I was devastated to include Socotra, given the humanitarian crises in Yemen. But considering that Socotra is about 600 kilometers from the mainland, floating in the sea closer to the coast of Somalia than its home nation, I decided.
While the island has been isolated from tourism for a few years now and the landscapes have likely changed since the UAE created a military base here, there is no denying that it is one of the most unique and biodiverse islands in the world. Although I haven’t visited in person, it’s on my wish list. Many describe it as an alien island, thanks to the unique landscapes, trees, dunes, and crystal clear waters: it is a unique adventure that you will never forget.
2. Fraser Island, Australia
On the east coast of Australia, Fraser Island offered me some news. As the largest island in the world entirely made of sand, as in 120 kilometers of it, it completely fascinated me.
On the clear stretches of beaches that act as a runway for flights to land, you can cross the sand in your four-wheel drive vehicle, giving way to bathers or arriving planes.
The wildlife and stunning coastline complement the freshwater pools in the middle of the island, such as Lake McKenzie, with its clear waters and snow-white sands. You’ll find rocky natural pools, while ribbons of multicolored sand provide ample photo opportunities. Although you can take a day trip to Fraser Island, it is one of the best ecotourism destinations in Australia to go and recharge while enjoying this all-natural playground.
3. San Blas Islands, Panama
East of the Panama Canal is an archipelago of islands and patches of sand. While more than 360 of these sandy breakouts can be found, only about 50 of them are inhabited.
Some are small sandy coves, others are islands with communities, but with rising tide levels, the concern of many disappearing is real.
Aside from the obvious reasons to visit: remote beaches, palm trees and waves, they provide a fantastic place to tour the islands thanks to their relative proximity. A digital detox is guaranteed on many of the islands. Tourism only started here in the 1940s, and the Guna Yala, who are the indigenous people of the islands, now share their culture with visitors. From Panama City, a three-hour jeep tour will take you to the port to access the archipelago.
4. Fiji
Fiji made me feel like I was being welcomed home by friends! Arriving at customs with a guitar serenade from the airport, the island vibes, or Fiji time as locals call it, began immediately. Laughter and smiles are like coconuts here, they are everywhere.
The main island, Viti Levu, is home to Suva, the main cruise port, and Nadi, the airport, and as such is the gateway to the archipelago. Backpacker travel is starting to grow here, based in Nadi, thanks to the more affordable options that pop up at the airport and many day trips from Nadi. A short drive from Denarau Island, while not really an island, this is where you’ll find the luxury resorts.
5. Mauritius
Tucked away on Africa’s southeastern coast, it may conjure up ideas of pristine beaches and honeymoon spots, but there’s so much more to discover beyond the beaches.
Mauritius was one of the most amazing destinations I visited in 2018, I knew the sands would be white and the waves would crash, but the island adventures blew me away.
From waterfalls to daily cocktails, there are countless reasons to visit Mauritius. Nothing but the hospitality and warmth of the locals. To get a real taste of island life, leave the resort and head to the central market of the capital of Port Louis before venturing out to explore the walks, tea plantations and monkey-filled religious temples. A bevy of new AirBnB options are also making Mauritius a more affordable destination than many could have imagined.
6. Mont St Michel, France
Once a monastery, then a convent, and now one of the most famous tourist attractions in Normandy and indeed France, the island of Mont St Michel is undoubtedly unique.
If the tide is low, you can walk or take a bus to the island, but at high tide, it is completely isolated from the mainland, as it was when it was a strategic defense site.
While this is a day trip and not an island escape, if you venture to northern France this island should definitely be on your agenda. You can walk around the abbey, explore the houses and shops on the lower levels, and even check into a hotel if you wish.
7. Pulau Ubin, Singapore
Singapore’s reputation may be for tall buildings and modern architecture, but on this city-state’s few islands, there are a few surprises.
Personally, I’ve always seen Singapore as more than a stopover. Partly because of its quaint Chinatown and its Little India, amazing street food, but also because of islands like Pulau Ubin.
The lush atmosphere feels a world away from central Singapore and is best explored by bike. After taking the small boat near Changi, you will quickly be delivered to the mangroves and a wooden boardwalk over the waves. Big lizards run free, and it looks like you’ve ventured into Jurassic Park, a far cry from modern Singapore. Do yourself a favor and take a trip here to reconnect with nature.
8. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Another one on my bucket list, Norway’s Lofoten Islands are starting to attract more tourist interest as images of the snowy landscape and colorful houses are appearing more and more in Instagram feeds.
The archipelago of islands that make up Lofoten offers a dramatic vacation, whether you’re watching the northern lights, admiring the rugged mountain peaks, or learning about Viking history at the nearby museums.
In warmer climates, cycling is a great way to venture among the colorful and often wooden houses of small fishing villages, while winter adventures are more likely to bring the northern lights on long, clear nights. Of course, wildlife viewing is high on the agenda here, and while the price of visiting Norway is always high, I don’t know anyone who has returned from the Lofoten Islands disappointed.
