Escape from the city this summer and find your way to one of the world’s finest island destinations. Whether it’s off the beaten track or a beach holiday, there is something for everyone!
Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
The low-down: Vieques or Isla de Vieques is not like any other island in the Caribbean. Having been home to the US Navy for over 60 years, it is now the largest national refuge in the area. Undeveloped beaches are plentiful, pristine and clear and most importantly not surrounded by towering hotels and concrete buildings. Instead, wild native flora flourishes alongside the sandy beaches and wild horses roam freely.
X-Factor: As ecotourism continues to expand exponentially, it isn’t surprising that travellers are finally turning their interest to Vieques. Here, you can fill your days with underwater adventures, snorkelling, diving or just swimming. At night, guided tours are available via kayak or pontoon boats to Mosquito Bay, perhaps the world’s largest bioluminescent bay. Millions of organisms reside in the bay and glow bright green when the water is disturbed.
Best For: Those looking to avoid a tourist trap. You won’t find the beaches of this island chock-a-block full of high-rise hotels, crowded boardwalks or bustling nightlife. This sleepy destination may not boast a collection of five star resorts, but the variety of accommodations includes small hotels, charming guesthouses and luxury villas for rent. No matter where you stay the people are friendly and the natural beauty of the island is captivating.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The low-down: Fall in love at first sight with Bora Bora. Valleys of blooming hibiscus, sun-kissed white sand beaches and emerald waters teeming with colourful fish and coral all combine to create what can easily be described as the most beautiful place on earth. Under a one hour flight from the island of Tahiti, Bora Bora comes alive with activity daily both in and out of the water.
X-Factor: There is so much more to do in paradise than sitting on a beach, no matter how beautiful it is. The tropical landscape and breathtaking lagoon waters provide unending days of exploration. For a closer encounter with marine life, try diving with legions of gigantic manta rays and reef sharks. You can even hand-feed docile sharks during a shark and ray feeding tour.
For those who want to explore the island itself, you’ll find adventure along the interior roads. These overgrown forest roads wind high above the lagoon to provide panoramic views of the island.
Best for: Romance. Whether you’re planning your destination wedding in the French Polynesia or want to celebrate your union, Bora Bora is the right choice. The island entices travellers with its dramatic scenery and the privacy of the over water bungalows which dot the shoreline. From sunrise to sunset, resorts that have been welcoming couples for 40 years will endeavour to create an unrivalled experience for you and your partner.
Penang, Malaysia
The low-down: The perfect fusion of East and West, Penang manages to retain its old world charm while embracing modernity. The harmony of this mix is mirrored by its multiracial populace, who weave their unique and colourful heritages together to create a beautiful holiday destination. Well-preserved heritage buildings sit alongside tropical gardens and elaborately designed temples in what has long been regarded as the food capital of Malaysia.
X-Factor: Teluk Bahang in Penang boasts the only award winning spice garden in South East Asia, nestled amongst lovely green foliage, exotic ferns and flowering plants. Once you have roamed the gardens on your own, or as part of the walking tour, you can relax at the café overlooking the blue sea with an afternoon drink or cook up a feast at its cooking school. After an action-packed day, you can recharge using the premium range of spice therapy spa products.
Best For: Food lovers. With so many ethnicities living together for centuries, the food is bound to be spectacular and Penang does not disappoint. While each culture offers something unique, from delicious curries to creamy coconut soups, it is the blend of tastes and spices that can’t be found anywhere else. Try the Penang version of hokkien mee, a yellow noodle cooked in tasty prawn soup or sit down by the road side for a tangy bowl of laksa. This island state has something to satisfy any appetite.
