Five Best

Bali like so many of Indonesia’s islands has been formed as a result of volcanic activity. The mountainous chain that runs through the middle of Bali is a result of this activity and in the case of Mt. Batur, activity that is not quite over. Mount Batur is located in Batur Village, Kintamani and is an active volcano standing 1,717 meters above sea level well known as a gorgeous sunrise spot. The area around the volcano is a deep crater lake and the site of a massive explosion many years ago. Bubbling hot springs also feature around the base of this volcano that attracts both trekkers and viewers alike to its surrounds. Mount Batur’s peak provides a fantastic platform for sunset watchers. Almost a century ago, Mount Batur erupted. Although it was not as massive as the one happened at anci...

Situated close to the small town of Moni in central Flores Island, Kelimutu is a volcano that rises 1,639 meters above sea level. This volcano is famous for its three striking summit crater lakes each containing their own distinct colours of red, blue and green water. The reason for this strange coloration is not precisely known but it is thought that various gases reacting with different minerals are the main cause. The scenic panorama of the said lake is what makes Kelimutu a noteworthy hiking destination. To get to the mountain one must go through to the town of Moni located 50 km away from the capital city of Ende, East Nusa Tenggara. There are frequent flights scheduled from Bali to Ende.

Formally known as the Celebes, Sulawesi is the world’s 11th largest island and one of Indonesia’s main islands. Shaped a little like a lowercase k, Sulawesi has areas areas of unique culture, an abundance of spectacular scenery and some of the best world-class diving spots in the world. Bunaken is one of Indonesia’s most famous diving and snorkelling areas and it draws many visitors from all over the world. Situated on the northern tip of Sulawesi, Bukaken Island is part of the Bunaken National Park, a marine park covering 890 sq. km. More species of marine life are concentrated about the reef just a few kilometres off shore than anywhere else in the Indo-Western Pacific. The different genera of coral here are seven times that of Hawaii. Seven of the eight species of giant clams that occu...

The name here is derived from tiny puka shells that are found in the white sand. This quiet beach, located in the northern part of Boracay is a great place to have a lazy day trip while at the same time savouring the excellent seafood provided by small restaurants around the beach. The 800-meter-long stretch of shining white sand on this tiny island’s northern tip is a major draw for visitors. At certain times of the year the beach is not suitable for swimming as the water is deep and sometimes rough. However, Boracay is a lovely picture postcard island full of gentle attractions. It is a perfect place to soak up the sun and unwind in a tranquil atmosphere. The beach is also known for its astonishing sunsets.

Ko Tarutao Marine National Park in the Adaman Coast of Southern Thailand consists of 51 islands covered with protected virgin rainforest that is home indigenous fauna. Most of the islands are surrounded by magnificent beaches and healthy coral reefs. Ko Tarutao is the largest of the 51 islands that belong to the Tarutao National Marine Park and second-most visited island in the group. In the early 1940’s Ko Tarutao was used as a prison because it was considered remote and hard to escape from. The island is 26.5km long and 11km wide and the highest point is 700 metres above sea level. Rainforest covers over 70% of this hilly and most unspoiled island in the Anderman Sea. Here there are long sandy stretches of unspoiled beach and some caves to be explored. Another island within the Taruta...

The Komodo National Park and Pink Beach on Komodo are just two of the highlights of this island. Pink Beach is not to be missed. Situated in an uninhabited area of the island, this beach is one of only seven in the world that due to a mixture of red and white sand give off a lovely pink hue. The water here is shallow making the beach ideal for swimming or snorkelling from. One is able to gaze down onto wonderful corals of all colours, shapes and sizes. For diving enthusiasts there are world-class diving sites either just off Komodo as well as the close site of Gili Banta, an unpopulated island just northwest of Komodo. Gili Banta features many finger like bays with crescent beaches and is well known for its large population of giant sea turtles and manta rays. The dive site here is said t...