Every week a reader gets a chance to put a travel question to the Been there community. Check out how this works

My fiancé and I are getting married end of June and have been trying to decide on a honeymoon destination for a while now. Weather is key for us but a combination of oriental relaxation and an exciting trip are of ultimate importance.

Recently we heard about the Gili islands in Indonesia. Can you advise us on any places to stay, things to do etc. Also, which is the best way to travel there?
Marie P

I went to the Gili Islands in April 2003 after going to Bali and its neighbouring Island, Lombok. At the time, getting to Gili islands was only possible from Lombok. We have travelled extensively and I must admit that the passage to Gili from Lombok was very 'interesting' as the local fisherman were definitely trying to rip us all off saying there were no scheduled boats etc. Not great for a honeymoon experience!

The Gili Islands were beautiful though and better than the very average beaches of Lombok and Bali. The sand was white, although made entirely of crushed and bleached coral, so don't expect soft powder sand! The weather was very hot and we didn't have air conditioning. We hired some nice bikes and cycled around the island and had many drinks in the local bar. You couldn't get hold of cash on the island, so make sure you stock up before you get there.

I am sure the infrastructure has changed recently and things are less problematic. There is nothing worse than someone trying to rip you off, when you are fully aware of it! If you want paradise beaches and huts etc, I would look elsewhere. If you want travel and adventure, it's worth a visit (may coincide it with Bali and Lombok trip?).

I would recommend the Perhinthian Islands off the east coast of Malaysia as this was gorgeous. And for pure luxury, with the best beaches in the world, the Cook Islands have to be the place. Plenty of cheap accommodation once you have paid the airfare.

Good luck!
Chris Brown

I went to the GiliIslands with my sister over New Year and must admit, we were disappointed. We stayed on the largest of the three islands, Gili Trawangan. Although a beautiful island, the main drag is busy and spoilt and dirty – it’s considered the party island and it is. We found some nice quiet spots further up the coast so would recommend heading as far from the main road as possible. It depends on what you are looking for though; if it’s a honeymoon I should imagine you would want somewhere picturesque, quiet and secluded! I can’t comment on the other two islands but I think they would probably be better options.

Baliis beautiful as long as you stay away from the south. It isn’t famous for having the most beautiful beaches but there is so much to do and the people are so lovely, it’s hard to find fault. Ubud was my favourite place and I can recommend a lovely hotel called Villa Semana – obviously it depends on budget and personal preference though.

I’ve travelled to a few spots in South East Asia now and my favourite place by far for beaches is still the Philippines!
Best wishes,
Vanessa