Seafaring, close-knit Nantucket has always been a quiet island, so any change is big news. 2) all rated highly by T+L readers. Discover the best things to do in Palawan. Then, sign up for a bungee jumping excursion in Queenstown before heading east to the Otago Peninsula, where it's common to spot wild animals like penguins and albatrosses. Read on to discover island is the best for your personality type, starting with the Caribbean... St. Barts couldn't be allowed to fade away after Hurricane Irma in 2017—there was too much at stake, too many collective memories stacked up like oyster shells on this perfect trifecta of sand, superyacht chic, and insouciance. But the best islands in the world are far more diverse than that. A British territory in the Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda features hidden coves, pink sand beaches, friendly people and a relaxing atmosphere – all of which draw vacationers in droves. 25), Mauritius (No. It's all about the outdoors on South Australia's Kangaroo Island. Meanwhile, Tortola offers some of the archipelago's best beaches, as well as hiking-centric Sage Mountain National Park. After you've soaked up some sun, head to Malé to marvel at the Grand Friday Mosque and explore the bustling Malé Fish Market. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. According to experts and U.S. News readers, each of the islands listed here boasts a little something extra that keeps travelers enchanted. Turquoise water, fine-sand beaches, palm trees — when we think about islands, it’s often the castaway sort that comes to mind. Capri's rocky landscape and famous blue waters can be reached via a short boat ride from the mainland. 1 spot. 6), and Anguilla (No. Anguilla was also the only Caribbean island to make this year’s list. —Erin Florio, Canada's smallest province also has its biggest foodie rep. Our best islands to visit in 2020 trend report gives the inside track on the ones to watch, the sustainable champions, and the revived stars. With more than 300 islands, it's easy to find the best island for your vacation, from luxurious celebrity hideaways and family-friendly resorts to the sublime Yasawa and Mamanuca group. “The landscape and scenery are just gorgeous,” wrote one fan. Plan to sail between islands – there are more than 50 to choose from. Whether you're traveling solo or planning a family vacation, here are the 50 best places to visit in 2020. No one region has a lock on the list of the top 25 islands in the world. Indonesia may be moving its capital out of Jakarta, but its islands will be going strong in 2020. It’s dramatic at sea level, with mountains rising directly from the ocean palm-edged beaches. Regardless of which unique island you pick, you'll find a relatively untouched setting that exudes authenticity and promotes sustainability. The pure versatility of the Big Island's geography is enough to earn this Hawaiian island recognition as one of a kind. —Megan Spurrell. This Mediterranean island is home to both Greek and Turkish descendants, giving it a wealth of culture and a unique cuisine full of wine, slow-cooked meat and lots of halloumi cheese. This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. And on the eco-front, Nantucket's single-use-plastic ban kicks into effect in June. In fact, the island boasts the world's highest concentration of golf venues per square mile. Now there's also a sleek whisky distillery, its long windows reflecting Skye's Cuillin peaks and a debut single-malt slowly, slowly maturing inside. Plus, the Greek island's volcanic setting gives travelers the chance to admire unique red and black sand beaches and hike to the top of the caldera for picturesque views of whitewashed villages. 9 this year, T+L readers felt drawn to the culture. From mountain escapes to quaint small towns, a blissful trip for two is right around the corner. Any information published by Condé Nast Traveler is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Sheep trot along single-lane roads; moody hills draw in hikers. Condé Nast Traveler may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. Thanks to its luxurious resorts and shops, this small Italian island is a favorite among well-heeled vacationers and daytrippers. Beach lovers can head to Nissi Beach to swim in its crystal-clear water, while history and architecture enthusiasts can admire the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. The comeback has already unshuttered fresh incarnations of Hotel Christopher, Manapany, and Le Sereno. Then there’s the magnificent ancient city of Karthaia, poised above the twin bays of Poles like a mirage. A four-hour flight, a seaplane, and a world away, a different vibe will be had in the six upcycled huts on Elang, the second private island of the Bawah Reserve, in the tropical Riau Archipelago between Malaysia and Borneo. Boutique group Life House is reopening India Street, an atmospheric cluster of four town houses set around a courtyard lounge in the historic district. Hong Kong has had a challenging year, to put it mildly, but that hasn't dimmed its incredible dynamism or deterred a raft of openings—and the airfares have dropped a little. Famous for diving, hiking, beaches, and fishing, this is one of the best tropical travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Enjoy a weekend trip or a longer vacation at these charming Ohio escapes. Only an hour's ferry ride from Lavrio, just outside Athens, this Cycladic island has everything going for it: a prettily faded Hora straddling two hills, a ritzy yacht scene around the mini-resorts of Vourkari and Koundouros, and blindingly blue bays with some of the best wreck diving in Greece. Although this destination is already pricey, vacationers should save up to splurge on an overwater bungalow for the full Bora Bora experience. Or disappear at Kathikies, a century-old farmhouse stranded at the end of a dirt track with nothing but cicadas, butterflies and boundless Aegean views for miles. But with the October opening of the Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski, this lush paradise has upped its appeal. Above the surface, this network of approximately 100 named islands and cays plays host to a bevy of luxurious hotels and picturesque beaches perfect for sunbathing or horseback riding. After taking in their surroundings, visitors can stroll through the cliffside village of Oia, which is home to multiple restaurants and shops. The greatest islands, cities, hotels, cruise lines, airports, and more — as voted by you. —S.W. Meanwhile, history buffs can explore the remains of Thira and Akrotiri. 20 Most Beautiful Islands in the World. And along with additional domestic flight routes, next year will see a few more changes. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Fiji “A narrow ridge of land, but I would not swap it for Babylon,” wrote the poet Pindar. Its soundtrack will be birdsong and gentle sea laps. Something tiny and tropical, even Gilligan-esque. Work up an appetite with a hike through Cyprus' jagged mountains or a walk around the city of Paphos – the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite. More Exotic Vacations. Home to one of the largest reef systems in the world, the Turks and Caicos Islands are a diver's paradise. Of course, your first stop should be at the shore; try Hulhumale Island for snorkeling and sunbathing or Cocoa Island for a romantic stroll at sunset. New arrivals include a flagship Rosewood and Soho House (above), the brand's biggest. “This is the way the Caribbean was 50 years ago, and they work hard to maintain its authentic charm,” one reader reported. Check out the recommended hotels in Palawan When travelers are not hitting the links, shopping or sunbathing, they can admire St. George's colonial architecture or snorkel at Horseshoe Bay Beach or Tobacco Bay Beach. Kauai is the oldest and most rugged of the Hawaiian archipelago. Oenophiles can savor top-notch vino during a winery tour. Set up camp at D'Estres Bay, with just a gaggle of surfers for company, and the Milky Way reveals itself in all its inky splendor as the sun vanishes, a giddy real-world planetarium. When you're not exploring above or beneath the water's surface, sink your toes into the soft sand and admire the incredible scenery at Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island or hike to the top of Passage Peak on Hamilton Island. 15), Mílos (No. A walk through Akaka Falls State Park will bring you past exotic vegetation, while a trip to Kealakekua Bay will present ample snorkeling opportunities. Latest. There's even a submerged stature of Padre Pio off the coast of uninhabited Capraia to dive to, proving there's as much to see underwater as above; explore with Marlin Tremiti. And for 2020, the Arts Hotel opens in Charlottetown, with a mini gallery of works by Dalí. For an unforgettable view of Capri, the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, take the chairlift up to the summit of Mount Solaro. No soundproofing required. Certainly many of them boast balmy climates, including Bora-Bora (No. This popular honeymoon spot is more than a hideaway for amorous duos. On the larger of New Zealand's two main islands, you'll discover ice blue lakes, towering mountains, pristine glaciers and lush forests waiting to be explored. In the 100-plus years since Charles Darwin discovered this natural wonderland roughly 620 miles west of mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands have yet to lose their magic. Six continents are represented. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 1/1/20) and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement (updated 1/1/20) and Your California Privacy Rights. “I fear that this is going to be the next island to be widely discovered in Greece,” wrote one about Mílos. There are endangered sea lions to spot, spiky-backed echidnas, and the eponymous kangaroos sheltering under shrubs. Palawan is a stunning archipelago that has been ranked as the most beautiful island in the world multiple times. The five Aleppo-pined Adriatic islands of the Tremiti archipelago and national park are just off the coast of Puglia’s Gargano Peninsula, the sharp-edged spur of Italy’s boot. All rights reserved. Travel + Leisure may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. This year was a banner one, as gray-shingled titan The Wauwinet completed its top-to-toe restoration with help from preppy-chic interiors label Serena & Lily. Go before the crowds catch on, and head inland where Athenians' stone villas are hunkered into the sun-bleached landscape—Hipaway has some nice hideouts. 19 on the list and also the 26th largest in the world. When you want to learn more about the area's history, head to the Fiji Museum in Suva. New Zealand's South Island is the place to go if your ideal island vacation has less to do with lounging on a beach and more to do with having an adventure. These masks will help keep you safe without compromising your travel style. The island got itself new luxe rooms this past summer with the Inn at Fortune Bridge, run by chef Michael Smith, a Food Network regular; a 1957 Bentley ferries guests to its sister property for the nightly open-fire feast. Easily accessible from the East Coast, Bermuda offers posh stores and restaurants, as well as nine picturesque golf courses. Offers may be subject to change without notice. If you love beaches, wine and historical cities, choose Michigan for your next couples vacation. “It offers the most beautiful beaches, resorts, and scenery anywhere.”. “Its appeal is due in no small part to the quiet ambience.”. Close to Home. 4), Mauritius (No. The hotel faces a shimmering stretch of the Caribbean, but head round the back and rooms have safari-style views of the tightly forested Cabrits National Park. “The beach towns are as beautiful as you can imagine.”. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission.

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