Iriomote (Japan)

It is a small island that is only accessible by boat and not frequently visited by foreign tourists. Not many people speak English, even in the accommodation, but they are very nice and make a big effort to communicate. Unlike the rest of Japan, fruit is in big supply, including pineapples and mangoes.

The beaches are fabulous, with a rich variety of marine life just a few yards from the beach. Some of the schools of little fish are very curious and don't hesitate to come up and nip your fingers. Not to worry if you don't have a snorkel or fins, you can rent them on the spot for a few hours. The manta rays come to the area from April to May and it is possible to dive with them.

There are opportunities for hiking or kayaking in the tropical forest or among the mangroves. If you are lucky, you might see a huge Iriomote crab or, much more exceptionally, the Iriomote cat.