The low-lying reef-protected atolls of the Maldives, set in the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, are the perfect place to relax and unwind. A great choice for a honeymoon or romantic getaway, the Maldives also appeal to active travellers who love watersports, snorkelling and diving.

Colombo may be a little chaotic, but there is plenty to recommend Sri Lanka's colourful capital. Faded colonial architecture and beautiful Buddhist temples hint at the city's considerable history, while the excellent restaurants, lively bars and characterful streets provide the perfect introduction to contemporary Sri Lankan culture.

Chennai, still commonly known by its old name of Madras, is India’s fourth largest city and the capital of Tamil Nadu. Although the city can be noisy, congested and uncomfortably hot, it’s also home to some interesting colonial architecture, a diverse population and a long marina and beach where local tourists congregate for a paddle in the Bay of Bengal.

Originally established by the British as a penal colony, vibrant Port Blair is the biggest town in the Andaman Islands. You can learn about the colonial history of the islands at a handful of interesting museums, or you may prefer to head straight for one of the beautiful beaches.

As well as a plethora of luxury resorts, Phuket has a charming old town replete with pretty Sino-Portuguese architecture, and acts as a jump-off point for exploring nearby islands and coastline. Koh Phing Pan, better known as James Bond Island, and Ko Phi Phi are breathtakingly beautiful, as are the limestone formations that surround Krabi.

The Malaysian island of Penang is a fascinating blend of East and West, far more than just a beach destination. Lovely Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to British colonial architecture, crumbling Chinese shophouses and incense-perfumed temples.