Comprising 11 countries of impressive diversity in culture and history, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler. Picking the region's most beautiful places is no mean feat!
Southeast Asia's vast territory endows the region with some of the most beautiful natural scenic wonders on earth. Towering mountains, glistening beaches, enchanting lakes, and virgin rainforest parks make up some of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in Southeast Asia.
Here is our pick of the 30 most breathtaking places across Southeast Asia, including popular tourist hotspots and hidden gems.
1. Ko Lanta, Thailand — A Pristine and Beautiful Beach
If you're tired of the crowds and bustle of Krabi and Phuket, take the ferry to Ko Lanta, a large and largely untouched island with endless views.
Rent a motorbike to explore this pristine island, take a leisurely walk on Long Beach, spend an afternoon snorkeling in the water, or hike inland through dense jungles and visit some beautiful waterfalls.
Whether you're traveling alone, on your honeymoon, or with the family, there's something for every traveler on this gorgeous island.
2. Halong Bay, Vietnam — The World's Most Beautiful Karst Landscapes
Halong Bay is a natural wonder renowned for its towering limestone karsts and tiny islets. It was listed among the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2011. If you are looking for a place to immerse yourself in nature, don't miss Halong Bay.
The best way to explore the bay is by boat. Take a cruise and spend a few days relaxing on the beautiful beach, exploring caves on the islets, visiting floating villages, or having a go at kayaking.
3. Luang Prabang, Laos — A Blend of Historical Heritage and Gorgeous Landscapes
Luang Prabang is a delicate and quaint ancient town situated in a valley along the Mekong River. It is the oldest surviving town in Laos, with a history of more than 1,000 years.
This town represents Laos's historical heritage, but is also a window onto the enchanting world of the country's Buddhist population in modern times. Monks proceed through the streets lined with golden-roofed temples and magnificent colonial and Lao architecture, collecting alms (offerings)from devout Buddhists.
Head out of town to admire gorgeous waterfalls, go trekking or mountain-biking in green mountains, take a kayaking trip, or watch the sunrise or set over the Mekong River.
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I have never hear of this company…
I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions.
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orge alvarez,
May 2023
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Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…
From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods
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Debbie Woods,
May 2023
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Sharon from Asia highlights has been…
Sharon from Asia highlights has been amazing. She offered her amazing ideas to other tours I wanted. We have planned the perfect 9 day itinerary to Thailand. She worked in my budget and was very flexible when I had to change my flights. Thank you sharon. Can’t wait for the trip.
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Heather Stern Wilensky,
Apr 2023
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Ms. Ning first review 4-2023
Ms. Albee Ning has been doing a great job accommodating my requests and itinerary changes. Remember the first itinerary is a rough draft and you may modify it to suit your tastes. Remember you can not do it all and see everything in 3 weeks. If the flight wasn't so long I would visit Southeast Asia more often. I will update my review in a few months. We don't leave for 9 more months. Asia Highlights is working well for me so far!
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Chiefray,
Apr 2023
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Perfect Trip To Thailand…
We had so much fun in Bangkok with Tanni and Tom as they kept laughing at all of our silly jokes. Paul, our guide and Chiang Mai was really thoughtful, fun and full of great information about the temples and sights. Thanks so much! Brian and Michelle
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Scott Orchard,
Mar 2023
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I highly recommend Asia Highlights
I highly recommend Asia Highlights. I worked with Alisa and she is fantastic! I was planning my honeymoon trip, and I changed the destination multiple times. Each time, Alisa provided me an updated itinerary with activities that matched my interests. Whether I had a small change to an activity, a question about one of the arrangements, or a change or destination, Alisa was helpful, thoughtful, and knowledgeable, providing me with updated options in an extremely timely manner. In the end, despite the fact that I changed my mind on location multiple times, I ended up booking a 17 day trip to Thailand for this upcoming November. I am extremely excited to experience everything that Alisa planned for us. I recommend Asia Highlights to everyone and look forward to using them again on any other trips to Asia in the future. Thank you Alisa and Asia Highlights!
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Britt Rosen,
Mar 2023
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Three weeks encompassing Vietnam
A special shoutout to our last guide in Bangkok - Ms. Ka-Noon who spoiled us with her kindness and then got us through check in and security for our flight home in record time at that huge Bangkok airport.
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Deby,
Feb 2023
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Over the last 5 years we've used Asia…
Over the last 5 years we've used Asia highlights twice. And both times we've had fantastic vacations. Would not want to do it any different when we travel to Asia from now on. Sharon was fantastic. She was a wonderful agent who helped us nail down our trip and make everything go as smooth as possible.
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Todd Atwell,
Feb 2023
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Family Trip to Thailand
Our trip to Thailand comprised three generations of the family , ten people and an age range of 4 to 70 so a potentially difficult brief.Our itinerary over two weeks involved four locations, and a number of different trips and tours.From out arrival at an extremely busy Bangkok airport Asia Highlights were terrific.In each location we were met by a smiling , knowledgeable and professional guide who simply made everything easy and stress free for everyone.Our transportation was clean and comfortable . Transport was always ready for us at the agreed time and the drivers were excellent.There were so many highlights enjoyed by all the age groups. The floating houses , railway market and elephant sanctuary were particular favourites.We had one minor glitch with the accommodation in Phuket which was immediately dealt with by Tip. I think we would have struggled to resolve the problem by ourselves.
So, thank you Asia Highlights , Cathy, Tip and tour guides Tanny, Sam and Lisa. It was a memorable holiday and we will be back.
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Roger Pyle,
Feb 2023
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Trip of a lifetime from Asia Highlights!
I recommend highly Asia Highlights as a travel company. Our travel consultant Albee took the time to connect with us during the planning process to make sure we were comfortable with our itinerary. When we arrived, we were met by our guide and all the details were attended to. They picked great hotels and tours. I often describe our trip as the trip of a lifetime! Would definitely use them again when we come back to Asia
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Nancy Parker,
Feb 2023
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Asia Highlights and Albee - highly recommended
Asia Highlights is very reliable agency and Albee is an amazing representative of the company. From the moment when we contacted her until our departure, the whole support we received was 6* level. She prepared our trip offer within few hours and afterwards she was extremely flexible to adjust as per our needs. In the period between the offer and the trip, Albee was always available for all our questions and supported us on the best possible way. During the trip she was again flexible to add new activities/transfers and this went on the smoothest possible way. Thank you, Albee and Asia Highlights. Definitely we will approach you again for our next Asian trip
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AZ,
Feb 2023
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5 STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE BY MONICA
Monica is a very sweet young lady who speaks excellent English via email/WhatsApp, and knows the importance of excellent customer service.
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Trent,
Jan 2023
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We had an awesome experience with Asia Highlights
We started our trip in Bangkok, where Mr. Prassert our tour guide, met us. He was on time and the van was clean and well-maintained. Mr. Prassert was our guide for the 4 days we spent in Bangkok. He was helpful, kind, and willing to accommodate our pee and coffee breaks. The driver was safe and punctual.
Next, we went to Chiang Mai.Gemma exceeded every expectation we had for our tour of Chiang Mai! She had a great attitude that made exploring the city fun and exciting, as well as an abundance of knowledge and experience. She was always spot on with figuring out logistics and coming up with unique ideas that suited our interests and schedules. Gemma was incredibly generous with her time and even walked us to security at the airport to make sure we could carry all of our luggage. That’s just one example of how far out of her way she went to make our trip easier and more enjoyable. Gemma was sincerely interested in making every minute of our trip count. We’re very grateful to have met her and feel like we have found a friend in Gemma! Our driver in Chiang Mai was also great and very accommodating to our changes in schedules.
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Lois Paskow,
Dec 2022
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Thailand & Cambodia 2022
Albee went above and beyond to make our trip perfect. She rearranged flights due to a mistake of mine. She made sure we were still picked up and escorted to the airport. I felt comfortable and safe with all our reps. She did an excellent job and I highly recommend her booking your next trip. Thank you, Albee.
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Karen Brooks,
Dec 2022
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Perfect vacation thanks to Albee we…
I can’t say enough about how much we appreciate all the efforts, attention to details and immediate responses to all questions that Albee and her team provided. The Asia Highlights team deserves more stars than the maximum allowed because of continually going above and beyond all expectations. Thanks Albee for making our vacation through south east Asia absolutely perfect!!!
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Michael Sharp,
Dec 2022
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2023 Chiang Mai CAD Yipeng Festival
We got early bird ticket and Bella was assisting us through whatsapp. Easy, competitive price, front row tickets. Thanks Bella, for being patient explaining everything to me. Highly recommended.
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lily hartati,
Dec 2022
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Bella has been an outstanding customer service rep
Bella has been an outstanding customer service rep. She was responsive and knowledgeable. Buying tickets from their website was super easy and the whole process was straightforward. Highly recommended.
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Khai,
Nov 2022
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I was ever so grateful to have a point…
I was ever so grateful to have a point of contact while in a foreign country for the first time, alone, that helped me through the Ins and outs of getting to and from my destination. Albee was readily available which brought me much comfort and feeling of safety. If in this part of the world again, I will not hesitate to use your services..
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Omega,
Nov 2022
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Memorable Experience!!!
I booked tickets to the Chiang Mai Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Nov 2022. Bella was extremely responsive and helpful!!
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Bowen,
Nov 2022
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Personalized
It is the attention to detail and what we specifically wanted to see that made the reservation experience so exciting.
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Peter Bongiovanni,
Nov 2022
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4. Angkor Wat, Cambodia — an Ancient Temple City
Angkor Wat is an ancient city in Cambodia, and it is home to the world's largest religious monument with hundreds of ancient temples and religious structures.
A visit to the site is a fascinating journey into Cambodia's intriguing past. Don't miss a chance to see the sunrise or set at Angkor Wat, jump on a bicycle to explore some of the less-visited temples, or take a helicopter or hot air balloon trip for a birds' eye view of the archaeological park.
5. Bali, Indonesia — Island of the Gods
Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods,” is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Blessed with azure seas, golden beaches, diverse water sports, and rich culture, Bali is the most popular island holiday destination in Indonesia, and it isn't hard to see why.
Whatever you want to do, you will probably find an opportunity to do it in Bali, from surfing and diving to wildlife spotting. Take a month off to explore the ‘Island of the Gods.'
6. Hoi An, Vietnam — A Relaxing and Peaceful Town
If you are looking for a relaxing vacation in Vietnam, look no further than Hoi An. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a quiet, peaceful setting.
The narrow streets of the charming old town are easily navigated on foot, or you can spend time by the river and visit beautiful temples and picturesque French colonial homes.
7. Inle Lake, Myanmar — A Tranquil Water World
Inle Lake is Myanmar's water world, which is unique for its floating gardens, stilt villages, and Buddhist monasteries that tower above the water, and the Intha fisherman rowing their boats with one leg while using both hands to fish.
The best way to explore the vast and tranquil lake is by a boat. It is a special experience to stay in one of over-the-water hotels.
8. Mount Rinjani, Indonesia—An Astonishing Volcano
If you love trekking, consider a visit to Mount Rinjani in Indonesia, which is considered one of the best treks in Southeast Asia.
Towering above the northern half of Lombok, Mount Rinjani (3,726m) is Indonesia's second-tallest volcano. A climb to the top will reward you with a breathtaking view of the crescent shaped lake below, which is one of the best views in the country.
9. Phang Nga Bay, Thailand— A Scenic Marine National Park
Phang Nga Bay is famous for its distinct limestone formations rising out of emerald-green water. It is a huge marine national park, consisting of 42 islands and islets. It became famous following the 1974 James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
If you are staying in Krabi, Phi Phi, or Phuket, it's worth taking a day trip to the bay. You can take a boat trip to enjoy the spectacular scenery, explore intriguing caves and lagoons, relax on tiny secluded beaches, and ride canoes paddled by locals.
Sync with Indochina's Heartbeat
10. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand— Where Nature Meets Adventure
Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand is an amazing place that will appeal to nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. Natural wonders abound, including the world's oldest evergreen rainforest, huge limestone mountains, hidden waterfalls, and caves.
You can explore the national park by bike, trek through the jungle, or go kayaking and tubing on the river. Organized elephant encounters are another highlight of the park.
11. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand — Thailand's Most Famous Island Paradise
If you are traveling in southern Thailand, don't miss the Phi Phi Islands, just a 45-minute speedboat trip or a 90-minute ferry ride from either Phuket or Krabi.
It is a small piece of paradise surrounded by vivid turquoise waters and fringed with tropical beaches and stunning rock formations. Whether you are looking for some leisure time at the beach, or seeking adventure, these picture-postcard islands will not disappoint you.
12. Mekong Delta, Vietnam — A World Afloat
A trip to southern Vietnam wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Mekong Delta, a stunning maze of rivers, islets, and small villages with rice paddies and fruit plantations.
It is a great place to experience local life. You can take a sampan ride through natural tunnels to visit on-the-water villages with stilt houses, see floating markets and ancient houses, and go bird watching.
13. Sapa, Vietnam — Home to One of the World's Most Beautiful Rice Terraces
For those who want to indulge in idyllic natural beauty, trek through rice paddies, and learn about the unique culture of ethnic minorities in Vietnam, Sapa is a must-see.
The highlight of this area is the awe-inspiring terraced rice fields, which are renowned among the most beautiful rice terraces in the world. Spend several days taking in the rugged scenery and fresh mountain air to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
14. Bagan, Myanmar— The City of Temple
Bagan is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. It is home to over 3,500 ancient Buddhist pagodas, temples, and other religious structures.
Make your trip to Bagan even more memorable by adding a hot-air balloon ride over temples, a trip to watching the sunset over the Irrawaddy River, or a bike ride to visit the lesser-known temples.
15. Komodo National Park, Indonesia— Among Seven Wonders of Nature
Komodo National Park was selected as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. It was recently named among the World's Top 10Destinations by National Geographic.
For nature lovers, Komodo National Park is nothing short of paradise with so much diversity in one site. An walk in the park brings you face to face with some of the most beautiful birds, deer roaming near the beach, and the famous Komodo Dragons.
It is a unique experience, perfect for nature lovers.
16. El Nido, Philippines — A Gateway to the Sublime
El Nido in Palawan is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia at large. You can spend 3 to 5 days soaking up its beauty: turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, limestone formations, picture-perfect islands, and amazing wildlife. Enrich your experience with some extra activities, such as kayaking, zip lining, and hiking.
17. Langkawi, Malaysia— Malaysia's Coastal Gem
Langkawi is an archipelago made up of 99 islands located off the coast of Penang in Malaysia. It is famous for its natural peace and beauty, and laid back atmosphere. There you will find beautiful beaches, picturesque paddy fields, and lush tropical rainforests.
Explore the interior of the main island by cable car and walk along the sky bridge to enjoy sweeping vistas of the island.
18. Sand Dunes of Mui Ne, Vietnam— A Taste of the Desert
The seaside town of Mui Ne in Vietnam offers visitors a real treat – a desert with a Sahara-like feel.
Some of the dunes are so high, you can hop on a quad bike or a dune buggy and ride your way around the slopes.
19. Taman Negara Rainforest, Malaysia — Explore the Truly Tropical Life
Taman Negara Rainforest is one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia for those seeking to couple a rainforest adventure with some outdoor pursuits.
Known as one of the most fascinating rainforests on the planet, the 130-million-year-old virgin rainforest fully caters for active holidaymakers, including trekking, fishing, camping, and wildlife spotting. It also has the world's longest canopy walkway.
20. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam— A Cave Explorer's Paradise
Caving enthusiasts will do well to visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to the world's largest cave system.
In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can spend several days exploring Southeast Asia's oldest karst mountains and epic caves with underground rivers and enchanting stone formations.
21. The Cameron Highlands, Malaysia— A Lush Green Heaven
For those who want to escape from the heat of Southeast Asia, the Cameron Highlands is a great option, and the most popular of the highland retreats in Malaysia.
There you can enjoy a cooler climate, stroll through tea plantations, hike through lush forests, and relax in a five-star resort.
Recommended Itinerary
22. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines — One of the World's Best Dive Sites
Want to experience one of the most diverse and well-preserved coral reefs on the face of the planet? Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is the place to be!
It is a must-see for diving enthusiasts looking for amazing reef, big schools of jacks and other fish, and big marine life, like reef sharks, whale sharks, hammerheads, turtles, and mantas.
23. Mondulkiri, Cambodia—Elephant Sanctuary and Jungle Treks
Mondulkiri is an enchanting place where visitors can return to nature. Rolling grassy hills, pine-forested mountains, tranquil rivers, gushing waterfalls, and lush tropical forests abound.
Elephant trekking is a particular highlight, which offers you a chance to get up close to these magnificent mammals.
24. Batanes, Philippines — the Home of the Winds
Looking for a dreamy island getaway where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of city living? Batanes, located in the northern-most part of the Philippines, will not disappoint you.
Apart from the beaches, lagoons, and caves, Batanes's biggest charm comes from the unspoiled beauty and the peaceful lifestyle of its people.
25. Koh Yao Yai, Thailand — the Last of Thailand's Untouched Islands
Located 20 km from Phuket in the middle of the Andaman Sea lies Koh Yao Yai, a peaceful island so off the beaten track that it is largely overlooked by tourists who prefer the buzz of Thailand's other islands.
There you can enjoy spectacular crowd-free beaches, rubber and coconut plantations, picturesque sunsets, and amazing sea life, as well as fitting in plenty outdoor pursuits, such as kayaking, scuba diving, and island hopping.
Recommended Itinerary
26. The Red Lotus Sea, Thailand—Beautiful Red Horizon
If you are visiting Thailand in the period from November to February, you cannot miss the Red Lotus Sea , which is one of the loveliest seasonal attractions in Southeast Asia.
A carpet of full pink lotus blooms stretches far off into the distance. The best way to enjoy the fairytale-like visions is with a boat ride across the expansive lake. It is highly recommended to get there early for sunrise.
27. Champasak, Laos — An Amazing Land
Located along the Mekong River in the southwestern region of Laos, Champasak is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls, thick green jungles, French colonial ruins, and an ancient temple thought to be the blueprint for Angkor Wat.
From Champasak you can take a tour to visit the ruins of Wat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and also cruise along the Mekong.
28. Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia— Cambodia's Most Beautiful Island
Cambodia's hidden gem is Koh Rong Sanloem, an island still so underdeveloped that it has no roads – and no Wi-Fi.
Immerse yourself in its gorgeous beaches and crystal clear blue water. Jungle trekking, kayaking, diving, and snorkeling are also on offer on this island paradise.
29. Bai Xep, Vietnam — An Isolated Fishing Village
Bai Xep is a remote fishing village located in central Vietnam, about 10 km(6 mi) from Quy Nhon City. If you are looking for a true Vietnamese beach village experience you can't beat Bai Xep!
It is a great place to relax on a pristine beach, enjoy plenty of fresh seafood, go hiking to contemplate the hidden waterfall, and learn the local fishing technique.
30. Atauro Island, East Timor — An Eco-Traveler's Paradise
East Timor's Atauro Island is a largely undiscovered travel gem lying in the South Pacific. It appears to have the most biodiverse waters anywhere in the world. There are many diving sites around the island, which allow you to witness the underwater treasures firsthand.
Recommended Itinerary
Visit These Beautiful Places with Us
Planning a trip to cover all these naturally beautiful places on your own may seem like a daunting prospect. Our travel advisors can help you with an itinerary and personal advice. They can help you choose the best places according to your interests, and plan and arrange the trip you want.