30 islands you're going to want to see

If you're thinking of escaping to a breathtaking island, here are 30 islands you need to know about before you make that all important decision.

Borneo

An island packed with exotic sights including enigmatic orang-utans, picturesque Mount Kinabalu and unique wildlife around every bend on Kinabatanan River.

Maafushivaru, Maldives

A Maldivian paradise for adults-only with two wide beaches, a sparkling house reef for crystal clear snorkelling and a gloriously beautiful infinity pool on the beachfront. Ideal for romance.

Koh Samui

Hidden in the Gulf of Thailand, a laid-back island full of charm and natural beauty; ideal for a secluded, relaxing hideaway.

Mauritius

A marvellous mix of African, Indian, European influences with white sand beaches, luxurious resorts and crystal clear waters. Simply put, paradise on earth.

Sicily

Historic sights, exotic flare and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery, Sicily is home to a unique coastal culture surrounded by olive trees and vineyards.

St Lucia

A truly romantic island boasting the Majestic Piton mountains, unspoilt tropical forests and adrenaline-fuelled adventure. An unspoilt Caribbean heaven.

Langkawi

Kissed by the Andaman Sea, a hidden jewel of famed shores and beautiful Mangrove forests. Technically, a paradisiacal archipelago made up of 99 uninhabited islands but who’s counting!

Barbados

A small, picturesque coral island big on unadulterated Caribbean indulgence, the perfect ‘fly and flop’ destination with amazing snorkelling opportunities.

Tenerife

By day, sunbathe in the shadow of Mount Teide on 217 miles of volcanic coast and by night, explore an array of vibrant restaurants and bars.

Kuramathi Island, Maldives

Situated on a stunning mile-long sandbank stretching to the very tip of the island, this is laid back island living at its finest, complete with an oceanfront infinity pool. A dream come true.

The Galapagos Islands

Sea lions on San Cristobal Island, blue-footed boobies on North Seymour Island, exotic flamingos on Floreana Island and penguins on Fernandina Island. What more could a wildlife enthusiast want!

St Vincent and the Grenadines

Undeveloped, unspoilt, a barefoot beach paradise with tumbling waterfalls and colonial cotton houses aplenty.

Kurumba Island, Maldives

The first Maldivian island resort to open its doors with a high quality restaurant for every day of the week, serving delicious cuisine from all over the world.

Bali

Friendly locals, ancient culture and traditions surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including verdant green rice terraces and idyllic golden sands.

Vancouver Island, Canada

An accessible wilderness with magnificent coastal scenery and rugged hinterland, perfect for spotting orcas and bears.

Easter Island

2,300 miles east off the mainland coast of Chile, Easter Island offers mysterious Moai, a truly unique culture, serene seclusion and superb Pacific beaches.

Zanzibar

Vibrant markets within historic Stone Town, deserted beaches, reef protected warm waters coupled with superb sunset cruises.

Santorini

Mesmerising sunsets, black pebble beaches, whitewashed villages, blue domed churches and laid-back tavernas.

Hawaii

Trekking through velvety green mountains and cascading waterfalls, discover Volcanoes National Park, vibrant Waikiki and world-class surfing.

North and South Island, New Zealand

Unspoilt, enchanting fantasy lands; world famous trekking on the Tongariro Crossing, geothermal wonderlands and erupting geysers on North Island and whale watching, glacier hiking and exhilarating Queenstown on South Island.

Velassaru, Maldives

A chic and contemporary resort serving fresh seafood dining on glistening sands by the water’s edge, we suggest relaxing under the beaming sun with a cocktail in hand.

Sardinia

A heavenly island of citrus groves, ancient Mediterranean cultures, hidden grottos and dramatic, rugged landscapes.

Heron Island, Australia

Situated on the Great Barrier Reef surrounded by acres of sugar sands, turquoise waters and brimming with colourful marine life. A snorkeller or diver's dream.

Cuba

Havana, home of historical hedonism, exotic dancers, retro cadillacs, local musicians and elegant architecture, coupled with a handful of some of the most beautiful beaches on earth in Varadero.

Dominican Republic

Named the 'The fairest land under heaven' by Columbus, the Dominica Republic will bewitch you with incredible natural beauty, unique tropical birdlife, towering mountains and its cultural capital Santo Domingo.

Bahamas

Home to those infamous swimming pigs and friendly, frolicking dolphins, the Bahamas is spread across 3000 picture-perfect islands - you’re simply spoilt for  choice!

Photo courtesy of the Nina Lu. https://www.flickr.com/photos/cdorobek/7875526934

Sri Lanka

Swathes of golden sand, beautiful Yala National Park, ancient Buddhist relics, bountiful tea plantations and smiling locals.

Japan

An intoxicating island, from magnificent Mount Fuji surrounded by mesmerising cherry blossoms, contrasted with imperial cities and high-tech metropolises.