Mozambique has emerged from decades of civil war and, as unlikely as it sounds, has turned its fortunes using their natural assets of beautiful national parks, a vibrant culture and world-class diving sites in the Indian Ocean.

Only 15 years ago Mozambique was racked by civil war which left a million people dead. However, as a rare African success story, Mozambique now appears to have put its past behind it as is currently opening a rash of new lodges and resorts in the formerly undeveloped northern part of the country.

Getting there will probably land you in the small colonial capital, Maputo. The nightlife is vibrant - check out the Afro jazz scene while you are there. International flight connections are generally via South Africa. There are also direct connections from Portugal (the former colonial power), Tanzania and Kenya. Portuguese is still the official language although English is widely spoken. Mozambique’s government is investing in their National Parks and wildlife numbers including antelope and zebra herds are increasing. Coral reefs fringe 1500 miles of gorgeous unspoilt Indian Ocean coastline and off-shore islands.

Our pick for luxury hotels in Maputo would be the boutique 23-room boutique hotel Villa das Arabies which combines funky Arabic decor with all the usual luxuries: LCD TV’s, wireless Internet and video games. They also include the less usual such as an “aquarium swimming pool” - sounds fun!

Most of the luxury resort action appears to be in the formerly undeveloped northern region. The uber-luxurious Vamizi Lodge has a well-heeled international following with good reason. Vamizi located in the Quirimbas archipelago surrounded by white-sand beaches, translucent water and undamaged coral reef. Vamizi comes complete with dhows with while sails (available for you to take a run too), contrasting nicely against the blue Indian Ocean.

Most of the local nightlife at Vamizi will consist of interacting with curious monkeys and lumbering turtles. Each individual hut comes complete with king sized beds with romantic billowing mosquito nets to view the sun rise over the sea from. During the day you can move out to the day bed to do some more serious relaxing. However if you want to get more active read on.

Vamizi is getting a name for combining luxury accommodation and world-class diving. There are at least 10 excellent dive sites less than 30 minutes boat ride from the resort. Vamizi runs a full diving and fishing charter service. Big Game and fly fishing charters are available. If fishing isn’t yout thing enjoy the local seafood cuisine at the Vamizi’s restaraunts instead. Time your visit right and there is whale watching as well.

Mozambique is not quite as convenient as some destinations, African airlines still have their scheduling issues, but look for lodges such as Vamizi becoming more hip than the better known destinations of Asia and the Caribbean; novelty plus undeniable beauty - a winning combination.