Which Island Getaway Will You Choose for Your Next Luxury Retreat?

by Jan Mauer | Aug 19, 2017 | Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, South Pacific Tahiti | 0 comments

Sun, sand, and hours of lying on the beach or experiencing the adventures that only an island paradise can offer beckon travelers to exotic islands around the world every year. But each is different, and how do you choose? Here’s a breakdown of some of our discerning clients’ most favored island escapes to help you make an informed decision about your next luxury getaway.

Tropical Getaways

The Fijian Islands

White sandy beaches in Fiji

Fiji may be at the pinnacle of islands offering the ultimate tropical experience, boasting more than 300 separate islands, many of which are almost completely untouched. Our clients often choose to pamper themselves in the most secluded, luxurious resorts, enjoying strolls through one of the world’s largest Asian orchid collections. Remember the stunning backdrop to the hit Tom Hanks movie, Cast Away? You can even visit the shores where his character, Chuck Noland, taught himself to fish and create fire. Submerge yourself in the breathtaking wonderland of exotic fish, gorgeous coral, and crystal-clear waters with both snorkeling and scuba diving trips.

The Great Barrier Reef

The stunning Whitsunday Islands of Australia

For a snorkeling experience that will give you a lifetime of incredible memories, you can’t beat the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia. This is the place for you if you crave something a bit wild, a bit rugged, and 100-percent original. The Great Barrier Reef is unparalleled in its beauty. Head for one of the 74 Whitsunday Islands, only eight of which are inhabited, or take in a sea plane tour of the famous heart-shaped Hardy Lagoon.

Islands Cut from a Different Cloth

The San Juan Islands

Orcas are often seen in the waters surrounding the San Juan Islands

What if tropical isn’t your cup of tea? If you prefer milder weather, towering old-growth forests, the majestic view of wild and rugged seas, coupled with cozy, elegant B&Bs and Craftsman-era resorts, consider a romantic getaway to the San Juan Islands in Puget Sound, Washington. Here you can kayak along dramatic shorelines, watch orcas migrating in magnificent pods, hike pristine forests with soaring evergreens and a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains, take in the beauty and romance of a lavender farm, or sail among the tree-covered islands to watch dolphins and whales play in the cool waters. Travel between the islands is easy, and you can even take a day trip to the gorgeous Canadian island of Victoria.

Corsica – The Island of Beauty

Known as the Island of Beauty, Corsica lives up to its name

If you’ve been searching for something truly unique in the Mediterranean, book an experience on Corsica, an island region of France. Known as the birthplace of Napolean, and called l’Île de Beauté (the Island of Beauty) by the French, this island proudly retains its cultural independence, resulting in a marvelous blend of French and Italian cultures, wine, food and language. The turquoise waters of the north, and the dramatic, rocky cliffs of Bonifacio in the south, which drop precipitously into the ocean, will take your breath away. This is a timeless place filled with small private alcoves and emerald waters, as well as accommodations from luxury resorts to charming hotels run by generations of Corsicans. You can sample cheeses and honey cultivated in 400-year-old traditions, taste world-famous aperitifs made from local grapes, followed by taking magnificent walks through the pristine and rugged interior mountains.

Cayo Espanto

Cayo Espanto’s 5-star villas offer seclusion and luxury. Cayo Espanto – www.aprivateisland.com

For an incomparable private-island escape, I have to include islands off the cost of Belize. Often overlooked in favor of more common locales, Belize is only two hours from Miami, has English as its official language, and boasts some of the most pristine shoreline in the world. Cayo Espanto, just off the coast of Belize, is a private island resort with several secluded 5-star villas, and was recently named the #1 honeymoon spot in the world. One of the bungalows, set 150 feet out in the water, features glass floors through which you can view the colorful and bountiful sea life. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore ancient Mayan ruins on the main island—or you can simply while away the hours overlooking the cerulean waves from your own private deck while the staff sees to your every need.

If you love the idea of a beach getaway, but need help finding just the perfect destination for your island vacation, let’s set up a time to chat! There are a million opportunities for unparalleled views, rekindled romance, and perhaps even the perfect marriage proposal—and one of them has your name on it. You can contact me today by clicking here.

I can’t wait to speak to you!

Jan Mauer

With professionalism and her consistent ability to curate exceptional travel experiences for her clients, Jan Mauer of Exciting Vacations has built her reputation as a Travel Agent who specializes in luxury. Jan has spent more than three decades as trusted advisor to those who require both opulence and exoticism during their world travels. Her expertise about international culture and 5-star getaways ensures that every travel adventure of which you partake is a bespoke experience fulfilling your unique requirements for both luxury and authenticity. Call Jan at (732) 613-8640 or email her here for one-on-one guidance from one of luxury travel's foremost experts.