Pangkor is situated off the west coast of Malaysia, between Kuala Lumpur and Penang and only seven km across from Lumut. It is a small island being only 8 sq km but it has interesting history, having been a major tin producer in the 19th century. The island has some of the best beaches on this side of the Malay Peninsula and these are situated on the west coast. The east coast mainly consists of fishing villages. Photo by: mike’sworld

Fishing, boatbuilding and allied industries employ the majority of the population, with cuttlefish and anchovy being the most common type of catch – their early morning landing at Pangkor town is a bustling, colourful sight. The island is one of the Malaysia’s largest dry fish suppliers and in addition it is credited with the invention of ‘Fish Satay’. Photo by: keshiki

The main beaches are at Teluk Nipah, Pasir Bogak and Teluk Belanga, whilst at Teluk Ketapang (Turtle Bay) if you are lucky, you might spot an increasingly rare giant leatherback turtles, with lay their eggs there from May to July. Jungle trekking in the interiors offers the opportunity to explore many rare orchids and butterflies – there is a four hour trail that crosses the island. For the less energetic, it is possible to follow the road around the island in a day. Photo by: Frank Mertens

There is a two-day Hindu festival of Thaipusam, which take place between February and early March. It starts on the west coast beach of Pasir Bogak and culminates at the Pathirakaliaman Temple on the east coast and is well worth, if you can come. Photo by: mike’sworld

When to go: Year-round. Population: 25,000. Getting there: Fly from Kuala Lumpur or ferries from the mainland and Lumut. Photo by: