4. Semporna, Malaysian Borneo
The Semporna coast in Malaysian Borneo's Sabah province is a breathtaking tapestry of rich coral reefs, tropical islands, pristine beaches and lagoons. World famous Sipadan Island, widely regarded among the very best dive destinations on earth, is found here- a haven for hammerheads a, huge schools do barracuda, turtles and reef sharks. The province is also home to large numbers of Badjao Laut, marine nomads who live in stilt villages built on shallow reefs - some still live on wooden boats as they have done for centuries.
5. Wayag, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
The Wayag archipelago has the epic feel of a genuine marine frontier. A collection of towering, jungle clad limestone karsts bisecting a cobalt lagoon, Wayag is set in the northern reaches of Raja Ampat, an Indonesian island province off the coast of New Guinea. Besides a ranger station established to prevent illegal fishing, there are no human settlements here - the few visitors that do make it arrive on live aboard dive boats touring the region. It's possible to climb the karsts to really take advantage of the exhilarating panorama.
6. Western Province, Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands is among the least well known and poorest of the Pacific Island groups - it had a brief moment in the limelight during the Second World War thanks to the famous Battle of Guadalcanal that took place there. But the islands are a fascinating mix of ethnic groups, cultures and languages - and jaw dropping seascapes. Western Province is incredibly pretty, epitomizing the Pacific archetype of cerulean seas, palm studded islands, coral reefs, lagoons and volcanos. It's also home to the biggest uninhabited island in the Pacific - Tetepare, which has been given over entirely to nature.
7. Dili, Timor Leste
The world’s youngest nation, Timor Leste gained independence from Indonesia in 2002 after 25 years of occupation. Located in the Timor Sea above Australia’s Northern Territoy, it is the most easterly island of the Lesser Sunda Islands chain. The island boasts incredible natural assets. It is punctuated by dramatic mountains and a rugged coastline that gives way to perfect white beaches. The indigo waters surrounding Timor Leste harbour coral reefs teeming with life. Still a seldom visited frontier for tourists, it won’t stay that way for long.