Five Best

When mentioning Indonesia, the first thoughts of many centre on Bali but there is a great deal more to this country than the island of Bali. Indonesia is a country rich in culture and with landscapes of the most extraordinary beauty throughout its archipelago of 17,000 islands. Whatever one’s preference is for a holiday environment, Indonesia has something for everyone. Choices range from tropical beach scenes, the rugged power of volcanoes, historical ancient sites, amazing diving sites, dragons and so much more. It is impossible not to be overwhelmed by natural beauty of Indonesia and having so said, have listed five favourite holidays destinations for both local and international tourists BALI It’s no secret that Bali has charmed its way into the hearts of many. The island is blesse...

An astonishing land full of opportunities for rural adventurers, Vietnam is a country of breathtaking natural beauty and unique heritage. This is a land of unforgettable experiences, dramatic landscapes and fascinating seascapes. On the Eastern coast of Vietnam, midway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is the city of Da Nang. This vast ever-growing city blossoms with with fancy cafes, luxury pubs and lavish resorts. It is also possible for beach strollers here to find a peaceful solace on the beaches around the city. Some of the most recommended beaches for relaxing on are around Danang. Here one can be laid back and relaxed on Pham van Duong, My Khe, Bac My An and Non Nuoc. However, there is far too much going on here ignore, get adventurous and explore!  

Cleaved by the South China Sea, Malaysia is a country with two different visages. While the peninsula flaunts bustling cities, colonial architecture, misty tea plantations and tropical resort islands, Malaysian Borneo host’s wild jungles, orang-utans, granite peaks and remote tribes, along with some pretty spectacular diving spots. For a glorious summer holiday in Malaysia, Redang Island should be marked bold on your trip list. Positioned within a marine park, Redang host’s some excellent diving and snorkelling sites. One can easily take in the sunny beaches and lush tropical jungle here. The largest beach in Redang is Pasir Panjang on the east side and it is the main tourist hub offering half a dozen resorts to choose from.  

Formerly known as ‘Biliton’, Belitung Island at Bangka-Belitung province of Indonesia is regarded as one of the best tropical sanctuaries in Southeast Asia. Pristine white sand beaches overlook a turquoise sea. Here there are great snorkelling sites within view of a fantastic display of offshore islands. Belitung has gained worldwide recognition as one of the most anticipated holiday destinations in the area especially for those who seek an alternative to the mainstream vacation island resorts around Indonesia. Two of the finest beaches to visit at Belitung are Tanjung Kelayang and Tanjung Tinggi. Here one will find a peaceful tropical feel of sun, sand and sea but a minimum of the hustle and bustle of other more commercial resort sites. Most of the hotels and inns are located in Tanjung ...

Reflecting the beauty of its neighbouring isle of Bali, the island of Lombok seems to be ‘stuck in time’ in a good and unspoiled way. Pristine beaches, gorgeous landscapes and tropical nature are part of the island’s fame. Some beautiful areas here survive well without the support of commercial endeavours. Besides the widely known areas of interest such as Senggigi Beach and the Gili clusters, there are a number of underrated but fascinating spots worth visiting around the island. These include Tanjung A’an near Kuta Beach (not to be confused with the legendary one in Bali) where the shoreline is famous for its unique pepper-like sand and the magnificent Tangsi Beach a.k.a ‘Pink beach’ so named for the striking pink sand covering its entire shoreline.

The Island of the Gods is surely the place where one can be taken in by some of the best sunsets beyond the shoreline. Bali is full of wonderful beaches to visit. Extend a reach a bit off the shore of Sanur and one can visit the two islands of Nusa Penida, and Nusa Lembongan, these two unique islands are home to some splendid vistas, both over and under the water. Snorkelling and diving are the main attractions as shallow reefs provide a perfect habitat for a colour storm of marine diversity, just waiting to be explored. For some of the most challenging and exciting board riding conditions one should head to the South of the island and Nusa Dua. Here lie many sandy coves that receive formidable waves off the Indian Ocean. Gear up, bring your surfboard, and enjoy the thrilling ride.