Dungun, Terengganu, Malaysia

We're a retired couple who flit between a tropical beach in Malaysia and a quaint hamlet in South Africa every year. We prefer quiet, remote places far from cities, yet near enough to modern amenities so life is comfortable. Our home on the east coast of Malaysia is a basic local-style house where we live rather simply with our many "donated" cats.

Our simple, traditional Malay-style house is just steps from a beautiful, largely tourist-free beach. It has two bedrooms (one used as an office), a sitting/dining room, kitchen, bathroom and verandah, plus a tropical garden. It's comfortable rather than luxurious, with good fibre internet.This is real Malaysia rather than tourist Malaysia. Local markets, food and customs can be unfamiliar, English isn't always spoken, and Terengganu is a traditional Muslim state where modest dress is customary and alcohol and pork are difficult to find.

You'll discover wonderful food, friendly people and a fascinating culture. Depending on your dates, expect periods of heavy tropical rain, strong winds, rough seas and occasional local flooding. Our house doesn't flood, although the garden sometimes does. Temperatures remain warm, with breaks of sunshine, and experienced surfers may love the waves.