Disconnection and relaxation do not have to be complicated when thinking of traveling. Today we talk about our suggestions for an ideal island getaway.
Without following any specific order, we share the islands in our bucket list where you can spend several days exploring. Whether to satisfy your cultural curiosity, visit popular attractions, hunger for the exotic or simply indulge in the beauty of the surroundings.
It is very easy, or very hard, for us to choose any of these destinations for our next island getaway.
Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Next to the popular and acclaimed islands of the Canary archipelago, comes in the largest of the Balearic Islands. Mallorca has acquired fame on its own merit, having held the title of “the best island in Spain” on several occasions. It is especially recognized for the great number of attractions that it features, among them, idyllic beaches, coves of impressive blue tones, towns, and cities of incomparable beauty, gastronomy influenced by several Mediterranean cuisines and excellent nightlife. One cannot say they have visited Palma de Mallorca, without snapping a photo in Parc de la Mar, posing with the majestic Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria, “La Seu”. This 2019 Mallorca was placed for the first time in the Top 10 worldwide of best islands in the world, according to TripAdvisor.
Jamaica
The largest in the list in terms of geographical extension, but in our list for fair reasons. Jamaica offers not one, but several paradises between its beaches and coves.
On the north coast you have Doctor Cave in Montego Bay and Seven Mile Beach in Negril and Treasure Beach on the south coast. Whether at Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica or in Luxury Bahia Principe Runaway, you can explore the surroundings and learn more about Jamaican culture. Crafts and natural attractions thrive on the island.
Check out the Concierge recommendations for your next trip to Jamaica. You can also explore some of the most popular local phrases in Jamaica.
Bastimentos, Bocas del Toro, Panama
Visit postcard beaches, stroll through Old Bank a small town of just hundreds of inhabitants and learn Guari Guari, the local English-based dialect. Bastimentos Island is ideal for those seeking total disconnection or to explore nature.
Bastimentos Island boasts a National Marine Park of the same name, the only one in the area that preserves beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves in the same area. Popular beaches include Wizard Beach, Red Frog Beach, and the immaculate waters of Polo Beach ideal for snorkeling or diving, and Long Beach. The latter being popular for being the hatching destination for leatherback turtles (February – August).
Tip: a boat ride away is Isla Colon, the main island of Bocas del Toro, with more hustle and bustle, with a variety of restaurants and even more beaches to explore.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
It is not possible to talk about island getaways without thinking of Bora Bora. Also called “the pearl of the Pacific” it is the most visited island in French Polynesia and is among the 10 most beautiful islands in the world.
A luxury destination for fans of everything related to the ocean and scuba diving. Lovers of white sand beaches will delight in this South Pacific island. The standard accommodation of the destination is the bungalows built on stilts.
Despite receiving more than 20,000 tourists a year, the island is famous for its approach towards the ocean preservation, marine life and the sustainable management of the hotels that inhabit it.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It is considered one of the top destinations in the world for wildlife observation.
If you visit Ecuador, a local guide will probably ask, or even urge you, “when will you visit Galapagos?” We can guarantee that you will encounter real wonders of nature. UNESCO has declared the fourteen islands in total as a unique living museum and a showcase of evolution.
It is a year-round destination, suitable for solo travelers, family getaways and even romantic vacations. Epic landscapes, fabulous beaches, diving and marine observation, unique wildlife… all this and more will be available. You just have to choose your ideal exploration option, either on land or on a cruise.
Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil
Composed of 21 islands and islets is a paradise of indescribable beauty. Crystal clear waters, golden sands, and abundant marine life make Noronha one of the best diving destinations.
On the mainland, you can explore ecological trails, dolphin watching, and the Shark Museum. Spend an afternoon at Boldro Fort for one of the most impressive sunsets.
Did you know? The beaches of the Archipelago are among the most beautiful in the world, such are Praia dos Porcos and Bahia de Sancho, which achieved the first place among the best beaches in the world of in 2019 Top 25 of TripAdvisor.
Singapore
We know, we know… it is not a destination of idyllic beaches like the previous ones. However, Singapore offers another type of tourism, to explore an Asian tiger of modern developments, such as the Marina Bay Sands complex, and the contrast that stands out when visiting the Bahia Gardens.
The cultural influence of nearby countries can be seen in local attractions and the diversity of its neighborhoods. Among the mandatory tours, we include a stroll and dining in Chinatown, agreeing on a traditional festival in Little India and a visit to the Sultan Mosque on Arabe Street.
Being a world-class destination, Singapore also offers unique experiences for shopping. Stroll along Orchard Road and get lost between stores.
Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
We would be happy to get lost in this Caribbean island. It may sound like treason, but only a photo of its beaches makes us fall in love. Water activities are expected, kayaking between the neighboring keys and tours to the nearby islands are attached to natural and historical attractions.
There are no words that describe the beauty of its beaches, which invite you to photograph them and then dive into its crystalline waters for an underwater life encounter. Grace Bay Beach is ranked fifth in the Top 25 of the best beaches in the world of 2019, according to Tripadvisor.
Can you imagine a horse ride along the shores of Long Bay Beach? Providenciales ponies and horses are trained for this and may even enjoy it more than tourists.
Azores Islands, Portugal
The archipelago of 9 islands and 14 volcanoes is famous for its location, right between the United States and Spain, in the middle of the Atlantic.
Enjoy incomparable landscaping with wonderful views of the Terceira volcano, hot springs, dolphin and whale watching in their natural habitat.
If you are excited to try an island, here are some other recommendations: Phuket in Thailand, Maui in Hawaii, Archipelago de las Perlas in Panama, Bali in Indonesia, Tenerife in the Canary Islands and Madeira in Portugal.
Among the Islands of Greece that we have in mind: Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Ionian Islands and Milos. You can read this Travel guide about Greece if you plan to visit the Hellenic Republic.
