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Amanwana, Indonesia

Where is it? On Moyo Island in the Flores Sea, a Cessna flight followed by a one-hour boat ride from Bali. Amanresorts' first tented camp enjoys a prime beachfront location near the Wallace Line, where the distinct eco-systems of Asia and Australasia overlap. The surrounding coral reefs are known as a marine and mammal 'highway'.

Luxurious or basic? Jean-Michel Gathy's designs may be minimalist but nothing is missing from the 19 canvas-covered rooms. They are spaced far enough apart to afford privacy to guests, who are lulled to sleep by the lapping of the sea. Windows ring each expansive unit, granting panoramic views framed by verdant jungle. Beds, fitted with high-thread-count linen, are protected by mosquito nets while daybeds and planter's chairs round out the lounging options. A desktop provides space for any unfortunates having to work while in residence.

Who should visit? Underwater enthusiasts and snorkelling buffs will be mesmerised by the 3,000-plus species of fish and colourful coral in the marine environment. Collectors of pictures of the world's best sunsets can add Crocodile Head to their list. Two deck chairs placed on the cliff overlooking Shell Beach offer prime viewing of the streaky salmon sky each evening.

What's on the menu? Fish are fed stale biscuits and bread from the pier every afternoon at 3pm but guests dine on healthy organic fare from a set-lunch menu that includes tofu salads and spicy Indonesian satays. The chef welcomes special requests - no small feat in such a secluded spot. Guests request the outdoor barbecue night after night for the hearty platters of freshly caught snapper, succulent jumbo prawns and grilled beef. The homemade wild honeycomb ice cream deserves its reputation as the resort's signature dessert.

What else is there to do? Between May and October, those with the funds should reserve one of two cabins for an eight-day trip on the Ikan Gurami, an 88ft cargo boat turned luxury cruiser that explores the waters around Komodo National Park, home to the Komodo Dragon monitor lizards. Discover the island's extraordinary waterfalls, near Labu Naji village, where butterflies and dragonflies flutter around an enchanted forest as you eat breakfast from time-smoothed tree trunks.

What's the bottom line? Tents rent for between US$650 and US$800 a night while the Ikan Gurami cruise costs US$14,150 to US$19,400. For more information, visit www.amanwana.com.

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