Off the mystical island of Borneo lies a little gem, a sparkle within the deep blue sea. Like a mariner’s dream, it stands all alone, a striking haven in the wide ocean awaiting a visitor.

This is the intriguing island of Layang Layang, a coral-blessed, deep sea atoll off the coast of Borneo, Malaysia. It’s a refuge where a kaleidoscopic underwater world like no other exists. This marine heritage is a geographical wonder as well, with the atoll rising from the deep blue depth of 2,000m, hardly breaching the surface.

Also known as ‘The Jewel of the Borneo Banks’, Layang Layang has created for itself a calm lagoon which teems with wildlife. As many as 13 coral reefs have formed here, creating a magnetic underwater scenery. Diving is the pinnacle of Layang Layang’s beautiful experience – expect a vacation like no other on this isolated atoll.

On this sliver of land lies a modest but complete resort - the three-star Layang Layang Island Resort. It consists of 76 superior rooms as well as 10 deluxe rooms. Made of tropical hardwood, it shares the look of a Longhouse, the traditional community homes of Borneo’s tribal people. Rooms are comfortable enough and all are air-conditioned. Dining is a pleasure as a wide range of eastern and western cuisine are spread out for every meal at the restaurant. To ensure variety, daily menus are amended to ensure eating will be one other activity guests can look forward to regularly.

A stunning dive experience awaits, as the average visibility is between 30 to 50 metres. A huge drop of 2,000m off the edge lies the sea floor. As soon as you’re in your dive spot, you can be assured of seeing a wide and varied ecosystem. Largely unexplored, much of Layang Layang has never been seen before - the many reefs here harbour many species yet to be identified nor named. Fishes of every kind of colour and shape darting in and out of delicate pastel corals are a common sight in this underwater playground. Armed with the spirit of exploration, many divers from all over the world have discovered this jewel in the blue wilderness. It is no wonder Layang Layang is placed at the top of their lists for the best diving spot.