Ah, Greece, the land of one of the greatest and most glorious ancient civilizations of all. With its fascinating history, its scenic coastlines, and its elegant ruins that reminiscent its glorious past, how could anyone not help but be drawn to it like a moth to a mesmerizing dancing flame. There is so much to see within its historical shores but for now, let us look at ten of the most popular. Be sure not to miss these attractions on your next cheap holidays to Greece!

Athenian Acropolis and the Parthenon

On a tall rock in the midst of modern-day Athens stands the Acropolis of Athens, a beautiful citadel that is perhaps the best illustration of the power and sophistication of the ancient Greek civilization. Twenty-one archaeological structures still remain in or at the base of the Acropolis today. At its center is the Parthenon, the intricately designed Doric temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. With its elegant avenues and beautiful sacred structures, the Acropolis is one historical site that should not be missed.

The Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion, a popular summer haven for the Athenians, is home to the Temple of Poseidon, one of the most powerful Olympians in Greek mythology. The temple stands near a cliff, looking out to the Aegean Sea, and offers a romantic view of the sunset. Only a few columns of the once great temple remain today; still, tourists visit this site where ancient mariners and communities offered prayers and left gifts to the god of the sea to gain his favor.

Santorini

Near the southeastern tip of Greece is the beautiful volcanic archipelago of Santorini, a tourist destination famous for its different colored beaches and warm waters. Santorini also boasts charming towns, and several wineries. Several of its islands are inhabited by villages and each island offers a different experience for tourists – the island of Oia, for example, has the most beautiful sunsets, the island of Perissa has the best beaches, and Fira, the largest island, has a beautiful Grecian village perched on a cliff.

The Ruins of Delphi

The oracle of Apollo is perhaps the most famous oracle in the world. Naturally, people flock the oracle’s ancient site and home, Delphi. In ancient times, Delphi was very significant to the Greeks because it was the site of the omphalos, a stone that supposedly marked the center of the universe. Today, tourists visit Delphi to see the mysterious Sanctuary of Athena with the Tholos and the remnants of the Sanctuary of Apollo, the most sacred site to the ancient Greeks.

Mykonos

Mykonos is where people go to party. The island is known for its dance clubs, bars, and vibrant nightlife. Mykonos has more to offer visitors, however. Its towns boast museums, little local shops and boutiques, quaint cafes, and restaurants that serve delicious food. On the western side of town sits the Mykonos Windmills and the lovely Byzantine church of Panagia Paraportiani and 30 minutes away from town is the archaeological island of Delos, Artemis and Apollo’s birthplace.

Crete

Once the center of the Minoan civilization, Crete today is perhaps the most beautiful place in the Greek islands. With its various landscapes, ancient Minoan and Roman ruins, a sunken city (Olous) where mermaids supposedly live, sandy beaches, ancient Neolithic tombs (Zarkos Gorge), the cave (Ideon Andron) where the infant Zeus was supposedly hidden from his murdering father, and the supposed tree where Zeus and Europa made love for the first time; Crete is truly a romantic and picturesque place to visit.

Mycenae

Mycenae is one of the most famous ancient kingdoms in Greece due in large part to its role in the legendary Trojan War. It was King Agamemnon of Mycenae who led the Greeks to wage war against the city of Troy for the kidnap of Helen, Queen of Sparta. Today, people visit ruins of the once great Mycenaean acropolis, the royal tombs that lay just outside the acropolis, the famous Lion Gate that serves as entrance to the city, and the Treasury of Atreus or the Tomb of Agamemnon.

Knossos, the Minoan Palace

Knossos is the largest archaeological site in the city of Crete and was once the administrative center of the Minoan civilization in Greece. It is said to be the inspiration for the story of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur. Much of Knossos today is a reconstruction of the ancient city that would have been wrecked when the Mycenaeans took over.

Corinth

Corinth was one of the major and flourishing cities in the ancient Greek civilization. It was where Alexander the Great officially agreed to lead the Greeks into battle with the Persians. Today, tourists visit Corinth to see the ruins of the temples of Apollo, Aphrodite, and Octavia as well as the Acrocorinth, the Pelrene Fountain, and the Asklepielon. Corinth is considered a sacred site in Greece.

Rhodes

This Greek island in the Aegean Sea was historically famous for the 107-foot the statue of Titan Helios, known to the world as the Colossus of Rhodes, that stood at the city’s entrance. The Colossus of Rhodes was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The famous statue is long gone, completely destroyed by an earthquake around 224 BC but tourists flock in this historical island for its acropoleis, ancient towns, castles, and monasteries.

It’s vital when thinking about visiting a continent like Asia that you research properly exactly when you intend to stay in certain countries because the weather conditions can change dramatically from one season to the next.

Read on for a brief rundown on when to visit and when to avoid the most popular countries in Asia. It’s also worth noting that if you find that freak weather is likely to hamper your plans to jet off to Asia at a particular time of the year then perhaps the Eurobookings website could help you to make alternative plans in a host of major cities like Berlin, London and Rome.

Hong Kong

Expect hot, wet summers and cool, dry winters in Hong Kong, which has a sub-tropical climate. Temperatures in spring and autumn can still reach a pleasant 27 or 28 degrees Celsius and between 14 and 20 in the winter. Summer in Hong Kong is not sweltering, but at around the early 30s is pretty warm so pack plenty of light, airy clothing.

India

Unless you can handle the intense heat and humidity of an Indian summer, travellers are probably best advised to wait until between October and February before they take in India. That’s because June, July and August are ridiculously hot months, while north-east India is too wet during this time as well.

Japan

Unlike many other Asian countries, Japan doesn’t really get hazardously hot. Temperatures in the summer rarely exceed 31 degrees Celsius and comfortably stay above 5 degrees in all but the most northerly regions throughout winter. Hot and humid summers are common in Japan and rainy season gets under way in June and ends in mid-July.

Malaysia

Different parts of Malaysia endure rainy seasons at different times of the year. For example, on the east coast and islands such as Tioman Island and Redang get monsoons between November and January. Sabah experiences monsoons between May and November and the Malaysian state of Sarawak on Borneo is wettest between October and March.

Thailand

Temperatures in Thailand surge above 34 degrees Celsius between April and June and many tourists in general find the country too hot and too wet. Northern Thailand is hampered by the heat, which makes the southern regions and islands more comfortable in terms of temperatures and very popular. Monsoons tend to occur in Thailand from May to October.

Asia is slightly mysterious, incredibly colourful, culturally heterogeneous and completely different to what Britons are used to. From ancient remains to tropical rainforests and a mixture of religions the Asian region is a top priority for many travellers. Of course the Asian continent is vast and there is much to see, but if you could only visit a handful of places, these are the ones that should come top of the list.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The intriguing temple complex at Angkor Wat in Cambodia is shrouded in mystery. It was built for King Suryavarman II in the 12th century in classic Khmer style. It is the largest religious building in the world and a symbol of Cambodia, yet much is still unknown about the building and its former residents. For example, the temple faces west unlike other Angkorian temples, and historians have no idea why. Surrounded by lakes and rainforest, this ancient gem is truly wonderful.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is breathtaking. The steep and towering limestone rock formations rise magnificently out of the emerald sea. The region is often dusted with mist and traditional fishing boats eerily scour the water for fish. This place looks more like a scene from a movie than real life.

Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia

The world’s oldest tropical rainforest is in the Taman Negara National Park in Malaysia. The rainforest is home to a huge range of unique wildlife, from the Asian elephant and Sumatran Rhino to the Malayan tiger and crab-eating macaque and some parts of the forest are still, as yet, unexplored.

Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal in India is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It truly is the jewel in India’s crown. Dating back to the 1600s, it was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. The architecture and its scale are mesmerising. Visit at sunrise to watch the walls change colour with the rising sun.

Mount Everest, Nepal

The highest mountain on earth is nature’s greatest feat of engineering. Although you might not be physically able to climb it, it’s still worth visiting base camp and the surrounding Sagarmatha National Park. The scenery is out of this world with vivid blue glacial pools, rocky glacier tracks, vast meadows and of course towering snow-covered peaks.



If you want to visit one of these destinations in the near future, check out the range of all inclusive holidays from Thomas Cook. You don’t have to spend a fortune on these long-haul destinations and you might actually be surprised at just how affordable holidays to India and Malaysia, for example, actually are.

Annual policies could save regular travellers an average of 15%, says moneysupermarket.com

The latest travel insurance research by travel insurance compare giant, moneysupermarket.com, has found that families who travel regularly are financially far better off taking out annual insurance cover than single trip cover.

With half term here and the Christmas and Easter holidays fast being booked up, the comparison site is urging families to secure themselves an annual policy – and, of course, one with adequate cover for their travel requirements.

Far from saving a few pounds by neglecting to buy insurance cover, travellers can find themselves left with huge medical bills if treated abroad without worldwide travel insurance cover, or left without replacement cash or expensive baggage and gadgets should they be lost or stolen abroad.

Moneysupermarket’s recommended level of cover is as follows:
• £2m for medical expenses
• £1m personal liability
• £3000 cancellation (/enough to cover the cost of your hoiliday)
• £1500 baggage
• £250 for cash
• Policy excesses under £100
• Cover for scheduled airline failure and end supplier failure as desirable
• Delay cover (e.g. £20 per hour for the initial 12 hours).

Moneysupermarket’s advice is targeted, in particular, at those families who take a minimum of two trips per year or at least one long-haul getaway per year. The comparison site estimates that families taking three trips per year would save around 15 per cent if they were to take out an annual policy as opposed to single trip cover for each trip they book.

And what’s more, the levels of cover provided with annual policies are generally more generous for annual policies, particularly when it comes to that all important medical cover, as well as cancellation and baggage, which, for the average family, can amount to hundreds, even thousands of pounds for a long trip.

An example given by Moneysupermarket in their recent press release is of a family of four holidaying in the US for seven days. Comprehensive cover for just £26 that would offer:

£5,000,000 medical cover
£3,000 cancellation
£1,500 for baggage.

For an extra £13, the same family could get themselves an annual policy that offers all of the above PLUS an extra £5,000,000 of medical cover as well as cover for as many extra trips as they want in the specified 12 month period.

Moneysupermarket travel insurance expert, Bob Atkinson, said: “Heading abroad for a much needed break is always exciting but it’s essential to make sure you and your family are fully covered before you go. Many people leave travel insurance to the last minute and often overlook the finer details such as the varying levels of cover available, only to be caught out later on if a claim needs to be made.

“The price of a policy should not be the main factor when buying travel insurance however being a savvy regular traveller will save you money without compromising on cover. It really pays to take the time to get to grips with the small print and ensure you have more than enough cover for your needs. Annual policies normally provide an increased level of cover however this does come with an additional price tag.

“Holidaymakers need to think carefully about how often they plan to travel per year and if it is more likely they will travel to a long haul destination such as the USA, then it is definitely worth paying for an annual policy. It also gives flexibility if they decide to go on any last minute holidays or trips such as weekend city breaks abroad or in the UK, as they will already be covered.”

Photo credit - Simon Lesley Photo

As more young people go on holiday with their friends every year, tourist hotspots are increasingly selling themselves as partying and club scenes – with themed nights, potent fishbowl cocktails, and hundreds of other off-the-leash Brits having a wild time and casual sex. There’s a saying: what goes on tour, stays on tour. But if you’re not careful when you’re on the booze abroad it could end up changing your life forever.

You might think, while on holiday, that being a British citizen gives you a free pass out of trouble – if you’re a victim of crime, the consulate will sort it; if you get arrested, all you’ll get is a slap on the wrist. You couldn’t be more wrong: you’re subject to the often very different laws of the locality you’re in and they may choose to make an example of you or ignore your complaints. The consulate will provide support in terms of translation and travel money transfers but can’t negotiate with police, investigate crime or hire you a lawyer.

So here are a few don’ts and dos – with them and some common sense you can drink safe this summer:

Don’t: do activities drunk. Swimming, snorkelling or even hiking while under the influence or hungover is extremely dangerous; dehydration in hot climates, lack of coordination and unfamiliar scenarios are a recipe for disaster. Accidents can in the worst cases be fatal and in the best cases be expensive, as any evidence that you had alcohol in your system while doing potentially dangerous stuff like skiing will invalidate your travel insurance.

If you’re travelling with a company that offers daily activities, avoid paying for them in advance. If you’ve paid and go on to have a heavy drinking session the night before, you’ll be left unable to take part and short of cash.

Don’t: go it alone. Almost 300 rapes and sexual assaults were reported by Brits on holiday between July 2010 and July 2011 (FCO figures) and alcohol is the most common denominator: if you’re not in control, you need to know a friend will be there for you.

Don’t: drink and drive. Not only is the legal limit much lower in some countries than in the UK, it can vary depending on your age, the size of your vehicle and the level of your experience. Driving on a moped is just as dangerous if not more dangerous than driving a car: just because you don’t have to pass a test to be in control of one doesn’t mean the laws are laxer when it comes to being intoxicated behind the handlebars.

You’re going to be driving on strange roads, often on the right hand side, that could be dangerous or ill-maintained at the best of times – drunk, you’ll be extremely lucky to escape unscathed.

Do: know the local laws. Those that think they’re drinking responsibility could end up flouting the most basic restrictions, so check the legal drinking age and attitude to public consumption with the FCO before you set off.

You might find your preconceptions about the culture aren’t true: for instance, the legal drinking age in France is 18 and marijuana is illegal in Jamaica. Pleading ignorance won’t cut it so make sure you know where the boundaries are.

Do: unto other countries as you would have done to yours. Alcohol-related arrests could involve nudity and public urination, stuff you’d never do at home but risk abroad. People have been arrested for wearing beachwear on the high street and getting frisky in public places – or worse, getting violent. Drinking too much has been the catalyst for many a brawl abroad, because it lowers your already lowered inhibitions. It’s a good idea to have at least one person stay sober (or sober-ish) for the evening, to keep you safe and under control.

A new option is now available at Marina Bay Sands, with Sky on 57 launching its Outdoor Terrace which allows guests to enjoy post-dinner drinks or late night snacks with the accompaniment of chill-out music and some of the most stunning spectacular night views in Singapore.

From 3pm daily, guests can lounge at the bar area at the entrance of Sky on 57 to enjoy inspired bar bites such as Kurobuta Pork and Grilled Oyster Mushroom, as well as specially crafted cocktails and power juices. In the evening, this bar concept extends to the outdoors in the breezy and spacious terrace that wraps around the entire restaurant.

One key feature is the Oyster Bar, which offers a delectable range of fresh oysters, all hand-picked by Chef Justin Quek, who helms the kitchen at Sky on 57. This ensures its premium quality and supreme taste, with the sweetness of fresh oysters complemented by a tinge of creaminess that is seldom found in other types of oysters.

Reservations for Sky on 57 are strongly recommended and can be made by calling +65 6688 8857 or email skyon57@marinabaysands.com. The restaurant is opened from 7:00am till 12:00am daily and offers different menus throughout the day, showcasing the signature creations of Chef Quek. The bar has a minimum spending of S$30 per person.

This year, Indonesia’s annual Tourism Indonesia Mart & Expo (TIME) will be hosted in Bandar Lampung. This premier tourism event will be held from 12 to 14 October 2011 at the Novotel Hotel in Lampung, hosting more than 120 buyers from 22 different countries. Entering its 17th year, TIME is organized by the Indonesian Tourism Promotion Board and is supported by the expansive tourism elements from all over Indonesia. “TIME is the only international travel mart in Indonesia with a business to business concept. The event is a meeting place for those who sell tourism products and services in Indonesia to international market, and has been listed in the calendar of international travel mart together with ITB Berlin, WTM London, Arabian Travel Mart, PATA Travel Mart and so on,” shared Meity Robot, the Chairperson and Steering Committee of TIME 2011.

Bandar Lampung will be hosting this year’s annual travel mart Tourism Indonesia Mart & Expo (TIME) or Pasar Wisata Indonesia, from October 12 to 14, to promote Indonesian tourism destinations to the international market. This premier tourism event will be held at the Novotel Hotel Lampung, and will see various highlights and presentations from all tourists destinations from all over Indonesia.

During the signing of MOU between Indonesian Tourism Society and the Culture Tourism Office of Lampung, Meity Robot, the Chairwoman and Steering Committee of TIME 2011 commented that the exhibition will be the perfect place for buyers and suppliers of tourism services and products to meet and network with each other. “The preparation of the event is progressing smoothly, and we have high expectation that the event will be able to boost the development of Indonesia’s tourism industry. The delegations from 30 countries would take part at the event,” Meity enthused.

This is the 17th annual event of TIME, and boasts a prestigious status as the only international travel mart in Indonesia with a business to business concept. It has been listed in the calendar of international travel marts together with other prestigious events such as ITB Berlin, WTM London, Arabian Travel Mart, PATA Travel Mart, and so on. With the full support of the travel and tourism industry in Indonesia, the event is bound to be a huge success.

Majorca is a jewel in the crown of the Balearic Islands, proving hugely popular with British families, couples and singles alike thanks to its impeccable weather and a welcome from the locals that’s just as warm. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a hugely adventurous type, consider spicing up your Majorcan sojourn of sun, sea and sand with some water sports. The island offers a wide variety of aquatic entertainments for you to choose from, so there’s something to suit all tastes. From the mild thrills to the seriously heady spills, Majorca can offer you the time of your life.

Photo credit - MDPai75

Jet skiing

Jet skiing is one of the most popular water sports around, and it’s also one of the most seriously thrilling rides on the waves that you can ask for. Majorca offers plenty of opportunities to hop astride one of these sleek beauties and skim across the tops of the surf. Jet skis come in all shapes and sizes, and can be found for hire up and down many of the most popular Majorca beaches.

Jet skiing in Majorca has unfortunately become a little more expensive in recent times due to increased safety regulations which require operators to own a commercial jet ski license. Though it varies from place to place, 30 minutes on a good quality jet ski will set you back something like 60 euro. However, it’s well worth it for the rush and feeling of freedom running through your veins. You can usually opt to double up on a jet ski, one driving and one behind as a passenger, and this will cut down the cost, usually making the price around 80 euro rather than 120 for two individual jet skis.

Photo credit - farlane

Waterskiing

While it may look tricky, waterskiing isn’t nearly as hard as you might think. Once you strap into your skis and launch off from the water’s edge, staying upright comes quite naturally. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be tempted to stylishly lean into turns in no time! For some of the best beaches to try out waterskiing, take a trip to Cala Ratjada, Es Trenc, Alcudia, Cala Guya or Playa de Palma.

Photo credit -tefocoto

Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding is a younger sport than waterskiing but don’t let that fool you, it’s every bit as serious a thrill! Although you are still pulled along by a jet boat, by using a combination of waterskiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques, you can bounce along the mini waves left by the boat itself (the “wake” of the boat). Wakeboarding is very tricky to master and best left to the naturally agile and/or daring! While not as popular as many other water sports, Majorca still offers the opportunity to try wakeboarding at many of its popular beaches.

Photo credit - Frank Wuestefeld

Paragliding

If you want a thrilling ride that requires no effort on your part and no chance of falling over, then paragliding may be just the thing. After you are launched in a free-flying parachute harness from the back of a jet boat, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride and the stunning views.

Photo credit - SlipsZenko

Diving and Snorkelling

While scuba diving happens at a much more leisurely pace than the previously mentioned activities, it’s still no less exciting. The crystal clear azure waters of Majorca are perfect for viewing all kinds of marine life and aquatic phenomena. Diving schools operate throughout the island, meaning that you’re likely to find one close to your accommodation in Majorca. Santa Ponsa, Cala Ratjada and Cala d’Or are all great places to seek out an instructor who will be able to show you how to explore the true beauty under the waves.

Photo credit - Machbel

Water Parks

Home to some of the biggest water parks in Europe, Majorca is no slouch in providing splash-filled thrills off the beach as well as on it. With 5 major water parks on the island, you’ll be spoilt for choice when weighing up where to find adventures full of water flumes, slides, dolphin shows and much more. Aqualand Magaluf and HidroPark in Alcudia are definitely worth checking out as they provide a full range of rides and shows suitable for all the family.

Photo credit - Six Senses Soneva Fushi

The manta ray is a beautiful creature that is well loved by all. This graceful and peaceful fish, in its natural habitat, is one of the most spectacular sights in this wide ocean of ours. However, the manta ray is one of a number of species that are threatened by over-fishing. These species, including several species of sharks, are in danger of extinction and we need to start getting the word out about them to save their plight.

The collaborative duo of “olly and suzy” hopes to do exactly that. The British artists have taken part in more than 50 expeditions since 1993 to exotic locales from all over the earth to paint these predators and their prey at close proximity from their natural habitat. Their collaborative work has been exhibited in various galleries in New York, London and more.

The duo has decided to focus on manta rays and sharks as their next subject, and Soneva Fushi in the Maldives is proud to be their host as the government in the Maldives understood the importance of these species in attracting visitors. They are always on the lookout for ways to protect and preserve these graceful creatures.

Photo credit - Six Senses Soneva Fushi

They are keen to understand the threats and challenges facing these creatures and their fragile aquatic habitat. The hope is that the local community and resident conservationists and biologists can share a thing or two about the challenges these two indicator species face.

Eva Shivdasani, co-founder of Soneva Fushi, is also a keen campaigner against the tragic loss of sharks due to shark fishings. Plenty of these species are butchered simply for their fins, which are highly prized in China and on some other Asian countries as a culinary delicacy. She has been actively driving campaigns to get as many restaurants around the world to stop serving shark fin soup and played a big part in getting the Maldives governments to agree to ban shark fishing.

Photo credit - Six Senses Soneva Fushi

olly and suzi’s manta ray and shark art will be on display in 2012, with 30% of the sales to be given to Blue Marine Foundation. The foundation will be sponsored by Six Senses’ Maldivian Resorts for the next three years.

Check out the attractions of Cyprus holidays online. There are short cruises setting off from Cyprus on most days, so it is easy to explore exotic locations nearby.

Scuba Diving in Sabah is well on the way towards becoming one of the major attractions enjoyed by both local and foreign tourists alike. Divers travel from as far a thousand of miles away to experience the magical wonders of underwater charm. Sabah, part of the Malaysian Borneo, has proven to be a hotspot for marine bio-diversity, a major plus point for scuba divers looking to admire up-close and personal the sea’s various creatures.

Sabah boast several dive sites all around the island. Some of these are highly acclaimed and regarded amongst scuba diving enthusiasts, with their blue waters, coral reefs and atolls. From diving with sea turtles in Sipadan Island to the pristine reefs and hammerhead sharks of Layang Layang, you’ll find whatever floats your boat in Sabah. And yet, there are still dive spots that have not been fully explored yet, all waiting for you to uncover. Spectacular opportunities for an amazing dives are abound!

Photo credit - Azman Jumat

Sipadan Island

This tiny oceanic island has been acclaimed as the crown jewel of diving in Malaysia, and with good reason. Located 35km south of Semporna (less than an hour away), the island boasts a large variety of sea creatures and marine bio-diversity. Sipadan is blessed with a natural location which puts it smack in the middle of the richest marine habitat in the world, at the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin. The list of attractions are quite staggering, with more than 3000 species of fishes and hundreds of coral species. The island also boast unusually large numbers of turtles, which gather here to mate and nest. Sipadan boasts several dive points worth checking out, such as Barracuda Point, South Point, as well as the Turtle Bomb, and underwater cave with a labyrinth of tunnels which contains skeletal remains of disoriented turtles.

Photo credit - Leafbug

Mabul Island

Located approximately 25 minutes away to the north of Sipadan Island, Mabul is popular as the best muck-diving sites in the world. Muck-diving is one of the new approach to scuba diving, where visibility is very limited at shallow sites with sandy bottoms. This gives divers the opportunity to get in tough with the more bizarre and unusual marine life to be found. Mabul is home to a large variety of exotic small marine life, which makes it an excellent place to do macro dives – metallic shrimp gory, ghost pipefish, crocodile fish, snake eels, mantis shrimps and more, all can be found in Mabul Island. This is a truly magical site for macro-diving!

Photo credit - FinDiver

Layang Layang Island

Layang Layang Island, the Swallow Reef, is a tiny resort island located to the north of Borneo. This atoll paradise is a man-made island that was initially developed for the Malaysian Navy, and later reinvented as a dive resort. The island offers privacy and isolation, with pristine reefs, excellent visibility and steep walls all contributing to its status as one of the best dive sites in the world. The site offers some outstanding wall diving with various star attractions such as hammerhead sharks, triggerfish, manta rays, turtles and more.

Photo credit - Aidan Casey

Lankayan Island

This island is a frontier diving destination located in the north east coast of Sabah in the Sulu Sea. Lanakayan Island offers several great options for scuba divers – they have a large variety of macro marine life for some excellent muck-diving that rivals both Mabul and Kapalai; excellent reef diving, with encounters with larger species such as the whale shark, leopard shark and marbled stingray; as well as the Lankayan Wreck, an excellent site for wreck diving. The Lankayan Wreck is host to a unique marine bio-diversity such as glassfish, harlequin ghost pipefish and painted frogfish, amongst others.

Photo credit - Amrufm

Kapalai Island

Kapalai Island is a village style island resort located between Sipadan and Mabul Island. Sitting on top of the Liman Reefs, Kapalai Island is an extensive stretch of sand bar bordering the deep Celebes Sea. Although Kapalai is located near Sipadan Island, the scuba diving opportunities that one can find here are quite remarkably different. For a start, Kapalai offers crystal clear waters which allow guests to enjoy the view of squids, needlefishes and mandarin fish playing around in the shallow waters from right above their chalet-style resort rooms. This is a paradise for macro-lovers, with rarities such as blue-ringed octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, crab-eye gobies and sly ribbon eels amongst others.

Fantastic scuba diving, swimming and surfing attract many holiday makers to Cuba holidays. The laid back charm and hospitality keep them returning.