The 10 most beautiful islands in the world (to visit by boat, why not?) according to… everyone!
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What are, according to Trip Advisor, the popular travel web portal that publishes user reviews from around the world about hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions, the 10 most beautiful islands in the world? Here are the charts, a most useful source for sailors looking for adventure, adrenaline, relaxation and entertainment!
1. MAUI, A SURFER’S PARADISE
“If it seems to you that watching the sunset from the top of a volcano at more than 3,000 feet, swimming under waterfalls, hiking between craters and basking on white, red and even black sand beaches resembles paradise, what you’re looking for is Maui,” they write on Trip Advisor. Maui is famous for being the quintessential surfing and windsurfing spot. But that’s not all: hop aboard a catamaran and engage in snorkeling and diving at Molokoni Island, a crater emerged from the sea that teems with marine life. Rounding out the perfect vacation are golf, fine food, a winery, museums, and a mai tai sipped on the beach.
2. SANTORINI (CYCLADES), A DELIGHTFULLY “DIFFERENT” ISLAND
It could not miss Santorini: “Sparkling Santorini is delightfully different. Geographical accessibility is partly the reason. This island is known for the black volcano of Perissa and the beaches of Kamari that attract tourists from all over the world such as the more famous Red Beach near Akrotiri (rich in archaeological sites). Santorini surrounds a giant lagoon in the Cycladic archipelago and offers breathtaking views from towns elevated on high ground, eclectic cuisine, interesting galleries, a fervent nightlife and excellent wines.”
3. JAMAICA, A MELTING POT OF CULTURES
Jamaica is an island full of charm: “Jamaica is a cocktail of African, Asian, European and Middle Eastern cultures. This heterogeneity is evident in its strong craft traditions, arts and special culinary choices, such as ackee and salted fish with roasted fruit bread. Reach new heights on your vacation by climbing to the famous Negril Cliffs, from which you can dive. Jamaica offers long beaches, protected coves, craggy mountains, waterfalls, caves and sunny days and opportunities to play with the waves, ride horses, swim with dolphins. Dive in!”
4. PROVIDENCIALES, (TURKS & CAICOS), BETWEEN HORSES AND DIVING.
This destination is less well known among boaters: “Diving, riding, sunbathing … what’s your preference? “Provo” offers plenty of activities for couples, including long, romantic walks along the postcard-perfect waterfront, hand in hand. The island is relatively quiet; try Malcolm Beach to get even further away from the crowds.”
5. BALI (INDONESIA), FOR ADVENTURERS SEEKING RELAXATION.
Do you want to feel like a new “Indians Jones”? Bali is for you. “The Indonesian island of Bali is a favorite destination for adventurers and travelers looking for a bit of relaxation. The waters of Bali’s ultra-white coastal beaches are ideal for diving, though dense wildlife, monkeys and hidden stone temples beckon for an exploratory tour. Stroll along the arduous trail to the top of Mount Batur; your exertions will be rewarded with breathtaking views. Tone your muscles with a massage at one of Bali’s many luxury spas.”
6. MALLORCA (BALEARICS), THE INSPIRATIONAL MUSE.
A great classic, unfailing and always charming. “The dream island that inspired Chopin and Miró now boasts a reputation as the perfect destination for spring stays. Don’t worry, if you’re on a school trip, there’s plenty to do for the youngsters, too. The dolphins and sea lions at Marineland and the children’s beach attract families. And if you’re looking for attractions for the little ones, don’t miss the ancient train that travels between Palma and Soller.”
7. MAURITIUS, A TROPICAL PARADISE
Watching out for coral reefs, if you don’t want to end up like Team Vestas at the last Volvo Ocean Race, “Mauritius is among Africa’s most prosperous destinations, a tropical paradise with so many attractions. Port Louis, the modern capital of this island that occupies an area of 60 x 46 kilometers, is a bustling port with a lively shoreline and a market full of activity. But most visitors are attracted to tourist areas such as Mont Choisy, the tranquil Trou-aux-Biches and the more crowded Flic en Flac, popular with divers. Rivière Noire is ideal for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts.”
8. PHUKET, THAILAND, A RIOT OF COLOR.
A dream for so many boaters, “Phuket offers a vibrant and colorful array of spectacular sights, from the blue of the lagoons, to the pink of the sunsets, to the orange of the sai monks. Three-wheeled tuk-tuks, cabs, buses, and Long Tail Boats, typical local boats with elongated ends, transport tourists from one wonder to another. Phuket’s southern coast features the most fashionable beaches. The north is quieter. Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay and Patong Beach are places in vogue. Diving, snorkeling, windsurfing and sailing are just some of the possible activities. Inland, forest-covered hills, mountains and cliffs are waiting to be explored.”
9. BORA BORA (SOCIETY ISLANDS), IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE
Do you want to feel like in Oceania, Disney’s big hit animated film? “Turquoise lagoons, soft white sands and warm orange sunsets are the perfect backdrop for a romantic island adventure. Swim along with tropical fish at the Coral Gardens nature aquatic reserve or Tupitipiti Point, or relax by wandering around on your own and taking in the stunning views of the once volcanic Mount Otemanu. At the Lagoonarium you can watch shark feeding and swim with sea turtles. Finish on a high note with an exquisite dinner at one of the island’s fine French restaurants, then sip a tropical cocktail under the stars.”
10. FERNANDO DA NORONHA (BRAZIL), FEW BUT LUCKY
This is truly a gem of unspoiled wilderness. “The Fernando de Noronha archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a delicate ecosystem. Visitors are limited, but the lucky few are rewarded with unrivaled beaches and warm, relaxing waters inhabited by dolphins and sea turtles that make Noronha one of the world’s premier diving destinations. In addition to the sea, the island offers walks along the ecological trails of Jardim Elizabeth, the Esmerelda Coast, or Sancho Bay, which culminates in climbing steep steps carved into a cliff.”
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