A land unlike any other, Madagascar is an enticing destination for those who find its lack of modern conveniences, tourist infrastructure and efficient transport system an interesting proposition rather than a problem.

The fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar is one of the most bio-diverse countries on earth, home to thousands of species of plant and animal life of which about 80 percent cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Lying off the east coast of Africa, Madagascar is very different from its African neighbor and has led some to class it as the Eighth Continent.

Besides this natural wonderland, Madagascar also has its share of beautiful beaches and wonderful coral reefs, such as those found on the cluster of islands off the north east coast. Best known is Nossi Be; while Ile Ste-Marie off the east coast, and Toliara in the south, are also major attractions for divers, snorkelers and sunbathers.

The bustling capital, and first and last stop for visitors arriving by air, is Antananarivo, or 'Tana', which has a distinctly French flavor and is an excellent place to shop for Malagasy arts and crafts. Go looking for the unexpected and be ready to mingle with a warm-hearted nation, and you will find an undeniably fascinating destination that makes for a refreshingly different sort of holiday under the tropical sunshine.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Madagascar copyright Globe Media 2011