We Brits love to fantasise about white sand beaches, bright blue waters and hot weather. It’s one of the reasons why tropical island nation the Maldives is so popular for honeymoons – but the cost of the region puts lots of people off.

Luckily, there are more places than one to get a similar vibe while on holiday and some of them cost a lot less overall. One such gorgeous destination is Ko Muk, an island in Ko Libong, Thailand.

While, yes, flights may cost more than your typical flit to Spain – Skyscanner puts UK to Bangkok flights from £378 – it’s also much cheaper than alternative spots for things like beer, meals out and accommodation. But, while the cost is lower you won’t miss out on all the best parts of a tropical beach holiday.

You can explore some of the islands pristine beaches, sunbathe, swim, snorkel and get stuck into watersports like kayaking, paddle boarding and scuba diving. You can even go snorkelling in the beautiful “emerald cave” which you’ll be transported to on a traditional long tail boat – all for just £30.

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The cave, known to locals as Morakat Cave, features a pretty beach surrounded by steep rocks, cliffs and greenery with a cave you can explore with a guide. Plus, the water has a coral reef perfect for spotting wildlife.

Alternatively, for a similar price, you can go on a sea tour of the various islands around Koh Muk so you see all the sights in the surrounding area. Other popular spots include Charlie Beach, the huge Farang beach and pleasant walks around the island. Trang Scuba Diving will let you go deeper than other watersports do so you can explore the reefs, spot coral, fish, manta rays, and other sea creatures.

Those who want to indulge a little can try out the various bars dotted around the beautiful island. Mong Bar sits on the beach offering great sunset views and chilled music. Cocktails cost just 100baht (£2.26) while you can get a full dinner for two for less than £10. There’s a happy hour too that makes drinks just £1 and you can rent kayaks for under £3.

There are also reggae bars and a few small clubs. Soy Soy bar even lets you play your own music! The cost of a beer is extremely reasonable too with some tourists putting it at just 60 to 70baht (£1.35 to £1.48).

So, with your booze and food costing very little and tours and watersports also being cheap as chips you’re already saving a fortune compared to a trip to the Maldives – and the wildlife and beaches are just as beautiful. But, you can also save a fortune on accommodation.

There are some incredible deals to be found. Over on booking.com we found one of the cheapest stays on the books – you can get a five day stay in a Phusam Big Resort bungalow for just £48. The price is for two people making your stay cost just £4.80 each per night.

Those willing to spend a little more can shell out £72 for five days in a bungalow attached to a reggae bar at Oyoy reggaebar bungalows. Beach lovers should try Mookies Bungalows where you’re just 300yards from the beach and you’ll spend just £109 for five nights.

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