Malaysia and Borneo

Long since upstaged by the likes of Phuket and Langkawi, Tioman is today all about tranquillity – and there’s plenty of it at this secluded luxury hideaway on the southwest side of the island. Access is via private, twin-propped plane from KL or Singapore, and then speedboat, which deposits you at a wooden jetty enfolded by a cove backed by soaring, jungle-covered mountains. Clinging to the forested slopes above the beach, Japamala’s 13 wood chalets are blissful havens – some have their own alfresco hot tubs and daybeds cantilevered over the sea. Spend your days kayaking, crab spotting on the beach or snorkelling around the vibrant inshore reef.