Indonesia

There is an undeniable magic to the iconic island of Bali, beloved for its unique blend of culture and scenery and where the everyday feels infused with ritual and beauty. In the lush highlands around Ubud, emerald rice terraces cascade down the hillsides and the sound of flowing water accompanies you wherever you go.  Here you can spend time visiting serene temples and discovering local art and crafts whilst it’s also the perfect base for wellness experiences, from yoga to traditional Balinese spa ritual, all set against a backdrop of lush jungle.  Along the coast, the mood shifts – golden beaches, rolling surf and stylish hideaways invite long, sun-drenched days and balmy evenings. If you’re travelling with children, consider the calm waters of Nusa Dua, or a luxury resort in Sanur, whilst Jimbaran is famous for its seafood restaurants on the beach, also with tranquil waves. Legian and Seminyak are ideal for those with teens interested in learning to surf.

If you’re seeking a quieter, more laid-back beach experience, consider heading to Lombok, just east of Bali.  This more untouched alternative showcases sweeping beaches, rural villages and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rinjani. Offshore, the idyllic Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – are a trio of tiny coral islands fringed with white sands and turquoise waters. With no motorised traffic, the islands offer a true castaway escape for those seeking barefoot luxury.  Life moves at a gentle pace here, perfect for snorkelling with turtles in warm, crystal-clear seas in the day, and completed with a lantern-lit dinner on the beach whilst witnessing some of the best sunsets we’ve ever seen.

For those drawn to wilder, more remote landscapes, further East, the island of Flores and Komodo National Park reveal a more rugged and adventurous side of Indonesia. Flores unfolds in a series of dramatic vistas – volcanic lakes shifting in colour, traditional villages unchanged by time, and rugged coastlines that meet the open sea. Nearby Komodo National Park is world-renowned for its prehistoric inhabitants, the Komodo dragons, as well as its exceptional marine life. Sailing between these islands, dropping anchor in secluded bays for snorkelling and picnics on pink-tinged beaches and encountering the legendary giant reptiles, is one of Indonesia’s most memorable and immersive experiences.  Whilst day trip options to Komodo are plentiful, we recommend an overnight trip from Luaban Bajo on a traditional Indonesian ‘phinisi’ boat for an unforgettable addition to your adventure.

Look a little further and Indonesia reveals even more layers of discovery. On Java, sunrise over the ancient stupas of Borobudur is a quietly unforgettable moment, while Sumatra offers dense rainforest and the chance to encounter wildlife in its natural habitat (although we recommend searching for Orangutans in Borneo, for a higher standard of accommodation). In Sulawesi, striking landscapes are matched by fascinating cultural traditions, and in Raja Ampat, some of the most pristine reefs on earth lie just beneath the surface. Each island feels distinct, yet together they form a destination that invites you to keep exploring, always with the sense that there is something extraordinary just beyond the next horizon.