Secret Islands Of Southeast Asia

Indonesia: Luxury island life doesn't get much better than at Kura Kura in the Karimunjawa Marine Park. For barefoot luxury and excellent snorkelling check out Bunaken or the Gili Islands. Best May-October

Borneo: Few think of Borneo as a beach destination, but Gaya Island combines perfectly with the wildlife adventures in Sabah's interior. Best April - October

Northern Sri Lanka: Lying off the Jaffna peninsula, the islands of Nainitivu and Delft are rugged and underdeveloped, but richly rewarding. Best visited on a day-trip from Jaffna, itself a fascinating destination, that Guardian journalist Liz Boulter experienced with us last year. Best May - September

South Thailand: Although there are some famously developed areas of the south coast, thousands of islands remain in their natural state. Some of those which we think have a good level of infrastructure, yet remain under the radar, include Koh Kood, Koh Samet & Koh Lipe in Trang Province. Best November - April

Myanmar: Until recently the vast swathe of islands in the Andaman Sea off Myanmar were completely sealed, but now the Mergui Archipelago is opening up for business, offering a treasure trove of paradise islands. Best November - April

West Coast Malaysia: Although fairly mainstream, Langkawi off Malaysia's west coast deserves a mention for its low scale development, blissful beaches and relaxed pace of life. Added to which this is the best gateway to access Koh Lipe. Best December - May

Philippines: The world-famous beach resort of Boracay may take the headlines, but we encourage looking elsewhere in the Visayas: to the many delights of Bohol, the mystical isle of Siquijor, or dramatic countryside of southern Negros. Best December - April