Indian Ocean

There isn't the usual action-packed holiday resort lineup of activities in the Indian Ocean - that's kind of the point of holidaying here. However, many hotels on these islands offer a great choice of water sports, diving instruction and fishing trips to keep guests entertained.  Soar across peaceful waters on a jet ski, or delve into the warm, clear sea, and discover some of the most amazing coral and tropical fish in the world. If you’re feeling extra daring, why not swim with some larger locals- the peaceful whale sharks? If you can bear to tear yourself away from the dreamy beaches, there is plenty to do in the deep blue.

A land of rolling paddy fields and landscape adorned with pink lotus flowers, the island of Sri Lanka isn’t your typical Indian Ocean Island.  It’s home to tigers, sloth bears, iridescent birds and so much more. Hop aboard a jeep and head for one of the 100 parks and reserves scattered around the island to uncover a world of breathtaking nature. From free-roaming elephants to the elusive leopards hidden in dense jungle canopies, Sri Lanka is an animal lover's paradise just waiting to be explored.

Looking for the ultimate indulgent holiday extra? Home to a host of completely uninhabited sandbanks and tiny island escapes, a holiday in the Indian Ocean is the perfect chance to have your very own private island experience. For the ultimate romantic date, take a boat out to a tiny island and have it to yourselves for the day. With many high-end hotels offering this as part of their activity package, it's surprisingly easy to live like a celebrity for the day. Enjoy a picnic on the beach, pop the bubbles, and watch the blazing sun sink into the horizon. If the island's natural wonders haven’t captivated you yet, this is sure to impress.

It should come as no surprise that freshly caught fish features heavily on the islands’ menus – and many hotels give you the chance to go out and catch dinner yourself. As well as seafood, most hotels have a selection of international restaurants, serving up cuisine from China, India, Italy, and beyond. 
The local food is unmissable in Sri Lanka. With curries amongst the most flavoursome and aromatic in the world, homegrown ingredients at chefs' fingertips and plenty of just-picked herbs and spices, Sri Lankan cuisine is a treat for the senses that needs to be indulged in.