Maratua Paradise Resort, Timur Samarinde, Indonesia

Maratua Paradise Resort., The islands of Sangalaki, Derawan, Kakaban and Samama - making up the Derawan Archipelago - have a reputation for offering some rather unique experiences. But head past these islands and you finally encounter the atoll of Maratua, situated more than 50km off Kalimantan's muddy coastline. A series of raised coral islands make up the northern half of the atoll; the southern end is defined by a continuous ring of submerged reefs. The total area of the atoll is huge and, with only a small population of fisherman living in four villages scattered around the atoll, the marine environment here is still in amazing condition.

chalets and 8 water villas, all with private bathrooms and air-conditioning, the resort offers its own dive centre with packages including night dives and visits to the neighbouring islands of Sangalaki and Kakaban. Meals consist of predominately fresh fish and fruit and are taken in the central dining room, alcoholic and canned / bottled soft drinks may be purchased from the bar.