7 Reasons Southeast Asia is much better than Europe for budget travelers

As an American, Canadian, Australian, or even a Brit, the first major trip you dream of is tramping around continental Europe. And for good reason. Cities like Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Berlin, and Amsterdam should all be on everyone�s destination lists.

Many of us take a big trip or two that connects all those famous cities, and then we either keep going back or maybe we get lazy and start going to Mexican beach resorts or Hawaii year after year.

The thing is, if you�ve got at least a normal sense of adventure, and especially if your travel budget is limited, then Southeast Asia is likely a better choice for your next holiday. The common definition of that is Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Burma, but this is also true of Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines, not to mention India, Nepal, and Bangladesh as well.

1 � SE Asia is WAY cheaper than Europe

For some people this is the most important reason on this list, and for others it�s just a bonus on top, but it must be said that there is a stunning difference in costs between Europe and SE Asia once you are on the ground. This whole site is about the economics of travel and where your money goes furthest, so just take a look at the European Backpacker Index and the Asia backpacker Index to see what I mean. Or check out our Europe vs. Asia itinerary price comparison, which reveals that a slightly more expensive flight can save a fortune in a cheaper destination.

The cheapest city in Asia is Hanoi, where a backpacker can have a pretty decent time for a bit over US$10 per day. Compare that to, say, Paris, where the same group of expenses currently goes for US$75 per day, and you�ll recognize the value. Realistically, when you are in a super-cheap area you are more likely to splurge a bit more since everything on the scale is a deal.

Instead of a dorm bed for US$6 you can get a private room for US$10 per night, including in-room wi-fi, TV, a small fridge, and a big comfortable bed. You practically live like a king for US$30 a day in many cities in the region, compared to US$30 not quite even paying for a dorm bed alone in some European cities.

2 � The weather in SE Asia is good all year round
 

One major weakness with Europe is that most of it has a pretty lousy climate for most of the year. Except for the Mediterranean coast, the entire block from November through March is either frozen or deeply gray and drizzly in most cities. I�ve done quite a bit of European travel during this colder, cheaper, and less crowded period, but honestly it�s far from ideal when you always have to carry gloves, a hat, and a heavy coat with you.

On the other hand, most of SE Asia is tropical and therefore has only 2 seasons. There�s the dry season (mostly from November through May) and the so-called wet season (June through October). However, the wet-season thing is rarely more than a minor inconvenience, and it actually brings temperatures down to more welcoming levels in some places.

During the wet season in SE Asia you�ll usually have a few days a week where it either pours for an hour overnight, or for an hour in the late afternoon. If it�s in the afternoon it�s a perfect excuse to pop into a sheltered restaurant for a US$1 beer or two while you wait. In very rare cases there can be flooding, and while this does create problems for locals, tourists are almost always able to get elsewhere or to higher ground in plenty of time.

3 � Crowds of tourists are very rare in SE Asia 

Sort of the flipside to Europe�s weather situation is that during July and August the weather in the big cities in the south (Madrid, Rome, Athens etc) gets so steamy that it can be pretty miserable outside. And as a result of that, the beach cities and resort areas get unbelievably crowded during these months, driving up prices and taking a lot of the fun out of being there as well.

And it�s not just the beach cities that get jammed. Go to London or Prague or Amsterdam during those two months and you�ll be in a sea of fellow tourists. Add these things up and Europe only has a couple good months on either side of summer where the weather is decent and it�s not insanely crowded.

In SE Asia, you�ll find crowds in many islands and resort areas around Christmas, and in Bali and a few other places in August, but in most SE Asian cities you couldn�t really call it crowded for at least 11 months a year. This means that finding cheap hotels is always easy, usually with no reservations in advance, and intercity tourist buses can usually be booked the night before with few worries.

4 � There�s no pressure to learn the languages in SE Asia
 

Some people are really good at learning foreign languages, and many others enjoy the process and the deeper cultural understanding you get when you can speak the native tongue. In SE Asia you can do as much of that as you like, and many travelers become quite successful at it, but at least there is zero pressure (or need) to learn the local language if you don�t want to.

The same thing can be said for most of northern Europe (thanks to the English skills of residents there), but in countries like Spain, France, Italy, or Greece, you really are at a disadvantage if you don�t (or aren�t able to) absorb the local language. For some people it can be stressful or even make them much less outgoing, which can detract from the overall experience.

For better or worse, the people of SE Asia have accepted the fact that they have more economic opportunity if they speak at least some English, plus have all important signs and menus and such in English as well. Many of them love practicing their English on tourists, so it can be surprisingly easy to do anything you want and even make a few friends.

5 � SE Asia is way more exotic than Europe

If English is your native language then chances are very good that you are of European heritage, one way or another. Whether you are starting in Cleveland or Melbourne or even London, there is nothing in Europe that will truly feel exotic to you. Sure, you might not be used to seeing a canal city like Amsterdam, but for lunch the locals there usually eat a sandwich or pizza or a hot dog or French fries just like you do at home.

With the exception of parts of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, there is almost nothing in SE Asia that will NOT feel exotic to you. From the temples to the street food to open-air markets to even the kitchy souvenirs, nothing will look familiar, and this should be thrilling.

You can get eggs and toast for breakfast anywhere you go, but you might soon be hooked on spicy chicken noodle soup instead. It�s easy to start from scratch and take nothing for granted when you are exposed to a totally different way of doing things.

6 � Air Asia is cheap, and actually a good airline

While it�s true that Easyjet and Ryanair do offer some incredibly cheap flights around Europe, it�s also true that their customers almost all complain about them in the process. The same is true of all of Europe�s many low-cost carriers. A �10 one-way ticket might end up being �50 after you�ve added in luggage, a reserved seat, and a stale sandwich. But usually the fares even start out much higher unless you book 6 months in advance.

There are several low cost carriers operating in SE Asia, and many aren�t much better than the European ones, but Air Asia is the biggest and best, and with a bit of advanced planning they can make your trip much cheaper and more efficient.

Like the others, Air Asia starts with extremely low prices and then the price keeps moving higher as the plane fills up. So booking a month or two in advance (or flying early in the morning or late in the evening) will get you a very low base fare for your flight, maybe US$30 between their major Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok hubs.

Their service is good and professional, and the planes aren�t as cramped as you might fear, but probably the best part is that the add-on prices are very low as well. Reserve a seat with extra legroom for maybe US$6 extra (instead of $50 on a US airline). Order a lunch for US$4 extra, and bring a big heavy suitcase with you for maybe US$10 extra. It makes you feel like a big shot when those upgrades are each so cheap that you can afford all of them.

7 � Your money is helping people who need it more

This is much more important to some people than it is to others, but there�s no getting around the fact that your tourist money in SE Asia is usually going directly to family businesses that would struggle or go under without Western tourists. If you stay in an Ibis Hotel in France, or even a St. Christopher�s hostel anywhere in Europe, most of your money is going to huge companies that have little loyalty to their individual locations.

Seriously, most tourist restaurants in a country like Vietnam are owned and operated by a single family. Often it�s the mom running the operation with the children as the staff, while the father has another full-time job. It�s a nice feeling knowing your (meager) travel funds are going directly to pay the rent and buy food for an appreciative family that is cooking for you and serving you.

Source: 7 Reasons Southeast Asia is much better than Europe for budget travelers -  priceoftravel.com

Top 7 Things to do in Riga Latvia

By Julie Bowman | puretravel.com

Riga in Latvia, the largest city in the Baltic region, is undergoing something of a Renaissance of late with many major restoration programmes underway. The magnificent old buildings and ancient architecture is once again coming alive and Riga will surely emerge as one of the most attractive cities within Europe. Probably most famous for its nightlife, there is also plenty to do in Riga by day too from a city that was founded in 1201, ruled by many and now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lap up the German Art Nouveau and also the 19th century wooden architecture and monuments. Riga will proudly host the prestigious 2014 European Capital of Culture.

Soak up the architecture of Riga Old Town and Town Hall Square

All of the Historic Centre of Riga is UNESCO protected, with the city gaining World Heritage Status in 1997. The Old Town area of Riga, Vecriga, maintains its charm and most of the architecture dates back to 1860 � effectively highlighting just why Riga has been selected as the next capital of culture. The city is proudly bursting with galleries, museums and churches dotted around the central Town Square region. Visit Riga�s oldest church St. Peter�s Church which was constructed in 1209 and offers stunning panoramic views from atop the tower. Walk the ancient Town Hall Square and take in the magnificent architecture of the Town Hall itself and the House of Blackheads which is part museum, part guildhall and part tourist information. The House of Blackheads was originally built in 1334, was destroyed in 1941 and then fully restored in the 1990s. In this area is also the St Roland statue � Riga�s patron saint.

Take an eye opening trip to Museum of the Occupation of Latvia which details the Nazi and Soviet occupation of Latvia during the wars. Another standout sight in the cathedral Square is Riga Cathedral which was constructed in 1207 and is today a key symbol of the city.

Be inspired by the Riga Freedom Monument

 

The Freedom Monument � Brivibas Piemineklis � is located near to Riga Old Town and was built in honour of the first independence. It is one of Latvia�s prime national symbols and rather surprisingly the monument was never removed during the Soviet conflict. Atop the monument is a woman who holds three stars to represent the freedom of Latvia�s regions. Also around the Freedom Monument area is the Laima Clock, the Bastejkalns Park and the 1720 merchant�s residence at Mentzendorff House.

Enjoy a performance at the Latvian National Opera House

Get a reservation at the Latvian National Opera whose building dates back to the 19th century and which offers both ballet and opera regularly. There are also guided tours on Fridays where you can learn more about the past of the opera house.

Learn a little at Riga�s Museums

Just as you�d expect from a city that will host the European Capital of Culture, there are more museums in Riga than the average traveller could handle in a month so prior to your visit make a shortlist. Decide which museums interest you the most and which you can combine to fill a day. These are just five of the standout museums;

The Riga Motormuseum contains the vehicles that once belonged to Joseph Stalin, Nikita Kruschev, and Leonid Brezhnev which is a fascinating insight. The Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum is set beside Jugla Lake and has traditional exhibits on display complete with staff in local Latvian costume. The Musee Art Nouveau is set in the heart of the Art Nouveau district and contains pieces of the period. Visit the sombre and thought provoking Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum for eye-opening museum. And the Sun Museum is pretty quirky as it focusses on sun mythology.

Chill out at one of the beautiful and serene Parks

 

For a breath of fresh air head to the Bastejkalns Park which is small but a perfect chillout green space complete with the Bridge of Love which runs over the Pilsetas Canal. This is a great place to propose to your other half as many newlyweds have placed locks on the railings to denote the strength of their love. Other interesting parks in the city include the Vermanes Park which hosts events and concerts and is close to Bastion Hill.

Explore the Art Nouveau district

The city of Riga has the most German Art Nouveau architecture in the world. Known as Jugendstil (youth style), Alberta Street and Elizabetes Street form the heart of the Art Nouveau district and feature many works from the architect Eisenstein, who specialised in the fancy art nouveau style. There are many buildings in the city from the same period such as the embassies on the Raina Bulvaris and also on Strelnieku. Plaques label the buildings and there are also walking and cycling tours of the area.

Enjoy the free activities in Riga
Free entrances around the Town Hall Square region can be obtained at the historical fortification of Triangula Bastion, the small St. John�s Church which features a Renaissance-period altar of Jesus and an impressive Gothic ceiling. The St. Saviour�s Anglican Church offers free concerts each Wednesday and the Museum of the Barricades of 1991 is also free and details the Soviet occupation and fall of the USSR.

If you�ve never seen a Soviet-era monument up close, then check out the Victory Monument which is prime example and certainly the biggest monument from the occupation in the country.

Italy�s Aeolian Islands Travel Guide

The Aeolian islands (Isole Eolie) are a group of attractive islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea about 25-50km north of Sicily in Italy. Formerly off the beaten track, this diverse group of volcanic islands is becoming more popular and can be very busy during July and August. 

If you�re not familiar with Italy�s Aeolian Islands, don�t worry, you�re not alone.

This volcanic archipelago north of Sicily is a popular summer getaway for island-hopping Europeans, but its less-then-accessible location means it�s mostly off the radar for American travelers.

Ann Cochran uncovers the multiple personalities found on these scenic islands.

�Fermate tutti. La pasta e pronto!�

At an evening reception on the island of Salina, with lights twinkling and fishing boats bobbing in the background, the mayor�s wife stopped all song, dance, and conversation with her declaration that the pasta was ready. No one seemed to mind.

All over Italy, it�s all about the food. In the Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie in Italian) they are passionate about their local specialties: fish and capers. And pasta. For dessert, the essences of granita (a semi-frozen treat that originated in Sicily) come locally grown: fig, mint, almond, lemon and blood orange.

The food is so fresh that at noon you might be told there is no menu �because we don�t know what we�re getting in tonight.�

For people who have visited all the major Italian destinations, this spray of volcanic outcroppings can be the next great trip. In the Tyrrhenian Sea about 15-30 miles above Sicily�s northeastern corner, the islands are a protected UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to their value in vulcanology, the study of volcanoes. (The name Aeolian comes from Greek mythology: Aeolus ruled the four winds.)

�Let beauty be seen and cost forgotten,� is a classic line in The Leopard.

With the Aeolian Islands, one might say, �Let beauty be seen and logistics forgotten.�

Although it�s not the easiest place to get to, and there are no commercial airports, it�s well worth any trouble. In fact, the journey may add to their charm. Fly to Sicily or to Naples and take a three to five-hour ferry or hydrofoil to the islands. Once settled in your home base, it�s easy to explore the scenic archipelago.

The Water�s the Thing

Island-hopping is to the Aeolians as town-hopping is to Lake Como, so get thee to a boat. You will glide past volcanic arches, hand-dug caves, and mysterious �crazy water� that seems to be boiling. Two well-regarded tour companies are Salina Relax Boats and Aliante. Bathing suits are mandatory: more swimming is done from boats than beaches in the Aeolians.

 Islands with Distinct Personalities

All all have wild landscapes, sun and sea, fresh fish, and a cornucopia of local fruit and vegetables, but each of the seven inhabited islands has a distinct personality. Populations range from 102 (Alicudi) to 8,538 (Lipari). The largest and most developed are Salina and Lipari, while Filicudi and Alicudi are practically primitive. Stromboli has an active volcano, Vulcano bubbling thermal mud baths, and Panarea is a jet-set (more aptly yacht-set) paradise where one might run into Stromboli�s fashion designer homeowners Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, or their colleague Giorgio Armani fresh off his yacht.

Stromboli

Featured in director Roberto Rossellini�s 1950 film of the same name, this island has Europe�s only dependably active volcano. The landscape has a split personality: one side is rich in wildflowers, caper bushes, and bougainvillea. The �back slope,� where the lava flows, is basic black.

For another Italian islands getaway, try the Off the Brochure Travel Guide: Amalfi Coast and Capri, Italy.

Seeing this natural wonder is a must, so all manner of floating vessels cut their engines after dark. Everyone marvels at the natural golden-red fireworks that burst skyward, launching chunks of lava. Adventurous climbers set out at dusk for three-hour guided hikes up the 3,000-foot peak. Don�t skip the guide or it can be a cold, long climb down.

Panarea

It makes sense that no cars are allowed on the second smallest of the islands, Panarea, which has about 300 year-round residents. Stucco buildings with blue accents remind many visitors of the Greek islands. There are no city lights; instead, hotels provide flashlights. The population explodes in July and August when beautiful young things arrive by yacht (or helicopter), dance til dawn, sleep a bit, then sunbathe and shop. Shopping on Panarea is exquisite and expensive.

In addition to lovely coves to swim in, this island has thermal springs, scuba diving and a shipwreck not far off its shoreline. Amphibia offers instruction and organizes recreational and professional diving. They say one of most interesting dives is to that shipwreck, which lies between the rocky islets of Lisca Bianca and Bottaro.

Salina

Salina�s main street is lined with shops selling ceramics, gourmet food, jewelry, clothing and shoes. Almost every house comes with a view of the sea. There is a small salt lake, seven dormant volcanoes, and plenty of hiking trails. One of the nicest is a four-hour hike on relatively flat land covered in a kind of evergreen Italian version of English heath, from above Pollara around the island to Leni. From Pollara you can also hike down to the pebble cove featured in the 1994 movie Il Postino.

The second-largest and the greenest island is known for its sweet Malvasia dessert wine and native capers that grow on low, flowering bushes all over the island. If you love crowds and local celebrations, the Caper Festival is the first weekend of June. Go to the town of Rinella for speargun fishing. One of the best spas in the islands is at the Signum Hotel. Enjoy delicious granita, the true Italian ice, at Al Fredo�s in the village of Lingua.

Lipari

The main island and the main town, closest to Sicily, is a good base. The Regional Aeolian Archaeological Museum has a well-respected collection of prehistoric to ancient Greek artifacts; some painted pottery treasures are found nowhere else on earth. There is also an excellent vulcanology section. There are lots of shops, hotels, restaurants, and thermal waters. The clear water makes for great diving. There are three diving centers on Lipari, all of which welcome visitors: La Gorgonia, Manta Sub, and Sud Est.

Cards anyone? The Carasco Hotel has weekly bridge tournaments with official umpires and prizes.

Vulcano

Dominated by the Gran Cratere volcano that puffs out clouds of sulphuric gas, this island is known for mud baths born of thermal springs (both a public option and the private Therasia spa), its black beach (Spiaggia di Sabbia Nera), and volcano hikes.
Filicudi

If you are spending a lot of time (more than four days) in the Aeolian Islands, take a ride out to Filicudi. They are raw and rocky, devoid of celebrity attention. In Filicudi, fisherman and construction workers gather under awning of Da Nino sul Mare, the island�s only cafe. There are remains of a prehistoric village here; you can see the rock bases of about 30 huts where people lived in 3000 BC.

Where to Stay

There are 89 hotels (only four are five-star) and 137 bed and breakfasts in the Aeolians, which are especially popular and therefore most costly in July and August. Here is a sampling of special lodgings at a variety of price points:

Salina:

•     Capofaro,
•     Hotel Signum and Spa
•     I Cinque Balconi

Lipari:

•     Carasco Hotel
•     Villa Meligunis Hotel

Panarea:

•     Hotel Lisca Bianca

Vulcano:

•     Therasia Resort
•     Hotel Conti

Stromboli:

•     La Sirenetta Park Hotel

Travel Guide: Kunming Stone Forest -Yunnan, China

Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, enjoys great fame among tourists not only because the region features a consistently warm climate, but also thanks to its wonderful vistas and landscapes. Among the most dramatic of these attractions is the Stone Forest (Shilin), known since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 A.D.) as the 'First Wonder of the World.'

It  is in Lunan Yi Nationality Autonomous County, which is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Kunming and requires only a three-hour drive. It covers an area of 400 square kilometers (96,000 acres) and includes both large and small stone forests, as well as many other scenic spots. An old local saying says that 'If you have visited Kunming without seeing the Stone Forest, you have wasted your time.' Truly, the site is one of the most important attractions of Yunnan.

Walking through the site, visitors marvel at the natural stone masterpieces and are bewitched by the intricate formations. The magnificent, strange and steep landscape creates countless labyrinthine vistas, including:

Major Stone Forest, Minor Stone Forest and Naigu Stone Forest, all of which feature stones in various formations. Animals, plants, and even human figures can be found here. Some are elegant, some are rugged, and each is lifelike with its own distinguishing characteristics.

Subterranean Stone Forest in Zhiyun Cave, distributed underground among several caves and occupying a total area of about three square kilometers (720 acres).

Strange Wind Cave, composed of Penfeng Cave, Hongxi Spring and an underground river. From August to November, gales lasting two to three minutes sweep out of the cave every 30 minutes.

Long Lake is a karsts lake that is three kilometers (two miles) long but only 300 meters (zero point two miles) wide. The lake features underwater stalagmites and stalactites and a small island in the center of the water.

The source of the Dadie Waterfall, Ba River, is a branch of Nanpan River. In the rainy season, up to 150 cubic meters (196 cubic yards) of water per square inch plummet down the 88 meter (288 feet) drop.

Geologists say the Stone Forest is a typical example of karsts topography. Approximately 270 million years ago - during the carboniferous period of the Paleozoic era - the region was a vast expanse of sea. Over time, the movements of the lithosphere gradually caused a retreat of the waters and the rise of the limestone landscape. Due to constant erosion by the elements, the area finally developed into the present-day appearance. 

Many beautiful legends originate in this magical place, passed along by the native people known as Sani, a branch of the Yi ethnic group. One particular story about the faithful love of Ashima, a beautiful, clever and warm-hearted Sani girl, is the most popular and has been told for thousands of years. The Sani people celebrate their national festival - the Torch Festival - every lunar year on June 24. They take part in traditional performances such as wrestling, bull fighting, pole-climbing, dragon-playing, lion-dancing and the A-xi Moon Dance. During this time, the place is alive with a particularly joyful, festive atmosphere, making the area even more attractive than usual. However, the Stone Forest - with its sculptures engraved by nature, herself - is always a true miracle for visitors to behold.

• Admission Fee:     CNY 175 (including Major/ Minor/ Naigu Stone Forest, Wannianlingzhi Scenic Area, Bushao Mountain and Liziyuanqing Scenic Area)
   
• Recommended Time for a Visit:     Two hours
   
• Opening Hours:     08:30 to 18:00
   
• Transportation:     Kunming East Coach Station (at the East 3rd Ring Road area) has regular buses to the site. The frequency is 20-30 minutes in peak season and about 40 minutes in low season.
  Beside the entrance of Stone Forest, there are regular buses to Naigu Stone Forest Scenic Area every 40 minutes. Kunming Bus Search

Source: travelchinaguide.com

6 Most Romantic Valentine�s Destinations on Earth

By Julie Bowman

puretravel.com

It�s that time again folks! It�s time to pull out all the stops and show the loved one in your life a Valentine�s Day to remember (for all the right reasons!) This year skip the cheap chocolates and half-dead flowers and instead treat your beloved to a trip to one of the most romantic valentine�s destinations on earth;

Paris in France
 

Paris is known as the �City of Love� for a very good reason! It�s historically romantic charm offers couples a Valentine�s Day to remember. Imagine toasting on top of the Eiffel Tower, viewing priceless works of art at the Louvre, taking in a romantic opera and capping the day off at cosy corner bistro for some fine French wine and delicious food. A bit of planning is necessary to pull off a romantic rendezvous of this calibre. There are numerous amazing things to do and countless romantic hotels to choose from and for something a little different, consider a stay at a city center hotel which has a spa and good room service. You simply cannot go wrong with any number of the classic French bistros that skirt Paris�s tree-lined streets. They provide the perfect setting to sip a glass of wine together. The city lights at night reflecting in your lover�s eyes across from you might just provide enough inspiration to pop the big question (no pressure then!)

Hoi An in Vietnam
 

Hoi An is probably the most romantic destination in all of Southeast Asia, with quaint streets lined with traditional Vietnamese merchants houses. The enchanting riverside restaurants and unique shops are one of a kind. Ornately decorated with majestic lights and lovely vines, spending quality time at a caf� by the river with the sun setting in the distance is the perfect setting for romance. After dinner, light a couple of candlelit paper boats together and watch them float down the moonlit river. This will provide the perfect special moment for a proposal. Thankfully mopeds are banned from the center of Hoi An so you and your loved one can stroll the streets to the impossibly romantic Japanese Bridge in peace. The bridge is so beautiful that it inspired Monet�s masterpiece, �Garden at Giverny: Japanese Bridge�.

New Zealand

Home to the most enchanting and dramatic landscapes in the world, New Zealand provides the perfect Valentine�s Day setting for adventurous spirits. A seaside cottage in the beautiful port city of Auckland will provide a wonderfully romantic setting. Imagine strolling down the coast hand in hand watching the numerous boats sailing off into the sunset. A sunset cruise for just the two of you would be quite romantic. If that isn�t your cup of tea, a rustic retreat in New Zealand�s famous mountain landscape offers a truly romantic experience. And if your other half is a fan of The Hobbit and Lord of The Rings, they�ll be in their element here as the landscapes come to live.

The Taj Mahal at Agra in India

The mighty Taj Mahal is possibly the most romantic building on earth. After all the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built it in 1653 as a shrine to his beloved third wife Mumtaz Mahal. Today, this is a classic destination; the Taj Mahal provides a romantic setting like no other. Imagine arriving at dawn to witness the morning sun rise against the Taj Mahal�s stone artifice. After witnessing one of the most amazing sites in the world, escape hand in hand into one of the amazing gardens that offer a perfect proposal opportunity.

New York in USA

Famous for its Time Square New Year�s Eve celebrations, New York City provides lovers with another wonderful Valentine�s Day retreat. Here, you can spend the day taking in world class museums and the night watching a romantic Broadway play. Afterwards, stroll down to Time Square and have a little fun. Cap off the evening at a high-rise suite overlooking the gorgeous lights of the city below. It is sure to be Valentine�s Day to remember. This has to be the ultimate Valentine�s destination for those that love a city break like no other.

Jamaica
 

Imagine spending Valentine�s Day together walking on the pearl white sands of Negril�s famous beaches with the turquoise waters of the Caribbean glistening in the background. The island of Jamaica truly is a romantic paradise worthy of the special day. The west end of the island is home to two of the most romantic Caribbean destinations, Negril and Montego Bay. There are many lavish all-inclusive resorts to choose from, offering champagne service overlooking the most beautiful waters in the world. A seaside candlelit dinner provides a romantic setting like no other. If a proposal is in mind, there is no better place than this.

Top 7 Things to do in Berlin Germany

By: Julie Bowman
 from PureTravel.com

The city of Berlin has emerged as a glamorous and cultural city break destination, with plenty going on around the clock. By day there�s top museums and popular art galleries to explore and by night there�s opulent opera performances and a plethora of culinary delights on offer. As the capital city of Germany, Berlin is the new cool trendy destination, with funky young artists, designers and musicians setting up here. Berlin hosted the European Capital of Culture in 1988.

Get a serious museum fix in Berlin

One of the things that make Berlin one of the most popular tourist destinations is its history. Rich in art, war relics and religious artifacts, Berlin�s museums are as enchanting as they are interesting. Visit Berlin�s Museum Island to enjoy the city�s 5 most loved and famous museums; The Altes Museum, The Bode Museum, The Alte Nationalgalerie, The Pergamon Museum and The Neues Museum are internationally renowned institutions and their galleries and exhibition halls are home to Byzantine art, historical architectural structures and the Egyptian bust of Nefertiti! If you are an avid history fan and these five museums just aren�t enough, head to the Dahlem Museums or the Museum of Decorative Arts.

Browse the achingly cool art galleries
No trip to Berlin is complete without indulging in its dynamic and ever growing galleries. Direktorenhaus, VeneKlasen/Werner, DNA and Galerie Max Hetzler are just some of the versatile and happening galleries to visit. Visit these to get a taste of the old and new Berlin, to experience a mixture of the art that is pushing the envelope yet merging with existing culture. If you�re a fan of European artwork head to Berlin�s picture gallery which has quite a diverse collection of European paintings.

A visit to the Brandenburg Gate is a must
The Brandenburg Gate (Tor) is a world famous landmark and has remained architecturally unchanged since it was built in 1791. Built in the Greek Revival style, it�s famous for uniting the two previously divided parts of Berlin city, the Brandenburg Gate marks a classical turn for architecture and has a deep significance for Berlin. The gate is made up of 12 Doric columns and is a symbol of peace and pride for Berlin. Visitors to the Brandenburg Gate are awed by its splendid design and architecture and absorbed into the many roles it has played for its city including the setting for various presidential speeches, World Cup football matches and rock concerts.

Take a moment to reflect at the Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall needs no introduction and if there was only one place you could visit in Berlin, it has got to be this world famous wall. Built in 1961 to separate West Berlin from East Berlin and East Germany. It spanned 155 km (96 mi) in total and many people of a certain age remember where they were when the wall was toppled on 9 November 1989. Take a bike tour of this wall and hear the many stories that still haunt this wall that once divided the world. Parts of the reconstructed wall have been converted into an art memorial while others have been left as they were. Get a tour guide to brief you on the war history or just take in the structure and read the many messaged drawn and written on the wall.

Check out Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie is an ex-United States controlled check point that divided East and West Berlin during the cold war. The check point was recreated, complete with its �actor� soldiers and history boards for visitors to enjoy. There is even a replica of the checkpoint guard house and the wall records the different accounts of the people that tried to escape the war in the east. While Checkpoint Charlie might seem odd today, this was the site where the Soviet Union and American tanks had a go at each other during the war. The Checkpoint Charlie Museum also features many exhibits from the Cold War era.

Bundestag and observation decks
Bundestag and its observation decks should definitely make it to the list of top things to do in Berlin. While Berlin does not really have too many contemporary buildings, the Bundestag or The Parliament of the Federal Republic of Germany definitely offers a breath taking view of the city from its beautiful and sunlit observation decks. This Parliament building is one of the most visited parliaments in the whole world and its history goes back to the 19th century. From art exhibitions to film and light projection, to a memorial wall, this Parliament is quite far from boring. Enjoy being at the top of the building and take in the city from within the glass dome. While Bundestag is a great place to visit, wear comfortable clothes and shoes as there are always long lines here because of intense security checks.

Explore Potsdam
Berlin together with Potsdam (the capital of neighbouring Brandenburg) is a collective UNESCO site praised for their palaces and parks. There is over 500 hectares of parklands and some 150 buildings that make up the World Heritage List, which was first inscribed on 1990. Potsdam dates back to the 10th century and notable parks include the sprawling Sanssouci Park with its vineyards and the intricately ornate rococo palace of Castle Sanssouci (Schloss) which srved as the summer palace of Frederick the Great. Explore the beautiful Babelsberg Park which contains a castle built in gothic style and the New Garden which is home to the Marmorpalais and also the Palace Cecilienhof. There are also several notable museums in Potsdam including the Museum of Natural History, movie themepark Babelsberg and the Gem�ldegaleria art museum.

Top 10 Eastern European Getaways

For years Eastern Europe was the undiscovered half of the continent � but things have changed. The diverse highlights of Eastern Europe are now drawing travellers by the trainload. Here are our top 10 Eastern European getaways.

1. Julian Alps, Slovenia

The Julian Alps form Slovenia�s dramatic northwest frontier with Italy. Triglav National Park includes almost all of the Alps lying within Slovenia and its centrepiece is Mt Triglav. Our favorite spot within the park? The incredibly scenic Vr�ic Pass.

2. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Hercegovina
 

In the 1990s Sarajevo was on the edge of annihilation. Today it�s a cosy, vibrant capital whose humanity, cafe scene and East-meets-West ambience make it a favourite European summer destination. (Also handy for good-value skiing in winter.)

3. Mljet Island, Croatia
 

Of all the Adriatic islands, Mljet (Meleda in Italian) may be the most seductive. Over 72% of the island is covered by forests and the rest is dotted by fields, vineyards and small villages. Take the ferry from Dubrovnik and stay a few days of hiking, cycling and boating.


4. Orheiul Vechi, Moldova 

The Orheiul Vechi Monastery Complex, carved into a massive limestone cliff in this wild, rocky, remote spot is unquestionably Moldova�s most fantastic sight. The Cave Monastery was dug by Orthodox monks in the 13th century.
 

Today�s Tallinn fuses the medieval and the cutting edge � an intoxicating mix of ancient church spires, shiny skyscrapers, cosy wine cellars, sun-filled town squares, bike paths to beaches and forests � and a few Soviet throwbacks for added spice.

6. Loket, Czech Republic
 

Nestled in a bend of the Ohre River, Loket is a gorgeous place with a chocolate-box-style town square. Most people visit Loket as a day trip from Karlovy Vary, but it�s also a relaxing place to ease off the travel accelerator for a few days.


7. Torun, Poland
 

The first thing to strike you about Torun, south of Gdansk, is its massive red-brick churches, looking more like fortresses than places of worship. The city is defined by its striking Gothic architecture, which gives its Old Town a distinctive appearance and its promotional slogan: gotyk na dotyk (�Touch Gothic�).


8. �diar, Slovakia
 

Decorated timber cottages line long and narrow �diar, the only mountain settlement inhabited since the 16th century. Several sections of the village are historical reservations, including the �diar House Museum, a tiny placewith colorful local costumes and furnishings.


9. Riga, Latvia
 

Riga has the largest and most impressive showing of art nouveau architecture in Europe � gargoyles and goddesses adorn over 750 buildings along the stately boulevards � while the Old Town is a fairy-tale kingdom of winding wobbly lanes and gingerbread trim that beats to the sound of a pumping discotheque.

10. Minsk, Belarus
 

Minsk will almost certainly surprise you. Here fashionable cafes, wi-fi�enabled restaurants, crowded bars and art galleries vie for your attention. There are relatively few traditional sights in the city but myriad places of interest for anyone fascinated by the Soviet period.

Travel Guide - Trunk Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands

By:  Valerie Conners and Jennifer Plum Auvil

Travelchannel.com

Nearly 50 years after Laurence S. Rockefeller donated Trunk Bay to the National Park Service, making it part of Virgin Islands National Park, the beach and offshore coral reefs remain among St. John's most breathtaking and well-preserved attractions.

Considered the most beautiful beach on the island and often called the most pristine in the Caribbean, Trunk Bay's clear, warm waters and silky coral sands draw tourists in droves, and its well-maintained facilities include chair and snorkel equipment rentals and showers.

Visitors can bask in the tropical sun, snorkel the 225-yard-long Underwater Trail of reefs, or try their hand at underwater photography - the clean water and variety of colorful sea life promise spectacular photo opportunities.

Tourists looking for more active pursuits than sunbathing and snorkeling can opt to explore the park, which consists of hiking trails, and the ruins of historic sugar plantations, remnants of St. John's Danish colonial past.

After a long day of lounging or touring, island visitors can absorb the island's relaxed atmosphere over a sunset dinner at one of St. John's romantic restaurants, or they can dance the tropical night away at a local club while sipping frozen, fruity cocktails.

Child-Friendliness
rating: 4 of 5
more: Trunk Bay's calm waters, water-sport rental options and various outdoor activities make it a popular place for families.
 

Swimming
rating: 4 of 5
more: The crystalline waters of Trunk Bay remain warm year-round, and the tranquil surf makes it a safe place to swim.
 

Sand
rating: 4 of 5
more: Smooth, clean, white sands beckon visitors to unfurl a blanket, stretch out and indulge.
 

Atmosphere
rating: 3 of 5
more: The beach, its waters and surrounding cliffs are perfect, but Trunk Bay's popularity draws tourists in droves, and the beach occasionally gets overcrowded.
 

Non-Beach Activities
rating: 3 of 5
more: Options to hike and visit historic plantations exist, but most visitors prefer waterfront activities like swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling or sailing to the island's interior for more options.

Accommodations
 

Where to Stay:
 

Best Luxury Accommodations
Caneel Bay Resort
Web site: www.caneelbay.com
Considered one of the Caribbean's most exclusive resorts, Caneel Bay sprawls across 170 lush island acres, and resort guests are privy to seven secluded beaches. Accommodations include 166 guest rooms and cottages constructed to blend with the landscape, rather than obscure it. The resort prides itself on removing guests from the bustle of their everyday worlds and guests are assured they will not encounter phones or TVs in their rooms. The resort allows guests to take advantage of Sun Fish sailboats and kayaks, scuba clinics, beach barbecues and island tours. After they've worked up an appetite relaxing on the beach, guests can indulge in dinner at the Wine Room, located in the candlelit ruins of an 18th-century sugar mill.

Best Family Resort
Westin Resort St. John
Web site: www.westinresortstjohn.com
The Westin is the embodiment of all things resort: the 34-acre property is dotted with 13 accommodation buildings linked by walkways and gardens and features the island's largest pool, a 1,200-foot-wide beach and every child's delight - the Westin Kids Club. Exclusive to little ones, the club is for children ages 3 to 12 and offers half-day, full-day and evening programs filled with outdoor and indoor activities, so Mom and Dad can enjoy a little alone time. When joining the Kids Club at check-in, children receive a coloring book and bath toys, as well as a sippy cup or sports bottle they can use for complimentary beverages during their stay.

Best Eco-Friendly Lodging
Harmony Studios
Web site: www.maho.org/harmony.cfm
At Harmony Studios, eco-savvy guests can rest easy knowing their studio dwellings are constructed of mostly recycled materials like "plastic lumber" and recycled glass tiles, are powered by sun and wind, and were built to best preserve St. John's ecosystem, including studios connected by raised walkways to prevent the land getting trampled. Harmony Studios may be simple, but its guests are far from roughing it. In fact, the guest accommodations have large, tiled bathrooms; kitchenettes; and furnished decks often with ocean views.

Best Bed-and-Breakfast
Garden By the Sea
Web site: www.gardenbythesea.com
An intimate bed and breakfast, this inn features only three guestrooms - perfect for couples seeking a private retreat to paradise. The inn is tucked between Frank and Turner Bays, and guests enjoy views of the sparkling waters dotted with sailboats from the main veranda or the privacy of their room's deck. The rooms exude a Caribbean air, painted in bright blues with white accents, and featuring large, wooden canopy beds, stone-walled bathrooms and private decks. Guests can start their day with a delightful meal taken on the veranda, which is surrounded by lush, tropical plants. Breakfast includes fresh fruits, homemade breads and muffins, and quiche or French toast.

Food & Drink
 

Where to Eat:
 

Best Fresh Seafood
Asolare
This elegant, open-air restaurant has long been considered one of St. John's finest; the menu consistently boasts an abundance of freshly prepared seafood and a unique, Eurasian-themed menu. To start, try the lemongrass steamed mussels or the visually striking tower of tuna and salmon tartare layered with flavored sushi rice served over a wakami salad with a wasabi-soy vinaigrette. Main courses include salmon served with a Thai mint-truffle sauce; baked catfish in a plum-cocoa-curry sauce served with an udon galette; and sashimi tuna with a passion fruit-sake vinaigrette. Arrive early enough and watch the sunset from your dinner table - the restaurant overlooks lovely Cruz Bay.

Best Island Nightlife
Duffy's Love Shack
Web site: www.duffysloveshack.com
No trip to the islands is complete without a little nighttime debauchery among locals, and the favorite place to clink margarita glasses on St. John is at Duffy's Love Shack, a bona fide thatched roof bar, with indoor and outdoor decks linked by rope bridges. After one or two Duffito Mojitos (mint, cane sugar, rum and lime) or Booty Calls (bananas, Irish cream and pi??a colada), guests are sure to shake their own booties to the DJ's tunes. Should you be around for Taco Tuesday, indulge in tacos, shots and upside-down margaritas while playing "pin the tail on the burro." In the mood for lobster with your frozen drink? Thursdays are Lobster Lunacy nights: lobster, salad, vegetables, corn on the cob and rice. Just remember: Duffy's is cash only.

Best Beach Picnic Takeout
Uncle Joe's Barbecue
Imagine spreading out a blanket on the smooth white sands of a Caribbean island beach, turquoise waters yards away, and unwrapping a picnic of barbecue ribs and chicken legs? That's right. Islanders in the know say Uncle Joe's cooks up some of the tastiest and juiciest barbecue anywhere, and the establishment boasts some of St. John's cheapest treats. Meals come with corn on the cob, rice and a scoop of coleslaw or macaroni salad. Though eating at one of Uncle Joe's few sidewalk tables is an option, most folks prefer getting takeout for impromptu seaside dining.

Activities
 

What to Do
 

Best Historic Adventure
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
Web site: www.nps.gov/viis
When Danish settlers arrived on St. John in the 1700s, they took advantage of the island's copious sugar cane and built more than 25 sugar mills, the best preserved being the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, built in 1718. The mill produced rum and molasses as well as sugar, and slaves operated the mill until the island's Dutch colonial era ended in 1848. The plantation is now part of Virgin Islands National Park and allows visitors to experience a sense of both the island's colonial past and post-emancipation culture. The Park Service offers self-guided and ranger-guided tours of the historic factory ruins, slave quarters, windmill and other remains.

Best Underwater Fun
Snorkel Trunk Bay
Web site: www.nps.gov/viis
Filled with colorful corals and fish, Trunk Bay's crystalline turquoise waters are a snorkeler's paradise, and perfect for first-time or inexperienced underwater adventurers as well as the pros. The bay's warm waters feature more than 650 feet of underwater trails marked with signs offering information about coral and sea life in the region. Snorkel equipment and floatation devices are available to rent at the beach's gift shop.

Best Day Trip
Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Isles
Web site: motoryachtcinnamonbay.com
Once they climb aboard the Motor Yacht Cinnamon Bay for transportation to magnificent Virgin Gorda, guests are all but guaranteed a luxurious trip. This mahogany wood yacht was formerly used by the Rockefeller family and boasts awnings, showers and a wet bar. Upon arriving at the Virgin Gorda baths, guests are surrounded by sparkling pools filled with warm turquoise water and grottos formed by boulders that lie on the beaches. Snorkel, dive from boulders, or relax and wander through the grottos, stopping to grab an icy drink at Poor Man's Bar on the beach.

Best Outdoor Adventure Trail
Reef Bay Trail
Web site: www.nps.gov/viis
The Reef Bay trailhead at Centerline Road winds down St. John's tallest mountain peaks, descending some 947 feet, and takes hikers through a subtropical forest filled with exotic plant life (including mango and lime trees), past now-defunct sugar mills and horse mills reminiscent of colonial days gone by, and a must-hike side trail that heads down to a 40-foot waterfall and freshwater pool surrounded by rocks carved with petroglyphs. This magical, mysterious spot has long been an enigma to locals and scholars alike, though several unproved theories exist as to who carved the petroglyphs. Get back on the main trail and head down to Reef Bay to explore the ruins of the Reef Bay Sugar Mill. The trail is part of Virgin Islands National Park; the park visitor's center in Cruz Bay offers guided hikes and provides transportation to the trailhead and a boat ride back to Cruz Bay from the trail's end &mdash saving weary hikers the uphill trek home.

Top 10 Little-Known Dream Islands

Head to one of these "undiscovered" islands, where you'll find that dream beach vacation � minus the crowds

By ShermansTravel Editorial Staff
ShermansTravel.com

Everyone loves a little slice of island paradise! Unfortunately, that's the problem with an island beach vacation � you're often forced to share your stretch of sand with countless others in search of a little R & R. If you're looking for an island getaway minus the crowds, we've rounded up 10 little-known dream islands around the world where you'll find just that � and while you may have to work a little harder and travel a little longer to get there, you'll be rewarded with deserted beaches, fascinating culture, exotic cuisine, and the satisfaction of "discovering" a fabulous, off-the-beaten-path island destination. And if you've heard of every island on our list, pat yourself on the back � you're a well-traveled wanderer whose passport must be well-worn from use! 

Culebra, Puerto Rico

Madonna has La Isla Bonita, but the rest of us have La Isla Chiquita, a nickname for this little island just east of the Puerto Rican mainland whose coat of arms features a scepter and a snake. As if that weren�t cool enough, Culebra�s most attention-grabbing feature is its day-glo blue waters, made particularly clear and brilliant by the absence of any run-off. And with its miles of sandy beaches, some evocatively peppered with disused American military hardware, this is a mighty pleasant isle to run off to. This onetime pirate�s lair is now the domain of nesting green sea turtles, brown boobies ,and savvy visitors who know that it�s just an easy ferry ride from Fajardo (on Puerto Rico) that transports them to this Caribbean dream.

Ile d�Orleans, Quebec, Canada

It may be located just over three miles from Quebec City, but Ile d�Orleans is without question a treasure island. Its long and slender form parked in a wide section of the St. Lawrence River gives it a Manhattan-style aspect, but in every other it�s the polar opposite. Peaceful and green, Ile d�Orleans is like a microcosm of the Quebecois countryside, and it packs quite a bit of history. The ancient Huron called it �Minigo,� meaning �Enchantress.� Jacques Cartier stepped ashore in 1535 and was also presumably enchanted, not least by the wild grapes he found growing on the island. French colonial history runs deep here, in spots like Le Manoir Mauvide-Genest, built in 1734 and now a heritage museum. Drive along the meandering roads and stop to buy some of the sweetest strawberries you�ll find anywhere. From one point you can see the Montmorency Falls. Get to the island via the Ile d�Orleans Bridge from the mainland.

Fakarava, French Polynesia

photo: corbisimages.com

Overshadowed in popularity by neighbors Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea, Fakarava is a pristine Polynesian island enveloped by a coral reef and blue lagoon waters. It's part of a UNESCO nature reserve and rich in natural fauna, offers pink-sand beaches, and is rife with rare aquatic life that includes loach, meru, and barracuda � not to mention hammerhead and tiger sharks. Not surprisingly, scuba diving is this undiscovered island�s top draw, but other attractions include the ancient village of Tetamanu (www.tetamanuvillage.pf), where you�ll find a Catholic church made of coral that dates back to 1874, and pearl farms, where rare black pearls are shelled.

Ponza, Italy

Ponza is the largest of the Pontine Islands, a stunning volcanic archipelago just off the western coast of Lazio, midway between Rome and Naples. But it�s still pretty small, just 5.5 miles long by 1.5 miles wide (at the widest). Foreign visitors remain something of a rarity, but many Italians, including some famous fashionistas are known to frolic on the island. Here, visitors spend warm lazy days at pristine beaches such as Chiaia di Luna (Half Moon Beach), and scuba dive to discover such underwater treasures as sunken ships and coral beds. According to Andrea Sertoli of Select Italy, which can customize tours to Ponza and neighboring islands, �everyone runs to Capri, but Ponza has escaped mass tourism and remains a secret gem.� Avoid the craziness of Naples by taking a ferry from Terracina or Formio instead.

Surin Islands, Thailand

photo:claudiumdiewelt.de

The Surin Islands are located some 43 miles offshore from Thailand�s Phang Nga province, which is centered on the mainland�s Andaman Sea coast. Cinema buffs may recognize the area�s exquisitely chiseled rock formations, which seem to rise straight up from the sea, from the James Bond classic The Man with the Golden Gun, part of which was filmed on an island in Phang Nga bay. But the Surin archipelago, which numbers five islands, takes unspoiled and exotic to the next level: the whole chain is a national park, famous for its pristine coral reefs. One of the best scuba spots in these parts (or anywhere, for that matter) is Richelieu Rock, a reef with a wealth of purple corals discovered by Jacques Cousteau. Here the likes of parrotfish, rainbow wrasse, and whale sharks, the so-called �kind giants of the sea,� abound. For those who prefer to stick to the shore, the islands offer plenty of bleach-white sandy beaches and other placid charms. You can take a nature hike on the largest of the Surins, Ko Surin Nuea, but look out for flying lemurs. To get to the Surin Islands, take a ferry from points along the Phang Nga coast.

Lamu, Kenya

Kenya�s oldest living settlement, Lamu boasts golden sands fronting the Indian Ocean, tiny villages, and a breezy, slow-moving pace of life. It's an undiscovered island that offers a glimpse into the past � a place where donkeys are the main mode of transportation and residents still keep their arms and legs covered out of respect while out in town (it is strictly Islamic). The rich atmosphere and history alone makes Lamu worth the trek, but so do its beaches: Shela Beach offers the best swimming, while excursions to ruins and coral reefs could have you snorkeling alongside frolicking dolphins.

Monhegan Island, Maine

Though artists have sought out this remote, car-free destination for over a century, Monhegan largely remains an undiscovered island. Full-time residents number around 75, whose main occupation is fishing or lobstering supplemented by an artists� colony and tourism. Visitors who make the hour-long ferry ride from the Maine mainland can discover firsthand the beauty and simplicity of the village and surrounding landscape. Lobster Cove in particular draws nature lovers for its bird-watching and coastal views. Don�t miss the Monhegan Museum (www.monheganmuseum.org), housed in what was once a lighthouse and residence � it showcases the history of the community and boasts an extensive collection of local artwork. There are a handful of quaint inns and cottage rentals to choose from, though note that some accommodations are only open May through October.

Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe

Les Saintes, a spectacular cluster of eight undiscovered islands situated just off the coast of Guadeloupe and accessible only by ferry or private yacht, is the very essence of French West Indies life � without the crowds, to boot. Terre-de-Haut is the most appealing of them all, with its attractive beaches, mouth-watering Creole cuisine, and laid-back French-speaking locals; it also has the most options for overnight accommodations of Les Saintes' islands. Beach bums will love the powdery white sands of the palm-lined Plage de Pompierre, while the spectacular underwater world of colorful reefs and exotic fish (attracting divers as renowned as Jacques Cousteau) makes scuba diving and snorkeling another huge draw. Rent a golf cart or motorbike to get around (you won't find much in the way of cars here) and zip around to a different beach at dawn, midday, and dusk.

Water Island, USVI

Water Island is located a stone�s throw (okay, a five-minute ferry ride) from Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands located on the island of Saint Thomas, but in some respects it�s a world away. With fewer than 500 acres, Water Island is the smallest of the USVI. Like other islands in the group, it was a Danish possession before it passed to American hands. Historically, its freshwater ponds � a rarity in these parts � made the island a popular spot for pirates. These days, you can indulge your buccaneer spirit with a swim at Honeymoon Beach or a ramble among the ruins of old cotton plantations. You can camp on the island or ramp up the comfort level with a stay at the Water Island Cottage and Apartments, located on the scenic seaside Providence Point.

 The spectacular underwater world of colorful reefs and exotic fish (attracting divers as renowned as Jacques Cousteau) makes scuba diving and snorkeling another huge draw. Rent a golf cart to get around (you won't find much in the way of cars here) and zip around to a different beach at dawn, midday, and dusk.

Yap, Micronesia

Part of a remote tropical archipelago in the midst of the Pacific, Yap is the most intriguing destination in the island nation of Micronesia. Having managed to escape most outside influences, like colonization and mass tourism, the undiscovered island's traditional way of life remains both authentic and distinct: Legends are portrayed in colorful dances; village women dress in grass skirts, the men in brightly colored loincloths; and ancient stone money discs are still used as local tender (though the U.S. dollar is the official currency). Spend your days hiking among the island's rolling green hills, mangrove forests, and antiquated stone paths or, go off and explore the ocean�s coral reefs and swim with dolphins and magnificent manta rays.