VANUATU
Getting to this South Pacific paradise (James A. Michener wrote Tales from The South Pacific there) from Kuala Lumpur would take you anywhere from 18 hours to two days which is exceedingly good news for those truly looking to go off the beaten track. It is a collection of pristine emerald islands dotted with crystal blue holes you can swim in and magnificent volcanoes, some still active (a recent volcano eruption on Ambae had its entire population evacuated). The archipelago’s largest island Espiritu Santo is a draw—here, you can go on a trail ride by horseback through its mangroves. Or else, enjoy a sundrenched romance in the midst of the world’s best scenery in Port Vila, Erakor or Irikiriki islands. Paradise does not come cheap, however. Luxury accommodation can set you back at MYR1000 a night. A non-stop 18-hour flight to Luganville could end up costing around MYR17,000.
