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Surrounded by the Coral Triangle, the world’s most diverse marine ecosystem, the Raja Ampat Regency — a remote chain of 1,500 islands, cays and shoals in Indonesia — offers visitors a dazzling tapestry of nature both in and out of the water. Snorkel among spotted yellow boxfish and dive amid purple gorgonian sea fans. On land, explore secluded beaches fringed by coconut palms or trek into the jungle to spot the striking and rare Wilson’s bird of paradise. Beyond its kaleidoscopic beauty, Raja Ampat is also a rare conservation success. Amid decimated ray and shark populations worldwide, the number of reef manta rays there is growing. Escape the crowds on a nonstop flight from Bali to Sorong, followed by a boat ride (or two) to your own rustic over-water bungalow through the Raja Ampat Homestay Association, run by local Papuans.