Located 20km off Malaysia’s north east cost and just 64km from the border with Thailand in the South China Sea, the Perhentian Islands, only accessible by boat, are home to turquoise seas, tree lined white sandy beaches (arguably the best beaches in Malaysia) and corals that make the islands one of the best places to dive in the world. Rays, cuttlefish, parrotfish and more populate the seas and excellent value for money PADI courses are readily available.

The islands are road less, with walk ways cutting through the interiors which are home to monitor lizards, fruit bats, squirrels and the elusive mouse deer, so boat taxis are the best way to get around. Accommodation is not deluxe, but TransIndus clients can expect to stay in the first class Bubu Long Beach resort on the smaller Pulau Perhentian Kecil and the standard grade Tuna Bay resort on the larger Pulau Perhentian Besar. The North-East Monsoon hits between November and February, so you should avoid that time of year as boat crossings are often disrupted. The rest of the year is fine to relax on these lush, tropical island getaways.