Tripologist: Which Greek island should we visit?

After a wedding on Crete in early August, my wife and I are thinking of spending a week each on three or four islands. What would be your top picks? P. Chandler, Malvern Vic

In August the Greek Islands are going to be crowded. Despite their magnetic appeal, I'd give the Cyclades – Santorini, Delos, Mykonos, Paros among them – a miss in favour of the Dodecanese, between Crete and Turkey. Karpathos is the second largest island in the group yet it's off the well-trod tourist track. Relaxing and well supplied with beaches, wildflower meadows and a marine park, Karpathos has several mountain villages such as Olympos, where island life still moves to traditional rhythms. There's also a splendid archaeological site in the Acropolis of Arkasa. Most of the accommodation is located on the island's southern coast. One of my favourites is the little island of Leipsoi (Lipsi), which has escaped the scourge of mass tourism. It's relaxed and friendly, prices in the tavernas are reasonable and there's good swimming at Platis Gialos Beach and at Platis Gialos. Stay in the main town, also Lipsi, it's easier for getting around the island. The other three islands in the group worth visiting are Kos, an archaeological treasure chest, Leros, one of the most charismatic of all the Greek islands, and Symi, tailor made for Instagram.

We are looking for a restaurant for dinner with nice views in Dubai. We are on a layover so somewhere near the airport. Happy to get transport but not too far. S. O'Rourke, Terrigal NSW

My pick is Tasca by Jose Avillez, in the Mandarin Oriental at Jumeira (mandarinoriental.com). Avillez is an exciting and creative Portuguese chef with a Michelin star to his name who has carved a stellar reputation at several restaurants where he has worked as executive chef. On the hotel's sixth floor, the restaurant has views of the city's skyline on one side and the Arabian Gulf on the other. Take a deep breath because eating well in Dubai is expensive, and Tasca is no exception. The city is top-heavy with wealth, and it hosts a swag of high-end restaurants. Even staying in the airport terminal and eating a meal at the Hard Rock Café is going to cost at least $50 each. A taxi from the airport to the hotel will take about 20 minutes.

My family and friends are looking for a family-friendly stay in Bali. Looking for smaller, grounded spots rather than the bigger, shinier places that dominate the search engines. A. McQueen, Hurstbridge Vic

Surrounded by rice fields about five kilometres inland from Tanah Lot, De Moksha Eco Friendly Boutique Resort (villamoksha.com) could be just what you're looking for. This four-star resort is tranquil and relaxing and guest reviews average 4.8 out of five. Accommodation is a choice of rooms or villas, and a two-bedroom villa is ideal for families. There's also a spa and free yoga classes and staff can arrange rice field walks, cycling trips around the surrounding villages, Balinese dance classes and aquatic experiences including surfing and diving. A free shuttle service will deliver you to Kedungu Beach and Tanah Lot. If you book direct with the hotel, a two-bedroom deluxe pool in April is about $150 per night including taxes.