Madagascar is the world’s fourth-largest island, sitting in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa. It’s similar in size to France, but with vast swathes of almost uninhabited land that is seldom explored – the off-road driving, mountain biking, hiking and rock climbing are outstanding. The sea is also a big attraction: Madagascar has over 3000 miles of coastline, 280 miles of barrier reef and 250 islands. Divers can explore underwater ‘cathedrals’ and shipwrecks, and see rays and many different types of sharks. Even snorkellers can admire the myriad colours of corals and fish, and the grace of turtles. Alternatively, you can join a local fisherman on a pirogue (dugout canoe), go sailing to explore nearby islands or board a whale-watching boat to admire humpbacks at play – one of nature’s most magnificent displays. Or you could just stay on one of the palm-fringed sandy beaches!

Madagascar has absorbed waves of migrants over the centuries, leaving a rich culture with some fascinating local beliefs and rituals. You’re unlikely to forget attending a ‘famadihana’, when relatives exhume and rebury their ancestors to communicate with them. The French, who colonised the country, left their language and an appreciation for good food – which you can wash down with lovely local rum!

There is demand for ESL, but remember that the Madagascan population is very small, and the country is fairly poor. The best EFL opportunities are teaching with one of the many volunteer organisations operating there. The official languages are Malagasy and French.