Buzz
Southeast Asia stands out as a renowned region of islands and seascape marvels on the global map, boasting dreamy natural landscapes and pristine beaches. If you're an island enthusiast seeking the perfect destination for this year, Koh Samui, Gili, or Karimun Jawa are ideal suggestions waiting for your exploration.
1. Koh Samui, Thailand
As one of Thailand's most popular tourist islands, Koh Samui is renowned for its azure waters and powdery white sands. With a plethora of resorts, hotels, and beachfront bungalows, Koh Samui offers 5-star accommodations and comprehensive services, making it an exciting destination for travelers to Thailand.
2. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Being the largest island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc captivates visitors with its pristine white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green forests. Visitors can indulge in snorkeling adventures, savor delectable seafood delicacies, or simply explore the local fishing villages by renting a bike.
3. Gili Islands, Indonesia
Located off the coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands are not far from Bali, comprising three islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. These islands allure travelers worldwide with their natural landscapes, pristine beauty, and diverse marine life, including eagles, turtles, and sharks. The peak tourist season for the Gili Islands is July, August, and December.
Among the three islands, Gili Trawangan, or Gili T, is known for its frequent beach parties and captivating outdoor events. Meanwhile, Gili Air is an ideal destination for couples, families, and popular for snorkeling activities. Gili Meno remains untouched with its stunning azure beaches.
4. Karimun Jawa, Indonesia
Located about 50km from the Jepara port (Semarang, Central Java), reaching Karimun Jawa requires a 5-hour boat journey. Karimun Jawa is still undeveloped and less touristy compared to Gili. It proudly stands as Indonesia's marine conservation area, boasting white sandy beaches, lush coconut groves, and colorful coral reefs.
5. Koh Rong, Cambodia
Close to Vietnam, Cambodia boasts numerous stunning beaches rivaling those of Thailand. These beaches retain a pristine beauty surpassing many other destinations, and one such gem is Koh Rong.
Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, just 20km from the coastal city of Sihanoukville, Koh Rong stands as Cambodia's most renowned island with its white sands, warm and crystal-clear waters. The island is adorned with charming little wooden houses scattered along the coastline or nestled in the tropical forests, surrounded by exquisite beaches.
6. Si Phan Don, Laos
Si Phan Don is a vast archipelago located at the southernmost tip of Laos, featuring around 4,000 variously sized islands resembling a watercolor painting. Remarkably, this area remains largely untouched by tourists. Visitors to Si Phan Don can kayak along the river or sit in a boat to admire the scenery, and if fortunate, catch a glimpse of the rare pink Irrawaddy dolphins. Among the 4,000 islands, Don Khon and Don Det are the largest and attract many tourists due to their full range of tourist services, accommodations, dining options, and relaxation facilities.
7. Koh Chang, Thailand
Koh Chang is Thailand's second-largest island located in Trat province, approximately 310 km from Bangkok. Koh Chang, meaning 'Elephant Island', is named so because of its elephant-shaped geography, despite the absence of elephants on the island. The weather on Koh Chang is pleasantly cool, with numerous beautiful beaches and rich natural reserves. During the day, visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, visit waterfalls, or experience snorkeling activities. As night falls, tourists on the island can have beach bonfires, watch fire dancing performances, and indulge in vibrant nightlife by the beach.
8. Sampoerna & Sipadan, Borneo, Malaysia
Sampoerna & Sipadan are located off the eastern coast of Borneo, in the Sabah region of Malaysia. Semporna serves as a gateway for travelers to explore nearby islands such as Sipadan, Pulau Mabul, and Kapalai. The rich coral reefs, diverse marine life, and enchanting beaches on these islands attract visitors from far and wide.
Sipadan Island is renowned as a paradise for diving enthusiasts. However, visitors wishing to dive in this area must stay on Mabul or Kapalai Island, about a 30-minute boat ride from Sipadan. Apart from Sipadan, Mabul Island also offers excellent diving opportunities, with coral reefs thriving just below the resort areas. You can simply step into the water and begin your exploration.
9. Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is hailed as the jewel of Malaysian tourism, comprising 99 islands (including 5 islands only visible during low tide) nestled in the Andaman Sea, 30 km off the northwest coast of Malaysia. Langkawi boasts numerous beautiful beaches, and visitors can choose from various tours to explore the islands, go fishing, watch eagles, yacht, surf, dive, and more.
The island also features abundant ecological areas, nearly pristine forests, and attracts countless eco-tourists and adventure enthusiasts keen on exploring nature and embarking on adventurous journeys.
Alongside its captivating beaches, Langkawi also attracts a large number of tourists with its bustling shopping districts. What's more, all goods here are tax-free.
10. Flores Island & Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Flores is one of the islands in the Nusa Tenggara group, where travelers can spend 2-5 days exploring the surrounding areas. Particularly famous is the Komodo National Park, the last sanctuary for the unique Indonesian species: the Komodo dragon. In the northern part of Flores, there are also some suitable spots for diving enthusiasts.
By Ha Mi (Source: Eoasia)
***
Reference: Travel Handbook from Mytour
MytourJanuary 12, 2016
