Blogger Dream Spot -Tioman Island Malaysia

If you've seen my other Blogger Dreamspot posts you'll know that I am a sucker for clear, tropical blue water and beautiful beaches (as well as waterfalls). Have a look at this gem.

 Tioman Island (Malay language: Pulau Tioman) is a small, tear-drop shaped island located 32 km off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the state of Pahang, and is some 39 km long and 12 km wide. It has eight main villages, the largest and most populous being Kampung Tekek in the north. The densely forested island is sparsely inhabited, and is surrounded by numerous coral reefs, making it a popular scuba diving spot. There are also a lot of resorts and chalets around the island which has duty free status.

Its beaches were depicted in the 1958 movie, South Pacific as Bali Hai. In the 1970s, TIME Magazine selected Tioman as one of the world's most beautiful islands.

Apart from its diverse marine life, the inland rainforest area, encompassing approximately 12,383 hectares, in Tioman is a strictly enforced nature reserve. There are several protected species of mammals on the island, including the Binturong, Long-tailed Macaque, Slow Loris, Black Giant Squirrel, Red Giant Flying Squirrel, Mouse deer, Brush-tailed Porcupine, and Common Palm Civet, from a total of 45 species of mammals and 138 species of birds, including the majestic Frigatebird. Moreover, Tioman has species that are endemic to its shores. The soft-shelled turtle and the Tioman walking catfish are both unique and can be seen on rainforest walks

According to legend, Tioman Island is the resting place of a beautiful dragon princess. Whilst flying from China to visit her prince in Singapore, this beautiful maiden stopped to seek solace in the crystal-clear waters of the South China Sea. Enraptured by the charms of the place, she decided to discontinue her journey. By taking the form of an island, she pledged to offer shelter and comfort to passing travelers.It is blessed with miles of soft white sandy beaches. The warm azure sea water around the islands is filled with abundance of colourful coral reefs which are already 6000 years old. It is also home to a vast variety of marine creatures including various tropical reef fishes, rare turtle species, sharks as well as giant clam and sometimes even schools of dolphins. With its crystal clear water and good visibility, it is one of the best dive sites in the world.

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