Pulau Redang -- almost too good to be true

Redang Island (locally known as Pulau Redang or just "Redang") off the east coast of Malaysia, is one of those places where you'd expect a shiny-chested James Bond to come dripping out of the waters and stride down the sands for a martini, shaken, not stirred. Fine white sand, clear blue waters and colourful marine life -- it's almost a cliché of the Blue Lagoon type tropical paradise, but then, it's real and it's just a short ride or flight away from Singapore.

A brightly colored nudibranch -- one of the many marine sealife that inhabits the waters around Redang.

Redang has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the perfect place to escape bustling city life and spend a day or twenty basking in the sun. But for those in the know, the real draw of Pulau Redang is that it offers some of the best diving and snorkelling experiences. Ask about the night snorkelling trips, where you'll be able to see for yourself what the locals refer to as 'blue sand', which are, in fact, glowing blue plankton that appears everywhere in the water at night.

Laguna Redang Island Resort -- a beautiful expanse of classic buildings, filled with wooden structures and lush greenery -- offers various packages to visitors, of which numerous snorkelling trips are included. The resort comes highly recommended for its beautiful surroundings and excellent service. Also, be sure to visit the Pulau Redang marine park, and with the help of the friendly Laguna Redang snorkel aids, you'll see giant clams, sea urchins, eels and clownfish, amongst other ocean dwellers. Other snorkelling trips to various parts of the island will allow you to get up close and personal with baby sharks and turtles.

Night time in Pulau Redang brings new experiences -- partygoers can check out the resorts along the stretch of the beach which houses a sprinkling of pubs, and even an outdoor weekend club. Another great idea is just to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and take a quiet walk along the beach.

getting there

AirAsia flies to the Kuala Trengganu airport, via Kuala Lumpur. From the Kuala Trengganu airport, you'll have to take road transport to the jetty, and then a short one hour ride via ferry to the island. Berjaya Air flies directly to Redang Island. If you're travelling to Redang from Singapore, then you can opt for a 10-hour bus ride, via bus company Konsortium.

Laguna Redang Island Resort
Pasir Panjang, Redang Island, Malaysia
tel +609 630 7888
www.lagunaredang.com.my