The start of 2010 brings with it hope and promise for more than just the upcoming year, but rather, a whole new decade of diving. And where better to begin your quest for immaculate submersion than below one of our region’s top islands. It is a matter of common knowledge that countless isles, islets, atolls and archipelagos tempt divers in Australasia, from the Maldives and the Phi Phi Islands, to inimitable Bali and impossible Palau. But the start of a new decade demands a whole new approach to island diving, one that is forward-looking, refreshing and unexpected.

For your ten-year calendar, Scuba Diver AustralAsia brings you a feature series of islands that we believe will make their mark in the diving world this decade. Perhaps the least known of these is Kosrae – a tiny Micronesian gem waiting to be revealed. Not far lies the mighty Kingdom of Tonga, where the humpback whales gather and sing. Lizard Island in Australia is another pristine destination located on the doorstep of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, and is considered sacred by the Dingaal Aboriginal people. In cooler climes, the Japanese Ogasawaras are highly regarded, but too often considered out-of-reach due to the costs involved. All of these islands are due to grow in reputation, but we’ve also included Sipadan and Mabul; old favourites with enticing neighbours that we believe will help reinvent these already wildly popular destinations.

So read on and ponder your bubble-making future…