The islands of the Indian Ocean are surprisingly varied, ranging from cultural melting pots to dots on the horizon - it’s important to pick the right one for you! The gorgeous islands of the Maldives are probably the most beautiful beach destination we’ve ever been to - picture postcard stuff, and then some! Each resort is an island in its own right, and as you can't really get off your island it’s important to make sure that your resort is ideal for you. The Maldives is perfect for relaxation and gentle activity - if it’s sightseeing and culture you’re after, you’re in the wrong place! Water based activities are popular - if you want decent snorkelling and diving (it’s world-class here) then look for an island with a house reef, or if you prefer to potter in the shallows with a good book and a glass of sauvignon blanc (we’re definitely the latter!) then you need an island with a lagoon. Some resorts come with hefty price tags, so it’s important to get things right! ...

Off the radar for a while, the stunning beach destination of Mombasa , Kenya is back. The Kenya Coast has some really fantastic beaches and a good range of hotels. Historic Mombasa city is on an island, with plenty of interest while the beaches extend to the North and South of the city. The North Coast is the more developed of the two, with more facilities outside of the hotels, and more visitors - if you’re looking for activities, it’s ideal. The South Coast is less developed, and is perfect for a more relaxing holiday with Diani Beach regularly being voted the best beach in Africa - beaches here are wider and whiter, and hotels here tend to be a little more spacious. North of Mombasa, the beaches of Watamu and Malindi are an excellent place to unwind, with coral reefs and more of a village feel. It’s easy to do a short safari from Mombasa and popular one is the 2 night ‘Tsavo Explorer’ excursion which includes one night in TsavoEast National Park...

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The Thai island of Koh Samui is a real tropical paradise, with beautiful beaches and a stunning interior, quality hotels, excellent food and cold beer - not surprisingly, it's one of our favourite parts of Thailand! Just off the southern coast of Thailand and around an hours flight from Bangkok is the island of Koh Samui, a relaxed tropical paradise that offers everything from peaceful secluded beaches to late night nightlife, traditional temples to superb shopping, and a host more besides. Koh Samui makes the perfect destination for a beach holiday or can be included in to a multi centre holiday to Thailand or beyond. Around the Island Tour Big Buddha at Big Buddha BeachDiscover the beauty of Samui by exploring the island - there's only one main road so it's very easy! Take in Big Buddha Beach and the nearby Wat Plai Laem, beautiful Na Muang Waterfalls, the famous rocks of Hin Ta and Hin Yai, go elephant trekking in the jungle and finish with sunset on Ang ...

Krabi is one of our favourite parts of Thailand and is an area we've visited a number of times - we'd love to share our passion for Krabi with you! WELCOME TO KRABI The relaxed beach resort of Krabi is set in some of Thailand's most   impressive scenery , overlooking beautiful Phang-Nga Bay in the south of the country. As Thai beach resorts go it's fairly small and laid-back, making it a great option for those wanting to   chill out on holiday , rather than partying all night. The main beach area is at Ao Nang, a few minutes from Krabi town itself, and here you'll find a good selection of hotels, a number of bars and restaurants - including some of the   best seafood  you'll find in Thailand - and a relaxed atmosphere. GETTING TO KRABI   Most of Krabi's beach hotels can be reached in around half an hour from the airport, which has direct flights from Bangkok for an easy   Bangkok and Krabi twin centre holiday , and also Koh Samui. Phuket airp...

Vietnam is one of our favourite destinations, with a great combination of incredible scenery and  a varied history with vibrant cities, great food and exceptionally friendly people - laze on the beach,  explore the cities, head to the hills or combine all of it! Escape Worldwide 's Mark visited most parts of the Country on a whirlwind visit recently, and brings you his take on this incredible destination . . . Vietnam is a country of contrasts, none more apparent than that of its two main cities, the elegant and charming capital Hanoi; and the vibrant southern powerhouse Saigon. Vietnam’s geography makes it easy to start your journey in one and finish in the other, and to my mind both are well worth a few days Meet Uncle Ho! Hanoi's  French influence is apparent in its buildings and avenues, while the Old Quarter dates back 1,000 years and is a fascinating place to wander - I got completely lost ...