As the plane makes its gradual descent you see much of the island from your window: the cliffs at one end, the long golden curve of a remote beach, olive groves, an isolated village, a patch of woodland, the whitewashed air traffic control tower. There’s just one carousel at the terminal. People seem to know each other. It’s only a short ride in the hired car into the small main town. You drive past the shopping centre, the primary school, the restaurant that specializes in seafood, the town hall or simply an endless blue beach with palm trees… And there’s a strange, instinctive feeling of wanting to arrive there, live a few moments there.
The feeling of pleasure we experience on arrival is partly the work of the imagination. In fact, the pleasure of the small island rests on qualities that can be found closer to us, our expectations, our longing for. A small island is not just a place on the map; it’s a psychological destination; a model of simplifying your life. You may not even have to take a plane or a boat to get there. Read about it, dream of it, close your eyes and you may suddenly be there…
A story created with passion and love by BEYOND LIMITS
1. Maddalena Island, Italy (pop. 11.332)
SARDINIA’S SECRET ISLAND
The archipelago of La Maddalena, off the Costa Smeralda, is a quiet place of turquoise lagoons, deserted islands and the most heavenly beaches in Sardinia, with barely a footprint to spoil them. In the translucent seas of the La Maddalena archipelago, you’re in another world. It doesn’t feel like the Mediterranean here. It feels like a more rugged version of the Caribbean. Suspended between Sardinia and Corsica, this scatter of seven large islands and 55 tiny islands has some of the most spectacular beaches in Italy, and some of the cleanest and clearest water.But it is only recently that these islands have begun to discover tourism, and in turn to be discovered by tourists.
The Maddalena islands are only 20 minutes by ferry from the Sardinian port of Palau, and geologically connected to the pink granite rockscapes of Gallura in the north-east of Sardinia.
For an incentive group we can arrange a stunning catamaran excursion, with drinks and delicious food on board. During the boat excursion you will enjoy time on island beaches, swim off the boat, and taste the delicious cuisine prepared by our skilled chef on board.
Have your trip uniquely organized by Acquaforte
2. Rosario Islands, Colombia (pop. 700)
A TRUE CARIBBEAN PARADISE
The Rosario Islands are an archipielago located on the coast of Colombia, approximately 100 kilometres from Cartagena. It is one of the most important Natural National Parks of Colombia. They have an aquarium and open sea ocenarium and are perfect to break from the urban environment. For the most adventurous travellers they can take a kayak out the sea, go diving, or sport-fishing, while the more relaxed visitors can easily spend a day on the beach. On the islands you will find the kind of beaches that you want to experience in the Caribbean, white sand, sparkling blue waters and a few palm trees, so expect to see some truly memorable sunsets during your visit. All the islands offer combinations of luxury rooms, private beaches, and quality food, that you will never forget. It is a fantastic place to spend one day or also a few days in the Caribbean.
Have your trip uniquely organized by MVS TRAVEL
3. Symi, Greece (pop. 2.590)
WHERE TIME STANDS COMPLETELY STILL
Quiet but still full of cardio! Little, full of everything! This little spot of the Greek map, one of the most picturesque islands of the Dodecanese complex with intact beauty and special architecture, will make you fall in love at first glance … Her beauty, simple and man-made, unfolds before your eyes as the ship enters the harbor. In front of you, you can see, as a living painting, one of the most beautiful and bigger neoclassical settlements in Greece. Neoclassical houses painted in bright, warm colors, perched on the rocky slopes of the island, reflect the glorious past of Symi, with tradition in sponge, shipbuilding and woodcarving.
Beautiful and untouched, most of Symi beaches invite you to discover them. Crystal waters, provocative, sometimes play with towering rocks, sometimes with coniferous shades … The most well-known are Nos, Pedi, Marathounda and Nimporio.
The city of Symi extends to the northern part of the island and consists of two settlements equally beautiful and charming: Ano Symi (Village) stretching as the top of the hill and Gialos, the safe harbor of the island. Symi offers you unique culinary delights featuring its own specialty, the famous homemade prawn! It is a rare variety of shrimp, of a very small size, that lives in the sea of the area and you can taste it in the fish taverns of the island.
Have your trip uniquely organized by FARSCAPE GREECE
4. Kauai, USA (pop. 65.689)
STUNNING HAWAIIAN SCENERY, NATURAL BEAUTY
With its striking natural beauty, Kauai has long been a destination for Hollywood filmmakers intent on capturing the island’s unspoiled terrain. Its stunning scenery is a worthy adventure for you. The Movie Tour provides a rare opportunity to experience Kauai through this lens, taking you on a six-hour guided tour of the island’s famous movie locations, including settings for “The Descendants,” “Six Days and Seven Nights,” “Gilligan’s Island,” “The Amazing Race,” “Fantasy Island,” “Blue Hawaii” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.”
Waimea Canyon (described as the Grand Canyon on the Pacific), Spouting Horn, a drive past Haupu Mountain range and a remarkable tunnel of 500 eucalyptus trees towering more than 100 feet, stops at the Opaekaa Falls lookout and Fern Grotto, a gorgeous tropical rain forest once reserved for Hawaiian royalty are some of the spectacular destinations you need to see in Kauai.
Take a cruise down to Wailua River, where you will take a relaxing cruise surrounded by lush jungle landscapes.
Have your trip uniquely organized by DESTINATION EVENT SERVICES
5. Maui, USA (pop. 144.444)
A REAL HAWAIIAN ISLAND
Hana, isolated from the rest of the island, is truly the last undeveloped tropical paradise on Maui. The Road to Hana Eco-Adventure features miles of lush tropical rain forests, beautiful waterfalls at every turn, narrow one-lane bridges and most importantly colorful and enduring cultural traditions kept by the elders. Hana truly is a world into itself. Discover its stories, live its legends and experience the authentic hospitality with cultural experts as visitors have the rare opportunity to mix with the Aunties of Hana and experience cultural practices and traditions. The guests will travel through the very heart of Maui and all that makes Maui no ka oi (the best!).
The hula and the lei, the dance and the flower are an entwined duo of Hawaiian beauty and grace. The respected islanders can share with you the true spirit of aloha. A noho or seated hula can be taught and shared through basic hula movements and their interpretive meaning. One must look inward to outwardly express the beauty and grace of the native dance.
The island offers Waterfall hiking in natural pool providing a well – deserved swimming reward, horseback riding along the pristine shoreline, standup paddle lessons & ocean snorkeling are all unique experiences you will never forget.
Have your trip uniquely organised by DESTINATION EVENT SERVICES
6. Pringipos, Turkey (pop. 7.000)
A UNIQUE BEAUTY IN THE AEGEAN SEA
Pringipos – named Büyükada now, is the3rd biggest island in the Marmara Sea which is only half hour sailing from the Asian shore of Istanbul. The island is known to be lung of the city, with clear fresh air, where there is no motor vehicles, but all transportation is managed by bikes and horse carriages. The climate and look of the island is more like of an Aegean town, and it’s a wonderful escape from the city even for a day break.
The residents of the island either lives through full year here, or some only stay at summers for their touristic activities. The island welcomes you enthusiastically with people riding bicycles with great merriment, lots of cats and dogs and, of course, seagulls.
Pringipos is the most romantic one among the Istanbul islands.
Have your trip uniquely organized by Crystal Concepts
7. Koh Rong Island, Cambodia (pop. 300)
AN IINVITATION “AU VOYAGE”
Located just off-the-coast of Sihanoukville in Southwest Cambodia, Koh Rong is known for its serene beauty and breathtaking scenery, an “island paradise” as described by visiting tourists and a perfect holiday destination for families, couples and small groups of travelers, an island for all tastes and all budgets.
Whether you want to lie back, unwind, and admire the magnificent views, swim in the crystal-clear ocean waters, or explore the exotic wildlife and underwater world, the stunning Koh Rong Island will give you the memories for a lifetime to bring back home.
Relax on the white sandy beaches, contemplate and gaze at the mesmerizing sunsets, dine with the freshest foods.
Why not let yourselves lose in the breathtaking beauty of this spectacular island? Head to Koh Rong Island, whether you’re a backpacker or a seasoned luxury traveler, find a slice of Paradise in the Kingdom of Cambodia!
Have your trip uniquely organized by ALL DREAMS CAMBODIA
8. La Graciosa Island, Spain (pop. 700)
REDISCOVERING A LOVE FRO SIMPLE THINGS
Few places remain as hidden as this little desert of just 27 square kilometres; the eighth, and least known, of the Canary Islands, located in the Chinijo archipelago. The island is home to just 700 inhabitants, there is no tarmac, no rush, and no stress. You can see incredible sunsets almost every evening or walk barefoot through the sandy streets of the island’s two villages. It is a place where you can try your best to grow tired of eating fresh fish and seafood, swimming next to idyllic beaches and cycling between red and yellow volcanoes. You can also try recreational fishing and scuba diving in Europe’s largest marine reserve, or even bodyboarding, surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to the waves and perfect wind conditions. An island where the simple things, a natural existence and the slow life are what is important… in short, a getaway that can be enjoyed with all five senses: the view of the blue horizon, the fragrance of the earth, the sound of the waves, the feeling of the sand between your toes and the flavors of the ocean.
Have your trip uniquely organized by Ferrer & Saret
9. Senja, Norway (pop. 15.072)
A MINIATURE VERSION OF NORWAY
Beautiful Senja is Norway’s second largest island, located far above the Arctic Circle. The Norwegians call the island «Norway in a Nutshell» as you are greeted by an awe-inspiring mix of sea, mountains, beaches, fishing villages and inland areas, all within a few hours’ drive. The Oceanside of the island is precipitous with sculptural rocks and colorful fishing villages in sheltered coves. The inland is filled with mountains, lakes and forests, and the mainland-facing coast sports unexpectedly green.
The scenery in Senja is full of contrasts, with the midnight sun and the northern lights, depending on the season. The «raw» mountain peaks rises straight from the sea along the coast and the combination of sea and mountains is ideal for those who participate in outdoor activities. In summer you are welcome to pick and choose from a wealth of trails for hiking and biking, whilst one of the world’s best fishing grounds and areas to observe the white-tailed eagle are right on your doorstep.
The range of restaurants and eateries in Senja reflects the region’s scenery and nature. To get a real taste of the region, char from Altevatn lake, cod from Senja, and goat cheese from Balsfjorden, are among the local products to try.
Have your trip uniquely organized by MOMENT NORWAY
10. The Island of Our Lady of Mercy (Gospa od Milosrđa), Montenegro
THE HOLY ISLAND
Very few know about this small island known as the Island of Our Lady of Mercy, part of the Krtoli Archipelago located in Tivat Bay. This lush piece of land houses a church bearing the same name and a Franciscan Monastery. As well as Christian importance, the island has a long history of religious rituals for nearly five thousand years.
The history of the buildings on the island date back to 15 Century. Through the centuries buildings were damaged or destroyed by different causes and the current church dates to the 19th Century.
Often confused with the frequently visited Church of Our Lady on the Rocks, this island is an important shrine of pilgrimage and people come here to celebrate the Gregorian calendar’s Feast of Our Lady every year on 15th August. It is also possible to visit other times and enjoy the calm atmosphere and magnificent views of Tivat Bay and surrounding mountains.
Have your trip uniquely organized by MONTENEGRO IN STYLE
11. Wa Ale, Myanmar
THE UNSPOILED ISLAND
Choosing an island in Myanmar is a difficult task, there are many of them (more than 800) and each most beautiful than the previous one, but Wa Ale island is without any doubt one of the favorites.
Nested in the Mergui Archipelago, Southern part of Myanmar, and part of the Lampi Marine National park, Wa Ale offers unspoiled beaches and stunning nature difficult to find anywhere else in the world.
There is only one possibility for accommodation, the exclusive eco-resort Wa Ale Island Resort, with 14 rooms that look like coming out from a fairy tale.
There are many activities available in the island, most of them focusing on enjoying the incredible surroundings like: treks, diving, watching wildlife or just relaxing by the beautiful beaches reserved for the handful of visitors that make it to this remote paradise.
Are you ready to disconnect and reconnect in this dreamy island?
Have your trip uniquely organized by Myanmar Voyages
12. VIS Croatia (pop 3.617)
A REAL FAIRY TALE
Welcome to Mamma Mia fairy tale! Vis is a small, secluded island with turquoise waters and beautiful secluded beaches. It is the furthest inhabited island off the Croatian coast and the most enigmatic. Vis served as a Yugoslav military base and foreign visitors were cut off right up until 1989. You can visit the Tito headquarters in one of the islands cave. The isolation prevented development and caused most of the population to move in search of work leaving the island trapped in time for many years.
Now, lack of development and the search for authenticity has become Vis’ drawcard. Travellers now visit Vis because of the nature, local cuisine, peace and quiet. A rise of visitors is in sight as the movie Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again was filmed on this beautiful island. Beat the crowds and book your trip to Vis now!
Have your trip uniquely organized by ETC ADRIATIC
13. Mafia Island, Tanzania (pop. 40.801)
THE INDIAN OCEAN’S MOST HIDDEN GEM
Mafia Island is the largest of a small archipelago of islands and atolls and the southern of three islands -with Pemba and Zanzibar– located off the coast of Tanzania.
Its name doesn’t have any link with the criminal organization but could come from the Arabic morfiyeh, meaning “group” or “archipelago” or from the Swahili mahali pa afya, meaning “a healthy dwelling-place”.
Mafia Island and its reefs are renowned as an excellent diving destination, with an unparalleled variety of hard and soft corals and diversity of tropical fish; the archipelago is one of the best locations in the world for swimming with whale sharks but it also has a rich history that goes back to the 8th century, when it played a major role in ancient trade between the people of East Asia and East Africa.
Have your trip uniquely organized by Tanzania Journeys
14. El Cielo, Mexico
THE TURQUOISE WATER ISLAND
El Cielo is a paradisiacal sandbank named Heaven, where you will find starfish on their own habitat over an incredibly sea turquoise water. Is about ½ mile off the Cozumel coast; a very shallow unique place located in the center of the Caribbean, and only accessible by boat.
The water is only 3-4 ft as far as you can see, with powdered white sand that massages your feet. El Cielo is filled with starfish and stingrays that can be seen from yards away because of the crystal-clear waters of El Cielo. On the way there; you can snorkel or dive at the second biggest coral reef barrel in the world after Australia.
Taking advantage of the scenarios at this lovely island at the Mexican Caribbean, @Nomadic Totem develops different high-end activities and premium services; such as, luxury yachts and catamarans with premium open bar and hor d´ouvers; where you can be the owner for 5 hours and captain of your own boat at the Caribbean with servers and crew taking care of you onboard.
Have your trip uniquely organized by NOMADIC TOTEM
15. Phu Cuoc, Vietnam (pop. 103.000)
THE SNOW WHITE BEACHES ISLAND
Phu Quoc (pronounced “foo kwok”) – an unassuming Vietnamese island sitting pretty just off the coast of Cambodia – is one of south-east Asia’s best-kept secrets.
The Phu Quoc district is made of 28 islands, most of which are uninhabited while some are planned for development as private resorts. Spanning 574 square kilometres, Phu Quoc Island is where most of the tourism action takes place.
With no accommodation available on site, the island is a popular day trip spot. Its protected waters and picturesque beach can be enjoyed overnight by camping on the beach as part of a tour, but not independently.
There is 150 kilometres of coast with ice cream-soft sand and Phu Quoc Island is home to around 20 unspoilt beaches, trodden mostly by locals or tourists from Asian countries nearby. Khem Beach is one of its most beautiful, overlooking Emerald Bay with powdery white sands caressed by champagne-like effervescent waves.
Sao Beach, considered the “crown jewel” of Phu Quoc, while Long Beach, which boasts a 20-km coast on the west side of the island is ideal for sunsets and among the island’s most popular beaches.
Have your trip uniquely organized by A CLASS TRAVEL
16. Karimunjawa, Indonesia (pop. 1.400)
A HIDDEN PARADISE
Any nature lover will easily fall in love with this place. Afterall, Karimunjawa is a sanctuary – an archipelago of 27 islands north of Semarang and off the coast of Central Java. With turquoise waters, fine white sand, fresh air and breathtaking views, this is the perfect escape from a hectic lifestyle that’ll likely satiate your cravings for fun under the sun.
Travel experts recommend the best time to go is during the dry season from April to October, as Indonesia is a country with a tropical climate. Pack with you the necessary items to battle the humid weather such as sunblock, umbrella, hats and a pair of sunglasses.
Looking for a luxurious hotel? Kura Kura Resort in Semarang is nestled among coconut trees and surrounded by pristine beaches with white sand.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, head on over to Menjangan Island. As many sharks have been sighted around the Karimunjawa islands, this has become a tourist attraction. Swimming with these sharks is a must-try activity here. You don’t have to worry since they’re smaller than usual and won’t bite. Aside from sharks, you can also find turtles and the Javan hawk on this island.
Have your trip uniquely organized by THE SEVEN HOLIDAY
17. Langkawi, Malaysia (pop. 65.000)
THE 99 ISLANDS ARCHIPELAGO
The island of Langkawi in Malaysian is a tantalizing mix of folklore, stunning visuals, waterfalls, virgin coral reefs and mangroves inhabited by eagles and other exotic wildlife.
Situated in calm waters of the Andaman Sea, it is designated as south-east Asia’s first ever UNESCO Geopark for its unique geology and tropical geo forests. On top of all that, Langkawi is a duty-free island too.
The best time to visit the island is between December and March, it’s dry season and temperatures are around 30°C or more. It can get quite hot, but there is always a nice breeze in Langkawi.
Top attractions & activities on the island include: 1) Dataran Lang aka The Eagle Square 2) Langkawi Sky Bridge & Cable Car 3) Jetski Island hopping 4) Gunung Raya 5) Kilim Karst Geoforest Park 6) Skytrex Adventure 7) Taman Lagenda 8) Telaga Tujuh aka 9) The Wells Waterfalls 10) Tanjung Rhu & Datai Bay
Try some of them and you will be so excited with your visit there.
Have your trip uniquely organized by FAIRY HOLIDAYS
18. Easter Islands, Chile (pop. 5.761)
THE ENIGMATIC STONE STATUE ISLAND
It was the eighteenth century Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen who named this isle Easter Island after he stumbled across it on Easter Sunday 1722 on his way across the South Pacific. In later years the Polynesian islanders gave the island the title Rapa Nui, but to this day locals still use the name that’s so commonly known worldwide. Situated 3,700 kilometers from the coast of Chile, Easter Island is the most isolated inhabited place on Earth.
Easter Island is most famous for its mysterious monolithic stone statues. Known as Moai, they are believed to have been carved by the Rapa Nui people sometime between 1250 and 1500, depicting the faces of their ancestors. Many statues have been moved to other spots along the coastline and positioned facing inland.
Guided hikes lead visitors around the island to see archaeological sites amidst scenic landscape. In around seven hours, trek along the dramatic northern coast – an area that’s only accessible on foot – from the western edge of the extinct volcano Maunga Terevaka to Anakena beach, with Moai, caves and rock carvings to see along the way.
Anakena on the northern coast is the island’s most popular beach – particularly during the southern hemisphere’s summer months – where white coral sand is lapped by the warm Pacific Ocean with coconut trees swaying in the sea breeze.
Have your trip uniquely organized by Latitud 90
19. Parquerolles Island, France (pop. 200)
THE CARIBBEAN ISLAND OF FRANCE
Welcome to Porquerolles! A short 10-minutes boat ride away from the coast, the crescent-shaped island nestles a charming village in its centre where you will find a wide and diverse offer of accommodation, restaurants and bike rentals. The best way to discover Porquerolles is hiking or cycling on the numerous marked trails of the National Park.
Porquerolles is a favourite with the French and is busy in the summer and on public holidays. The best months are in late spring, September and October. Late May sees Porquerolles at its most beautiful. Tender shoots are still green and fresh, blossoms exuberant with new colour. Nature fizzes – just before the burn of the summer sun begins and the fading starts.
Porquerolles has two facets: on the southern side, the coast is made of steep cliffs and secluded creeks only accessible to hikers. The northern side, on the other hand, offers fine sand beaches and turquoise waters…our very own Caribbean! As for the core of the island, it is made of fertile plains on which the botanical conservatory grows ancient and unique species. This special island awaits your visit…
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20.Cayo Arena, Dominican Republic
A PRIVATE PARADISE ISLAND
There are tons of kitschy picture-perfect settings in the Caribbean: a turquoise ocean with endless beaches, palm trees looking diagonally towards the sea, the tropical cocktail during the sunset or the jump into a natural pool of a waterfall. All these typical Caribbean dreams are waiting for you in the Dominican Republic. However, on the north coast of the country, there is a special spot which is more perfect than the mentioned moments and which will even enthuse Caribbean experienced travellers: Cayo Arena with its 7 pretty beach huts on a sandbar which is not that much bigger than 30×90 feet – surrounded by crystal-clear water, a colorful coral reef and the infinity of the ocean. Is there a better spot for taking remarkable photos of the Dominican Republic?
The fascination of Cayo Arena is basically limitless. Besides the incredible setting the coral reef offers an abundance of fishes who are presenting themselves in all colors you even can’t imagine of. And after your snorkeling trip through the underwater world of Cayo Arena you can enjoy a chilled drink and fresh fruits to complete your perfect day in the Caribbean.
Have your trip uniquely organized by DOMINICAN EXPERT