When you need to get away from it all what better than a tropical island? These are our top picks for tropical paradise breaks.
Golden sandy beaches, barely a soul for miles, palm trees blowing in the breeze and an icy margarita to hand. Sounds perfect, right? We all need to get away from time to time and if you truly need a sun, sea and sand fix but you’re not too interested in the package tour masses, these are our top 5 picks.
Our criteria:
- Not too touristy
- Reasonably accessible
- Availability of quality hotels
Pack the sunscreen and get ready to seriously relax.
Lefkada, Greece
You might have thought that all of Greece was awash with drunken and debauched party goers and package holiday families. Well, there are a lot of islands in Greece which means there are still plenty of beautiful little gems for the adventurous to discover. One of the best of the bunch is Lefkada, Greece. Rugged coastline, hidden sandy beaches but enough entertainment to make sure you’re not bored… And Greek food is probably some of the best in Europe too.
In honesty, it can get a little busy in high season, but those who charter a boat or get out and about will still find a secluded spot to soak up the sun in silence.
Getting There: The closest airport is Preveza (PVK), although you can also access the island by bus, train and ferry.
The Seychelles
This archipelago in the Indian Ocean isn’t a secret at all, but that doesn’t make it any less of a stunning and peaceful getaway. With over 115 islands, you’ll easily find that perfect beach hut with the view of the setting sun and not another tourist in sight…
Development in the Seychelles is limited by law. Often one hotel has a whole island to itself, so you’ll be paying a premium to not have to be shacked up with party goers or package tours. This truly is the picture postcard of a tropical paradise.
The food too is something worth heading here for. A fusion of European, Indian and Arab – a result of the location and French colonial past.
Getting There: The Seychelles are well connected by air from Europe, Asia and Africa. Airlines such as Emirates, British Airways, Turkish Airways and Lufthansa serve Victoria (the capital).
Con Dao Islands, Vietnam
This tiny archipelago a short hop from the southern tip of Vietnam is still an undiscovered gem. If you’re looking for some Asian hospitality and cuisine but without the backpackers then this is where to go. Most of the hotels are of the luxury variety (although there are a few budget pads) so you’re more likely to find flashpackers than backpackers.
Despite it’s past as a prison island for undesirables, it is now very much a tropical paradise. Like much of this part of the world, the diving is excellent as is the food and the welcome is warm.
Getting There: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao (VCS) or take the ferry (2.5 hrs) from Tran De.
Nevis Island, St Kitts & Nevis
Of course much of the Caribbean is a great place to head for secluded beaches and lazy days swimming in clear blue seas. The downside is many islands are packed full of chain resorts or expats on their gin palaces. Well, Nevis seems to have escaped most of that and is still a relatively untouched paradise.
You’ll find plenty to do here, from scaling volcanoes and hanging out in jungle shacks to swimming with dolphins and supping the aforementioned margarita on the beach. It’s still unspoiled so make a bee line before everyone hears about it!
Getting There: Flight to St Kitts are available from North and South America and Europe but you’ll then need to take the ferry. Flights direct to Nevis are from Puerto Rico, St Maarten or Antigua.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
You wouldn’t think you’re only a stones throw from Cancun… But on Island Holbox you can hear nothing but the lapping of the waves and your muscles unwinding. This tiny paradise island isn’t far from the mainland but is a world away from the debauchery.
There are pelicans and flamingos to watch as you sip your cocktail from the balcony of your luxury pad. Take a dip in the nearby lagoon and then feast on amazing Mexican food as the sun sets…
Getting There: Fly to Cancun and take a ferry. Private transfers are available.
Find Your Tropical Paradise
It’s always a good time to take a break and let yourself relax, so head to one of these unspoiled tropical paradise islands. If you’re looking for more glamorous and fun filled beach resorts check out out travel section.
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