After spending the year in a pandemic I’m sure most of us are just itching to grab the passport and board a flight to the nearest destination and what’s better than an island. Given the current circumstances, there nothing safer than spending your holidays on a secluded island with lesser crowd, swimming in the salty water and lazing in the sun. With so many options available around the world, here are my top five picks for island holidays:
1.Bora Bora:
This lovers paradise is definitely one of the best island getaways that you can dream of. Located in the French Polynesia, Bora Bora is every honeymooners best choice. Known for its luxurious over water bungalows, this private oasis has the most beautiful and inviting ocean, a diverse marine life, lush green mountains and an island vibe like no other! Whenever you pick a hotel make sure you aren’t too far from the main island incase you want to explore the local restaurants or if you wish to cycle around. Also make sure your flight connectivity is great as there are limited options when flying into the island.
2. Capri:
Located right on the Bay of Naples this Italian island is a dream for every traveller. The beauty of Capri is best defined by its cobbled lanes of bougainvillea clad homes, lots of lemon trees, a deep blue inviting ocean, hip and classy tourists flocking the center, a marina full of yachts, luxury stores in the town centre, gleaming old faces and romantic couples. A little tip, make sure you stay in Capri and take a day trip to Anacapri, also hire a boat and explore the blue grotto and the gorgeous Faraglioni. If time permits, spend a day or two in the nearby towns of Positano, Ravello and Amalfi.
3. Maldives:
One of my favourite spots ever and probably the most accessible from the Middle East! Known for its breathtaking panoramas, turquoise blue oceans, white sand beaches, dreamy sunsets, rich corals and home to the most luxurious resorts, Maldives is an absolute dream and should be on every travellers list. You can travel here with your partner, family or even go on a relaxing girls weekend. Some of my favourite properties are Conrad Maldives, Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, Fairmont Maldives and Grand Park Koddhiparru. If you’re travelling from UAE then book a flight with Etihad Airlines
4. Seychelles:
Just like all the other stunning islands, Seychelles also has its own charm and beauty. Unlike Maldives, this island is a bit more dramatic with huge white boulders, lush green foliage, it’s dreamy and exotic in every way possible. The shades of turquoise are never ending and the pearly beaches are just surreal. Due to its geographical location, Seychelles is home to some of the best marine life. Infact if you pick the gorgeous Six Senses Zil Pasyon, you might be able to spot some dolphins and sharks from the nearby marine sanctuary.
5. Gili Trawangan
Located on the coast of Lombok, the Gili islands are Indonesia’s highlight. Out of the three islands, Gili Trawangan is my favourite and definitely the most habitable. It’s definitely the best spot to snorkel and go underwater diving due to the rich marine life. The island is small enough to cycle in thirty minutes and large enough to not get bored for three long nights. Apart from the water activities, you can get massages on the beach, enjoy the best sunsets, dance to drums once the sun sets, enjoy the open air movie nights and food markets and crazy parties on some nights.
