Beyond Bali: Discover Indonesia's hidden treasures in 2026

07 April 2026

Indonesia is a country of extraordinary diversity, where each island offers its own unique character, landscapes, and experiences. While Bali has long been the star of the show, there’s a whole world beyond its shores waiting to be explored. If you’re seeking something different in 2026, here’s a journey through Indonesia’s lesser-known gems so you can find the right island for you.

Beyond Bali: Discover Indonesia's hidden treasures in 2026

Lombok for serenity by the sea

Often referred to as “what Bali was 30 years ago,” Lombok offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life. Its coastline is a dreamscape of palm-fringed bays and white-sand beaches, perfect for those who crave space and calm. The south, particularly around Kuta, is a haven for surfers, with beaches like Selong Belanak and Tanjung Aan offering gentle waves for both beginners and intermediates. Meanwhile, the north is home to jungle-backed bays with views stretching across to the Gili Islands, where snorkelling with turtles and exploring coral gardens are just a short boat ride away.

For those interested in local traditions, Lombok’s Sasak villages provide a glimpse into community life, with opportunities to see ikat weaving and sample local dishes. A day spent beach-hopping along the south coast, followed by sunset cocktails above Senggigi Beach and a seafood barbecue, encapsulates the island’s laid-back charm. For a touch of indulgence during your trip, stay at The Lombok Lodge Suites & Private Villas, where refined design and exceptional service create a serene retreat.

Java for a journey through time

As the cultural and historical heart of Indonesia, Java is a land of ancient temples, smoking volcanoes, and bustling cities. Yogyakarta, often considered the island’s soul, is home to two of Southeast Asia’s most iconic temple complexes. Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, is particularly magical at sunrise, when the first light of the day illuminates its intricate carvings. Nearby, the 10th-century Prambanan Temple is a masterpiece of Hindu architecture, best experienced in the evening when the Ramayana ballet brings its stories to life under the stars.

Beyond the temples, rural landscapes here offer a chance to connect with local traditions. A day spent cycling or exploring by vintage jeep reveals a patchwork of rice paddies, villages, and tea plantations, with the added treat of a home-cooked Javanese lunch. For those with more time, a sunrise excursion to Mount Merapi or Mount Bromo offers unforgettable views at the top. When it comes to accommodation, great options include the Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta for a resort-style experience with lush gardens and a lagoon pool or the Sofia Boutique Residence for a quieter, design-led stay.

Komodo for a prehistoric paradise

In Komodo National Park, the landscape feels almost otherworldly. Rugged, sun-baked hills and deep blue waters are home to the legendary Komodo dragons, which can be seen on guided walks on Komodo or Rinca Island. But the park’s appeal doesn’t end there. Its underwater world is equally mesmerising, with manta rays, turtles, and coral reefs making it one of Indonesia’s premier snorkelling and diving destinations.

It’s best to dedicate a day to exploring the park, where the experience could also include a private boat charter to Pink Beach or a hike to a viewpoint like Padar Island for sweeping vistas of the surrounding bays. For a luxurious place to stay here, the Ayana Komodo Resort in Labuan Bajo offers sea-view rooms, multiple pools, and an amazing selection of boat trips nearby. Alternatively, for a more intimate escape, Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa provides beachfront villas and tranquil surroundings.

Sumatra for a wild adventure

For those with an adventurous spirit, this vast and untamed island offers a raw and immersive experience unlike anywhere else. You’ll find dense rainforests here that are home to some of the world’s most endangered species, including orangutans, which can be observed on guided treks in Gunung Leuser National Park. These ranger-led walks focus on respectful wildlife viewing, ensuring that the animals remain undisturbed in their natural habitat.

Beyond the jungle, the landscapes here are equally captivating. Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, is a serene spot for cycling through villages, soaking in hot springs, or simply relaxing by the water. A multi-day trip is a great way to combine Medan, Bukit Lawang, and Lake Toba, so can get the chance to experience the island’s natural beauty and warm hospitality. Stay at the Hotel Orangutan in Bukit Lawang for a cosy jungle retreat or pair your adventure with a beach stay in Lombok for the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation.

To book your Indonesia holiday, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

The Cayman Islands: A Caribbean escape shaped by food and coastline

10 April 2026

Made up of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, each of the Cayman Islands brings something slightly different, from the busier feel of Seven Mile Beach to the quieter, more untouched corners of the smaller islands. Alongside the scenery, food plays a big part in the experience, with the islands widely known as the ‘Culinary Capital of the Caribbean’. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or longer, time here tends to revolve around the sea during the day and good food in the evening.

4 exceptional UK villa escapes with Oliver’s Travels

10 April 2026

You don’t have to go far to enjoy a beautiful escape, with a UK break offering a slower pace and a chance to truly connect with the beauty on your doorstep. Whether it’s waking up to views of the Lake District fells, staying by a quiet Highland loch, spending time in the Cotswolds countryside, or heading to the North Wales coast, these villa stays let you fully immerse yourself in the moment and make the most of what’s around you.

Two Greek islands, one perfect holiday

10 April 2026

When it comes to the Ionian Islands, most people head straight for Corfu or Kefalonia. But Simpson Travel offers something a little more considered, with dramatic coastline, genuine character, and the option to experience two very different islands in one trip, Lefkada and Meganissi deserve your attention. Just 20 minutes apart by sea taxi or private boat, they sit side by side in the Ionian yet feel worlds apart. Each works beautifully as a standalone holiday, but together, they're hard to beat.