Maui, Hawaii (USA)
Maui has a way of sticking with you. People call it one of the world’s most beautiful islands, and once you get there, it just makes sense. You get these wild rainforests, towering volcanoes, and beaches that look almost unreal. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re into hiking, surfing, or just want to lie under a palm tree and forget about work for a while.
Haleakalā National Park is the big draw. The volcano there, Haleakalā, shoots up over 10,000 feet. If you’re up for an early start, the sunrise from the summit is unforgettable—like you’re standing on another planet. Not a morning person? No problem. Maui’s beaches have you covered. You can snorkel with sea turtles at Molokini Crater or catch waves in Lahaina. Either way, you’ll come home with a story.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini almost feels like it was built for postcards. It’s that island with the white buildings and blue domes, perched over the Aegean Sea. Every evening, the sunsets turn the whole place gold, and people from all over the world come just to see it. If you love taking photos, or you’re just a sucker for romantic views, it’s pretty much paradise.
The island’s volcanic history shaped everything—steep cliffs, dramatic coastlines, and those killer sea views from Oia and Fira. Walk around these towns at sunset and you’ll see why people fall in love with the place. There’s more, too: ancient ruins like Akrotiri, boat trips out to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, and hiking up to the crater for even more jaw-dropping scenery.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If you close your eyes and picture a dream island, chances are it looks a lot like Bora Bora. Set in the South Pacific, this place is all about overwater bungalows, clear blue lagoons, and that perfect mix of luxury and wild beauty. It’s the kind of spot where you forget your phone exists.
The lagoon here is ringed with coral reefs, so snorkeling or diving means swimming with rays, sharks, and a rainbow of fish. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb Mount Otemanu for views you’ll never forget. Or just hang out on Matira Beach—soft white sand, gentle waves, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos don’t really compare to anywhere else. Off the coast of Ecuador, this group of islands is packed with creatures you won’t see anywhere else on Earth. Charles Darwin found inspiration here, and honestly, you can see why. Each island feels like its own little universe.
Giant tortoises roam Santa Cruz, while Española Island is the place to spot albatross. The volcanic landscapes on Isabela look almost alien, with black lava fields and craters set against the ocean. The water’s just as wild—snorkeling or diving means sharing space with sea lions, penguins, and even hammerhead sharks. Every island brings something new, whether it’s wildlife, scenery, or just the feeling that you’ve stepped into a different world.
