Asia

Indonesia

The Republic of Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic country, with over 17,000 islands including Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi and parts of New Guinea and Borneo. Around 6000 of the islands are inhabited and over half the population live on Java, the most populous island in the world. Located in Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia has some of the world’s highest biodiversity. Due to these volcanic islands’ position on the equator, the tropical rainforest climate varies little year-round, with a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.

Indonesia is a bucket list destination for many, due to its natural wonders, rich culture and tens of thousands of miles of coastline where tropical forests meet palm-fringed, pristine beaches. It also offers some of the best diving on the planet.

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Malaysia

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia separated by the South China Sea into two regions, Peninsula Malaysia and East Malaysia in Borneo. Malaysia borders Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia. Malaysia has a vibrant multicultural population making it a fun and interesting country to visit, with a blend of religions, traditions, languages, festivals and mouth-watering food. The largest city and capital is Kuala Lumpur, with colonial architecture and bustling markets. Beyond the cities, ancient jungles, palm-fringed beaches, secluded islands, tea plantations and a wide range of resorts await. Malaysian Borneo offer the chance for real adventure, with spectacular scenery and wildlife above and below water.

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Maldives

The Maldives is one of the world’s most celebrated diving destinations, offering clear turquoise waters, abundant marine life, and idyllic island settings. Located in the Indian Ocean, this tropical nation comprises 26 atolls and over a thousand coral islands, many fringed by healthy reefs.

Diving here is defined by its variety: from drift dives through deep channels to gentle reef explorations and spectacular encounters with large marine animals. The Maldives is particularly known for its population of reef sharks, including grey reef and white-tip reef sharks, which are regularly seen patrolling outer reef walls and drop-offs.

Manta rays are another highlight. Between May and November, during the southwest monsoon, sites like Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll become hotspots for manta gatherings and even whale shark sightings. In the southern atolls and around Ari Atoll, whale sharks are frequently seen year-round.

Liveaboards are a popular way to dive the Maldives, allowing access to remote atolls and diverse sites across large areas. Resort-based diving is also widely available, with many islands offering excellent house reefs just offshore.

Macro life is also present for keen-eyed divers and photographers, with nudibranchs, frogfish, ghost pipefish, and shrimp hiding in the reef. Coral gardens, overhangs, and pinnacles add to the variety and beauty of the underwater terrain.

With warm water, good visibility, and a mix of big and small marine life, the Maldives offers something for every diver. Whether you’re new to the sport or highly experienced, it remains a dream destination with reliable conditions and unforgettable encounters.

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Oman

Oman, a gem in the Arabian Peninsula, captivates with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Its pristine coastline stretches along the Arabian Sea, offering stunning beaches and waters ideal for diving and snorkeling. The rugged Hajar Mountains provide thrilling trekking adventures and breathtaking vistas. Visitors can explore ancient forts, like Nizwa Fort, and wander through vibrant souks, experiencing the essence of Omani culture. The desert landscapes of the Empty Quarter contrast with the lush greenery of Salalah during the Khareef season. Muscat, the capital, embodies modernity alongside traditional charm with its grand mosques, palaces, and a bustling Corniche. Oman’s cultural festivals, like the Muscat Festival and Salalah Tourism Festival, showcase the nation’s heritage. Hospitality and safety make Oman a welcoming destination, inviting travelers to uncover its hidden treasures.

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Philippines

The Philippines is located on the western side of the Pacific Ocean in Southeast Asia and consisting of 7,641 islands.

White sand beaches fringed with palm trees, stunning limestone karst scenery, warm tropical climate and possibly the friendliest people on the Planet make it a very inviting place to visit, and then return when you realise there is so much to see and experience.

It is relatively easy to move around the country, with a well-developed network of internal of internal flights offered by Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines, and fastcraft ferries operating between the islands.

The national language is Tagalog, but there are over 30 other dialects, with Cebuano (also known as Visayan) very widely spoken in the central part of the country. English is very widely understood, which makes communication very easy for visitors.

Weather wise is a little complicated as it depends on where you are in the country at certain times of the year, but generally speaking:

Mid December to mid/end February is the Amihan monsoon, which brings cooler air from the north east, it can bring grey skies and light rain. The more northwestern destinations, such as Coron, Puerto Galera and Anilao will be less affected.

March to end of May/going into June is considered the Philippines summer, this is the best chance of good weather in the year across the whole country, with flat calm seas, little or no wind, clear skies and good water visibility.

June to end of September is the Habagat monsoon or rainy season. Warm moisture laden air comes in from the southwest. But, to write this period off as just being wet is a mistake; a typical day in rainy season is clear skies in the morning, clouds over early afternoon and throws it down for a few hours, then in the evening you can see the stars again. The western side of the country will be more windy, whereas places like Southern Leyte may not be affected at all and have great weather throughout.

October to mid December is another period of good weather, but generally not quite so warm and bright as the summer months.

Although the Philippines is considered a developing country, with very little in the way of social safety nets, the people are definitely the country’s greatest asset; always a smile on their face, warm and friendly nature and very willing to help. If you get the opportunity to attend a local fiesta, grab it, these people know how to have a good time!

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Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, a captivating destination, blends ancient history with modern luxury, offering travelers a unique cultural experience. The country boasts stunning landscapes, from the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter to the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. Jeddah’s vibrant waterfront and traditional souks, like Al-Balad, provide a taste of authentic Arabian culture, while Riyadh’s modern skyline showcases the country’s rapid development.

For history enthusiasts, the UNESCO World Heritage site of AlUla offers breathtaking rock formations, ancient tombs, and the mysterious Nabatean city of Hegra. Mecca and Medina, two of Islam’s holiest cities, draw millions of pilgrims annually for spiritual journeys. With new developments like the futuristic NEOM project and an emphasis on tourism, Saudi Arabia is opening its doors to visitors, offering an opportunity to explore a country rich in heritage and adventure, where tradition meets innovation.

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Thailand

The Kingdom of Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia with the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast and the Andaman Sea to the west.

Thailand has a tropical climate with temperatures usually between 30 to 35°C and water temperatures of around 29°C. This tropical climate, stunning beaches, enthralling cultural experiences and fantastic marine life mean Thailand is one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

For divers Thailand offers something special with affordable dive courses and packages, world class dive sites and plenty of above water activities for a truly memorable trip.

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