My Favourite Island Getaways

I have a confession to make. I spend hours and hours online daydreaming about escaping to various tranquil islands all over the world. There is something magical to me about that turquoise water and soft white sand. Last week I was having my usual coffee-club catch up with my girlfriends. We got onto the topic of island getaways and it turns out that I’m not the only island-getaway fanatic. 

Based on the conversation that unfolded, here are the top island getaways on my bucket-list and why I think you should consider them too:

Phi-Phi Islands, Thailand

Best for the ultimate laid-back island escape. Limestone cliffs give way to beach-fronted jungle and sunlit crystal water. Days are a blend of snorkelling, swimming and savouring Thai cuisine. You can even complete your PADI certification and enjoy some scuba diving. Finish off your day with a sunset massage. There are no flights to the Phi-Phi Islands so once you’re in Phuket make sure to purchase your boat tickets – most hotels and guesthouses can assist you with this.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Best for a chic, eco-friendly island experience. Take a coach tour and marvel at the lava landscape inside Timanfaya National Park. Explore shipwrecks, caves and magical marine life while taking advantage of the excellent diving opportunities. Indulge your palate in some wine tasting at El Grifo Wine Museum, the oldest winery in the Canaries. Make sure to book your Lanzarote flights in advance.

Green Island, Taiwan

Best for an activity-filled weekend getaway. This small volcanic Island is accessible from Taiwan by boat or plane. Rent a scooter and make your way around this unusual island with its 16.3km round-the-island highway. It boasts impressive snorkelling and diving options. Visit one of only 3 saltwater hot springs in the world.

Maldives

Best for sightseeing and photography.  Join an adventure in the sky and indulge yourself in a Seaplane photo flight offering you panoramic views and unparalleled photo opportunities. Relax and unwind in a stilted bungalow hovering over the crystal clear waters. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment. The Maldives is easily accessible from anywhere in South-East Asia, the Middle-East and Europe.

Mauritius

One of the go-to wedding locations for its luxurious tropical weather, soft sandy beaches, incredible resorts and high-quality hotels. If weddings or sunbathing isn’t going to be a huge part of your holiday experience, then Mauritius has a load of historical sights, hiking trails along its lush vegetation and almost unlimited water sports in their warm and azure waters.

Turks and Caicos Islands

Set amongst the Caribbean islands in the region, Turks and Caicos offers incredible food such as fritters and stews made from conches, the islands most famous export. The best place to visit is Da Conch Shack that plays smooth and relaxing music, while you eat a creamy chowder made from seafood caught that very morning, the beer should taste so much better in paradise. The island also has great water activities such as kite boarding on Long Bay Beach, fly fishing as well as night fishing. The low-level snorkelling in the shallow waters of Gibbs Bay is incredible, especially that you can swim amongst the rays.

Alright, no more day-dreaming. I need to make a plan to get on a plane and head to all these destinations sooner than later in my office secluded life and island getaways are the perfect places to renew your mind and fill your heart with the sounds and smells of the summer sun.