Exotic islands are often some of the world’s most sought-after locations and for good reason. With excellent weather year-round, world-class beaches and gorgeous natural scenery, most exotic islands are truly a sight for sore eyes. And, as more and more people are discovering that even far-off places are now financially accessible with some crafty planning, there’s virtually no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy a vacation in any of the following locations. Here are 5 Exotic Islands you need to visit at least once in a lifetime.
1. Bali
A popular island in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali stands out from most exotic destinations due to its fascinating culture and the large variety of attractions it holds. In addition to typical activities such as swimming, surfing and sunbathing, you can also do things like witness the famed Kecak Fire Dance ritual at Uluwatu Temple, or enjoy a breathtaking sunrise at sacred Mount Batur. Moreover, Bali has also earned a well-deserved reputation for being a hotspot for people seeking spiritual renewal, with numerous high-quality yoga retreats present throughout the island.
2. Bora Bora
Epitomising the luxurious style that has come to define the exotic island experience, Bora Bora is famed for its ravishing turquoise-colored lagoon and coquette bungalows. Owing to the island’s French heritage and location in French Polynesia, Bora Bora also benefits from a mouthwatering cuisine to match its extraordinary facilities for scuba diving and snorkelling. More water-averse travellers will find plenty of things to like about Bora Bora’s inland region as well, with its intricate hiking trails and perfect picnicking spots.
3. Saint Lucia
Like other Caribbean destinations in its vicinity, the island of St. Lucia features its fair share of gorgeous beaches. But what truly sets it apart is its flair for dramatic landscapes. Indeed, with the towering twin volcanoes the Pitons acting as a backdrop to the isle’s luxuriant landscapes, one would be hard-pressed to deny St. Lucia’s slightly untamed charm. Among others things, the island harbours spectacular waterfalls, healing hot springs and quaint little fishing villages that are just waiting to be explored.
4. Seychelles
If it’s picturesque sights that seem to have been taken straight out of a postcard are your passion, then there are precious few places more qualified for that than the Seychelles Islands. Located off the eastern coast of Kenya, this archipelago consists of 115 coral and granite islands, many of which are protected and therefore exhibit little of the commercialization typical of more heavily exploited areas. Which is not to say that the Seychelles are lacking in amenities, as the plush resorts of Mahe, Praslin and La Digue can surely attest to.
5. Fiji
Especially popular among Australians and New Zealanders, Fiji is nonetheless a world-famous destination known for its family friendly atmosphere. The area around Fiji is filled with plenty of soft coral reefs that offer the kind of breathtaking underwater sights that scuba divers live for. Aside from that, must-visit attractions include the Thurston Gardens in Suva and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, where the desert looks ready to cross into the ocean.
That concludes our quick overview of some the world’s top exotic islands. Before you embark on a trip to any of the aforementioned locations, make sure to tailor your packing checklist to the requirements entailed by such exotic trips. And remember to go into the experience with a smile on your face, as you’ll be heading to places most people can only dream of.
