Just can’t bring yourself to enjoy the wet and windy season? Wouldn’t you just love to stretch your limbs on powdery sand and soak up some sun to help you get through the dark months? But beware, your holiday peace of mind is more fragile than you think.
The winter holiday season means record visitors at popular destinations such as the Caribbean – if you don’t want to share those magic sunset moments with smooching couples, then follow our lead because we scouted out some of the lesser-known spots in the tropics for you that nevertheless earn the badge of paradise just as much as the traditional getaways.
Boracay, Philippines
This small island in the Philippines is a jewel in the Pacific, yet not many people have heard its name before. Its award-winning beaches set the bar high for the typical white sandy beaches with crystal clear water; there are virtually no wrong or disappointing places you can go to on this little island. Rather, you are spoilt for choice between brilliant scuba dives and adventures on land. Boracay has currently the best conditions for kite surfing in all of Asia. The sight of dozens of colourful kites and boarders cutting through the wind on Bulabog Beach transforms well into anyone’s collection of panorama pictures. For something closer to the island’s nature, make a trip to Bat Cave to visit a colony of insectivorous small bats or Crystal Cave with its stalactites. Locals are usually happy to lead you there for a small tip or for free.
The luxurious Discovery Shores Resort in Boracay
Khao Sok, Thailand
Khao Sok Natinoal Park is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and pristine natural reserves. Surrounded by majestic mountains, its ancient rain forest is home to a mesmerising array of wildlife, ranging from elephants to monkeys. At its heart lies a most unique Cheow Larn Lake that sprouts hundreds of overgrown stone stalagmites. Its emerald water and lush, thick rainforest create a mysterious labyrinth that you can explore by boat or overland truck safaris. The park preserves the habitat of many magnificent animals such as the Clouded Leopard, gibbons, tigers and many more. Its location in-between Phuket, Khao Lak, Ko Samui and Krabi give easy access to southern Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations.
The stone stalagmites in Cheow Larn Lake in Khao Sok National Park
Con Dao Islands, Vietnam
Laden with history, the archipelago of 16 islands that make up Con Dao by the southeast coast of Vietnam has a rich array of features to discover. Whether you are interested in diving to its blooming coral reefs or into its colonial and wartime history, your discoveries are unique to this part of the country. Since the islands broke away from the mainland some 15 000 years ago, a biodiversity has developed that can be likened to the Galapagos Islands – a major part of the flora and fauna can only be found there. The combination of lonesome beaches and untouched forests offer an extensive choice of activities to indulge in. The icing on the cake is the luxurious 5-star Six Senses Con Dao hotel that rounds off the holiday with spa treatments and culinary creations.
Beach near Six Senses Resort on the Con Dao islands
Bintan, Indonesia
Just a ferry away from the pulsing modern metropolis of Singapore, you can venture between the quiet beaches of Bintan and the city within less than one hour. The small island has much to offer. Its northern shore is the home of a number of five-star hotels that live up to the highest standards of hospitality. Experiencing the culture of the natives enriches your visit with a deeper connection to the island and make for unforgettable memories. The biggest city on the island is Tanjung Pinang and is well worth a visit. It is known for its delicious seafood and its great shopping destinations where you can fill up that suitcase with beautiful dresses, souvenirs and gifts for the loved-ones at home.
A romantic dinner pavillion on the beach, Angsana Bintan Resort
Mustique, Caribbean
Did you ever want to feel like you were on your own island? Mustique is one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems in the popular holiday heaven. With a cosy 2.2 square miles in size it nestles into the Grenadines just south of the island of St. Vincent. Its size diminishes nothing of its splendour – an island worthy of a visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge has proven to offer all the commodities one could wish for, while its atmosphere stays intimate and relaxed. Its turquoise waters cascade into midnight blue as the shores fall off into the sea while the white sand beaches gleam in the sunlight. While all your heart’s desires are available regarding the types of accommodation, we recommend The Cotton House as your base. Known for its exquisite amenities and elevated dining options, it is best equipped to cater for all your needs.
The beautiful Macaroni Beach on Mustique’s east coast