Cool Tropical Travel Tips: Safe and Smart Ideas for Sunny Holidays

40 of the best Caribbean holidays

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The southern Villa Soldati neighborhood has seen significant development in anticipation of the events, with new housing, parks, and sports venues that will breathe life into the area well after the Olympians return home. Should you miss out on the world-class athletes, drown your sorrows in a world-class meal.

With more than days of sunshine each year, the southeastern corner of Washington state is home to three flourishing viticultural regions: But in recent years Walla Walla has come into its own as the next must-visit destination for oenophiles, golfers, and cyclists. Change is afoot in town, too: Although the former Soviet republic might seem remote, Uzbekistan once sat at the very center of the world. In the first millennium, no traveler could pass from Asia to Europe without stopping in the Silk Road strongholds of Bukhara and Samarkand, and as a result these cities evolved into rich cultural centers.

And since the death of authoritarian president Islam Karimov last year, the new regime has taken steps toward reform that have given both Uzbeks and the international community reason for optimism. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan should benefit from the so-called Iron Silk Road, or Trans-Asian Railway — a Chinese-funded network of routes knitting together Beijing and Europe — once a segment connecting the country through Kyrgyzstan is completed.

Book a customized journey with Exeter International , which specializes in the region. The Grand Egyptian Museum will showcase the finest treasures of the pharaohs — including the body and golden funeral mask of Tutankhamen — in a structure spanning nearly , square feet. In addition to more than , artifacts, including pieces currently stored in the vaults of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the new museum will sport a Modernist design courtesy of Heneghan Peng Architects.

Chosen from more than 1, design proposals from architects in 82 countries, the final building will echo both the geography of the plateau on which it rests as well as the Pyramids themselves. When the museum partially opens in , visitors in the immense atrium can soak in the majestic sight of both the Pyramid of Menkaure and the Great Pyramid of Khufu from a floor-to-ceiling glass wall. The Moroccan city has attracted an artistic crowd since the s, when everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Mick Jagger fell for its vibrant sensory landscape. Then, in February, the 1: Marrakesh has had an art biennial since — the next is slated for — and the city is home to a number of well-regarded galleries.

But the arrival of 1: Oberoi is poised to open its third African property here, a lakeside resort surrounded by citrus orchards. And Royal Mansour has added a 6,square-foot pool flanked by seven air-conditioned cabanas. At the exclusive, family-owned Kokomo Private Island Resort , which is spread across acres of dense tropical rain forest and white-sand beaches, guests will have their pick of 21 beach villas among the most spacious in Fiji and four hilltop residences featuring infinity pools and walled tropical gardens.

Also slated to open in Rising above its associations with the annual hot-air-balloon festival , Albuquerque will this year set out to prove itself as a fully-fledged destination. The Sawmill District, just north of the historic Old Town, is being revived as a creative center, anchored by the arrival of the Hotel Chaco.

Come spring, downtown ABQ will also see the arrival of a new entertainment hub: And just outside town, visitors will soon be able to experience the striking Sandia Mountains in a nail-biting new way.

The proposed Mountain Coaster, an alpine sled-style ride that plunges riders down the mountainside in a total vertical drop of feet, is due to open this fall. Getting to Albuquerque is becoming even easier, thanks to new nonstop flights from major U. Yet experts know it as the birthplace of the walking safari — as well as the home of some of the most highly trained guides on the continent. King Lewanika Lodge , a six-villa safari lodge overlooking a watering hole where hyenas and antelope gather.

Still off the beaten track for international tourists, who gravitate toward Helsinki in summer and Lapland in winter, the archipelago is the well-kept secret of the Finns, generations of whom flock to family-owned islands. Start at the Kauppahalli , or market hall, where the salmon is as fresh and flavorful as a summer tomato. The archipelago has a subarctic glamour, with eerie, sunlit summer nights and dark winter days, its rocky, tree-lined islands dotted with storybook wooden cottages.

Hike, bike, or drive the islands; or hole up on one all your own. From there, small boats run along the shore to chic eco-lodges like Punta Brava , which sits above two private beaches, and El Cantil Ecolodge , which is near surf breaks and a thermal spring. Expect visits to native Guarani tribes, river kayaking, and jungle treks led by a resident biologist.

Selvaje, an upscale room lodge, will also open early this year and will offer a menu of couple-friendly activities, from picnics to spa treatments. That the isle has stayed blissfully unspoiled for this long eludes those who know of its imposing natural beauty — steep mountains blanketed in blossoming trees and wildflowers, small villages speckled with olive and lemon groves, fig trees, and miles of terraced Malvasia vineyards. Long overshadowed by its neighbor to the northwest, Montenegro is ready for the spotlight.

Plans for the resort, situated on a acre site overlooking the Adriatic, include villas and residences, a tennis club, and a spa. With its recent th anniversary celebration , pop-culture cred Drake, Ryan Gosling, and Justin Bieber have Canadian roots , and charismatic prime minister, the Great White North has finally begun to receive the international recognition it deserves — and Toronto has been preening itself for this lead role. Luxe properties and forward-thinking restaurants have been popping up across the city: Powder hounds will want to lodge at the InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort , which commands a prime location at the foot of the Alpensia ski slopes, steps from two Olympic-class runs, and is one of a handful of hotels built for the games.

Break from all the outdoor action at the Ocean indoor water park, complete with wave pools and tubing rides. In January, the city will unveil Confluence Park, an expanse of trails and science-focused education facilities near the convergence of San Pedro Creek and the San Antonio River. Ruby City , a new David Adjaye—designed art center that will house more than pieces from the Linda Pace Foundation Collection, is expected to be completed at the end of A picture-perfect trio of islands lapped by turquoise waters, the Maltese archipelago has all the charm of nearby Sicily with far fewer tourists.

This underrated destination is finally stepping into the global limelight as a European Capital of Culture. To celebrate the occasion, the city has planned more than projects and events throughout the year. The Emerald Isle has seen a rush of American visitors recently, spurred by favorable exchange rates and increased airlift. Adare Manor , a hotel set in a grand 19th-century mansion on acres of rolling County Limerick countryside, reopened in November after an month overhaul.

The picturesque estate now has a new room wing, a redesigned golf course, and the first La Mer Spa in the British Isles. In August, Slane Castle in County Meath opened its new distillery to the public, and later this year, the iconic Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow will debut its own craft facility. In Dublin, Pearse Lyons, a wealthy Irishman with Kentucky-bourbon bona fides, recently opened his namesake distillery in the former St.

And despite political unrest in the broader region, the country remains a safe destination to discover the wonders of the Middle East. Beyond offering a glimpse into ancient history, Jordan is also making a name for itself as a luxury destination. Located at the lowest point on earth, some 1, feet below sea level, the resort offers beach access, Middle Eastern cuisine, and treatments containing the mineral-rich black mud.

Thai tourism is as robust as ever: To accommodate all those arrivals, the metropolis is welcoming a bevy of posh new hotels in the coming year. The Waldorf Astoria Bangkok will have a spa, rooftop bar, and outdoor infinity pool overlooking the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, while the room Bangkok Edition will open this summer in MahaNakhon, a towering skyscraper with a swirl of cubical cutouts wrapping around the building. That could all change, though, now that this remote, idyllic island some 1, miles off the African coast has become easier to reach.

A flurry of new airline services launched at the end of Every room and suite now has a private terrace or balcony, marble baths with cascade showers, and sophisticated teak, stone, and leather accents. Guests can also look forward to updated dining experiences — like lunch spot La Pointe, which grills fresh-caught seafood over firewood and coconut embers, or open-air restaurant La Terrasse, which offers Mauritian specialties.

Completed in late , the new A71 highway from Lefktro to Sparta shaves off two hours of driving time from Athens, and has also connected the Lefktro region to nearby Kalamata Airport, about 90 minutes away. Meanwhile, ports have been expanded at Gytheio and Katakolon — the latter a stopping point for the Viking Star , which launched in Farming is still integral to the region, and agritourism resorts like Eumelia constantly refresh their food and wellness-themed workshops, in addition to serving local dishes like maniatiki pasta with dry mizithra cheese, and moustokouloura, or cookies made with grape molasses.

Atala champions native ingredients — from priprioca root to ants, often foraged from the Amazon region by the chef himself — and weaves them into his inventive dishes. But the arts have long been their own major draw: Last summer, the museum expanded its artistic footprint by over , square feet, making it the largest contemporary art space in the country.

Two new museums are still in the works for North Adams, both spearheaded by former Guggenheim director Thomas Krens. The resort — situated on 55 acres at the convergence of the Appalachian and Mohawk Trails — will have 48 rooms, each with floor-to-ceiling windows that put the focus on surrounding vistas. Wattay International Airport, in the capital of Vientiane, is set to complete a terminal expansion to accommodate more international links next year, but the biggest changes are foot in the UNESCO World Heritage—inscribed town of Luang Prabang , in central Laos.

This serene riverside spot lures travelers to its golden Buddhist temples, French-colonial architecture, hiking trails, nearby elephant sanctuaries — and now, glamorous new digs. The debut concept from Aman Resorts founder Adrian Zecha has airy, light wood interiors that nod to local culture in their use of batik textiles and Laotian artwork.

The upcoming Rosewood Luang Prabang aims to be a destination in itself. Opening in mid , this highly anticipated resort will feature pavilion-style villas, luxury tents, and a spa that seems to float above the jungle. The Big Easy turns the Big this year, and in this city where the good times roll, the parties will be epic — think citywide art shows, supersized Mardi Gras parades, and a festival of lights using landmark buildings as backdrops.

Thirteen years after Hurricane Katrina, there is much to celebrate: Another area coming to life is the three-mile riverfront, where a renovated Spanish Plaza will reopen this spring. More riverfront updates, including a new Four Seasons Hotel, will roll out in the next few years.

Top Ten Best Tropical Islands

Toast the tricentennial at the Sazerac House, a French Quarter museum dedicated to the official cocktail of New Orleans, opening later this year. Meanwhile, Hotel 43 and The Grove both recently unveiled swank renovations. Getting there is easier than ever: The city has cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination with its most recent honor: Aesthetes have plenty of design-forward places to stay and eat, too.

The new space is outfitted in natural materials — a fitting design for a restaurant that celebrates wood-fired cooking. The multibillion-dollar initiative has already resulted in one major project, the Jean Nouvel-designed Louvre Abu Dhabi, which opened in November. Though its construction was controversial, the museum has quickly become the premier creative beacon in the Emirates. Great to see the Maldives on the list! I really want to go to Seychelles. I read about Seychelles before, and I believe that I found out that there are no flights from North America to the islands.

I would probably have to get to England and go from there. So far I have been in Bali only from this list, I will put the rest in my places to go list. My girlfriend and I am looking for the perfect place to start a Hostel. Can you guys recommend an island with steady weather and a steady flow of backpackers all year round?

We never wanted to get rich, but to make enough to get by just fine. These pictures are fabulous! WOW absolutely great to see these amazing places! All these pictures and stories are just amazing. We have returned from 2 weeks on Sanibel Island, Florida and I was totally captured by the shells. Where else can we go where I can lose myself collecting great shells please anyone???

I am moving to Bali next month. I am currently on another Indo Island, less popular and not really paradise but has some pretty destinations Batam Island. I must say I am so interested in visiting the other places well but if you are visiting Bali it is definitely a romantic experience. The most expensive thing will probably be the airfare unless you reside in South East Asia. Many of these beautiful islands and tropical getaways are affordable!

Hawaii is actually a bit too expensive for a long time stay. Beautiful it is… beyond my budget unfortunately. What about Australia though? Who here would classify oz as an Island? I think it depends on where you live when it comes to expensive holidays, and what sort of accomodation you want. I went to the addu atoll on the island of gan which is the most southern chain of islands. Another great reason to go to the addu atoll is that when the British were there they built bridges and causeways connecting the south and west islands which means u can get on a bike and go and meet the locals, they were so friendly and I recomend the addu atoll to anyone!!!!!

Indeed, there obviously there are some spots on this globe I have to visit. Can confirm the Maldives though. Been there twice now and although definitely more crowded still holds its appeal. Be prepared for culture shock though. Exuma Bahamas has been my favorite tropical island so far.

I visited for the first time in August and went right back two months later in October. Plan on going back this summer as well. Hopefully someday be able to visit these beautiful islands.. I am also a beach lover and really like to explore different beaches. Kho Tao, Thailand… world class diving… I want to travel by June and July… any suggestion… affordable places … get your weak dollars worth… thanks GT.

I was wondering…how much would a 7 nights vacation cost for 3 adults and 2 children? I was thinking Seychelles! This place looks amazing! It is not a cheap destination. You might want to consider a package family tour. You could probably save some money that way. Matt- Which of these great locations would you recommend for a family with teenagers who like to dive and surf?

We have been to Hawaii, Costa Rica and Tahiti. We are looking for a safe, yet different, cultural experience with exotic plants, fish and animals. We would prefer to stay in one villa, as opposed to multiple rooms in a hotel. I realize this may be painful financially. I cannot believe you missed Sri Lanka dude! All of these destinations are extremely beautiful but my choice out of all of them would definitely be tahiti! I love tahiti because you get your own little hut to stay in!

The huts are placed on top of the the bay of water and it would be so beautiful to wake up in the morning to an ocean right beside you! Its so amazing how gorgeous things are!

Tahiti will definitely be on my wish list of places to go in the future. Just need a little more money! All those destinations sound stunning, wish i could pack my stuff and head to the seychelles or maldives right away… thanks for sharing.

Have just discovered your blog today and love it! I am a student from NZ and want to travel to somewhere fantastic next year for a few weeks to get away from the hussle and bussle of study and work. Originally thought Thailand would be fantastic, and I see you agree with me here so great! But I also did not realise Bali was also so cheap.

For a first trip overseas for a poor student apart from Aus , where would you recommend? I think in Indonesia there are many islands better than Bali tough! I loved Koh Mak in Thailand. I think in Vietnam there are many tropical islands very nice such as: Ciao Matt, Cook Islands are just amazing. Which tropical island would you say is best to live?

NOT as rich life, just a simple live! Went back home seychelles for 7 weeks,it was amazing! Just the island way of life no stress ,the weather,the families,creole food especially the fresh fish and of course the beautiful beaches with amazing sceneries. You need to get off the main road sometimes to see the secluded beaches,Some beaches can be seen while driving. Glad to see you agree! Im here in Vermont and love it here but want more and Im antsy to move in the future. I dont know where to start, but I do know I want a tropical place warm year round.

I guess I need a break from this cold weather. I own and operate an herbal shop for I am a Holistic Practitioner , Master Herbalist, Nutritional consultant and much more. Iam looking to relocate my business and myself with my 2 boys!!! Anyone have any locations that I may visit that might be a new future location with a high call for my type of work please oh please let me know. Cold here in Vermont!!!! Those who really love nature and rainforest then you should not miss it…! The resort is just place in the middle of a forest.

We have a not-so-hidden secret here in the philippines called Coron, Palawan.. Aside from Boracay, you should definitely add it to your list. Twitt me if you wanna swing by so I can take you there. Your post totally cheered me up since there are so many other wonderful exotic places to choose from! We wanted seclusion, privacy and romance and thats what we got.

Our bure was 20 feet from the beach where we could relax and maybe see 1 or two people all day.

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The resort was called Matangi island resort. Great staff, great food…. I have been to halve of these places and Bermuda is definitely in the mix I would put it number 3 or 4 you have to go the people are amazing. Guess what the colour of the sand is….. You have to go or at least put it on the list. The Seychelles Located off the east coast of Africa, these islands are pure paradise. The Maldives Located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, this chain of 1, islands are inhabited, and only 5 have any substantial population is just a series of coral atolls that are barely above sea level.

Ko Lipe Located in southern Thailand , this semi-off-the-map island is one of my favorites and the month I spent here remains one of my most fond memories. Bali This tourist mecca is voted one of the best islands in the world year after year. Fiji Though this country has some islands, less than a third are inhabited. Tahiti You know those pictures you always see of tropical bungalows in the water?

Curacao Located in the Caribbean Sea, this Dutch-owned island is perfect. Perhentian Islands Located on the eastern coast of Malaysia , the Perhentians consist of two islands. Thanks for posting this on a Monday morning!

Caribbean latest

All of these look like great places to visit. Matt- Definitely add Vieques, Puerto Rico to your list! Some of these are mine, some from flicker. I wish I liked beaches more. You said not to mention the greed islands ,but you did. Wow, this is amazing. I definitely need some summer!!! Culebra, another of the Spanish Virgin Islands, is perfect too. I guess u should take me along when u are going to the beach.

I love tropical islands!!! They are all good! The Maldives is especially good pricey too! The Canary Islands, get out and have a look at the rest of the world. I certainly expected to see Boracay on the list. Your picture of Tahiti is actually Bora Bora. This is so cool! I cant wait to go to Honolulu Hawii this summer, now! So tell me Abie, …. Maldives or Seychelles, and which islands within these? Matt, really from great traveller like you, I want to know what you think of Mauritius? It is good potential in this article here, but it does not tell the backpacker flow.

Best regards from an native Island man from cold Norway…. Sea shells has the coolest name ever for a tropical island. Been too Fiji and Tahiti and Bali all very preetttyyyyyy.

Check out our island in asia and give us your comments. Mauritius island should be in the list above. It is so beautiful there!!!!!!!!!! Bali is cheaper than Thailand but I love Thailand more. It will just ruin my memory. Hey you forgot one paradise on earth…Mauritius!!!

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