did you pass?”

“Only just,” he teases, and you can feel him smiling through the phone, “You sound much happier, poppet.”

You sigh somewhat contentedly, “I certainly feel better.”

“I told you, love, it takes time.”

You glance at the clock on the wall, processing the time and exhaling deeply, “Dad, it’s late. You should get some sleep.”

“Are you implying that I’m old?” He counters, jokily.

“Dad!” You whine, “I’m gonna hang up now. You need to sleep.”

“Alright, poppet. I’ll talk to you soon. Wish my best to Jungkook?”

“I will. I love you.”

“You too.” You place the landline back on the hub in Jungkook’s office, sighing fondly at the voice of your father still ringing in your ears. You miss him immensely. More than you could ever have imagined when leaving Scarlet Oak. You worry every day whether he’s eating properly, sleeping well, going out often rather than staying inside all the time studying his books and treating his patients. He’s often too compassionate, placing others before himself when really he should be taking more care and focusing on his own health. If only he wasn’t so stubborn, maybe he would be down one bad back and up a few friends. You exhale, you can dream.

You turn to leave when a slightly wedged open drawer catches your eye and you make a double take. You don’t even think as you open it a little more, pulling back the mahogany to reveal another picture frame, the glass shattered into thousands of pieces littering the bottom of the wood. You carefully lean down to shake off the various sharp segments, picking up the image to get a better look.

The man. Jungkook’s father. It shows the two of them in the pack house, looking over some documents on a desk, rather seriously. His father, however, looks immeasurably proud, an arm over the back of his son gripping onto a pencil as he writes on one of the forms. They look happy. So what on earth happened? You don’t risk lurking around any further, placing everything back the way you found it and trudging out of the office.

“Y/N-“ Jin’s voice startles you enough you jump back, eyes wide and chest heaving with fright, “Shit, sorry, I was looking for you.”

“Why didn’t you call for me first?” You heave.

He shrugs, nonchalantly, “Alpha’s waiting for you.”

You frown in response, but after some questioning it’s clear he hasn’t a clue what it’s about, thus the two of you bundle into his jeep, chatting aimlessly about things, both actively ignoring the somewhat compromising position you and your mate were caught in earlier.

“What happened with the Rogue attack?” You ask, igniting a conversation as you fiddle cautiously with the belt strapped over your chest and ignoring the awkward atmosphere.

“It was only a few; nothing we couldn’t handle. Most of them retreated, too,” he explains, and you nod in response.

“Did you fight?”

“Nah, I only fight in the difficult stuff.” He looks over at you and raises his eyebrows jokily, and you subconsciously reach out your arm to hit him, making the car swerve across the road.

“Y/N!” He gasps, “I’m driving!”

“Oops,” you deadpan, highly entertained by his outraged expression and slack jaw.

“You’re mad,” he tuts, exhaling to calm himself, “I don’t need to get into any more trouble.”

When you reach the town you head straight into the pack house, Jin glued to your side after the previous time you were here, not wanting to repeat history. You ignore his proximity, however, instead your attention is drawn to the crowd of wolves outside, just lingering as they talk amongst themselves, clearly out of place.

“What are they doing here?” You ask, but Jin just shrugs in response, ushering you through the door somewhat frantically.

Once inside, you are guided down a hallway ridden with pictures of previous Alphas and pack members, and various achievements on Newspaper cut-outs or medals or trophies. It’s odd, though, how you don’t see a single memoir or photo of the man you assume to be Jungkook’s father, the previous Alpha. You’re distracted as you near the room at the end, a certain familiar smell enveloping you warmly.

Jin opens the door for you, allowing you inside before shutting it behind and leaving you to the lone presence of your mate.

“Y/N,” Jungkook grins, walking over to you to encase you in his arms; baffling the hell out of you. Why is it so weird to see him affectionate? Then you realise the room has been emptied by him, hence all the wolves stood loitering outside.

“Hey…” Babe? Love? Gorgeous? Mate? “Alpha…” Fuck.

He frowns down at you, “Don’t call me Alpha.” His tone is cold and demanding, bringing his hands up to cup your face, “Call me handsome.” His tone changes entirely and the wink that follows makes you laugh, and you come to the conclusion you thoroughly enjoy this side of him, and you’ll enjoy it for as long as it lasts.  

“What do you want?” You grin, pushing at his shoulder to look at the array of documents strewn across the table, catching your eye.

“Yes, right,” he refocuses himself, placing his palm on your lower back to guide you to the files and sucking in a breath through his teeth. “These are the official documents regarding your Luna duties, and your official welcoming into the pack.” He squeezes at your waist and rests his chin on your shoulder as you pick up one of the certificates, thumbing the corner as you scan it meticulously.

“They’re going to begin readying for your introduction tomorrow; it’ll be sorted by next week.” He turns you to face him and take your attention from the form, grin still firm on his lips, “It’s always a great time for the pack, especially with all the shit with those Rogues, it’ll be a welcomed distraction. I’ll take you into the town to get a dress tailored tomorrow. I think you’ll look gorgeous in green…” His head begins leaning down towards you when you turn rapidly away, moving from his grip and back to the documents on the table.

“I thought we were going to do this slowly, Jungkook,” you say, back facing him as you nervously graze over the papers.

“I thought you weren’t overwhelmed about being Luna?”

You begin tripping over your words in regret, “No, I- It’s not that I’m overwhelmed, I just- making it official?” You turn to face him, “Already?”

His face falls slightly, hurt by your refusal, “I thought you forgave me.”

You sigh, “I have. But, the official Luna? That’s so- it’s so- final. I don’t know, maybe it is a bit daunting. I don’t know.”

You slump down onto one of the chairs with a huff, one arm resting on the wood and the other raking through your hair, pushing it out of your face to get a better look at the various contracts and duties you’ll need to fulfil. A lot is required of a real Luna; a certain way you should act, look, be. Alphas are raised for their rank, they’re groomed to be the perfect Alphas. A Luna has to learn from the moment she’s mated, and so much more is expected of the female regarding socialising with the pack members and keeping the peace. Maybe you’ve been in denial the whole time, you conclude.

Jungkook ambles over to you carefully, watching the anxiety ripple into you in waves, “You don’t want to be officialised yet?” He sits across from you, cautiously leaning over to rub one of your hands, and you allow the comfort, calming your nerves as he gently caresses the flesh.

“You said you would give me space, and I could do what I want, when I want. And this is what I want to do.” Your tone is firm, riddled with finality, and it pleases you to see your mate accept it. Granted, he isn’t very good at concealing his disappointment- every wolf yearns to show off their mate to the public- he still grants you this though, and that’s quite the improvement.

He lets out a deep breath, releasing your hand and running his own up and down his thighs, “Well then, let’s get home. I’m exhausted after today. Have you eaten yet?”

The house feels bizarre with Jungkook downstairs cooking as you sit in your bedroom, landline in your hands and thoughts racing through your head like hell-hounds. He won’t answer. He won’t talk to you. The feeling of rejection bites at your pride, but you can’t let that stop you. You won’t let it stop you.

If Jungkook is making an effort with you, surely you must be inclined to make an effort with your best friend, that you knew long before your mate. You should at least try.

“Hey… Hobi. It’s Y/N. I- I just wanted to say that I don’t care what you and June do, or what you don’t do- I just want to let you know that I love you, and you can talk to me. And I’d love a friend. I miss you so much it hurts, and the second you get this please call me back. I’ll keep calling until you do. I’ll see you soon, Hobi. I love you.”

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[thecrayreport]

The Watch

A quick short story for @wlwocvisibility and their amazing event today! Its central theme is pretty much up in the air, but it's basically the story of an aging witch gaining a new client, or are they something more?

**********

You shouldn't sneak up on people, you know.

What, you didn't think that I didn't see you standing there? You're literally in the middle of my doorway. You should be happy. Normally, those who enter my abode without being invited lose more than just their coat.

Oh, come now, don't be like that. I was only playing with you. About the coat, I mean. That tingle down your spine once you crossed my threshold? Just a little something that my great-grandmother taught me when I was about your age. That's her, right above the mantle. See that glint in her eye, that swagger in her lean? Only Davenport women have that, and it's why our name is known from all four corners of the realm. It's funny, though.  I tried telling her that a portrait would be perfect for her, but she insisted that in order for her magick to remain over this old house, she, too, had to stay intact. Try explaining that to just any taxidermist without the aid of several chests of gold. Cursed, of course, but who asked?

Now, you came here for a reason. I'm assuming you're down on your luck and you're looking for a charm of sorts? Family cow only giving out sour milk?

No? Oh yes, you're one of those. "I'm lonely, nobody loves poor, unfortunate, absolutely boring me!" Or, "I already am teeming with immense privilege, but I have no money, spare me precious jewels!" My favorite is when you can't ask for a glass of water without rehearsing in your mind the statement, yet come begging for a kingdom of your own to rule. Listen, bud, I've heard it all, and I'm not interested in any of it. My conjuring days are over, and so are my hours. The sign says "closed" for a reason. Come back another day and bring more than just some dingy scarf next time, okay?

… You're not moving. Why aren't you moving? You know I can hex your feet, right?

What do you mean, you're here for a story? Have you gone mad? Do you have any idea what I do here? I am Mary-beth Davenport, sixth generation witch from my mother's coven. I am a certified necromancer, herbalist, conjurer, medium, and I hold a doctorate in Social Work and Psychology. What? Sometimes I do family services. You have to in this career. You wouldn't believe the things that I witness because people go online to solve their issues instead of going to a professional. Why, just the other day, someone came in complaining about migraines and intense back pain, when lo, they were in the beginning stages of turning into a gargoyle! Thankfully, I was able to give then an oatmeal bath before the scales started setting in. Once those start to appear, they set like… well, stone.

Ugh, you've made me crack puns! Now I've lost my train of thought. No matter. You obviously aren't going away by your own freewill, and you made me burn my tea, so I'll just turn you into a fly to make it even.

Wait, what's that in your hand? Is that…

A watch. You brought me a watch, and not even a nice one, too. Look, it has some rust around the metal, and the glass looks cracked. And is that… algae? Did you swim in a lake before you came here? It would explain your clothes. Only seamaiden would dare to wear green. Still, your trinket feels… off. Let me see that.

Hmm. Yes, just like I suspected. Whomever once owned this had a strong spirit. Carefree, too, by the smell of the sea, even if they are a bit clumsy, hence the cracks. Too bad they're dead; otherwise, I might be interested in meeting them.

Eh, what's that? They're not dead? That can't be, I clearly sense their hold on this realm no longer on this item. See the hands? They stay frozen, transfixed in time, as the reason of its purpose doesn't exist anymore. If you wish for me to wind it up again, you'd have to talk to a normal watchmaker for that. That necromancy I spoke about earlier? I don't say it  because it makes people leave me alone at family reunions. I once rewound a widower's loved one's watch and was surprised when his husband wasn't too thrilled to be woken up from his eternal rest. That required my psychology degree, for certain.

'Tis a shame, though. I remember someone who used to wear a watch like this, very similar make and model. They kept complaining about its ticking. Imagine that, buying a watch and hating that it ticks! Ah, well, they wanted it to be quieter, so I gave them wax for their ears to ignore the sound. You'd think it'd stop there, but no. They came in the very next day and said that the strap made their wrist itch. Simple fix, right? Applied a poultice and sent them on their way. But then they came back again. Something about the color or whatever. Finally, I had had enough. I told them that if they didn't want the watch, I would gladly take it off their hands for free. It was a nice watch, like I said. Momma Davenport would love it around her arm. But, no. They wanted it, but finally confided in me and told me that they wanted a changing potion. Steep price for such a rare and strenuous tonic, but I obliged. Haven't seen them since.

Can I be honest with you, friend? I know that I have strict rules about fraternization of any kind with my clients, and what have you, but… it gets quiet here, in this old, drabby cottage. I don't get many visitors outside of customers. Nobody ever sits down and shares a cup of tea with me. Being a witch is a pretty lonely business. Comes with the carpet. But… nobody prepares you for how lonely it gets. Sometimes, weeks will go by before you hear someone knock on your door. After a while, you start wondering if that's all it's going to be. Yourself, and your store.

Oh, thank you, you're so sweet. No, I don't need any condolences. I chose this path to honor my ancestors, and for the health benefits. It's my choice. Besides, I did get one visitor. Watch Friend? They stayed the longest, always sitting in the same chair you're sitting in and sharing a nice, warm cup of tea. Fruity Apple, I think it was, no sugar. They liked the tartness. Our discussions were always wondrous and strange. I remember it like it was yesterday. "How long is a snake's tongue?" "If a snake grows appendages, will it walk like a lizard or a bird?" "Do snakes hate tummy rubs like a person hates their feet getting tickled?" That last one was such a thinker, and I will admit, I looked forward to their answers with bated breath. Their wild mind, able to string together the most incoherent theories, was unlike anything I'd ever seen before. I even gave them a spare key, in case they wanted to come visit whenever they liked after hours. They never did, but I'm still waiting, just in case.

Oh! Look at the time. Sorry for my rambling, but I do believe that you have to leave now. Right now. You might have already picked this up, but my home has special abilities, one of which is its ability to travel wherever it's needed. A nifty trick for my business, you see. It helps bring access to those that aren't normally able to get it.

By the way… might I ask how you got here? Not saying that you can't get here on your own, obviously, but I placed a cloaking spell over my home. Privacy reasons, of course. The recipe's older than Mama, perhaps even older than that, so there's no possible way that you could have simply walked in the way that you did.

What? You knew where I was? No, that's impossible. The only people who know my location at any time is someone with access go the house. That would be myself, Mama, and…

…

It's you, isn't it? My friend? My, my, how you've grown! You've gotten mighty old, just like me. Your eyes are just as bright as I remembered, and you're still complaining about that watch of yours. I'm guessing that's yours? Figures, you always were one for wasting time. Eh, get it? Because it's broken, but instead of throwing it away, you keep it, while it wastes away! Okay, that doesn't sound as funny once you explain it. Now, look what you've done. You've ruined the mood.

There is one thing, friend, that I'd like to ask, if you permit me? Why did you leave? I was a girl when we met, no taller than this fireplace. You could've stayed with me, kept me company. Instead, you ran off, and never came back. I hated you for a while because of it. You left me alone. I was afraid, terribly so, that I would never see you again. Pray tell, what mighty wrong did I commit against you for you to vex me so?

Nothing? No, no, there has to be something. Anything?

… you… you were afraid… for me? Well, what on earth for?

The changing potion?

Ahh. Now, it all makes sense. You were afraid that I would no longer like you the way that you are, so you wished to change yourself so that I would.

You blundering fool.

Listen, friend, and listen close. I have always cared for you. Ever since you first came into my home, I was enamored by your energy. It's impossible to ignore. You are, honestly, the best person that I've ever met. Second to Mama, of course. You didn't have to change anything about yourself for me to like you. I already did, and always will. You are my greatest friend and much more, and that will never change.

Now, come. The fire is warm, the tea is hot, and I finally got cable after two hundred years of waiting on customer service. If we're lucky, we might get a chance to watch something good.

But first, do you have the time?

[burialhq]

STATUS :   mythic. CAMOUFLAGE :  shapeshifting  ( limited ; explained below ) . INHERITANCE :   created. ABILITIES :   while some may be guardians or outright evil spirits, which affect their abilities as such, the nix are always most powerful near a body of water and depend on it as a source of life. typically freshwater ecosystems are preferred, but in times of crisis, saltwater can work - just not as effectively. the connection between the nix and water allows them to swim at increased speeds, breathe underwater for hours at a time, and sense other living and nonliving things within a five-mile radius in short bursts. they don’t have the natural ability to manipulate water in any large capacity - especially when outside of or far from it - but they can influence how water pushes and pulls in any direction. in some stories, a group of nix could create large whirlpools and other water traps for their own amusement.

shapeshifting is a lesser used ability of the nix, often reserved as a means of defense. what each nix shifts into can vary depending on background, concentration, and natural ability, but it’s often some sort of animal that has an affinity for water  ( e.g., fish, swans, snakes, and other small amphibians and reptiles ) . this requires a lot of concentration on behalf of the nix, but as a result, any animal they take the form of is the most captivating of its kind and can push others into a state of hypnosis if near the shapeshifted nix for too long. the art of shifting into larger creatures, such as horses, was lost over a century ago and is not a typical creature of choice amongst the few remaining nix today. on a smaller note, nix immunities and weaknesses transfer into their shapeshifted form.

what has often been considered the nix’s most dangerous gift is their ability to influence, which immediately twists into manipulation depending on the nix’s intent. nix have an exceptional mastery over song and music, melodies acting as a medium for which they channel their powers of enchantment. to be most successful, the nix must always balance the trinity of enchantment magic: emotion, intention, and attunement. emotion acts as the source, intention gives the direction, and attunement secures the connection. for example, a nix who feels deep betrayal  ( emotion )  and wants to exact revenge  ( intention )  on a former lover  ( attunement )  would be much more successful than one who is apathetic, has no desire, and lives a lonelier life; a rare occurrence for their kind.

while beautiful to the ear, their melodies are usually sad tales of mistrust, deceit, and even death. in some cases, the nix have been known to play melodies that invigorate, uplift, or even heal anyone or anything close by. the power behind their magic amplifies when closer to or submerged in natural water; their songs easily binding one’s mind in a lethargic, sometimes fatal state. depending on the nature of the nix and the intensity of the connection, once enchanted and the nix is within arm’s reach, stories tell that they’ve drained a body of its life energy  ( soul )  and completely eviscerate their victim’s physical body. long ago, the nix exclusively used the water to help fortify their abilities, but through generations,  ( although, weaker )  they can be used outside of it.

LIFESPAN :   the most reliable folktale recounts that the nix were originally designed as guardians of an old, sleepy god that resided at the bottom of the sea who collected lost treasures and people  ( their life energies, specifically )  over the course of time. the more the nix aided in luring victims into the water, the more they discovered the aging of their bodies slowed. naturally, nix live up to a century, physically maturing around 25-30 years old.

aligned with the original tales, as long as the nix make sacrifices, they can live to be a few centuries old and never lose their youthful vigor or beauty. however, it’s assumed that not many still exist in the world, as they’ve often been preyed upon by other supernatural creatures and human hunters alike. pure nix blood used to be a treasured commodity. as such, many of them have been killed off before  “ old age. ”

IMMUNITIES :   being preservers of water, nix are highly resistant to fire in many forms. it would take a concentrated, unnatural  ( magical )  type of fire to be effective against them. the nix are also highly resistant to many forms of enchantment magic, and are near immune to forms of enchantment from others of their kind  ( this includes other related fae creatures, more on this below ) . in terms of the natural world around them, nix aren’t as affected by extreme temperatures or weather types, sometimes benefiting from them instead. for example, when outside in the rain, nix may move at increased speeds as if swimming in water.

WEAKNESSES :   in general, the nix are susceptible to most sickness and disease, both human and supernatural, although they experience milder symptoms and faster recoveries if they withdraw to natural bodies of water for a long period of time. long ago, it was absolutely fatal for them to come into contact with silver, but now the nix have become resistant through generations - it only acts like an allergen, but too much exposure can still burn a nix’s insides. tales say that calling a nix by their birth name can paralyze or even kill them, and while this isn’t necessarily false, it takes a particular amount of conviction in one’s heart to speak the nix’s name and harm them accordingly. this is why so many nix choose a new name as soon as possible and find many ways to erase or protect those memories. just how magic works for them, they cannot be killed in this way unless the desire was stronger than the nix’s will to live.

nix cannot live without water for long periods of time. while some have gotten more accustomed to walking amongst humans on dry land, they have to stay hydrated consistently or their physical and mental bodies can decay rapidly. water in all states of matter helps, but extended separation from natural bodies of water can strip a nix of their supernatural energy, and in some cases, result in death.

ATTRIBUTES :   the nix are mostly humanoid, but they do have a range of features that can make them distinguishable: perpetually damp clothes, pointed ears, sharper canines, flawless skin that almost radiates. in extreme cases, nix have been known to carry some of their shapeshifted animal’s characteristics into their humanoid form  ( for example, webbed feet/hands, longer nails, fins, textured skin, scales ) . the nix tend to be light on their feet, best described as gliding or sauntering around on land. they can be an unpredictable bunch, and this affects their natural push and pull with the world around them. at their best, their presence can be easeful and even seductive. at worst, it can be more difficult to focus and the feeling of anticipation rises.

EFFECTS :   being so closely intertwined with nature, the nix interact with the various amounts of natural energy around them to reinforce their magic. immediate atmospheres might be more humid, but the air quality is cleaner. trees and plants might grow in strange, odd shapes and colors, but the colors are their most vibrant. natural water might have a darker, almost rich quality, but it can offer brief medicinal properties like a burst of energy or a cool, calming feeling.

when on land, the nix have been known to absorb large amounts of natural water wherever they go to reserve for later. after it rains, there might be many dry pockets of air and land that appear unaffected by the previous events. the nix can also tip the scales in water supply for an immediate area or building if living in shared spaces with humans, taking much longer showers and baths for their amusement and satisfaction.

BONUS :   while there isn’t much concrete evidence about which god(s) created the nix, they are closely related to other natural fae creatures and natural spirits. because of this, certain forms of magic - especially anything that enchants, deceives, or manipulates - coming from other fae creatures has almost no effect on the nix. it’s also been noted that while the nix make these sacrifices to stay youthful and beautiful for centuries, they also run the risk of becoming obsessed with their own beauty and songs, and can become ruthless, frightening creatures in pursuit of perfection.

[tripstations]

Langkawi, Malaysia: 10 causes to go to

By Michael Edwards on Jan 07, 2020 in Lodging, Journey Journey, Air Journey, Asia, Points of interest, Cruises & Boat Journey, Going Out, Motels, Malaysia, Areas, Resorts, Speciality Journey

Bathing within the heat aquamarine Andaman Sea, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 Malaysian islands simply shy of the border with Thailand.

White sand seashores backed by dense rain forests present a base for enjoyable holidays. However Langkawi can also be a base for adrenaline infused adventures too.

The Oriental Village

The Oriental Village is a perfect place to start out an exploration of Langkawi. Our go to there was organised by Langkawi Growth Authority and there you possibly can take the world’s steepest cable automotive to ascend by the plush rain-forests. It is a location designed for Instagram; each view again down over the dense emerald forests, over the verdant valleys and throughout to Thailand, is one other one to snap.

Then there’s the Sky Bridge, a crescent of metal and glass, suspended within the blue void the place the stupendous vertical views are between your toes.

Again down at floor degree, 12 projectors on the SkyDome places Langkawi and the planet right into a spectacular 360 diploma dramatic perspective. A 3D journey at Skyrex will get up shut and really private with dinosaurs from the times after they roamed the planet.

Umgawa legendary adventures zipline

A lot of Langkawi is hovering rain-forest {that a} zipline by the UNESCO recognised geo-park with Umgawa Legendary Adventures is a must-do occasion.

Even should you suppose you lack a head for heights each the graduated course of 12 ziplines, peaking with a 200 metres run, and the pleasant workers quickly construct your confidence. Beginning with a brief descent you quickly really feel able to go palms free and switch at 90 levels for the perfect views of Seven Wells waterfalls. The workers can spot monkeys, flying snakes and flying squirrels at a distance, earlier than you lastly abseil again down onto terra firma.

Sundown dinner cruise

Late afternoon, sail from the harbour with Avante Boat Charters, there’s a relaxed good instances vibe on the nice and cozy breeze. Crusing between the tall craggy island cliffs that make up the Langkawi archipelago, anchor is dropped for company to swim.

Then, after dinner has been served, and with drinks nonetheless flowing, the catamaran sails right into a blood pink dawn.

Jet-ski safari

You can go for 30 minutes of enjoyable, courtesy of Mega Watersports, zipping by and skimming over the nice and cozy ripples of the bay. Salt spray flecks these important solar glasses. Or you might head off into the Andaman Sea for a 35 kilometres jet-ski safari, your tour information main an arrowhead formation of thrilled jet-skiers heading for journey.

Moor up for a lot a wanted drinks break and a cooling swim in a pure spring water lake. Then your information will take you near an island’s cliffs to view timber rising out of the merest fissure and birds’ nests solely accessible to those that can fly. With so many islands uninhabited, some even submerged at high-tide, your occasion can declare as their very own, for a 20 minutes break, a Robinson Cruise spot of paradise.

Langkawi Previous Attraction expertise

Step again into Langkawi’s previous for a night run by Dev’s Journey Excursions. After a welcome at a conventional Malaysian home, take a guided strolling tour by the rice paddy fields. To a soundtrack of cicadas, your information tells the endless food-chain battle of bugs, frogs, snakes and eagles on this water-logged setting.

As we chop rooster, warmth spices, slice mango and create roti within the kitchen, the hosts gossip of purchasing within the markets and households divided over smelly durians: you both love’em or hate them. Chatter continues over a gently spiced rooster curry, surprisingly tasty as we’ve got cooked it ourselves. Worryingly our hosts converse of adjustments to the rice seasons, the wet season is not as common because it was, and the crop relies on man’s irrigation programs.

Mangrove cruise

First cease on Dev’s Journey Excursions’ mangrove cruise is an enormous cave system crammed with insect-eating bats; an eerie subterranean limestone cathedral of stalactites and stalagmites.

Cruising by the islands you might spot snakes basking on branches and eagles swooping for his or her lunch. Dropping anchor off a sandbar, there could also be an opportunity to swim within the clear waters of the Andaman Sea. Then it’s time for a lunch-stop.

The Danna Langkawi

With architectural echoes of luxurious colonial residing, the Danna Langkawi is a sublime 5* resort. White frangipani flowers float romantically on the huge infinity pool. An immaculately curated palm-fringed white sand seaside completes the paradise. Days start with champagne breakfast in Planters restaurant, a luxurious buffet the place western breakfast meets oriental tastes too.

In addition to spacious rooms across the resort’s Backyard of Eden planting central courtyard and swimming pools of large Koi, the Danna affords indifferent villas that includes personal swimming pool and seaside entry.

The Meritus Pelangi Seaside Resort and Spa, Langkawi

One kilometre of beachfront, solar loungers ready underneath Casuarina timber formed as umbrellas, makes the Meritus Pelangi Seaside Resort and Spa, Langkawi a favorite with guests to the archipelago.

The Spice Market, on the coronary heart of a resort designed within the fashion of a Malaysian village, affords an enormous number of Chinese language, Indian, Malay and Thai dishes all through the day. Although CBa with romantic eating on the seaside, because the solar units, is a bar and restaurant that’s standard with the honeymooners.

Ambong Pool Villas

A keep at Ambong Pool Villas, a classy rainforest resort, designed into the hillside, offers the chance to understand Langkawi’s pure setting.

Every of the villas, furnished with conventional darkish wooden, offers both a dawn or sundown view from its personal personal infinity pool. Enormous glass home windows, invite you into the rainforest with its birdsong, chattering monkeys and hornbills flying from tree to tree.

Personal eating is an possibility, starting with breakfast served in your patio and a chef to prepare dinner a BBQ within the night. Although it’s positively value calling in on the Rimba restaurant for the Ambong Signature Skewers or the Entire Fish Bakar with Air Assam or Squid Ink Sambal Spaghetti.

Qatar Airways

Taking a Qatar Airways flight to Langkawi is the best way to make air journey straightforward and opulent. Winners of the Skytrax 2019 Airline of the 12 months Award, Doha’s fashionable fleet, attentive service and Oryx leisure system make the hours move rapidly.

With Doha, Qatar’s capital, as the guts of its Qatar Airway’s hub, a cease of a few hours is a perfect alternative to stretch your legs. In case you are flying Enterprise Class – and Qatar Airways additionally took the Skytrax 2019 awards for Greatest Enterprise Class and Greatest Enterprise Class Seat – you possibly can benefit from the services of Qatar Airway’s Enterprise Lounge too.

Disclosure: Our go to to the Oriental Village was offered by Langkawi Growth Authority.

Disclosure: Our go to was sponsored by The Danna Langkawi, Meritus Pelangi Seaside Resort and Qatar Airways. 

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[davidaolson]

The city illumines truth and reveals reality. It does not bring new wonders into the scope of vision, but enables one to see what is already there. Where this eternal light intersects the earth, it is known as Kashi. ~Diana L. Eck

Hubris

When you date someone on and off for 10 years, then live with them for another year and a half, you feel as if you know them at a deep level, are connected by an intimacy reserved for lovers. You believe you are familiar enough with them that the unexpected is always expected and the possibility of surprise was replaced long ago by an endearing comfort.

This was how I felt about India…until visiting Varanasi (also known as Banares, Benares, Kashi) an ancient city founded by the Hindu God Shiva sometime around 800 BC. Artifacts found nearby in 2014 date back to 1800 BC supporting the view that Varanasi was inhabited at this time.

The city slapped us hard across the face awakening our minds to a whole new level of India’s chaotic insanity. I use slap not as an act to induce pain rather as a baby is slapped on the rump alerting it to a new reality. The insanity I use is the incomprehensibility to a mind deeply rooted in Western cultural norms. The ancient was a new Indian reality to me, to us, a reality we were unprepared for.

Varanasi/Benares

Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together! ~Mark Twain

Varanasi is India on steroids – roid rage. The traffic density allows for little breathing room between vehicles, put your arm out the window and it will be sheared off by vehicles moving in opposite directions frequently barely an inch separating a large bus from a small autorickshaw. The density of people because of numbers and narrow passageways means it is impossible to walk more than a few feet without becoming caught up in a school of fish pushing you upstream with directional change, other than that initiated by the mob, impossible. Was I short, I would have felt like a rat in an ever-shifting maze and finding the cheese was more accident than skill.

On morning two, we walked to the Ghats. They were not accessible by motorized vehicle so walking was our only option. “It’s just 5 minutes.” we were told, “Just follow that street.” We were still looking 30 minutes later. I used my Google Maps as an aid with marginal benefit. The streets are narrow, I can simultaneously touch buildings on both sides with my arms outstretched. The height of the buildings means only slashes of light renting the sky are visible and the street atmosphere feels like twilight.

The narrow canyons were filled with people, lots of people, cows, dogs, stores, bicycles, the occasional motorcycle, runoff from the houses, and dirt. It was impossible to walk directly east from our hotel to the Ghats. There are no straight streets. There are no right angles. There are no street signs. Everything twists and turns and confuses the neophyte traveler even confuses Google Maps. We asked directions many times using the name of the Ghat we were attempting to reach. Most responses were people pointing in a direction for us to walk. Each response came with great assurance but each directed us along a different path.

The air was stagnant. We had to watch the ground to avoid cow pies and dog droppings, look ahead to navigate the masses. We held hands to prevent separation from each other. Had we lost visual contact it would have been impossible to reconnect. Our journey took us through walls of smell.  There were smells I recognized, others I didn’t. Still others I never want to cross the thresholds of my nostrils again. My wife walked with a scarf covering her mouth and nose. I had no option but to drink in the bouquet. I think this excursion was the tipping point when my wife decided it would be her last trip to India.

Walking required a half sideways crab motion, feet shuffling sideways while the eyes, pointed forward searched for gaps through which to plunge before the living crowd inhales closing the sliver of space. The half crab alignment narrows the body width just enough to allow squeezing through the swarm moving in the opposite direction. In any given moment, the body is bumping and grinding with several other human beings. The process has the violence of a multiperson quick fuck. Wham! Bam! Thank you, Ma’am! Sir! Ma’am! Cow! Sir! Sir! Ma’am! Gender indeterminate!

With a little luck, we emerged out of the streets onto the Ghat steps. By surprise, it was the Ghat we originally set out to locate.

Because we were so focused on escaping to the Ghat, I absentmindedly left my camera in my bag. These pictures are of other places we walked in Varanasi.

Traffic

Auto Rickshaw

A Steet of People and Stores

Look – a tourist!

Poverty

More Poverty

Still More Poverty

Sacred Cow

Sacred Cows

A Narrow Street

The River Ganga (Ganges)

The Ganga is more than a river. She is the Holy Mother. She is Ganga Ma. ~Ronald Barrett

Transitioning from the streets to the Ghats was an emotional catharsis. The overwhelming feelings of being trapped in a maze melted away when the canyons opened up to a great big sky and the large river Ganga. Our short trip through the emotional birth canal was rewarded with swirling air and sun and hella loud music. The Dev Deepawali pre-festivities were underway.

Our plan was to visit multiple Ghats during the early afternoon followed by a visit to the Kashi Vishvanath Temple then return during the evening for part two of the festival. We would never make the temple because protracted lines snaked through the narrow streets constricted by walls of people into all the entrances meaning the wait would have been on the order of hours.

After our challenging walk through the sliver wide streets, we decided not to confront them again, figuring we would be lost for more time than we would have to explore the Ghats themselves. (At the time, we did not realize the Ghats were all connected and we could walk end to end.) So, we negotiated a ₹300 ($5), down from a starting price of ₹1000, ride in a rowboat that seemed more rickety than seaworthy. Of course, there were no life jackets. The last boat we were on was a behemoth ferry powered by massive engines carrying us and our cars from Prince Edward Island to Nova Scotia, a far cry from this wooden, human-powered skiff.

Those who bathe at Ganga at least once in its pure water are protected from thousands of dangers forever and get rid of sins of generations and are purified immediately. ~Brahmanandpuranam

The boat trip lasted about half an hour. I wished it was much longer. We were able to get into the open where the gentle breeze helped balance the intense sun and helped cool our sweating bodies. We were able to see people enjoying the water and the Ghats from the perspective of the Ganga river, scenes that would have been hidden from our eyes otherwise. We were also able to take a picture of Manikarnika (Cremation) Ghat something that was forbidden from the land. That’s a tale for the next blog.

We opted to not take a dip in the river and be sanctified, opted to not set a toe in the Ganga even if it meant cleansing us of our sins. We opted not because the water is polluted, polluted with industrial waste, with human waste, with those decaying human bodies whom Hindu ritual says must not be cremated and are dumped whole into the river, weighted with rocks to descend and lay on the bottom where they decay and can be eaten by river creatures.

Me and Oarsman

Swimming at a Ghat

Buildings on a Ghat

City Up To The River

Bathing

Meditating

Established 1807

Community Bathing

Approaching Shore

Ghat Crowd

Ghat Crowd

Lots of People

Ceremony Artifacts

Boat Full of Colors

Praying

Overloaded and No Life Jackets

Ritual Bathing

Ritual Bathing

Myna

Dev Deepawali

Dev Deepawali, a festival that draws 10 lakh (1 million) people, is to celebrate the day the gods descended to Earth to bathe in the holy Ganga river. We didn’t see any gods in the river, perhaps they were disguised, perhaps our Western minds are unable to grasp the concept of an Eastern deity. We did see countless Indians in the river bathing and drinking and praying to access the power of the river where a simple bath in the Ganga cleanses away sins, much like the Catholic baptism washes away original sin.

The festival, coinciding with the November full moon, was celebrated on two nights. We attended both albeit from vastly different vantage points. The first night the autorickshaw took us to a primary street then told us we had to walk the rest of the way because motorized vehicles were not allowed past the point we stopped. We followed the crowd, the growing crowd down a couple of wide streets followed by one that narrowed before opening to the steps of the Ghat. We found a place amongst the bodies where we squeezed in and stood for the next couple of intimate hours.

The ceremony started with bell ringing, shrill bells which ranged for almost the entire ceremony. We watched the ceremony, watched the people, watched the ebb and flow of the crowd of which we were ebbed and flowed. I have no idea what was happening during the ceremony but was rapt.

The second night, we paid ₹2500 ($39) for the privilege of a reserved spot on the upper terrace of the Blue Dolphin restaurant. We were still fatigued from the long day, still overwhelmed from hours spent squeezing through swarms of people to move around the city. The thought of a relaxed, paid seat seemed like a pretty good deal. Considering the boatman offered to take us out on the boat to watch the ceremony for ₹5000 each, this was a very good deal.

The terrace was a vantage point we felt almost like deities watching the masses from high above. On the terrace, we ate a light vegetarian meal and drank water. Varanasi, the city, is primarily vegetarian and mostly alcohol-free. None of the restaurants we visited has so much as a glass of wine.

From on high, we were able to take in the many lights covering the Ghats that fired up for the event. We were able to see the full moon to our left, the many boats directly in front of us, and the ceremony taking place on our right. We were able to see the place we stood the previous night when we were in and of the crowd which made us glad we were more isolated this evening.

In The Crowd

Faces in the Crowd

Faces in the Crowd

Faces in the Crowd

Ceremony

Faces in the Crowd

The Bells

The Offering

Ceremony

Lamps

Flowers on the Steps

Flowers and Lamps

Crimson Feet

Real or Fake?

Brahmin Ponytail

Ceremony and Crowd

Hot Air Balloon

Boats on the Water

Conclusion

Varanasi is NOT a place for the faint of heart. It’s an assault on the senses, all the senses. Had Varanasi been my first experience of India, it may have been my last. That said, I am glad I visited what is at once the oldest and holiest city in India.

Looking back, I understand why we were as excited to leave Varanasi, possibly more so, as we were to arrive at Varanasi. I understand why upon leaving we said we will never visit there again. However, one month removed, I feel a desire…a need…to return. In the hubbub and melee and the continual onslaught to the senses, I was outside the boundary of the spiritual.

I had neither the time nor the mental acuity to connect with the spiritual undertone, to swim with the spiritual undertow. I did not make time to connect with the soul of Varanasi, the most important character trait of the ancient city. Until I do, my time there will not be complete. There is a void I need to fill so, some day, I will return. I must return.

A Slap in the Face @ Varanasi/Benares (India 2017 Part 4) The city illumines truth and reveals reality. It does not bring new wonders into the scope of vision, but enables one to see what is already there.

[tripstations]

Langkawi, Malaysia: journey, luxurious and rest

By Michael Edwards on Dec 13, 2019 in Lodging, Air Journey, Asia, Points of interest, Meals and Drink, Going Out, Lodges, Malaysia, Areas, Resorts, Eating places, Spas & Pampering, Speciality Journey, Journey Miscellany

Langkawi, on the west coast of Malaysia, is an idyllic archipelago of 101 islands sun-bathing within the heat of the Andaman Sea.

It may be an action-packed, excessive adrenaline vacation spot with jet-skis and zip wires. For nature lovers, it is likely one of the most bio-diverse environments on the planet. And for individuals who simply want to calm down, it has luxurious motels with infinity swimming pools and the sugary white-sand seashores.

New flights from Qatar Airways have made Langkawi an accessible paradise for everybody: for honeymooners looking for a supremely romantic vacation spot, for households and for these looking for journey.

Qatar Airways

Winners of the Skytrax 2019 Airline of the Yr Award, Qatar Airways is the uber- luxurious selection for travellers heading to Langkawi.

Flying from London’s Gatwick and Heathrow airports in addition to Aberdeen, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester the airline offers quick access for travellers on their technique to Doha; the primary leg of the journey to Langkawi.

As Qatar Airways additionally scooped the Skytrax 2019 awards for Greatest Enterprise Class and Greatest Enterprise Class Seat the primary flight of round seven hours to Doha, with a lot to get pleasure from on the Oryx Leisure system, nearly passes too shortly.

Qatar Airways present crisp white table-clothed eating places, aspiring to Michelin star requirements, at excessive altitude. That is fine-dining full with amuse-bouche, three-warm breads with a selection of three oils and Godiva goodies to complete.

After a welcome glass of Champagne or orange juice, employees take your order from the menu and wine listing. Impressively. passengers not solely choose what they need to eat but in addition once they need to eat.

Watch a movie on the 17-inch display with noise-cancelling headphones earlier than having your cocktail and starter delivered. Benefit from an hour’s free Wi-fi to make amends for some e-mails, then savour your primary course and dessert.

With a two hour turn-around in Doha there’s the chance to pattern Qatar Airway’s smooth Enterprise lounge earlier than the following flight.

Flying over the Indian Ocean it’s time to make the most of the 14 button management panel to create an 80 inch lengthy flat-bed. Use the toothbrush within the rest room, placed on the complimentary pyjamas, pull-up the blanket and get some good high quality sleep. Breakfast, with a Starbucks-like vary of espresso or tea, shall be served if you order it.

The Danna Langkawi

Approaching its 10th birthday, The Danna Langkawi is Langkawi’s model of Singapore’s Raffles however with some great benefits of a main beach-front location and sheltered harbour. White blossoms from the tall frangipani timber float serenely on the huge infinity pool. It’s no shock that the Danna, simply 15 minutes from the airport, is first selection for therefore many honeymoon {couples}. A couple of years later, pining for the Danna’s colonial stylish luxurious, they return to e book their off-spring into the Children’ Membership.

Nostalgic photos of Penang within the days of the British Empire, cooling followers, rattan chairs on intensive verandas and deep luxuriant baths recall the comforts of colonial days.

If the spacious rooms are luxurious then the secluded villas, with direct entry to the seashore and a personal swimming pool, are A-Record superstar opulent. Fairly than heading to the 9 therapy rooms in Danna’s spa, the masseuse will present a therapy on a devoted desk within the privateness of your villa.

Stay the colonial life-style with a recreation of billiards earlier than dinner or a cocktail from the bar. With 118 types of gin on supply the Danna has one of many widest picks in Asia.

Planters’ Restaurant menu celebrates Malaysian meals as one of many nice fusion cuisines. As soon as situated on one of many world’s busiest commerce routes, Chinese language and Indian and Sumatran travellers all introduced tasty influences to the Malaysian dinner desk. As Langkawi is near Thailand’s southern border there’s a robust affect of fragrant rice and aromatic noodle dishes too.

The Malaysian Tasting Platter of sea bass sambol, hen percik, beef rendang, king prawn curry, papadum, Malay pickle and steamed rice is the right introduction to Langkawi’s numerous culinary traditions and the talent of Planters’ cooks.

Planters’ Champagne Breakfasts additionally present the chance for a feast, both Asian or Western type, from an immense buffet. Then for lighter choices – or only a espresso – there may be additionally the extra casual Straits and Co.

The Meritus Pelangi Seashore Resort and Spa, Langkawi

Designed within the type of a Malaysian village the Meritus Pelangi Seashore Resort and Spa, Langkawi consists of 355 rooms and suites unfold over 34 acres specialising in heartfelt 5* hospitality. As quickly as you arrive there’s a chilled flannel and funky fruit juice welcome.

Expert topiary shapes Casuarina timber into pure sun-umbrellas as company calm down on sun-loungers alongside the one kilometre of white sanded Cenang Seashore. It’s a seashore that finally leads right into a energetic stretch of native bars, fireplace jugglers, eating places and outlets.

Rooms are spacious, effectively cooled and dark-wood colonial fashionable. Massive balconies look out throughout the azure Andaman sea to different islands within the Langkawi archipelago or on to one of many resort’s two swimming swimming pools or decorative lakes.

Breakfast on the Meritus Pelangi takes some planning. The Spice Market, with scores of tables each in and out, provides the last word Asian breakfast buffet. A tour of the restaurant is important to evaluate what’s on supply from Chinese language, Indian, Malay and Thai classics.

If you happen to nonetheless favor a Western breakfast, ordering your eggs as you want them and topping up on pancakes and toast, there’s additionally CBa. Phonetically it’s “sea-bar” which sums up its beachside sand-between-your-toes laid-back location. Come sundown, it’s a favorite romantic selection for honeymooners’ al fresco eating.

Luxurious afternoon tea was all the time a key ingredient within the decadent colonial life-style and that’s simply one of many causes to belong to the Membership Lounge. Cold and hot drinks all through the day, in addition to complimentary cocktails within the night, additionally construct the case.

Though presently being refurbished, there’ll quickly be a small water park for kids in addition to a petting zoo, so as to add to the Children’ Membership programme.

In the meantime grown-ups can preserve themselves occupied with the spa, the sea-view health suite with steam-room, archery, cookery programs, mini-golf, squash and tennis.

What to do in Langkawi

Langkawi could be a high-octane vacation spot with jet-ski island-hopping safari, supplied by Mega Watersports, skimming over aquamarine seas.

Or high-adrenaline flying with the Umgawa Legendary Adventures zipline  whizzing via the rain-forest cover of flying squirrels, flying snakes and eagles. Alternatively, Langkawi is a e book, cocktail and sun-lounger vacation spot on pristine sugary-white-beaches.

Cruising via the mangroves with – Dev’s Journey Excursions – and visiting the limestone caves, travellers can see why Malaysia is likely one of the planet’s most bio-diverse locations. Cave bats eat 400 mosquitoes an hour while outdoors eagles soar above the tree-line.

Stepping again in time, the Previous Langkawi Attraction Expertise, once more supplied by Dev’s Journey Excursions, takes guests via paddy fields the place white egrets perch on the backs of water buffalo to reach at a standard Malaysian home for a cookery course, creating your personal dinner.

One other unmissable spotlight is a sundown cruise via a seascape resembling Vietnam’s Halong Bay or a James Bond film set. Avante Boat Charters present dinner, limitless drinks, reside music, dancing and an unimaginable feel-good social gathering vibe.

Discuss to anybody who has visited Langkawi and they’re going to have thrilling reminiscences of the Sky Bridge.

The world’s steepest cable automobile ascends to the Sky Bridge, a 410 toes curving pedestrian bridge, at 2,170 toes above sea-level. It offers astounding views over each the Langkawi Peninsula and throughout to Thailand too. Again down nearly at sea-level on the Oriental Village there are additionally SkyRex, SkyDome (3D Cinema) and a 3D Artwork gallery to go to all supplied for us by the Langkawi Improvement Company.

Disclosure: Our go to was sponsored by The Danna Langkawi, Meritus Pelangi Seashore Resort and Qatar Airways. 

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