There are a couple of factors that every potential holidaymaker is looking for in their perfect island getaway: sun, sea, and beaches. With gorgeous oceans and pristine beaches, whether you want to find isolation or vivid nightlife, there could be no better destination than an island. If you are planning an island holiday in 2019, read on to find the best options for you.
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, an island off the Spanish coast, is a notorious destination for both nightlife and beaches, leaving you to combine hard partying with relaxation. Resorts such as Magaluf allow you to relax in style, with a drink in hand and dazzling views of the ocean- here you will never be far from something to do, with the numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants sprawling along the seafront. However, if you want to add a sprinkle of culture to your trip, you should stay around Palma before driving into the sunset, which is home to the cultural monuments of the island with an assortment of stylish gothic architecture such as the Cathedral Basilica de Santa Maria. If you are looking at Mallorca holidays and want to stay away from the centre of the nightlife, then you should look at opting for a luxury villa, which will ensure that you can escape the bustling towns whilst still indulging in the ultimate relaxation.
Corfu, Greece
Made famous by Gerald Durrell’s nature autobiography, My Family and Other Animals, which details his childhood on the island, Corfu has become known as an island paradise. Although Corfu may have changed since the time of the Durrells, it still retains much of its former glory in the more isolated parts of the island, which is steeped in beautiful cliffs and breath-taking scenery. However, if you do want to indulge in some partying whilst you are on holiday, Corfu is known for its nightlife in towns such as Sidari, which sit on the coast, allowing you to party the night away with the beach in constant view.
Bali, Indonesia
If you are looking for somewhere a little more exotic, Bali in Indonesia is a popular destination with backpackers for a reason. With a range of spotless beaches such as Seminyak and Sanur, these beaches are embedded in a world full of cultural highlights such as historical Hindu temples like Uluwatu temple. Not only this, but one of these Hindu temples is extra special and known for its wildlife; the Sacred Monkey sanctuary is home to a large number of macaque monkeys which live in the area. The fun does not stop there, however, and Bali’s tropical climate makes it the perfect destination for water sports such as surfing and diving, where you can spot coral, sharks, turtles and boundless amounts of tropical fish.
The Azores, Portugal
The Azores is somewhat less popular than the other islands on this list due to its remote nature, with flights only journeying to the island regularly fairly recently. This makes the Azores perfect for those looking for an unspoiled destination full of astonishing wildlife and natural landmarks which have remained untouched. Home to striking turquoise lakes such as the Sete Cidades Caldera, twin lakes created by a volcanic crater and stratovolcanos such as Mount Pico, many of which are still active. Not only this, but if you like your beaches with a twist, the Azores sand may not be what you expect, with black sand filling the beaches here, replacing the yellow and white of other natural beaches due to the prominence of volcanic ash. With all this in store, you will soon be writing your packing checklist.
Malta
Malta is an island with history and is also one of the smallest countries in the world due to its geography as an archipelago. Malta is full of both natural and manmade wonders such as the Azure Window and their own version of the Blue Lagoon, making Malta a great location for trying out new marine skills such as scuba-diving and snorkelling. However, if you are more of a landlubber, Malta is also home to amazing pre-historic temples and burial sites such as Ħaġar Qim, whose ancient history is hard to wrap your head around.
Jamaica, The Caribbean
The Caribbean may be high on everyone’s destination list, but the landscapes are truly stunning and well-deserving of its status on people’s bucket lists. Jamaica boasts surprising beauties such as Dunn’s River Falls and scenic beaches that it would be difficult not to fall in love with. However, you should check government advice before travelling to any country.
With all these beautiful island destinations ahead of you, why stay here?