SHARI-LA ISLAND RESORT

Shari-La is one of a handful of resorts on the west side of the island, offering a pleasant sunset break. It's by the sea, but the owners had the good idea of taking over the jungle to set up their wooden bungalows, with their traditional sloping roofs. The rooms show a real effort to decorate, even if they could do with a little refreshing and the Internet connection could be improved. Both rootsy and chic, Shari-La clearly stands out from Perhentian's overall offering.