Hidden Travel Gems
10. Robinson
Crusoe Island, Chile
Believe it or not, the legendary island described by author
Daniel Defoe in his classic Robinson Crusoe really does exist, and it's for
rent. This lost paradise, which was created by a series of volcanic explosions,
lies over 400 miles off the coast of Chile in the Juan Fernandez Islands. Once a
refuge of pirates, this national park and world biosphere reserve remains almost
untouched by man. There are many ways to discover and enjoy the natural beauty
of the island, such as trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding, scuba
diving, submarine hunting, and fishing.
9. San
Sebastian, Spain
Also known by its Basque name of Donostia, this picturesque seaside
resort is the most important town of the Basque region in northern Spain.
Perched atop three hills overlooking the beautiful crescent bay of La Concha
(the Shell), San Sebastian is best known for its excellent beaches and its
lively atmosphere in the summer. The narrow streets of the Old Town are crowded
with Spanish bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy the wonderful Basque
cuisine, including their famous tapas.
8. Lanzarote, Canary
Islands, Spain
The most easterly of the seven major Canary Islands, Lanzarote lies about
60 miles from the coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. From the moonlike
landscape of the volcanic field in the National Park of Timanfaya to the
magnificent array of white and black sand beaches, this island never ceases to
amaze its visitors. Throughout the year, you can enjoy a wide variety of sports,
from windsurfing and scuba diving to hang-gliding and horseback riding. The
island even hosts one of the top iron man competitions in the world, the Ironman
Lanzarote.
7. Koh
Samui, Thailand
Everyone says Koh Samui is better than Phuket, but it's only
women who say that because unlike Phuket, Koh Samui is devoid of whores.
Although Koh Samui isn't exactly deserted, its pristine beach and crystal clear
turquoise waters will make you feel like you've landed in that same tropical
paradise. Located off the southeastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, it was
once the best-kept secret among backpack travelers. However, even the most
popular beaches, with their many resorts, restaurants and bars, are never
uncomfortably busy, even during high season.
6. Cayo
Espanto, Belize
If you're looking for privacy and tranquility, Cayo Espanto is the ideal
destination. This four-acre private island off the coast of Belize, in the
Western Caribbean, is surrounded by royal blue skies, turquoise waters and pearl
white beaches. The luxurious villas that dot this island paradise each include a
private pool, a personal dock or veranda on which to dine, a butler, and other
staff members (the staff to guest ratio is 2:1). Exciting activities include
scuba diving in the second largest barrier reef or snorkeling in Hol Chan,
Belize's National Marine Park that was selected as one of the world's top 10
snorkeling sites by USA Today.
5. Cinque
Terre, Italy
The crowning jewel of the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre (Five Lands)
consists of five picturesque fishing villages perched on bluffs above the sea.
The breathtaking views of the sea and the rolling hillsides, as well as the rare
species of flora and fauna in this protected nature and marine park, can be
enjoyed on the panoramic foot paths that connect the villages. If the hike is
too long, trains and ferries also run regularly between them. Although Cinque
Terre has become more and more popular in recent years, the peace and silence
that are characteristic of the Riviera remain.
4. Nefta, Kebili
& Douz, Tunisia
Located in southwestern Tunisia, these oases in the Sahara desert spread
out like a green carpet on a desolate plateau eroded by sandstorms. In Nefta,
hundreds of gently running springs allow thousands of palm and fruit trees to
thrive, offering a welcome respite to wary desert travelers for centuries. The
largest oasis, Kebili, consists of a cluster of villages. In Douz, which is
known as the "Gateway of the Sahara," nomads barter goods such as
camels, blankets and silver jewelry every Thursday, "Market Day." It
is here that the seemingly endless sand dunes begin; several tourist agencies
offer camel safaris or sunset camel rides, for a real desert experience.
3. Essaouira,
Morocco
Along the Atlantic Coast of Morocco, there are many fortified towns that
boast beautiful beaches, the most famous of which is the resort of Essaouira. An
18th century town characterized by unique architecture and a laid-back
atmosphere, it became a favorite refuge for rock stars like Jimi Hendrix and Cat
Stevens in the '60s and '70s. In recent years, it has begun attracting surfers
and windsurfers from all over the world thanks to its strong winds and
impressive waves. It is the perfect place to relax and stroll through art
galleries and wood workshops, or simply mingle with the fishermen and craftsmen
who swarm the streets.
2. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is definitely the hidden gem of Europe, offering unparalleled
topography, ranging from snow capped mountains in the west and south, to some of
the best white-sand beaches in Europe along the eastern coast. The journey from
Sofia to Varna on the Black Sea is and will always be... Unforgettable... Safe,
affordable and a vacationers dream.
1. South
Africa
South Africa is nourished and well preserved by Mother Nature. With the
land's balance of wild life and scenic glory it is apparent of her adoration.
She endowed it with immeasurable balance of stunning Eco systems and awesome
beauty. Endless bays and glorious beaches that stretch as far as the eye can
see. The region is home to rolling hills and towering mountains, vividly green
grazing land, heavy bush and forests to feed and shelter the ever diverse animal
kingdom.
