Photography: Frits Meyst
Text: Jillian Macdonald

Non-stop work and 24 hours of travelling are instantly forgotten when we set foot on Tioman Island, off the east coast of Thailand. The only settlements here are located along the coastline, as thick primary rainforest is all that exists inland. The boat takes us to Kampung Air Batang, a small hamlet with wooden houses, palm trees, three restaurants and one open air bar. This is our base for a one week diving adventure. But first, only much needed relaxation! From the veranda of our humble wooden hut, a tiger beer and chilled wine in hand, we watch the sun set over the South China Sea.

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