Taman Lumbini park from the height of the temple complex Candi Borobudur at sunrise in the fog.

Indonesia

The country with the fourth largest population in the world, Indonesia is an archipelago of islands in South East Asia. While there are over 17,000 islands in Indonesia, Bali is definitely the firm favourite with travellers. As well as being home to beautiful beaches and forests, Bali is known for its unique Balinese Hinduism, in a country where most people follow Islam.

Apart from Bali and, to a lesser extent, Lombok and the Gili Islands, most of Indonesia is off the regular tourist trail. It's a large and wonderfully diverse country with delicious food, fascinating cultures and large cities. There's an immense amount to explore in Indonesia for those prepared to venture a little out of their comfort zones.

The beautiful atoll of Gili Kedis in Indonesia
day trip

The Secret Gilis: exploring Indonesia’s lesser-visited islands

Mention the Gilis (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air) to anyone outside of Indonesia, and they’ll probably give you a questioning look. However, while these Gili islands are lesser known outside of the country, they’re by no means secret. But just a little further south, you'll find 20-something other Gilis... the secret Gilis

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