Tag Archives: Thailand

Diver Coral
Bonaire, Caribbean, Central America, Cozumel, Islands, Maldives, Mexico, Oceania, Plan, Seychelles, St. Lucia, Tahiti, Thailand

Saving Coral Reefs

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Diving or snorkeling on a coral reef is a magical experience. It’s unfortunate that reefs in many parts of the world now face threats from human impact, but there is hope. Governments around the world continue to establish and expand marine preserves that protect coral reefs. And there’s a growing movement to move beyond mere protection and focus on restoration.

Currently, there are more than 100 international organizations dedicated to rebuilding coral reefs, and the leading method is the replanting of corals. Much like tree saplings, small fragments of living coral can be nurtured in a controlled environment, then replanted in the wild to revitalize natural reefs. This is a labor- intensive process, and many of these programs rely on volunteers to do the planting. If you are a diver or snorkeler who wants to get involved in coral reef conservation, here are nine resort destinations where you can make a difference during your vacation.

Four Seasons Bora Bora

The island of Bora Bora is surrounded by one of the world’s most scenic lagoons, and the Four Seasons Resort plans to keep it that way. Set within the lush landscaping of this premier property is the Sanctuary, a sheltered body of water that’s home to a marine research station and a coral nursery. The guests of the resort are invited to snorkel in this natural aquarium to witness or participate in ongoing coral seeding and planting work. During a half-day immersion session, participants learn how to harvest and graft corals into donut-shaped rings. These structures will later be placed in open water to form new reefs and disperse millions of coral spawn to help ensure Bora Bora’s reefs remain spectacular. For more info: https://www.fourseasons.com/borabora/

Bora Bora

Coral fragments planted by divers at the Four Seasons Bora Bora Resort are thriving and continue to grow and provide habitats for fish and other marine life. Photo: Four Seasons

Buddy Dive Resort, Bonaire

Bonaire has some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Caribbean, thanks to decades of protection. But even healthy and well- protected coral colonies can benefit from an infusion of new growth, and that’s the mission of Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire and Buddy Dive Resort. The resort offers a range of coral replanting programs ranging from an afternoon session to a full week of volunteering. A Reef Renewal dive takes place on the nursery located in a shallow section of Buddy’s Reef, right in front of the resort dock. Participants learn the basics of assessing nursery health and tending to the corals. Full-day programs have divers helping foundation staff with nursery maintenance and out-plantings at a number of different sites. Buddy Dive also offers a Reef Renewal Week Package that includes 12 dives devoted to foundation activities. For more info: https://buddydive.com/

Bonaire

Newly planted staghorn corals in Buddy Dive’s coral nursery will grow into dense clusters that support a wide variety of marine life. Photo: Buddy Dive

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort

The Ozone – AKA Outrigger Zone – is this upscale resort group’s conservation initiative to protect coral reefs through awareness and restoration. At Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island, guests are encouraged to visit on-site coral nurseries and learn what can be done to protect the world’s coral reefs. Anyone who wants to take it one step further is encouraged to join the resort’s dive team and resident marine biologist in an ongoing replanting program. These programs include the creation and deployment of unique “fish houses” made from cultivated coral fragments. When placed in local waters, these structures transform into new marine life habitats as the corals continue to grow. Both snorkelers and divers can view the coral nursery and take part in the replanting program. For details: https://www.outrigger.com/fiji/fiji-beach- resort

Fiji

A collection of new corals is readied for placement on one of the fish house formations at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort. Photo: Outrigger Fiji

Sandals Resorts, St. Lucia

Protecting and restoring the coral reefs in the Soufriere Marine Managed Area in St. Lucia is a project headed by CLEAR Caribbean in collaboration with the Sandals Foundation. As part of the project local communities and schools are engaged and educated on the value of reefs. While guests at Sandals may enjoy windsurfing and wakeboarding as part of the activities now scuba divers can add one more endeavor to the list by learning the art of coral planting. This activity is available to certified divers staying at any one of the island’s three Sandals properties – The Grande St. Lucian, Halcyon Beach, and Regency La Toc. The program begins with land and in- water practice sessions that culminate in a special dive trip where participants will attach corals to new reefs. Once these new corals are established, they provide shelter for fish and lobsters, along with coastal protection from storms and swells. For more info: https://sandalsfoundation.org/environment-project-coral- restortation https://www.clearcaribbean.org/

St. Lucia

At the Sandals St. Lucia coral nursery volunteer divers can help transplant newly grown coral fragments to area reefs. Photo: Sandals

Anantara Dhigu, Maldives

Anantara’s Dhigu resort sits on a stunning private island ringed by white-sand beaches and colorful coral gardens. To ensure the future health of these sites, guests are encouraged to adopt a rope. This program, which was launched more than a decade ago, embeds coral fragments onto ropes that are then positioned to provide optimum sunlight and water quality. Guests can adopt a rope by donating, while those who want to get hands-on can participate in attaching corals to their rope with the help of a resident marine biologist. As the rope transforms into a living piece of reef, it will be moved to the resort’s snorkel trail and other area reefs. Along the way, the nursery staff provides updates and photos so participants can witness the results of their work. For details: https://www.anantara.com/en/dhigu-maldives

Maldives

At Anantara’s Dhigu resort, a diver checks the status of corals planted on a new snorkel trail. Photo: Anantara Dhigu

Four Seasons Seychelles

This premier Four Seasons property created the Petite Anse Reef Restoration Project to protect and nurture corals. A key element of the program uses divers to collect pieces of broken coral damaged by natural events such as wave action. These rescued corals are placed in the resort’s coral nursery for later replanting, and in the first two years of the program, more than 16,000 coral fragments were replanted on the reef. A unique element of the program is known as the Love Grows Beautiful Things experience, which gives couples a chance to use rescued corals to create a heart-shaped coral formation that will be placed on the reef. For info: https://www.fourseasons.com/seychelles/

Seychelles

At the Four Seasons Seychelles, coral fragments are placed on frames that will allow them to grow into heart-shaped formations. Photo: Four Seasons Seychelles

Xbalanque, Roatan

The Roatan Marine Park is always looking for volunteers to help keep the island’s coral reefs healthy. You don’t have to be a diver to participate in the various educational and outreach programs at the foundation’s coral nursery. Divers can take their experience to the next level with a Coral Restoration Certification Course to learn the skills needed to participate in coral restoration. Once qualified, divers can become coral farmers for a day. Those with a true passion for the reefs can take the next step with a longer-term internship program. The foundation works with a number of local hotels and resorts, and a favorite with vacationing divers is the Xbalanque, which is a luxury boutique property located within easy walking distance of Marine Park headquarters. For info: https://www.xbalanqueresort.com/

Roatan

Divers surface after relocating corals to a reef in the Roatan Marine Park. Photo: Roatan Marine Park

El Cid La Cieba, Cozumel

In 2023 the Cozumel Reef Restoration Program will mark its tenth year of research and action to protect and restore coral reefs in the waters of this favorite Mexican scuba diving destination. Founder Dr. German Mendez remains hands-on with both educational programs and volunteer diving activities. A unique aspect of this restoration project is the use of underwater platforms that become recovery stations for damaged corals. Volunteer divers help by scouring the seabed for coral fragments, which are then placed on the platforms and allowed to grow until they are large enough for replacement on the reefs. One to five-day programs are offered by the foundation, which is based at the El Cid La Ceiba Beach Hotel. For info: https://www.elcid.com/cozumel/el-cid-la-ceiba-beach- hotel/

Cozumel

Divers attach rescued coral fragments to a concrete platform as part of the Cozumel Reef Restoration Program. Photo: Cozumel Reef Restoration

Zeavola, Thailand

Set on a scenic beach at the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi Island, Zeavola is one of Thailand’s leading Five Star PADI dive resorts. The resort combines luxury accommodations with diving adventures that offer an opportunity for guests to get involved and make a difference in the marine environment. The volunteer program begins with instruction and practice on the methods used to reconstruct and replant coral structures. These skills are then put to work during dive trips that restore corals in the surrounding waters. Non-divers can also help, as the resort schedules regular snorkel excursions that remove fishing gear and plastic debris from the reefs to prevent corals from suffocating. For more info: https://www.zeavola.com/

Thai Phi Phi

A free diver participates in a coral reef cleaning session at Thailand’s Zeavola resort. Photo: Zeavola

Seychelles
Africa, Antigua & Barbuda, Asia, Barbados, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Islands, Oceania, Plan, Seychelles, Thailand

Where To Go In April 2023

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For a lot of folks, April is a month to stay home and regroup. Memories of winter vacations have faded, the kids are back in school and the college crowd is sharing selfies and nursing hangovers from recent spring break adventures. Travel agents might call this a “shoulder season,” which is a good thing for anyone who has the urge to go somewhere special. A shoulder season often means lower rates at prime properties, fewer crowds on beaches, table spaces at cafes, and milder pre-summer temperatures. Here are a dozen destinations where April is a great time to visit.

Bali

Bali is less than 600 miles from the equator, so there’s never really a “cool season.” Unless you head for the lakes. The northern highlands of this volcanic island include four alpine lakes that sit more than 4,000 feet above sea level. Trips to the lakes take in emerald-hued rice paddies and some of the island’s most iconic temples. The Ulun Danu Beratan temple complex overlooks the clear waters of Lake Bratan, which reflects the iconic profile of the 11-roofed shrine to the Hindu god Vishnu. Lake Bratan offers local restaurants, boat rides, and a botanical garden, while the shores of the lakes of Tamblingan and Tamblingan are favorites with hikers. April is a perfect time to visit, as it is the dry season, with almost no chance of a passing shower to dampen the scene.

Bali

The iconic Hindu water temple, Pura Ulun Danu Temple was built in the 17th century and is set in the highlands of Bali. Photo: Nikada/iStock

Hawaii

Each year the Island of Hawaii hosts a week of traditional crafts, art, music, and hula known as the Merrie Monarch Festival. This event dates back to the 1800s when King David Kal’kaua celebrated his 50th birthday with a two-week party that revived ancestral hula traditions and sparked a newfound interest in traditional Hawaiian culture. Kal’kaua was not only a patron of traditional arts and culture, he was also a fun-loving character who earned the nickname “Merrie Monarch.” The festival now held in his honor in the town of Hilo includes parades, art shows, music, and performances by ho’opa’a chanters and ‘lapa dancers who compete for top honors. The 2023 festival takes place from April 9 to 15.

Hilo Hawaii

Hula performances include ancient-style and modern-style dances at the Merrie Monarch Festival on Hilo, Hawaii. Photo: Bruce Omori/Merrie Monarch Festival

Canary Islands

In-the-know travelers come to Grand Canaria in April to get ahead of the crowds and heat of summer. In addition to warm, sunny days and balmy nights, an early-season visit offers some tasty events. The cobblestone square of Flor de Guia is the setting for the annual cheese festival, which celebrates the island’s signature soft and creamy goat and sheep cheeses. A couple of years back, winemakers started getting in on the act as well, giving festival goers the perfect pairing for the celebration. April is also time for the island’s annual Valsequillo Strawberry Festival, offering live music, farm tours, cooking and dessert competition, and a chance to sample all manner of strawberry-based treats. Other mark-the-calendar events in April include the island’s lavish Semana Santa Easter processions and the historic reenactments and traditional costumes at Fiesta de los Aborigenes.

Canary Islands

The twin-towered Cathedral of Saint Ana is on the visitor’s guide located in the heart of Vegueta in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain. Photo: Gerold Grotelueschen/iStock

Philippines

March and April are the driest months in Bohol, and that’s the best time to take in one of the island’s signature attractions. The area known as the Chocolate Hills are covered in grassy mounds shaped like giant chocolate drops. And the region’s resemblance to an oversized candy store becomes even more convincing when the grass dies in the dry season, leaving the hills covered in a carpet of brown. Bohol is known as the eco-adventure capital of the Philippines. In addition to more expected activities such as snorkeling, paddling, off-roading, and trekking to waterfalls, visitors can zipline superman-style across an entire river valley, swim in hidden underground caves, seek out the world’s smallest primate, or take an evening trip on a river where huge clouds of fireflies light the way.

Phillipines

The island of Bohol in the Philippines hosts seven waterfalls, Pahangog Falls aka Dimiao Twin Falls is one of the most favored. Photo: zcesty/Shutterstock

Thailand

Thais love a party, which is probably why they celebrate New Year’s three times. It starts with the global event on January one, then there’s the Chinese New Year a few weeks later. And when April 13 rolls around, it’s time for Songkran, Thai New Year’s national holiday. There’s a solemn element to the occasion, as it’s considered a time for spring cleaning of homes, monuments, and temples to remove bad luck. But it doesn’t take much for the washing to get out of hand, and in cities and villages across the country, Songkran becomes a three-day water fight in the streets. Most people welcome the cooling splash, as April is one of the hottest months of the year in the Kingdom of Smiles, and seasonal rains are still a few months away.

Thailand

During the Songkran festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, the traditional bathing of the Buddha Phra Singh parade takes place on an annual basis. Photo: nuwatphoto/Shutterstock

Seychelles

Sitting in the open waters of the Western Indian Ocean, Seychelles is bathed in lively northern trade winds from November through March, Then the southern trades kick in beginning in May. This leaves April as the month with the best chances of enjoying calm seas for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. It’s also the dry season, which means lower humidity and temperate nights. A favorite destination is the island of La Digue, where postcard-perfect beaches are framed in palms and lined with huge granite boulders. The shoreline known as Anse Source d’Argent often described as the most beautiful beach in the world. It’s home to the Kissing Rocks, likely named for the almost-touching nature of the formation — though the setting is undeniably romantic enough to elicit a smooch.

Seychelles

Grand Anse Beach on the south side of La Digue island in Seychelles is one of the world’s most beautiful white sandy beaches. Photo: Igor Tichonow/Shutterstock

Barbados

The Barbados fishing village of Oistins is famous for its Friday Night Fish Fry, which serves up a savory array of fresh catches against the backdrop of a lively street market that reverberates to the sounds of Calypso, Reggae, and traditional Barbados tuk band music. Each year during the Easter weekend, the party keeps going as Friday’s fest transforms into the annual Oistins Fish Festival. Known as the largest community festival on the island, this event adds even more food, music, and dancing, plus all manner of fun such as an Easter Bonnet competition, boat races, a fishcake eating contest, and a celebrity cook-off. The 2023 Oistins Fish Festival will take place from April 7th to 10th.

Barbados

Oistins Fish Fry is a Friday night occurrence in Barbados but during the Easter season, it evolves into a huge festival with food, music, and dancing. Photo: Barbados Tourism Marketing

Cape Verde Islands

Beaches. That’s why you visit the Cape Verde Islands. This cluster of 10 volcanic islands set off Africa’s west coast offers plenty of sun and sand, and April sits squarely in the center of the dry season while also enjoying refreshing trade winds from the north that keep temperatures in the mid to high 70s. There are remote beaches for long walks, lively beaches lined with cafes and restaurants, surfing beaches, wind-swept strands that draw windsurfers and kiteboarders, and calm shores where clear waters invite swimmers and snorkelers. In recent years, the fishing village of Tarrafal has become a new favorite for snorkelers and swimmers, as it is located on the main island of Santiago but sits comfortably far away from the crowds.

Cape Verde

Fishing boats rest on Tarrafal Beach, the most beautiful beach on Santiago island, the largest island in Cape Verde. Photo: Iacob Madaci/iStock

Antigua

Sunshine, blue water, and steady trade winds create the perfect formula for a yacht race, and that’s exactly what you get when you visit the Caribbean island of Antigua at the end of April. Billed as the Caribbean’s most prestigious regatta, Antigua Sailing Week attracts more than 100 yachts from the Americas and beyond for a series of around-the-buoy and around-the-island races. To keep things competitive, there are separate categories for everything from small open boats and casual live-aboard cruisers to sleek million-dollar speedsters, giving everyone a chance to get in on the action. After the sails are furled, the parties start, and it isn’t just the sailors who celebrate, as most events are open to spectators who watch from shore.

Antigua

Action from Antigua Sailing Week 2022, during the English Harbour Rum Race Day 1, sponsored by Antigua’s favored rum. Photo: Paul Wyeth/Antigua Sailing Week

Palau

The waters of Palau’s southern lagoon are festooned with some 300 small limestone islands surrounded by sparkling waters that hold colorful coral formations. It’s a snorkeler’s and kayaker’s dream destination, and April is a great time to visit. While air and water temperatures remain fairly constant through the year, April sees a drop in winds that makes for easy paddling and glassy waters for snorkeling. The Rock Islands have been named a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of their unique beauty. This area is also home to the famous Jellyfish Lake, which is an inland lagoon where swimmers can immerse in clear water to swim with thousands of non-stinging jellies.

Nikko Bay Palau

Nikko Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is laced with tunnels and marine caves ready to explore via kayak. Photo: Naima Niemand/Shutterstock

Colombia

Sometimes known as the “Accordion Olympics,” the Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata is actually much more. Held each April in the Colombian city of Valledupar, this four-day event is a celebration of all things related to the folk music genre known as Vallenato. Top billing is given to the musical contests that lead to the crowning of Rey Vallenato — the king of accordions. Similar contests are held to determine top honors for guacharaca percussionists and songwriters. The long weekend also includes plenty of parades, dances, parties, and food. The festival draws competitors from across the region as well as Venezuela, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the United States, and more than 50,000 spectators. 2023 marks the 56th anniversary of the event’s founding, and it is dedicated to Luis Enrique Martinez, which is known as the king of Vallenato music.

Columbia

The Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata showcases some of the best composers and performers of vallenato, the popular folk music of Colombia. Photo: Merly Diaz Bustamente/Flickr

Key West, Florida

While Key West is often thought of as a tropical destination, the truth is that winter months can get a bit chilly and breezy when cold fronts from the continent sweep across the islands. That’s all over by April – and as a bonus, the spring break crowds are back at school or work. This leaves visitors with plenty of personal space as they walk the historic streets of Old Key West. Temperatures typically peak in the mid-80s, while the humidity remains lower than during the muggy summer months. It’s also a great time to grab some shoulder season rates at hotels and enjoy wait-free dining at popular restaurants. For an extra bit of local color, plan your trip during the annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration for a week of parties, parades, and whimsical reenactments.

Key West

Duval in downtown Key West is the most visited street in town. It’s lined with ornate architecture where hotels, restaurants, and shops have set up shop. Photo: Birute Vijeikiene/iStock

 

Hydra Greece
Asia, Belize, Central America, Europe, Greece, Islands, Nicaragua, Oceania, Thailand, Uncategorized

Islands without Cars

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Next time you get stuck in rush hour traffic, take a deep breath and imagine you are on vacation on an island where there are no cars. Take an imaginary escape to a place where people walk, ride bikes, or straddle a scooter on narrow village lanes. These places really do exist, and here are eight of our favorites.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

East of Bali and just off the northwestern shore of Lombok Island lie a trio of tiny treasures known as the Gilis. This name simply means “small island “in the Indonesian language, and it’s an apt description for three specs of land where you could walk anywhere in about 20 minutes. Gili Air, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Meno each measure less than a mile from coast to coast and are home to only a few thousand people. There are no cars, no scooters, and no golf carts on the islands–just bicycles and horse-drawn carriages. Scuba diving is big in the surrounding waters, and Trawangan is a favorite with the partying backpack crowd. Meno, with less than 500 residents, is the place to go for truly deserted beaches and a fully off-the-grid environment.

Gili Islands

The smallest of the Gili Islands, Gili Meno showcases scenic and remote beaches and several snorkeling sites. Its serene ambiance is popular with honeymooners. Photo: Nuture/iStock

Burano, Italy

Long considered one of the most picturesque towns in Italy, Burano is accessible only by water, and just a boat ride away from Venice. Like its famous neighbor, this island is crisscrossed by canals that serve as liquid thoroughfares. Burano’s claim to fame is its distinctive multi-hued houses. Most every building in town is painted in a variety of pastel shades from across the rainbow. To take in this collection of residential street art, you’ll need to lace up the walking shoes, as the narrow alleys that connect neighborhoods are free of motorized vehicles. Burano is famous for delicate lace fabrics, an industry that uses traditional knitting skills once used to repair fishing nets. One landmark that’s a must-see when touring the town is Il Campanile Storto di Burano, aka the leaning bell tower of Burano.

Burano Italy

Colorful Venetian houses along the canal of Burano have inspired many artists, who have made the island home. Photo: Javen/Shutterstock

Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

When your puddle-jumper flight sets down on Nicaragua’s Corn Island you might think you’d come as far away from the crowds as possible. This small island offers quiet beaches, small unpretentious guest houses, and a laid-back Caribbean culture. But true solitude seekers can go even one step farther by hopping aboard a native panga boat for an eight-mile crossing to Little Corn Island. Just don’t expect to be greeted by a taxi when you arrive. The only internal combustion engine on Little Corn Island is the village generator, and it only runs from evening to morning. The island, which is just two miles long and a mile wide, is connected by a series of walking paths. A handful of small guest houses provide comfortable if basic accommodations in a pristine setting that is sure to please solitude seekers.

Little Corn Island Nicaragua

Both Little Corn and Big Corn islands in Nicaragua are known for their white sand beaches, turquoise bays, and lack of crowds. Photo: Riderfoot/Shutterstock

Cay Caulker, Belize

You won’t be dodging cars on the quiet, unpaved streets of Caye Caulker — the most you’ll have to contend with is the occasional bicycle or golf cart. This smaller sibling of Belize’s popular Ambergris Caye delivers a just-right mix of isolation and civilization. There’s an airstrip that accommodates small commuter flights, and regular ferry service from the mainland. Everything is within walking distance, and most of the restaurants, hotels, and cafes are clustered towards the north end of the island. But just in case, there are those golf carts for those days when you’re feeling lazy. Caye Caulker is just a short boat ride away from the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean.

Cay Caulker Belize

Pastel buildings on the beach near the ferry terminal on Cay Caulker set the stage for this low-key, relaxed island in Belize. Photo: ANPerryman/iStock

Panarea, Sicily

Italy’s Aeolian Islands have been a favorite getaway since the days of the Caesars in Ancient Rome. Today, the smallest member of this cluster of volcanic outcroppings attracts its share of modern A-listers, but they tend to keep things on the down low. While the island has more than its share of excellent dining and drinking opportunities, it’s not a bling-heavy club scene. Instead, there’s a trend toward elegance through simplicity. In fact, the lack of streetlights across the island means you can enjoy stargazing from a guesthouse terrace. It’s a walking-friendly place, as most everything is located close to the port district on San Pietro harbor. Mechanized transport is confined to the golf carts that serve as taxis on extremely narrow roadways.

Italy Aeolian Islands Sicily

Cala Junco is a small bay on the island of Panarea, one of the Aeolian Islands near Sicily. Lipari and Salina islands are seen on the horizon. Photo: Michal Krakowiak/iStock

Hydra, Greece

No Cars? No Problem. Per a 1950’s presidential decree, cars, motorbikes, and all other forms of wheeled conveyances are banned on Hydra. Other than walking, the only approved mode of transport on this Greek island is on the back of a donkey. And while the stated reason for banning all types of wheeled machines is to preserve a historic culture and traditional way of life, it also makes sense on a more practical level. The steep hillsides that surround the island’s crescent-shaped harbor are cut by narrow paths and stairs that would not accommodate most other forms of transport. A long-time favorite with in-the- know travelers, Hydra offers an eclectic mix of accommodations and restaurants. One thing to take into account when planning a stay: if you want to enjoy the elevated views of the Aegean Sea from your terrace, you’ll need to be ready to do some uphill trekking.

Hydra

Panoramic view on the Greek island of Hydra where mountains overlook the capital town of narrow alleys and colorful buildings lining the waterfront. Photo: Romas_Photo/Shutterstock

Koh Phayam, Thailand

Thailand, the way it used to be. That’s how visitors fortunate enough to discover Thailand’s Koh Phayam describe this quiet island, which sits in the Andaman Sea just south of the border with Myanmar. From the mainland, it’s a two-hour ferry ride or a 45-minute speedboat dash out to Koh Phayam. This is a place where long stretches of white-sand beaches are fronted by nothing more than palm trees and the occasional thatch-roofed food stall. The island offers a collection of small guest houses, almost all within walking distance of the ocean. If you want to do some more distant exploring, the only options will be a rental scooter or a motorbike taxi. Some of Thailand’s best dive sites lie just offshore, and water sports lovers can also try kite surfing or paddling trips into mangrove lagoons.

Koh Phayam

Ringed by a handful of beaches with golden sand Thailand’s Koh Phayam remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Photo: querbeet/iStock

Brijuni Islands, Croatia

During a stroll on Veliki Brijun, you might come across zebras, llamas, ostriches, or even an Indian elephant. The largest island in Croatia’s Brijuni Archipelago is now a national park. But during the Soviet era, the island was the official residence of Yugoslavian president Josip Tito. The exotic animals that are now housed in a safari park were gifts to the former strongman. The island also boasts a number of natural attractions, including several sets of fossilized dinosaur footprints and a 1700-year-old olive tree. The best way to take in Veliki Brijun is with a walking tour, though the park also allows a tram-style “tourist train” to make the rounds. Most visitors come for a day trip that starts at the mainland city of Pula, but there are two hotels on the island for those who want to linger a bit longer.

Croatia Brijuni Islands

Aerial view of the archipelago of the Brijuni islands and the National Park where you can explore pathways and trails on foot or via bicycle. Photo: rusm/Getty Images

For more island destinations around the world that don’t allow cars watch the PBS program titled Islands without Cars with host Kira Cook. While she takes you on journeys to colder climates, you’ll meet the locals and get a real taste of the islands. Her website is: https://www.islandswithoutcars.com/

 

The Brando Resort French Polynesia
Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Islands, Maldives, Oceania, Plan, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

Islands From Above

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Tropical islands present an endless range of photographic opportunities. But one perspective that is rarely shown is the view from directly overhead. A look down at these favorite places reveals a new dimension to the destination and showcases the incredible clarity of the water. It’s a phenomenon these talented photographers have discovered and shared.

A Royal Legacy

Pierre Lesage flew a drone over blue Pacific waters to capture this panoramic image of The Brando Resort, which sits on the private French Polynesian island of Tetiaroa. As director of sales and marketing for the resort, Pierre had a unique opportunity to document this iconic property, which is set in a sparkling lagoon some 30 miles northeast of the island of Tahiti. Tetiaroa, which was once the playground of the royal family of Tahiti, was bought by Marlon Brando in 1965 when he was filming the Mutiny on the Bounty. His goal when purchasing the island was to preserve it for future generations.

Tetiaroa Island The Brando Resort

Aerial coastline of Tetiaroa. Photo: The Brando/Tim McKenna @timmckenna

Down Under From Above

Photographer Will Turner waited until sunset to launch his drone above the rocky shoreline of the Shelly Beach headlands, which sit at the edge of Australia’s Sydney Harbour National Park. “The water was crystal clear and the trees were red as fire,” he writes, “making this awesome composition.” The sheltered waters of Shelly Beach are popular with swimmers and snorkelers, while surfers favor nearby Manly Beach, which was the site of the first World Surfing Championship in 1965. A favorite day trip to Manly from downtown Sydney begins with a half-hour ferry ride that takes in famous sites such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Manly Shelly Beach

Bird’s-eye view of rocks at Shelly Beach, Manly, Australia Photo: Will Turner/ Unsplash @turner_imagery

Worth The Effort

When prepping for a trip to the Islands of Fiji, Jay Daley wasn’t sure he wanted to go through the hassle of packing his favorite photo drone. “I was jetting off to the little tropical island to relax,” he says. “Lugging a large drone through checked luggage, and customs, and getting it to and from the resort didn’t seem like a relaxing idea.” But in the end, the drone came along, and Jay was glad it did. “There was a huge coral reef right at my doorstep and kayaks ready to go.” The drone flew, and the result was this evocative image of a snorkeler dwarfed by huge coral formations.

Fiji

Coral reef from the Islands of Fiji. Photo: Jay Daley/Flickr

A Liquid Gem Set In Stone

Falassarna Beach is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline on the Greek Island of Crete, and it’s been the subject of countless photo shoots over the years. So when Athens-based multi-media producer Filippos Sdralias set out to create some aerial images of the coast, he wanted to show a different facet of Falassarna. Instead of focusing the lens on the warm sands of the beach, he flew his drone above a rock-strewn area at the edge of the strand to document the enticing turquoise waters of this shallow, boulder-lined pool.

Crete

Rocks of Falassarna, Greece. Photo: Filippos Sdralias/ Unsplash @filippos_sdr

Flight To A Distant Haven

This bird’s eye view of the coral reefs surrounding Laysan Island comes from U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander (ret.) Kevin Cooper. This remote outpost is located in the Northwest Hawaiian Islands, some 900 miles from Honolulu. The photo was taken during an overflight of the island in 2016. It shows the reefs to be in good health, but this wasn’t always the case. Laysan was historically exploited by guano miners and overrun by invasive species. Decades of reclamation efforts by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have since restored most of the island’s natural order, and it is now protected under the Hawaiian Natural Life Act.

Laysan Island

Laysan Island overflight, Northwest Hawaiian Islands. Photo: Kevin Cooper/Flickr

Phuket In Mid-Day Light

The crystal-clear waters of Thailand’s most famous island, Phuket, draw visitors from around the world. It’s easy to see the allure in this overhead view by Giuliano Di Paolo, who focused on the rocky shoreline near the island’s southern point at Promthep Cape. The cape is one of the most photographed locations in Phuket, but most shooters wait until sunset to visit. By shooting in mid-day sunlight Di Paolo brought out the full vibrance of the water. He is a Milan-based media creator who is fascinated with Thailand and often turns his lens to subjects such as elephants, temples, and local people.

Phuket

Phuket, Thailand. Photo: Giuliano Di Paolo/Unsplash @giulianodipaolo

 

Sailing A Coral Coast

The Maldives is a nation of 1,200 small islands set in 3,500 square miles of coral reef. To capture the impressive scale of these formations, Hassan Ishan took a high-altitude look at a traditional dhoni sailing vessel making its way along the edge of a massive ridge of coral that’s visible in the clear water. Dhonis are the workhorses of Maldivian maritime commerce, serving as everything from fishing boats to cargo vessels and inter-island ferries. Ishan is a self-taught Maldivian photo pro known for creating surreal images that capture the unique beauty of his homeland. His work has inspired many younger photography enthusiasts to get into the field.

Maldives

Sailing boat in the Maldives. Photo: Ishan/Unsplash @seefromthesky

 

Lighting The Way

Mariners in the Turks &Caicos have learned to navigate the extensive network of channels and shoals that surround these islands based on water color. Sapphire and aquamarine waters signal “go ahead,” while light green or tan warns of shallow depths that could spell trouble. Filmmaker Romello Williams perfectly captures this phenomenon with an overhead shot of a speedboat transiting a tidal creek set between a sandbank and a seagrass meadow. A native of Grand Bahamas now living in the Turks & Caicos, Williams says his work is heavily influenced by his island upbringing.

Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos Islands. Photo: Romello Williams/ Unsplash @romello

 

 

Moorea French Polynesia
Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Hawaii, Islands, Kauai, Maldives, Oceania, Plan, St. Lucia, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

7 of the World’s Most Beautiful Islands

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While no longer well-kept secrets, the following isles continue to engage with charm and scenery.  Read below to see our picks for the most beautiful islands in the world to see in 2022.

Moorea

The Islands of Tahiti include over 100 islands within five archipelagos. The most photographed and visited are the Society Islands, which include Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea. You’ll find barrier reefs and cobalt blue lagoons, powdery soft sands and emerald volcanic peaks. Among the dramatic mountain ridges lies volcanic Mount Rotui, the second-highest mountain on Moorea. The five-mile round trip hike to the top is challenging even for experienced hikers but rewards with scenic views of the entire island.

Moorea

The mountains of Moorea are some of the most rugged in the world. Mount Rotui is the easiest to climb and offers views of Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay. Photo: Ugur Ozden/Flickr

Santorini

Certainly, Santorini has been on many a bucket list. For decades it has been the most popular Greek destination but it’s still worth joining the crowds to see this crescent moon-shaped island. Cruisers head to the picturesque village of Oia for the views and sunsets amidst the stunning architecture of whitewashed buildings dotted with cobalt blue dome roofs. Be sure to wander through the stone-paved alleys stopping at a café to taste the local wine paired with tomatokeftedes a patty made with local feta cheese and the famous Santorini cherry tomato.

Santorini

After visiting Oia village take the hike along the caldera to Fira, the largest town on the island. Drop by a tavern or two along the way. Photo: Gene Tobia/Flickr

Kauai

While tropical rainforest covers much of the island’s interior including ribbons of trails favored by hikers, the Garden Island offers 111-miles of coastline with 50 miles of glistening white sand for beach lovers. The Na Pali coastline with its intensely colored dramatic cliffs, pinnacles and canyons beckon photographers from around the world to capture its glory from air or sea. A helicopter tour from Princeville takes visitors over the 65 miles of lush roadless terrain showcasing the waterfalls, valleys and crevices.

Kauai

Kauai has several small towns to explore. Hanapepe is known for art, Koloa dates back to the sugar era of 1835 and locals favor Hanalei. Photo: Karsten Winegeart/Unsplash

Bali

The land of elaborate temples, Hindu ceremonies, terraced rice paddies and monkeys, the island of Bali is not known as much for its beaches as for its lush landscapes. Sure, you can find white and black stretches of sand with cliffs looming above hidden shores. Dubbed the most popular beach in the world of Instagrammers, Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida Island is mostly viewed from above. Getting to its shore involves a precarious hike and most will find the scene from above to be equally mesmerizing. 

Bali Nusa Penida

Kelingking Beach AKA T-Rex Beach is the claim to fame for the island of Nusa Penida. From above the shape resembles the neck of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Photo: felfin05 evin on Unsplash

Maldives

This archipelago of 1,200 islands and atolls stretches across the equator and lies within the Indian Ocean. The collection is comprised of fine white sands formed from coral, crystal waters and palm trees; and it’s the world’s lowest country reaching four feet above sea level. Here, over-water bungalows are prevalent. Rasdhoo Atoll is uninhabited topside but beneath the surface, the surrounding ocean is populated with hammerhead sharks, manta rays and stingrays as well as the more docile sea turtle. 

Maldives Rasdhoo Atoll

Divers find Rasdhoo’s underwater world to be some of the best. Shallow water lagoons are great for beginners while deep walls and channels appeal to the advanced. Photo: Maahid Photos/Unsplash

St. Lucia

A visit to St. Lucia isn’t complete without a glimpse of the Pitons, the Caribbean’s most distinctive landmark. Often seen from the winding mountainous roads when approaching Soufrière, the views are ubiquitous. Even more captivating are the twin volcanoes seen from the water. These twin peaks that rise up from the sapphire blue sea are connected by an inland ridge that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

St. Lucia Pitons

A visit to the Pitons might include a rigorous hike on the Gros Piton trail or a relaxing soak and mud bath in the Sulphur Springs. Photo: David Dale/Flickr

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands National Park is comprised of six islands skirting Maya Bay, which was made famous in the 2000 film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The two larger islands Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi were so popular among day-trippers and snorkeling boats that the officials of Thailand closed the bay, not so much due to Covid but to restore the damage done to the once pristine spot due to over- tourism. Today visitors are allowed back but with imposed new rules to protect the area.

Phi Phi Islands Thailand

While the Maya Bay draws with its natural beauty there hundreds of gorgeous islands between Phuket and Krabi. Take a longtail boat and explore the area. Photo: Miltiadis Fragkidis/Unsplash

Stuart Cove Snorkeling Bahamas
Asia, Bahamas, Bahamas-New Providence, Bahamas-Out Islands, Cabo San Lucas, Caribbean, Hawaii, Islands, Mexico, Oahu, Oceania, Plan, Play, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

Where to Snorkel with Sharks

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Forget those old cliches about “shark-infested waters.” The reality is that these often-misunderstood creatures pose very little danger to humans, and are far more likely to avoid the splashing chaos of swimmers and divers. But there are certain places around the world where sharks can be found with predictable regularity, allowing snorkelers with a sense of adventure a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

New Providence, Bahamas

From Thunderball to Into the Blue, a vast majority of the underwater shark encounters that show up on the big screen were filmed in the waters near Stuart Cove’s dive center in the Bahamas. Decades of feeding have conditioned the area’s resident population of gray reef sharks to the presence of humans, and they hang around even when they aren’t getting a handout of fish bits. Snorkelers can get in on the action with trips to several of the area’s shallow reefs, where the sharks will cruise by, but otherwise ignore the fin-wearing interlopers. There’s usually a dive guide with a camera on hand to grab a shark-and- snorkeler shot for anyone looking for a great social media post. Visit: https://stuartcove.com/

Stuart Cove Sharks

Underwater sites with clear and calm waters in the Bahamas await divers and snorkelers on a Stuart Cove’s adventure. Guided adventures include shark sightings. Photo: Salisbury University Geography Students/Flickr

Bora Bora, Islands of Tahiti

The huge sand-bottom lagoon that surrounds the island of Bora Bora is filled with all manner of fish life, including a group of resident lemon sharks and rays. Encounters sometimes begin right from resort beaches or near over- water bungalows, but more guaranteed are the boat trips provided by several tour companies, which ferry snorkelers to areas within the lagoon where the sharks and rays are known to gather. Snorkelers who prefer a more controlled environment should visit the island’s Lagoonarium. This natural enclosure is located near the island’s eastern shore, and it is home to a variety of sharks, rays, tropical fish, and sea turtles. More adventurous swimmers can also book trips to outer reefs where dolphins and manta rays may join the mix. Visit: http://lagoonarium.e-monsite.com/

Bora Bora Snorkeling with Sharks

Shark and ray feeding trips are available from resorts for visiting snorkelers in Bora Bora. The sandy flat outside the lagoon is populated with hungry sharks and stingrays. Photo: Michael Rubenstein/Flickr

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Cabo is the gateway to the Sea of Cortez. All manner of sharks and large marine mammals pass by this point on their way to and from seasonal hunting and breeding grounds. The Pelagic Safari takes small groups of snorkelers on a half-day or all-day speedboat cruise into the open waters of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. When a likely site is located, participants go overboard with snorkel gear and drift with the waves as the boat follows to provide support. Depending on the season, snorkelers may come face-to-face with anything from humpbacks and gray whales to blue and mako sharks, billfish, and massive schools of Mobula rays. Visit: https://pelagicsafari.com/

cabo sharks

Modula rays invade the waters off Southern Baja and the Sea of Cortez on a seasonal basis. Plan a visit May through July or November to January. Photo: Pelagic Safari

Oahu, Hawaii

There are some sharks that are best seen from behind bars, and that’s exactly what snorkelers can do at Hawaii Shark Encounters. These adventures take place three miles off the north shore of Oahu. After reaching deep water, the tour operator stops the boat and deploys shark cages that float on the surface. Snorkelers enter these cages, and chum with fish deployed to lure oceanic predators. The species that show up most often are Galapagos, sandbar, and tiger sharks, but there’s also a chance of a visit from blue sharks and hammerheads. To make the encounters more thrilling, the cages are fitted not only with bars, but also Plexiglas windows that provide unimpeded viewing. Visit: https://hawaiisharkencounters.com/

Oahu Hawaii Shark Diving

Both thrilling and educational, shark cage adventure tours on the north shore of Oahu will dispel many shark myths and create awareness for their protection. Photo: ptpablo/Flickr

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

The Phi Phi Islands are the stuff of postcards and screen savers. Rising like giant limestone haystacks from emerald waters, these unique formations are surrounded by coral reefs and riddled with secret coves fronting white sand beaches. In recent years, one of the fastest-trending adventures that visitors to the islands can experience is the chance to swim with black-tip reef sharks. Several tour companies ferry snorkelers to shallow reefs, where these non-threatening sharks forage among the formations in search of hidden morsels. Morning is said to be the best time to sign up for these tours, as this is not only when the sharks are most active, but also the times when there are fewer swimmers in the water. After the swim, there’s usually a chance to visit mysterious sea caves and have lunch on a deserted beach. Visit: https://www.getyourguide.com/discovery/phi-phi-islands-l9477/snorkeling-tc57/?utm_force=0

Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling

From Phuket, visitors can take boat tours to the amazing Phi Phi Islands. Some may stop at Monkey Beach, while others head out to reefs. Photo: Corey Hamilton/Flickr

Bimini, Bahamas

The waters of the Gulf Stream flow close to the Bahamian island of Bimini, bringing game fish and sharks in from the deep blue. This gives snorkelers a rare chance to meet oceanic marine life in shallow water, including reef sharks and hammerheads. The starting point for these thrilling encounters is Bimini Undersea,  which is located within the fisherman’s village at Resorts World Bimini. Participants board speedboats for a three-mile trip to a formation known as Triangle Rocks. There, in depths of 25 feet or less, the reefs attract passing sharks, which are clearly visible in the clear water. This half-day trip is considered safe and appropriate for all ages, as the sharks gather in anticipation of a free meal, but are not fed while snorkelers are in the water. Visit: https://biminiundersea.net/

Bimini Bahamas Dive With Sharks

Up-close views of reef sharks can be experienced in special programs like The Sharks Adventure at a beautiful reef, south of Bimini. Photo: sassamafracken/Flickr

Tahiti Sailing
Africa, Asia, Islands, Oceania, Play, Seychelles, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

Sail-Away Adventures in Paradise

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Imagine leaving it all behind and setting sail for a tropical island paradise. There, you’d anchor in a remote cove and spend your days swimming over coral reefs, walking deserted beaches and feasting on fresh seafood. This doesn’t have to be a daydream. Not when you book a charter boat vacation.

At some of the world’s most scenic islands, it’s possible to rent a well- equipped sailboat and set your own course for adventure. And don’t worry if you and your crew aren’t seasoned mariners, because these same charter companies can supply a captain to show you the ropes, or become your personal guide for the duration of the voyage. Here are four premier destinations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans where dreams of sailing away can become reality.

Tahiti

These are islands that inspired the artwork of Gauguin, and seduced the crew of the Bounty. Today, the Islands of Tahiti welcome sailing crews, who come to anchor in turquoise lagoons, walk unspoiled beaches and swim over bright coral reefs. Sailing adventures typically begin on the island of Raiatea, which is part of the Leeward group of islands that lies some 100 miles to the west of the big island of Tahiti. This cluster of tall, green islands includes Bora Bora, with it’s world famous lagoon, the quieter sister islands of Tahaa and Raiatea, and the garden island of Huahine. Each offers something different, from traditional villages and coconut groves to world- class resorts and spas. Because these islands are all within an easy day’s sailing of each other, a charter boat crew can island hop, anchoring in a different bay or lagoon each night. Warm, steady trades blow year round, creating easy sailing conditions that will have even new skippers soon feeling like old salts.

Tahiti Sailing

The Tahitian island of Raiatea is the nautical center of French Polynesia. The main town of Uturoa is home to a number of sailboat and yacht charter companies. Photo: Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Seychelles

A thousand miles east of Africa, the remote islands of the Seychelles were known to ancient mariners from Phoenicia, Polynesia, China and the Arab world. Today, only the savviest of sailors know of this magical cruising destination, but the word is getting out. The Seychelles group is hundreds of small, low-lying islands scattered across thousands of miles of ocean. But the star attractions are the larger Inner Islands, which are geological wonders of twisted granite, mountainous and lush with tropical forests that support species of birds found nowhere else on Earth. From the capital island of Mahé, crews can make an easy day sail to a cluster of small islands to the east, where they will find bays fringed by ivory-white sands and clusters of monolithic granite boulders that are an iconic symbol of the Seychelles. Ashore, the islands offer a rich commingling of French, British, Indian, Middle Eastern, and African cultures.

Seychelles Bay

Sailboats ride at anchor in the south bay of the Port Launay Marine Park in the central Seychells. These islands offer dozens of calm coves for overnight stays. Photo: Seychelles Tourism Board

Tonga

The Kingdom of Tonga is best known for whales. Each year, humpbacks migrate from the Antarctic waters to mate, breed and birth in the warm waters that surround these remote islands, creating a unique opportunity for humans to swim with these 50-foot mammals. That alone would be reason enough to visit these remote and unspoiled islands, but there’s more. In the center of the Tonga archipelago, the Vava’u group of islands provide the ideal sailing conditions that make these waters one of the most appealing cruising grounds in the South Pacific. The green-clad islands sit in close proximity to each other, are ringed in protective coral reefs, and are graced with steady trade winds. Skippers can glide over calm waters, navigating from island to island by sight, with more than 40 calm anchorages to choose from. These same reefs offer exceptional snorkeling and diving in some of the world’s clearest waters, and there are miles of deserted beaches to explore.

Tonga Sailing

A sailboat glides past a small island in Tonga’s Vava’u group. Calm waters, close harbors and steady winds make this region ideal for sailing vacations. Photo: Tourism Tonga

Thailand

Not many people know of the Phi Phi Islands by name, but most will instantly recognize them by sight. These limestone towers, which rise precipitously from the waters of the Andaman Sea, have served as backdrops for feature films, and have graced thousands of magazine covers and travel brochures. These and the other hundred-plus islands that surround Thailand’s vacation mecca of Phuket are far from unknown, but sailors who charter their own vessels have the advantage over those who come by tour boat. Within the sheltered waters of Phang Nga Bay, there are numerous bays and anchorages on uninhabited islands that aren’t on the main sight seeing routes. The prime sailing season runs from November through April, as cooler, drier northern winds create ideal conditions for relaxing island-hopping passages. Crews can choose to spend nights in quiet coves, or stop in more populous harbors to enjoy shore leave that comes with the warm hospitality that the Thai people are known for.

Thailand Phi Phi Islands

Sailors can explore the dramatic landscapes of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands, where towering limestone cliffs surround calm bays ringed in white sand beaches. Photo: Flickr

Jamaica Half Moon Spa
Antigua & Barbuda, Asia, Cancun, Caribbean, Islands, Jamaica, Maldives, Mexico, Playa del Carmen, St. Kitts, Stay, Thailand, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

Superior Soaks: Amazing Resort Bathtubs in Tropical Garden Settings

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Whether it’s a cleansing dip after a day of adventures in rainforest and reef, or a relaxing immersion in preparation for a private candlelight dinner on the beach, a bathtub can become more than just a way to get clean. Here’s a sampling of amazing bathing experiences from around the world. So sink in and relax. A marble tub is the perfect place to refresh with a flower and herb scented bath after a massage at the award-winning Fern Tree Spa at Jamaica’s Half Moon resort.

Maldives One And Only
Asia, Belize, Cabo San Lucas, Caribbean, Central America, Islands, Maldives, Mexico, St. Lucia, Stay, Thailand, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

Dream Sleeps: Resorts with Water View Bedrooms

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Imagine falling asleep to sea breezes and the sound of the surf. Or waking to a sunrise over the water. A select number of resorts around the world have elevated the bedroom into a showroom, rewarding guests with spectacular one-of-a-kind views that make water and sky star attractions to create a slumber like no other. Here at the One & Only Reethi Rah Maldives resort sunset’s afterglow sets the mood for relaxation on a cabana bed perched on the deck of an over water villa.