Although mostly known for its beaches, my friend and I spent a couple of hours trekking along a neglected pathway through Gaya Island’s inland jungle. After spluttering through countless spider-webs, and getting a little too close for comfort to a venomous banded krait, we were delighted to arrive at the luxury five-star resort hidden on the far side of the island – which we promptly snuck into, pretending (probably not convincingly) to be guests at the hotel.

After devouring a woodfired pizza and cooling off with some snorkeling, we left our belongings in a hammock and went for a walk along the pier. This panoramic shot via drone highlights the picturesque beauty of this remarkable location.

If you ever find yourself at Gaya Island, the luxury resort can be accessed via a three-hour trek through snake-infested jungle, or by boat.

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Gaya Island, Borneo