Any travel presents the opportunity to disappear temporarily from the real world in favour of exploring and getting lost, tasting unfamiliar foods, or relaxing on a beach getaway in a remote paradise. But the concept of visiting an island is perhaps even more linked with an escape from the daily grind, which is why we’ve compiled a list of seven beautiful islands sure to help you forget your alarm clock and enchant you into never wanting to leave.
1.) Santorini, Greece
Greece tourism has to be one one on the healthiest due to its beautiful islands. The Greek islands are some of the most famous in the world, and when you make it there yourself you will quickly understand why. All of the islands offer their own brand of charm, but Santorini is perhaps one of the most spectacular. White-washed houses with shimmering blue rooftops are perched atop jaw-droppingly steep cliffs that plunge to the deep blue water of the caldera below; the sunsets are some of the most renowned and consistently beautiful in the world; and there is a trendy dining scene that, while a little on the tourist-driven side, offers the chance for tasty meals with outstanding views. Be sure to budget for at least one dinner with a view of the sunset – the quintessential Santorini experience for any visitor.
2.) La Digue, Seychelles
La Digue is famed for its beaches, which are heralded to be some of the most beautiful in Africa. Though it is the third-largest island in Seychelles in terms of population, there are only around 2,000 people living here. Travellers can therefore expect tranquil white-sand shorelines, acres of tropical island for exploring, and top-quality accommodation that combine to make it difficult for visitors to board the plane when the time comes to snap back to reality.
3.) Easter Island, Chile
The mysterious Easter Island is not easy to reach, but with plenty of tour options you can at least check the tricky logistics off your list as you prepare to visit this kooky corner of the earch, most famous for its 1500-year-old volcanic rock sculptures. With unique landscape in abundance, ancient archaeological mysteries, and an isolated situation 2000km from the coast of mainland Chile, this is a peaceful escape like no other.
4.) Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui has become one of the most popular destinations in Thailand thanks to its beaches that scream picture-perfect tropical paradise, a pumping party scene and a long list of activities to entertain. During the day sparkling blue water beckons, fresh and delicious Thai food awaits, haggling skills are refined with local marketeers, and there are water sports and scooter-ing to be done. At night one of the best party scenes in Thailand can be found, with lively Chaweng known for its lounge and beach bars the main hub of activity, though there are options all across the country’s second-biggest island.
5.) Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
If an island that offers something different from a getaway in tropical paradise appeals, try Vancouver Island, not far off the coast of Canada near its namesake, Vancouver. The capital, Victoria, is a beautiful city with historical sites and a lively shopping and dining scene. Heading away from the city you will find spectacular scenery typical of Canadian postcards, with the picturesque mountain roads and forested hills of the Vancouver Island Ranges and the numerous lakes, rivers, fjords and bays that find their home around the island.
6.) Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania may almost be forgotten by many when planning a trip to Australia, but it shouldn’t be. This little triangle of the world offers flora and fauna unlike anywhere else in the country, a thriving food production industry that includes delicious cheeses and chocolate, and miles of hiking trails perfect for those who like their islands with a little action. Find out what the Tasmanian devil really looks like, satisfy your foodie heart and marvel at natural wonders like the Bay of Fires all on this little slice of laidback paradise.
7.) Maui, Hawaii, USA
Hawaii is undeniably the perceived embodiment of the island paradise, best known for a laidback beach lifestyle, iconic cultural activities including the Hula dance and Luau roasts, some of the most popular surf spots in the world, and awe-inspiring scenery dominated by lush greenery and volcanoes.
Maui is the second-biggest Hawaiin island and has won a notable number of awards within the tourism sector, which means you can rely on everything you need for a beach holiday that leans toward luxury at one of the quality resorts or hotels to be found here. If you’re looking for a top-notch vacation spot where your biggest worry will be what time to be ready to watch the sunset, Maui could be the place to entrap you.
Author’s Bio: Courtney Gahan is a serial expat, traveller and freelance writer who has bartered with Moroccan marketeers, seen the sun rise at Angkor Wat and elbowed her way through crowds on NYE in NYC.
