Picture yourself slathering on sunscreen while lazing on a perfect white-sand beach covered in coconut palms that gives way to emerald waters and coral gardens. Not forgetting the tropical slopes that surround you, the seemingly endless blue skies and a Bahama Mama in your hand. Vogue material? No, just routine in Bora Bora.  If you are in dire need for some tropical love, look no further as here 5 amazing paradises as your elixir.

BORA BORA

Being a love at the first sight, this Tahitian island has been a pioneer tropical paradise. This island was recently awarded “The Best Island in the World” by the U.S News.

Where to stay : InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is nestled on the beach and is a love at the first sight for activity-centric tourists who like the convenience of staying on the mainland. Each of the 50 overwater bungalows are tastefully crafted from pandanus and bamboo with mother-of-pearl engravings and tapa cloth.

Must do : Don’t leave without heading on a 4WD tour that comes with stunning views over lush foliage and crystal-clear ocean. A jet ski tour sounds just as good!

SAN ANDRES

This coral island in the Caribbean sea is the home to a diverse ecosystem of reefs, geysers, groves and cays. How fancy it is that this island is actually seahorse-shaped!

Where to stay : The Decameron Resort is the cream of the crop as it is merely a walking distance from the beach. It’s à la carte restaurant, Boonoononous is something that we will not be hearing so often in Malaysia. It can’t be more convenient than being just a 5 minutes’ drive from Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport.

Must do : Snorkelling is one of the most loved activities in San Andres besides submarine rides as almost every beach in this Caribbean island has its own top nature pieces and abundant wildlife. Divers will be pleased to find some impressive ship-wreck sites to explore. A vacation in San Andres isn’t complete without indulging in the gastronomical heaven of San Andres, Rondón.

THE SEYCHELLES

The Seychelles archipelago forms a group of 115 islands but Mahé and Praslin are two of the most popular islands of Seychelles. The Seychelles is a holiday destination all year round, temperatures rarely drop below 24C or above 32C. If sunbathing, porcelain-white sands and granite islands are your thing, start exploring The Seychelles!

Where to stay : Banyan Tree Seychelles is a luxury resort where you can enjoy the untouched and unspoiled beauty of Seychelles with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and native Takamaka trees. It is a space where exotic beauty takes centrestage.

Must do : The islands of this beauty is a gratifying venue to catch glimpses of whale sharks, hawksbill turtles and thousands of rare tropical fishes as it is a home to six national marine parks. Don’t leave The Seychelles without diving in Shark Bank! Did we also mention that it has the largest population of Aldabra giant tortoises in the world?

BALI

A classic favourite, the Island of the Gods or better known as Bali offers picturesque golden sand beaches with views a focus on serenity and wellness. With hundreds of hidden stone temples, Bali is the place to be whether you are an adventurer or just in need of some relaxation after submitting all of your assignments!

Where to stay : AYANA Resort & Spa is located on 90 hectares of cliff-top land perched above Jimbaran Bay. With an exclusive private beach, this stunning resort also offers an ocean beach pool. Don’t leave without visiting the iconic Rock Bar!

Must do : Famous for its kaleidoscopic sunsets, you can either laze on the beach with an ice-cold Bintang or just kick back and watch the sun sink into the sea. There are tons of yoga and surf camps that you can sign up for!

HARBOUR ISLAND, BAHAMAS

With friendly people, picture perfect pink sand beaches and clear ocean waters that provide excellent diving, fishing and boating, Harbour Island is definitely the next big thing! Its pastel-color clapboard houses with dormer windows, set among white picket fences, narrow lanes, cute shops and tropical flowers are pure love!

Where to stay : Runaway Hill Inn is a boutique hotel perched on a bluff above the calm waters of the Atlantic where you find a combination of sand and sea that blends classic elegance with contemporary comforts.

Must do : Be struck by not only by the stark beauty of the bone-white walls and air-clear water but also the abundance of life in Briland’s Blue Hole. Or simply catch a breathtaking view by the Pink Sands Beach.

Article by Hemala Kanagarethinam Paul