Bintan Island

Facing up to the urban high-rises of Singapore across the straits from the big city, Pulau Bintan is being groomed as the next big thing in Indonesia. It's easy to see why it was chosen for the role. Swaying coconut palms mingle with bulbous banyan trees along the shores; cotton-white beaches fringe the north; boulders of salt-smoothed rock pepper the coves. There are countless luxury resorts too, popping out all over the place.

Long ago, this strategic spot in the middle of the Riau Islands was a tactical trading post between India and China, and a few oriental temples still attest to the cultures that passed its way. However, it's long, lazy days on the sands and cold cocktails beneath the perpetual sun that take centre stage now. Get your Bintan Island tour guide to reveal the best water sports spots in Trikora and the wonders of picture-perfect Lagoi (home of the prettiest beaches and most opulent resorts), all before breaking out to the trails of Mount Bintan, where silver monkeys swing in the trees.