The weather outside may not be frightful just yet, but give it a few weeks and I’m sure you’ll be dreaming of trading in your snow shovel and frozen windshield wipers for a sandy beach and frozen tropical libation.
Naturally, I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend Hawaii as the ultimate sunny locale; however, I will admit this time of year the “Aloha State” can get a bit congested. As I mentioned in my previous blog there are a number of lesser-known exotic islands that have far fewer tourists soaking up the sun on their crescent shaped beaches. So, if you are looking to ditch your fellow tanorexics consider visiting the following tropical destinations:
Yasawa Islands, Fiji
This chain of about 10 islands in the South Pacific is home to the fabled Blue Lagoon from the famous movie of the same name. Not only are the islands surrounded by calm cobalt blue waters and fringed with lush vegetation, but they are also surprisingly affordable to visit. Yasawa Islands offers beachside properties at midrange prices. Which means you don’t have to look as though you could afford your own island in order to spend a winter day relaxing on a powder soft sandy beach thousands of miles away from your snowy driveway.
Aitutaki, The Cook Islands
Known as “the pearl of the Cook Islands,” Aitutaki is set within one of the world’s most picturesque lagoons enclosed by a barrier reef. As a result, the waters are crystal clear and the snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming are unprecedented. Aitutaki’s iridescent turquoise waters are dotted with tiny, sand-fringed islets, which makes it one of the word’s most popular destinations for underwater explorers.
Eleuthera, The Bahamas
Eleuthera is significantly less developed than the rest of the Bahamas. Translation: fewer crowds and more open beach for you to spread out on. Speaking of beaches, Eleuthera boasts some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. In addition, the island is home to a number of historic sites, including the first permanent settlement in the Bahamas. You can take advantage of the historic tours if you can tear yourself away from the snorkeling and diving expeditions that allow you the chance to explore the coral reefs and shipwrecks that surround the island.
Vanuatu
If you believe the travel brochures then Vanuatu is “the most friendly place in the world, inhabited by the happiest people.” Now, how could you possibly pass up the chance to meet the happiest people in the world? You don’t have to if you don’t mind traveling to the South Pacific. That’s where you’ll find the island nation, which was a model for James Michener’s fabled Bali Hai. In addition to the happy people, the island also boasts incredible places to go diving and some of the most awe-inspiring sunsets in the world.
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