South America
1. Bermuda
The Beach at Astwood Park in Bermuda. [ Photo by Bermuda Ministry of Tourism & Transport / free for use ]
Bermuda is a British overseas territory in the North Atlantic Ocean. Located off the east coast of the United States, its nearest landmass is Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, about 1,030 kilometres (640 mi) to the west-northwest. It is about 1,350 km (840 mi) south of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and 1,770 km (1,100 mi) northeast of Miami, Florida. Its capital city is Hamilton. Sailing, fishing, and equestrian sports are popular with both residents and visitors alike. The prestigious Newport–Bermuda Yacht Race is a more than 100-year old tradition. In 2007, the 16th biennial Marion-Bermuda yacht race occurred. A sport unique to Bermuda is racing the Bermuda Fitted Dinghy. International One Design racing also originated in Bermuda. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
2. Cape Breton Island (Canada)
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia [ Photo by Aconcagua / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Cape Breton Island is an island on the Atlantic coast of North America. It likely corresponds to the French word “Breton”, referring to Brittany. Cape Breton is well known for its traditional fiddle music, which was brought to North America by Scottish immigrants during the Highland Clearances. The traditional style has been well preserved in Cape Breton, and céilidhs have become a popular attraction for summer tourists. Inverness County in particular has a heavy concentration of musical activity, with regular performances in communities such as Mabou and Judique. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
3. Prince Edward Island (Canada)
Panoramic view of New Glasgow, Prince Edward Island. [ Photo by Chensiyuan / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Prince Edward Island is a Canadian province consisting of an island of the same name, as well as other islands. The maritime province is the smallest in the nation in both land area and population (excluding the territories). The island’s lush landscape has had a strong bearing on its economy and its culture. Author Lucy Maud Montgomery drew inspiration from the land during the late Victorian Era for the setting of her classic novel Anne of Green Gables. Today, many of the same qualities that Montgomery and others found in the island are enjoyed by tourists who visit during all seasons. They enjoy a variety of leisure activities, including beaches, various golf courses, eco-tourism adventures, and simply touring the countryside and enjoying cultural events in local communities around the island. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
4. Saltspring Island (Canada)
View of Fulford Harbour from Mount Maxwell on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, Canada [ Photo by Paperandglue / public domain ]
Saltspring Island (also known as Salt Spring Island) is one of the Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia between mainland British Columbia, Canada and Vancouver Island. It is the largest, the most populous, and the most frequently visited of the Gulf Islands. The island was initially inhabited by various Salishan peoples before being settled by pioneers in 1859, at which time it was officially called “Admiral Island.” It was the first of the Gulf Islands to be settled and the first agricultural settlement on the islands in the Colony of Vancouver Island, as well as the first island in the region to permit settlers to acquire land through pre-emption. The island was retitled to its current name in 1910. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
5. Big Island (Hawaii, USA)
Three Waikupanaha and one Ki lava ocean entries as well as surface lava flow are seen at the image. [ Photo by Mila Zinkova / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Island of Hawaii, also called the Big Island or Hawai?i Island, is a volcanic island in the North Pacific Ocean. In 2003 alone, according to state government data (see), there were over 6.4 million visitors to the Hawaiian Islands with expenditures of over $10 billion. Due to the mild year-round weather, tourist travel is popular throughout the year. The summer months and major holidays are the most popular times for outsiders to visit, however, especially when residents of the rest of the United States are looking to escape from cold, winter weather. The Japanese, with their economic and historical ties to Hawaii and the USA as well as relative geographical proximity, are also principal tourists. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
6. Kauai (Hawaii, USA)
Photo of Kaui mountains. [ Photo by Remember / public domain ]
Kauaʻi or Kauai is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. With an area of 552.3 square miles (1,430.5 km2), it is the fourth largest of the main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago and the 21st largest island in the United States. Known also as the “Garden Isle”, Kauaʻi lies 105 miles (170 kilometers) across the Kauaʻi Channel, northwest of Oʻahu. The United States Census Bureau defines Kauaʻi as Census Tracts 401 through 409 of Kauaʻi County, Hawaiʻi, which is all of the county except for the islands of Kaʻula, Lehua, and Niʻihau. The 2000 census population of Kauaʻi (the island) was 58,303. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
7. Oahu (Hawaii, USA)
Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place”, is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and most populous of the islands in the State of Hawaiʻi. The state capital Honolulu is located on the southeast coast. Including small close-in offshore islands such as Ford Island and the islands in Kaneohe Bay and off the eastern (windward) coast, it has a total land area of 596.7 square miles (1,545.4 km2), making it the 20th largest island in the United States. It is also the most populous island in the Western Hemisphere that neither contains a national capital nor possesses a road or rail connection to a national capital. In greatest dimension, this volcanic island is 44 miles (71 km) long and 30 miles (48 km) across. The length of the shoreline is 227 miles (365 km). The island is the result of two separate shield volcanoes: Waiʻanae and Koʻolau, with a broad “valley” or saddle (the central Oʻahu Plain) between them. The highest point is Mt. Ka’ala in the Waiʻanae Range, rising to 4,003 feet (1,220 m) above sea level. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
8. Mackinac Island (USA)
A view of the island atop the Fort. [ Photo by Bardya / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Mackinac Island is an island covering 3.8 square miles (9.8 km2) in land area, part of the U.S. state of Michigan. It is located in Lake Huron, at the eastern end of the Straits of Mackinac, between the state’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The island was home to a Native American settlement before European exploration began in the 17th century. It served a strategic position amidst the commerce of the Great Lakes fur trade. This led to the establishment of Fort Mackinac on the island by the British during the American Revolutionary War. It was the scene of two battles during the War of 1812. In the late 19th century, Mackinac Island became a popular tourist attraction and summer colony. Much of the island has undergone extensive historical preservation and restoration; as a result, the entire island is listed as a National Historic Landmark. (based on a wikipedia article /cc by-sa)
9. Santa Catalina Island (USA)
Avalon Bay (composite photograph) [ Photo by Aaron Logan / CC BY 1.0 ]
Santa Catalina Island, often called Catalina Island, or just Catalina, is a rocky island off the coast of the U.S. state of California. The island is 22 miles (35 km) long and eight miles (13 km) across at its greatest width. The island is located about 22 miles (35 km) south-southwest of Los Angeles, California. About a million tourists visit the island every year; Catalina is serviced by ferries and the “Airport in the Sky.” Ferries depart from Orange County in Newport Beach and Dana Point, while they depart from Los Angeles County in Long Beach, San Pedro, and Marina del Rey. The trip takes approximately an hour and costs approx $65 round trip. Helicopter service is also available from Long Beach or San Pedro. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
10. Hilton Head Island (USA)
Sunset on Hilton Head Island [ Photo by Lee Coursey / CC BY 2.0 ]
Hilton Head Island or Hilton Head is a town (located on an island of the same name) in Beaufort County, South Carolina, United States. It is 20 miles (32 km) north of Savannah, Georgia, and 95 miles (153 km) south of Charleston. The island features 12 miles (19 km) of beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular vacation destination. Approximately 70% of the island, including most of the tourist areas, is located inside gated communities. However, the Town maintains several public beach access points, including one for the exclusive use of town residents, who have approved several multi-million dollar land-buying bond referendums to control commercial growth. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
11. Key West (USA)
Panorama of a Key West beach in Florida [ Photo by david.orban / CC BY 2.0 ]
Key West is an island in the Straits of Florida on the North American continent at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys. Key West is politically within the limits of the city of Key West, Monroe County, Florida, United States. The city also occupies nearby islands and portions of nearby islands. The original Key West neighborhood in the west (although perceived as south) is called “Old Town” and comprises the Key West Historic District. It includes the major tourist destinations of the island, including Mallory Square, Duval Street, the Truman Annex and Fort Zachary Taylor. It is where are found the classic bungalows and guest mansions. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
12. Martha’s Vineyard (USA)
Morning at Vineyard Haven [ Photo by quinn.anya / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Martha’s Vineyard (including the smaller Chappaquiddick Island) is an island off the south of Cape Cod in New England. The islands both form a part of the Outer Lands region. The Vineyard grew as a tourist destination primarily because of its very pleasant summer weather (during summers, the temperature rarely breaks 90°F) and many beautiful beaches. It is primarily a place where people go to relax. Most social life and activity takes place at people’s houses, not in the very small towns. During the whaling era, wealthy Boston sea captains and merchant traders often created estates on Martha’s Vineyard with their trading profits. Today, the Vineyard has become one of the Northeast’s most prominent summering havens, having attracted numerous celebrity regulars. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
13. Mount Desert Island (USA)
The Bowl Pond and the Beehive, with the Atlantic Ocean behind. Mt. Desert Island [ Photo by Jay Woodworth / CC BY 2.0 ]
Mount Desert Island, in Hancock County, Maine, is the largest island off the coast of Maine. With an area of 108 square miles (280 km²) it is the 6th largest island in the continental United States. Though it is often claimed to be the third largest island on the eastern seaboard of the United States, it is actually second behind only Long Island (and ahead of Martha’s Vineyard). Tourism was becoming the major industry. Catering to the rusticators and summer tourists visiting island towns, in particular Bar Harbor, Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, and other Wabanaki Indians sold baskets, bark canoes, bead work, carved clubs, and other crafts, offered guide services, and put on ‘Indian shows.’ During the summer season, dozens of families from several tribes lived in canvas tents and wooden shacks in the “Indian encampment” on the shores of Frenchman Bay. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
14. Nantucket (USA)
Nantucket [ Photo by Bobak / CC BY-SA 2.5 ]
Nantucket is an island 30 miles (48.3 km) south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in the United States. Together with the small islands of Tuckernuck and Muskeget, it constitutes the town of Nantucket, Massachusetts, and the coterminous Nantucket County, which are consolidated. Part of the town is designated the Nantucket CDP, or census designated place. The region of Surfside on Nantucket is the southernmost settlement in Massachusetts. Nantucket is a tourist destination and summer colony. The population of the island soars from approximately 10,000 to 50,000 during the summer months, due to tourists and summer residents. According to Forbes Magazine, in 2006, Nantucket had the highest median property value of any Massachusetts zip code. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
15. San Juan Islands (USA)
One of the San Juan Islands at Night [ Photo by Maia! / free for use ]
The San Juan Islands are a part of the San Juan Archipelago in the northwest corner of the continental United States. The archipelago is split into two groups of islands based on national sovereignty. San Juan Islands are part of the U.S. state of Washington, while the Gulf Islands are part of the Canadian province of British Columbia. There are over 450 islands in the entire archipelago at high tide, but fewer than one-sixth are permanently inhabited. Today, the San Juan Islands are an important tourist destination, with sea kayaking and orca whale-watching by boat or air tours, two of the primary attractions. Part of the charm that attracts tourists and residents to the San Juan Islands is that each island seems to have a character of its own, both in terms of geography and of the lifestyle of the people who live there. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
South America
16. Ilha Grande (Brazil)
Praia da Feiticeira [ Photo by Valdiney Pimenta / CC BY 2.0 ]
Ilha Grande is an island located off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, and part of the municipality of Angra dos Reis. The island is largely undeveloped and noted for its scenic beauty, which includes tropical beaches, luxuriant vegetation and a rugged landscape. The entire island is a protected area, with most of its territory included in Ilha Grande State Park, and the rest subject to stringent development restrictions. Small-scale ecotourism, however, is encouraged, and the island, which is roadless and off-limits to cars, features over 150 km of hiking trails connecting the handful of coastal villages and hamlets, where lodging is available, to one another and to the many beaches, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and pristine forests. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
17. Easter Island (Chile)
Moai at Rano Raraku, Easter Island [ Photo by Aurbina / public domain ]
Easter Island is a Polynesian island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, at the southeastern most point of the Polynesian triangle. A special territory of Chile annexed in 1888, Easter Island is widely famous for its 887 extant monumental statues, called moai, created by the early Rapanui people. Trees are sparse on modern Easter Island, rarely forming natural groves and it has been argued whether or not the native Easter Islanders deforested the island in the process of erecting their statues, and in providing sustenance for an overpopulated island. Experimental archaeology has demonstrated that some statues certainly could have been placed on “Y” shaped wooden frames called miro manga erua and then pulled to their final destinations on ceremonial sites. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
18. Los Roques (Venezuela)
Cayos Dos Mosquises, Los Roques, Venezuela [ Photo by Maria Eugenia Vegas / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Los Roques islands are a federal dependency of Venezuela, consisting of about 350 islands, cays or islets. The archipelago is an atoll located 80 miles (128 km) directly north of the port of La Guaira, and is a 40-minute flight, has a total area of 40.61 square kilometres. Being almost an untouched coral reef, it attracts many visitors, especially from Europe, some of which come in their own yachts and anchor in the inner, protected shallow waters. However, development and tourism are controlled. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
Central America & Caribbean
19. Anguilla
Anguilla is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean, one of the most northerly of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles. It consists of the main island of Anguilla itself, approximately 26 km (16 mi) long by 5 km (3.1 mi) wide at its widest point, together with a number of much smaller islands and cays with no permanent population. The island’s capital is The Valley. Anguilla’s thin arid soil is largely unsuitable for agriculture, and the island has few land-based natural resources. Its main industries are tourism, offshore incorporation and management, offshore banking, and fishing. Many insurance and financial business are headquartered in Anguilla. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
20. Antigua (Antigua & Barbuda)
English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour on Antigua [ Photo by Frederik Ramm / public domain ]
Antigua, Spanish for ‘Ancient’, is an island in the West Indies, in the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean region, the main island of the country of Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua means “ancient” in Spanish and was named by Christopher Columbus after an icon in Seville Cathedral, Santa Maria de la Antigua — St. Mary the Ancient. It is also known as Wadadli, from the original Amerindian inhabitants, and means approximately “our own”. Antigua’s economy is reliant upon tourism, and it markets itself as a luxury Caribbean escape. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
21. Aruba
Beach in Oranjestad, Aruba [ Photo by Phil of Ottawa / CC BY 2.0 ]
Aruba is a 33-kilometre (21 mi)-long island of the Lesser Antilles in the southern Caribbean Sea, located a mere 27 kilometres (17 mi) north of the coast of Venezuela. Together with Bonaire and Curaçao, it forms a group referred to as the ABC islands of the Leeward Antilles, the southern island chain of the Lesser Antilles. Unlike much of the Caribbean region, Aruba has a dry climate and an arid, cactus-strewn landscape. This climate has helped tourism as visitors to the island can reliably expect warm, sunny weather. It has a land area of 193 square kilometres (75 sq mi) and lies outside the hurricane belt. (based on a wikipedia article /cc by-sa)
22. Barbados
Barbados, situated just east of the Caribbean Sea, is a West Indian continental island-nation in the western Atlantic Ocean. After a brief claim by Spain in 1492 and later Portugal, Barbados became a colony and protectorate of the United Kingdom for over three centuries. The country currently maintains Queen Elizabeth II as head of state. Located at roughly 13° North of the equator and 59° West of the prime meridian, it is considered a part of the Lesser Antilles. Although Barbados’ history is heavily influenced by its mainstay of sugar production, the economy is now dominated by services and tourism. The country is one of the largest global domiciles of captive insurance, and a growing number of companies have been expanding call centres to Barbados. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
23. Bonaire
blue tang, doctorfish, and a tiger grouper [ Photo by robanhk / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
The Island Territory of Bonaire (pronounced /bɒˈnɛər/; Dutch: Eilandgebied Bonaire, Papiamento: Teritorio Insular di Boneiru) is one of five island territories (Eilandgebieden) of the Netherlands Antilles, consisting of the main island of Bonaire and, nestled in its western crescent, the uninhabited islet of Klein Bonaire. Together with Aruba and Curaçao it forms a group referred to as the ABC islands of the Leeward Antilles, the southern island chain of the Lesser Antilles. Bonaire’s economy is mainly based on tourism. The island caters mainly to scuba divers and snorkelers, as there are few sandy beaches, while the surrounding reefs are easily accessible from the shore. Bonaire is world renowned for its excellent scuba diving and is consistently rated among the best diving locations in the world. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
24. Tortola (British Virgin Islands)
Panoramic view of Tortola's Road Town's Harbor [ Photo by Calyponte / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands, a group of islands which form part of the archipelago of the Virgin Islands. Local belief is that the name was originally given to the island by Christopher Columbus, meaning “land of the Turtle Dove”. In actuality Columbus named the island Santa Ana. The Dutch settled, and dubbed it Ter Tholen, after an island off the west coast of the Netherlands. When the British moved in they altered the name to its present day form of Tortola. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
25. Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands)
Grand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands at about 196 square kilometres (76 sq mi) and contains the capital George Town. Fast food restaurants, night clubs and resorts can be found on the western side of the island. The eastern districts offer more restaurants specialising in native Caymanian cuisine. Seven Mile Beach attracts tourists. There is scuba diving and snorkeling. There reefs and walls, some of which can be accessed by swimming from shore.
1-2 year old Green Sea Turtles in a petting tank at the Turtle farm. There is a turtle farm in the West Bay district. The majority of Green Sea Turtles are raised for their meat, a traditional food in Caymanian culture which was increasingly scarce in the wild. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
26. Curaçao
Handelskade, Willemstad harbor in Curacao. [ Photo by Mtmelendez / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Curaçao is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea, off the Venezuelan coast. The Island Territory of Curaçao, which includes the main island plus the small, uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao (“Little Curaçao”), is one of five island territories of the Netherlands Antilles, and as such, is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Its capital is Willemstad. In recent years, the island had attempted to capitalize on its peculiar history and heritage to expand its tourism industry. In 1984 the Island Council of Curaçao inaugurated the National Flag and the official anthem of the island. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
27. Dominica
Pano-wide image of Roseau Dominica Taken from cruise ship Balcony Docked in town. [ Photo by Ted Rufus Ross / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Dominica, officially the Commonwealth of Dominica, is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea. To the north-northwest lies Guadeloupe, to the southeast Martinique. Its size is 754 square kilometres (291 sq mi) and the highest point in the country is Morne Diablotins, which has an elevation of 1,447 metres (4,747 ft). The Commonwealth of Dominica has an estimated population of 72,500. The capital is Roseau. Less commonly seen animals include killer whales, false killer whales, pygmy sperm whales, dwarf sperm whales, Risso’s dolphins, common dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, humpback whales and Bryde’s whales. This makes Dominica a destination for tourists interested in whale-watching. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
28. Grenada
Carriacou, Grenada [ Photo by Atiemann / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Grenada is an island country and sovereign state consisting of the island of Grenada and six smaller islands at the southern end of the Grenadines in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. Grenada is located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago, northeast of Venezuela, and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Its capital is St. George’s. Tourism is Grenada’s main economic force. Conventional beach and water-sports tourism is largely focused in the southwest region around St Georges, the airport and the coastal strip; however, ecotourism is growing in significance. Most of these small ecofriendly guesthouses are located in the Saint David and Saint John parishes. You will find a lot of different accommodations from luxury like the Spice Island Beach Resort to small cottages resorts like Mango Bay Cottages. The tourism industry is increasing dramatically with the construction of a large cruise ship pier and esplanade. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
29. Guadeloupe
Chutes du carbet, guadeloupe [ Photo by bobyfume / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Guadeloupe is an archipelago located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, with a land area of 1,628 square kilometres (629 sq. mi). It is an overseas region of France, consisting of a single overseas department. As with the other overseas departments, Guadeloupe is also one of the twenty-six regions of France (being an overseas region) and an integral part of the Republic since 2007. The economy of Guadeloupe depends on tourism, agriculture, light industry and services. But it especially depends on France for large subsidies and imports. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
30. Roatán (Honduras)
House silhouette at sunset, Roatan [ Photo by Lauri Väin / CC BY 2.0 ]
Roatán, located between the islands of Útila and Guanaja), is the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands. The island was formerly known as Ruatan and Rattan. It is approximately 60 kilometres (37 mi) long, and less than 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) wide at its widest point. While tourism has strongly contributed to the economic development of the island, it has also altered Roatán’s ecosystem. Land clearing for the construction of residential areas, as well as improper sewage and garbage disposal methods, have inflicted considerable damage to the island in a time span of less than a decade. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
31. Jamaica
Doctor's Cave Beach Club, Montego Bay, Jamaica [ Photo by Op. Deo / public domain ]
Jamaica is an island nation of the Greater Antilles, 234 kilometres (145 mi) in length and as much as 80 kilometres (50 mi) in width, amounting to 11,100 km2. It is situated in the Caribbean Sea, about 145 kilometres (90 mi) south of Cuba, and 190 kilometres (120 mi) west of Hispaniola, the island harboring the nation-states Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Its indigenous Arawakan-speaking Taíno inhabitants named the island Xaymaca, meaning the “Land of Wood and Water”, or the “Land of Springs”. Tourism and mining are the leading earners of foreign exchange. An estimated 1.3 million foreign tourists visit Jamaica every year. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
32. Martinique
Les Anses d'Arlet [ Photo by Pascalou petit / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Martinique is an island in the eastern Caribbean Sea, with a land area of 1,128 km2 (436 sq mi). It is an overseas region of France, consisting of a single overseas department. To the northwest lies Dominica, to the south St Lucia, and to the southeast Barbados. As with the other overseas departments, Martinique is one of the twenty-six regions of France (being an overseas region) and an integral part of the Republic. Because it is easier to travel and because of the many beaches and food facilities throughout this region, the south receives the bulk of the tourist traffic. The beaches from Pointe de Bout, through Diamant (which features right off the coast of Roche de Diamant), St. Luce, the town of St. Anne and down to Les Salines are popular. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
33. Cozumel (Mexico)
Panoramica del malecon de Cozumel [ Photo by -Luyten- / public domain ]
Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean Sea off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, opposite the Playa del Carmen, and close to the Yucatan Channel. Cozumel is one of the nine municipalities (municipios) of the state of Quintana Roo. Cozumel is a tourist destination for its scuba diving and snorkeling. The main town on the island is San Miguel de Cozumel. Diving and charter fishing comprise nearly all sources of income. There are more than 90 restaurants on the island and many hotels, some of which run dive operations, have swimming pools, private docks, and multiple dining facilities. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
34. Isla Mujeres (Mexico)
Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, México [ Photo by sarah|rose / CC BY 2.0 ]
Isla Mujeres one of the nine municipalities of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The municipality, located in the northeastern corner of the state is mostly on the mainland and has a municipal seat of the same name; Isla Mujeres. The municipal seat is a small island town a short distance off the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea about 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) northeast of Cancún. The island of Isla Mujeres is located close to one of many coral reefs, and the area is popular for its snorkeling and scuba diving. Isla Mujeres is also home to a population of sea turtles. Because of the recent endangerment of sea turtles in the area, a facility was set up on the southern end of the island for the rehabilitation and breeding of them. This facility is open to the public. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
35. Puerto Rico
Playa de piñones [ Photo by Cantone / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Puerto Rico, officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is a self-governing unincorporated territory of the United States located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, east of the Dominican Republic and west of the Virgin Islands. Tourism is an important component of Puerto Rican economy supplying an approximate $1.8 billion. In 1999, an estimated 5 million tourists visited the island, most from the U.S. Nearly a third of these are cruise ship passengers. A steady increase in hotel registrations since 1998 and the construction of new hotels and new tourism projects, such as the Puerto Rico Convention Center, indicate the current strength of the tourism industry. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
36. Nevis (Saint Kitts & Nevis)
Beach, Nisbet Plantation Inn, Nevis, WI [ Photo by simonsimages / CC BY 2.0 ]
Nevis is an island in the Caribbean Sea, located near the northern end of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, about 220 miles (350 km) southeast of Puerto Rico and fifty miles (eighty km) west of Antigua. The 36-square-mile (93 km²) island is part of the inner arc of the Leeward Islands chain of the West Indies. The capital of Nevis is Charlestown. The major source of revenue for Nevis today is tourism. During the 2003-2004 season, approximately 40,000 tourists visited Nevis. A five star hotel (The Four Seasons Resort Nevis, West Indies), four exclusive restored plantation inns, and several smaller hotels, are currently in operation. Larger developments along the west coast have recently been approved and are in the process of being developed. (based on a wikipediaarticle / cc by-sa)
37. Saint Kitts (Saint Kitts & Nevis)
Brimstone Hill Fortress, St Kitts. [ Photo by Ukexpat / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Saint Kitts (also known more formally as Saint Christopher Island (Saint-Christophe in French) is an island in the West Indies. The west side of the island borders the Caribbean Sea, and the eastern coast faces the Atlantic Ocean. Together with the island of Nevis, Saint Kitts constitutes one country: the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Saint Kitts is one of the historic centres of the Caribbean. The first successful British colony in the West Indies was founded on the island in 1624, and the island was subsequently used as a base to settle most of the neighbouring islands for Britain. It also became the site of the first successful French colony in the West Indies (with Britain and France splitting the island between them) in 1625, and was then used to settle other Caribbean territories for France. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
38. Saint Lucia
Marigot Bay, Saint Lucia, West Indies [ Photo by UpstateNYer / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Saint Lucia is an island nation in the eastern Caribbean Sea on the boundary with the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the Lesser Antilles, it is located north/northeast of the islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, northwest of Barbados and south of Martinique. Its size is 620 km² with an estimated population of 160,000. Its capital is Castries. The island nation has been the home of two Nobel laureates, Arthur Lewis and Derek Walcott. It is the nation with the second most such honorees per capita after Faroe Islands. Tourism is vital to St. Lucia’s economy. Its economic importance is expected to continue to increase as the market for bananas becomes more competitive. Tourism tends to be more substantial during the dry season (January to April). St Lucia tends to be popular due to its tropical weather and scenery and its numerous beaches and resorts. Other tourist attractions include a drive-in volcano, Sulphur Springs (at Soufrière), the Botanical Gardens, the rain forests, and Pigeon Island National Park, which is home to Fort Rodney, an old British military base. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
39. Saint Martin
Marigot, St. Martin from www.zerokarma.com. [ Photo by Darwinek / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Saint Martin is a tropical island in the northeast Caribbean, approximately 300 km (186 miles) east of Puerto Rico. The 87 km2 island is divided roughly 60/40 between France (53 km2) and the Netherlands Antilles (34 km2); it is the smallest inhabited sea island divided between two nations, a division dating to 1648. The southern Dutch half comprises the Eilandgebied Sint Maarten (Island Territory of St. Martin) and is part of the Netherlands Antilles. The northern French half comprises the Collectivité de Saint-Martin (Collectivity of St. Martin) and is an overseas collectivity of France. St. Martin’s Dutch side is known for its festive nightlife, beaches, jewelry, exotic drinks made with native rum-based guavaberry liquors, and plentiful casinos. The island’s French side is known for its nude beaches, clothes, shopping (including outdoor markets), and rich French and Indian Caribbean cuisine. The island is home to accommodations including hotels, villas, and timeshares, many of which are privately available for rent or sale. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
40. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saltwhistle Bay Dock and Beach [ Photo by Jason Pratt / CC BY 2.0 ]
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a nation in the Lesser Antilles chain, which lies at the eastern border of the Caribbean Sea where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its 389-square-kilometre (150 sq mi) territory consists of the main island of Saint Vincent and the northern two-thirds of the Grenadines, which are a chain of smaller islands stretching south from Saint Vincent to Grenada. The tourism sector has considerable potential for development over the next decade. The recent filming of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies on the island has also helped to increase tourism and expose the country to the wider world. Recent growth has been stimulated by strong activity in the construction sector and an improvement in tourism. (based on a wikipedia article /cc by-sa)
41. Trinidad and Tobago
Members of a Costume band parade on the streets of Port of Spain during its pre-Lenten Carnival [ Photo by Jean-Marc / Jhon-John / Jo BeLo / CC BY 2.0 ]
The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is an archipelagic state in the southern Caribbean, lying northeast of the South American country of Venezuela and south of Grenada in the Lesser Antilles. It shares maritime boundaries with other nations including Barbados to the northeast, Guyana to the southeast, and Venezuela to the south and west. Trinidad’s economy is strongly influenced by the petroleum industry. Tourism and manufacturing are also important to the local economy.Tourism is a growing sector, although not proportionately as important as in many other Caribbean islands. Agricultural products include citrus, cocoa, and other products. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
42. Saint Croix (US Virgin Islands)
The view from our balcony [ Photo by *Micky / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Saint Croix is an island in the Caribbean Sea, and a county and constituent district of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, being 28 by 7 miles (45 by 11 km). However, the territory’s capital, Charlotte Amalie, is located on Saint Thomas. St. Croix, like many other Caribbean islands, has tourism as one of its main sources of revenue. However, there are a number of other industries on the island to help support the economy. St. Croix was once an agricultural powerhouse in the Caribbean, but ended with the rapid industrialization of the island’s economy in the 1960s. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
43. Saint John (US Virgin Islands)
Trunk Bay in St. John [ Photo by Johnpaulribaudo / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Saint John is an island in the Caribbean Sea and a constituent district of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), an unincorporated territory of the United States. St. John is an exclusive travel and honeymoon destination with several resorts and one of the top ten beaches in the world. It is also considered to be the wealthiest and most expensive of the U.S. Virgin Islands, attracting a high level of affluent tourists. The island’s high level of affluence has earned it the distinction of being the “Beverly Hills of the Caribbean”. St. John is located about 4 miles east of Saint Thomas, the location of the territory’s capital, Charlotte Amalie, and 4 miles south and west of Tortola, part of the British Virgin Islands. It is 50.8 km² (19.61 sq mi) in area and has a population of 4,197 (2000 census) . Because there are no airports on St. John, the only access to the island is by boat. The ferry service runs hourly from St. Thomas and daily from Tortola; regular ferries also operate from Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Anegada. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
44. Saint Thomas (US Virgin Islands)
Night view of the St Thomas Harbor, US VIrgin Islands [ Photo by Calyponte / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Saint Thomas is an island in the Caribbean Sea, a county and constituent district of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), an unincorporated territory of the United States. Located on the island is the territorial capital and port of Charlotte Amalie. As of the 2001 census, the population of Saint Thomas was 51,181 about 47% of the US Virgin Island total. The district has a land area of 31.24 square miles (80.9 km2). The post-war era also saw the rise of tourism on the island. With relatively cheap air travel and the American embargo on Cuba, the numbers of visitors greatly increased. Despite natural disasters such as Hurricane Hugo (1989) and Hurricanes Luis and Marilyn (1995), the island’s infrastructure continues to improve as the flow of visitors continues. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
Europe
45. Hvar (Croatia)
View of the city of Hvar from the castle [ Photo by Ulrich Prokop Herbst / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Hvar is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian coast, lying between the islands of Brač, Vis and Korčula. Approximately 68 km (42.25 mi) long, with a high east-west ridge of Mesozoic limestone and dolomite, the island of Hvar is unusual in the area for having a large fertile coastal plain, and fresh water springs. Its hillsides are covered in pine forests, with vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields in the agricultural areas. The climate is characterized by mild winters, and warm summers with many hours of sunshine. The island has 11,103 residents, making it the 4th most populated of the Croatian islands. Residents of Hvar mostly work in the fishing and tourism industries. Hvar has a very mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches and Mediterranean vegetation that make it one of the most attractive tourist centers in Europe. The island promotes itself as “the sunniest spot in Europe”, with over 2715 hours of sunlight in an average year. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
46. Cyprus
Cyprus, officially the Republic of Cyprus (Greek: Κυπριακή Δημοκρατία, Kypriakī́ Dīmokratía, IPA: /cipriaˈci ðimokraˈtia/; Turkish: Kıbrıs Cumhuriyeti), is a Eurasian island country in the Eastern Mediterranean, south of Turkey and west of Syria and Lebanon. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and one of its most popular tourist destinations. An advanced, high-income economy with a very high Human Development Index, the Republic of Cyprus was a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement until it joined the European Union on 1 May 2004. The island has witnessed a massive growth in tourism over the years and as such the property rental market in Cyprus has grown along side. Added to this is the capital growth in property that has been created from the demand of incoming investors and property buyers to the island. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
47. Faroe Islands (Denmark)
Sørvágur on the island of Vágar, Faroe Islands. [ Photo by Erik Christensen / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Faroe Islands, sometimes Faeroe Islands, Faroe(s), or Faeroes (Faroese: Føroyar, Danish: Færøerne) are an island group situated between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately halfway between Scotland and Iceland. The Faroe Islands are a constituent country of the Kingdom of Denmark, along with Denmark proper and Greenland. The Faroe Islands are an island group consisting of 18 major islands about 655 kilometres (407 mi) off the coast of Northern Europe, between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Iceland and Norway, the closest neighbours being the Northern and Western Isles of Scotland. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
48. Corsica (France)
The Bay of Calvi: Corsica is the most mountainous Mediterranean island. [ Photo by Wolffy & Greudin / public domain ]
Corsica is an island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located west of Italy, southeast of the French mainland, and north of the island of Sardinia. Corsica is one of the 26 régions of France, although strictly speaking Corsica is designated as a “territorial collectivity” (collectivité territoriale) by law. As a territorial collectivity, it enjoys greater powers than other French régions, but for the most part its status is quite similar. Corsica is referred to as a “région” in common speech, and is almost always listed among the other régions of France. Although the island is separated from the continental mainland by the Ligurian Sea and is much closer to the Italian than to the French mainland, politically Corsica is part of Metropolitan France. It was once briefly an independent Corsican Republic, until being incorporated into France in 1769. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
49. Corfu (Greece)
Bay of St. George in northwestern Corfu [ Photo by Dr.K / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Corfu is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea. It is the second largest of the Ionian Islands. Its northern part lies off the coast of Sarandë, Albania, from which it is separated by straits varying in breadth from 3 to 23 km (2 to 15 mi), including one near ancient Butrint, while its southern part lies off the coast of Thesprotia, Greece. The island is part of the Corfu Prefecture and includes twelve of the sixteen municipalities or communes in the prefecture and communities of Ereikoussa, Mathraki, Othonoi, and Municipality of Paxoi, which are all separate islands. Homer identifies seven plants that adorn the garden of Alcinous: wild olive, oil olive, pear, pomegranate, apple, fig and vine (Grape). Of these the apple and the pear are now very inferior in Corfu; the others thrive, together with all the fruit trees known in southern Europe, with addition of the kumquat, loquat and prickly pear and, in some spots, the banana. When undisturbed by cultivation, the myrtle, arbutus, bay and holm oak form a rich brushwood and the minor flora of the island are extensive. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
50. Crete (Greece)
Damnoni Beach [ Photo by Wolfgang Staudt / CC BY 2.0 ]
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea at 8,336 km² (3,219 square miles). Crete is one of the 13 peripheries of Greece and covers the same area as the Greek region of Crete from before the 1987 administrative reform. It forms a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece; while it retains its own local cultural traits (such as its own music and dialect), Cretans identify themselves as Greeks. Heraklion is the largest city and capital of Crete. Crete is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. Fifteen percent of all arrivals in Greece come through the city of Heraklion (port and airport), while charter journeys to Heraklion last year made up 20% of all charter flights in Greece. Overall, more than two million tourists visited Crete last year, and this increase in tourism is reflected on the number of hotel beds, rising by 53% in the period between 1986 to 1991, when the rest of Greece saw increases of only 25%. (based on awikipedia article / cc by-sa)
51. Hydra (Greece)
Hydra port panoramic. [ Photo by NikoSilver / public domain ]
Hydra is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece, located in the Aegean Sea between the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf. It is separated from the Peloponnese by narrow strip of water. In ancient times, the island was known as Hydrea (Υδρέα, derived from the Greek word for “water”), which was a reference to the springs on the island. Hydra depends upon tourism and Athenians comprise a sizeable segment of its visitors. High speed hydrofoils and catamarans from Piraeus, some 37 nautical miles away, serve Hydra, as do daily island ferry boats. (The ferries take about three hours for the transit; the hydrofoils and catamarans substantially less.) The island also has ferries to Aegina, Poros, Spetses, Nafplion and Monemvasia. (based on a wikipediaarticle / cc by-sa)
52. Mykonos (Greece)
The Chora (capital) of Mykonos [ Photo by sailko / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Mykonos is a Greek island and a top tourist destination, renowned for its cosmopolitan character and its intense nightlife. The island is part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. It spans an area of 105.183 km2 (41 sq mi) and rises at an elevation of 341 m (1,119 ft) at its highest point. The island is composed primarily of granite. It has little natural fresh water and relies on the desalination of sea water in order to meet its needs. There are 9,320 inhabitants (2001) most of whom live in the largest town, Mykonos, also known as Chora (i.e. the Town in Greek, a common denomination in Greece when the name of the island itself is the same as the name of the principal town), which lies on the west coast. Today, Mykonos is one of the most cosmopolitan islands in Greece, having become increasingly popular with mass tourism. It is known for its diverse and intense nightlife as evidenced by a vast number of bars and nightclubs. Mykonos is also known for its sandy beaches. (based on awikipedia article / cc by-sa)
53. Santorini (Greece)
Partial panorama of Santorini and Thera caldera [ Photo by Leonard G. / public domain ]
Santorini is a small, circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km (120 mi) southeast from Greece’s mainland. The largest island is known as Thēra, forming the southernmost member of the Cyclades group of islands, with an area of approximately 73 km2 (28 sq mi) and a 2001 census population of 13,670. It is composed of the Municipality of Thira (pop. 12,440) and the Community of Oía . These have a total land area of 90.623 km2 (34.990 sq mi), which also includes the uninhabited islands of Nea Kameni, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi, and Christiana (all part of the Municipality of Thira). Nowadays due to the expansion of tourism, the island has gained great wealth and population. Its major settlements include Fira (Phira), Oia, Emporio, Kamari, Perissa, Imerovigli, Pyrgos, and Therasia. Akrotiri is a major archaeological site, with ruins from the Minoan era. Santorini’s primary industry is tourism, particularly in the summer months. The island’s pumice quarries have been closed since 1986, in order to preserve the caldera. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
54. Greenland
The town of Qaqortoq (Julianehåb), Greenland. [ Photo by Jens Buurgaard Nielsen / CC BY-SA 2.5 ]
Greenland is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Though physiographically a part of the continent of North America, Greenland has been politically associated with Europe (specifically Denmark-Norway) for about a millennium. Greenland’s economy is based on a narrow professional basis with the fishing industry as the dominant sector with some 90% of its exports. In a few years, quarrying and tourism could complement the fisheries that depend on the changing prices of fish and fishing opportunities. The long-range divides the domestic market into many small units that have high operating costs. Most of the fish factories owned by Royal Greenland. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
55. Iceland
View of Reykjavík from the tower of Hallgrímskirkja. [ Photo by Andreas Tille / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Iceland is a European island country located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It has a population of about 320,000 and a total area of 103,000 km2 (39,769 sq mi). Its capital and largest city is Reykjavík, whose surrounding area is home to some two-thirds of the national population. Located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland is volcanically and geologically active on a large scale; this defines the landscape. Despite the decision to resume commercial whale hunting in 2006, the tourism sector is expanding, with the recent trends in ecotourism and whale-watching. Iceland’s agriculture industry consists mainly of potatoes, green vegetables (in greenhouses), mutton and dairy products. The financial centre is Borgartún in Reykjavík, hosting a large number of companies and three investment banks. Iceland’s stock market, the Iceland Stock Exchange (ISE), was established in 1985. (based on awikipedia article / cc by-sa)
56. Aran Islands (Ireland)
Aran Islands, Ireland [ Photo by Sebd / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Aran Islands or The Arans are a group of three islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. Irish is the main spoken language on all three islands, and is the language used naming the islands and their villages and townlands. The islands’ geology is mainly karst limestone and is thus more closely related to The Burren in Co. Clare (to the south) than to the granites of Connemara to the north. There are several Iron Age forts on Inishmore, including Dún Aengus (Dún Aonghasa, Aran Islands Dialect: dūn aŋgəs) and the Visitors come in large numbers, particularly in the summer time. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
57. Capri (Italy)
Capri harbour, from the viewpoint at Anacapri. [ Photo by Adrian Pingstone / public domain ]
Capri is an Italian island in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrentine Peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples, in the Campania region of southern Italy. It has been a resort since the time of the Roman Republic. Features of the island are the Marina Piccola (Small Harbor), the Belvedere of Tragara, which is a high panoramic promenade lined with villas, the limestone masses called Sea Stacks that stand out of the sea (the Faraglioni), Anacapri, the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), and the ruins of the Imperial Roman villas. Capri is part of the region of Campania, Province of Naples. The City of Capri is the main centre of population on Capri. It has two harbours, Marina Piccola and Marina Grande (the main port of the island). The separate commune of Anacapri is located high on the hills to the west. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
58. Sardinia (Italy)
Lagoon Beach, best beach in Sardinia [ Photo by robad0b / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea (after Sicily). A part of Italy with regional autonomy granted by the Italian Constitution, Sardinia comprises 24,090 square kilometres (9,301 sq mi). The nearest land masses are (clockwise from north) the French island of Corsica, the Italian Peninsula, Tunisia, and the Spanish Balearic Islands. Today Sardinia is phasing in as an EU region, with a diversified economy focused on tourism and the tertiary sector. The economic efforts of the last twenty years have reduced the handicap of insularity, especially in the fields of low-cost air travel and advanced information technology. For example, the CRS4 (Center for Advanced Studies, Research and Development in Sardinia) developed the first Italian website in 1991 and webmail in 1995. CRS4 allowed several telecommunication companies and internet service providers based on the island to flourish, such as Videonline in 1994 and Tiscali in 1998. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
59. Sicily (Italy)
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and an autonomous region of Italy. Minor islands around it are also considered to be part of Sicily. Throughout much of its history, Sicily has been considered a crucial strategic location due in large part to its importance for Mediterranean trade routes. The area was highly regarded as part of Magna Graecia, with Cicero describing Siracusa as the greatest and most beautiful city of all Ancient Greece. Sicily has its own rich and unique culture, especially with regard to the arts, music, literature, cuisine, architecture and language, having given birth to some of the greatest and most influential people in history. The Sicilian economy is largely based on agriculture (mainly orange and lemon orchards); this same rural countryside has attracted significant tourism in the modern age as its natural beauty is highly regarded. Sicily also holds importance for archeological and ancient sites such as the Necropolis of Pantalica and the Valley of the Temples. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
60. Texel (Netherlands)
Texel [ Photo by Photocapy / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Texel is a municipality and an island in the Netherlands, in the province of North Holland. It is the biggest and most populated of the Frisian Islands in the Wadden Sea, and also the westernmost of this archipelago, which extends to Denmark. The next island in the archipelago, to the north of Texel, is Vlieland. The tourism industry forms a substantial part of the economy in Texel. Approximately 70% of activities on Texel are in some way related to tourism. Popular forms of tourism on Texel include cycling, walking, swimming and horse riding. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
61. Malta
Malta, Valletta, seen from Senglea, panorama of Valletta's south coasts [ Photo by Myriam Thyes / public domain ]
Malta, officially the Republic of Malta, is a developed southern European country and consists of an archipelago situated centrally in the Mediterranean, 93 km south of Sicily and 288 km north-east of Tunisia, with Gibraltar 1,826 km to the west and Alexandria 1,510 km to the east. Malta covers just over 300 km² in land area, making it one of Europe’s smallest and one of Europe’s most densely populated countries. Its de facto capital is Valletta and the largest city is Birkirkara. Maltese is the national language and a co-official language, alongside English. Tourism infrastructure has increased dramatically over the years and a number of good-quality hotels are present on the island, although overdevelopment and the destruction of traditional housing is of growing concern. An increasing number of Maltese now travel abroad on holiday. Although they are still a net importer of tourism, the ratio of inbound tourists to outbound tourists is decreasing. The popular Mdina Glass enterprise was established on the island in 1968 by Michael Harris, a former tutor at the UK’s RCA. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
62. Lofoten (Norway)
Lofoten – Kjerkfjorden Bunesfjorden Vinstad [ Photo by Thomas Faivre-Duboz / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Lofoten is an archipelago and a traditional district in the county of Nordland, Norway. Though lying within the Arctic Circle, the archipelago experiences one of the world’s largest elevated temperature anomalies relative to its high latitude. Winter temperatures in Lofoten are very mild considering their location north of the Arctic Circle; this is the largest positive temperature anomaly in the world relative to latitude. This is due to the Gulf Stream and its extensions: the North Atlantic Current and the Norwegian Current. Røst and Værøy are the most northerly locations in the world where average temperatures are above freezing all year. Lofoten offers many rock climbing and mountaineering opportunities. It has 24 hours of daylight in the summer and has Alpine-style ridges, summits and glaciers, but at a height of less than 1,200 metres. The main centre for rock climbing is Henningsvær on Austvågøya. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
63. Azores (Portugal)
Angra do Heroísmo, the oldest continuously-settled town in the archipelago of the Azores and UNESCO World Heritage Site [ Photo by Luissilveira / public domain ]
The Azores is a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,500 km (930 mi) from Lisbon and about 3,900 km (2,400 mi) from the east coast of North America. The Monchique Islet on Flores Island, located at 31° 16′ 24″ W is regarded as the westernmost point in Europe, even though from a geological standpoint the two westernmost Azorean islands (Flores and Corvo) actually lie on the North American plate. The current Azores’ main industries are tourism, cattle raising for milk and meat, and fishing. The Azores were the last part of the Portuguese empire to resist Philip’s reign over Portugal (Macau resisted any official recognition) and were returned to Portuguese control with the end of the Iberian Union in 1640, not by the professional military, who were used in the Restoration War in the mainland, but by local people attacking a fortified Castilian garrison (guarnición). (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
64. Madeira (Portugal)
A view of Funchal towards east from Pico da Cruz [ Photo by Ville Koistinen / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago that lies in the north Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the Autonomous regions of Portugal, with Madeira Island and Porto Santo Island being the only inhabited islands. Madeira is part of the EU as an outermost region of the European Union. Tourism is an important sector in the region’s economy since it contributes 20% to the region’s GDP, providing support throughout the year for commercial, transport and other activities and constituting a significant market for local products. The share in Gross Value Added of hotels and restaurants (9%) also highlights this phenomenon. The island of Porto Santo, with its 9 km (5.6 mi) long beach and its climate, is entirely devoted to tourism. Over the past decade it has recorded a substantial increase in its hotel accommodation capacity. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
65. Shetland (Scotland)
Croft House Museum [ Photo by nz_willowherb / CC BY 2.0 ]
Shetland is an archipelago in Scotland, off the northeast coast. The islands lie to the northeast of Orkney, 280 km (170 mi) from the Faroe Islands and form part of the division between the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the North Sea to the east. The total area is approximately 1,466 km2 (566 sq mi). Administratively, the area is one of the 32 council areas of Scotland for which the now-archaic spelling Zetland was used until 1970. The islands’ administrative centre and only burgh is Lerwick. The largest island, known as the “Mainland,” has an area of 967 km2 (373 sq mi), making it the third-largest Scottish island and the fifth-largest of the British Isles. Shetland is also a lieutenancy area, comprises the Shetland constituency of the Scottish Parliament, and was formerly a county. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
66. Skye (Scotland)
Skye or the Isle of Skye (Scottish Gaelic: An t-Eilean Sgitheanach or Eilean a’ Cheó), is the largest and most northerly island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The island’s peninsulas radiate out from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin hills. Although it has been suggested that the first of these Gaelic names describes a “winged” shape there is no definitive agreement as to the name’s origins. The island has been occupied since the Mesolithic and has a colourful history including a time of Norse rule and a long period of domination by clans Leod and Donald. The events of the 19th century had a devastating impact on the human population, which declined from over 20,000 to around 9,200 in the early 21st century. The main industries are tourism, agriculture, fishing and whisky-distilling and the largest settlement is Portree, which is known for its picturesque harbour. Just over 30 per cent of the residents on Skye speak the Gaelic language. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
67. Ibiza (Spain)
.jpg "View of the port from the ramparts")
Ibiza is an island in the Mediterranean Sea 79 km off the coast of the city of Valencia in Iberian Peninsula, Spain. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. With Formentera, it is one of the two Pine Islands or Pityuses. Its largest cities are Ibiza Town (Catalan:Vila d’Eivissa or simply Vila), Santa Eulària des Riu and Sant Antoni de Portmany. Ibiza is considered a popular tourist destination, especially due to its legendary and at times riotous nightlife centered around two areas: Ibiza Town, the island’s capital on the southern shore and Sant Antoni to the West. Well-known nightclubs are Privilege, Eden, Es Paradís, Amnesia, Space, Pacha, Underground, Gala Night and DC10. During the summer, the top producers and DJs in dance come to the island and play at the various clubs, in between touring to other international destinations. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
68. Majorca (Spain)
Port de Sóller, Majorca, Spain. The tram line from Port de Soller to Soller can just be seen at the extreme bottom right. [ Photo by Adrian Pingstone /public domain ]
Majorca is the largest island of Spain. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and part of the Balearic Islands archipelago. The name derives from Latin insula maior, “larger island”; later Maiorica. Like the other Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Formentera, and Minorca, the island is a popular tourist destination. In Germany, the United Kingdom and to a lesser extent, Ireland, where package tourism to the island started in May 1952, Majorca has remained a popular destination. Since the 1950s Majorca has become a well-known tourist destination, and the tourism business has become the main source of revenue for the island. In 2001, the island received millions of tourists, and the boom in the tourism industry has provided significant growth in the economy of the country. More than half of the population works in the tourist sector, which accounts for approximately 80% of Majorca’s GDP. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
69. Falkland Islands (United Kingdom)
Penguins at Gypsy Cove. [ Photo by Apcbg / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Falkland Islands are an archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean, located about 300 miles (260 nmi; 480 km) from the coast of mainland South America, 700 miles (610 nmi; 1,100 km) from mainland Antarctica, and 3,800 miles (3,300 nmi; 6,100 km) from Africa. The two main islands are East Falkland and West Falkland, and there are 776 smaller islands. The islands are a self-governing Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom. Stanley, on East Falkland, is the capital. Since the war, there has been strong economic growth in both fisheries and tourism, as well as increased speculation on the amount of oil in the area. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
70. Isle of Man (United Kingdom)
The Braaid, in the central Isle of Man, with remnants of a Celtic-Norse roundhouse and two longhouses, c. 650 – 950 A.D. [ Photo by Gregory J Kingsley / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Isle of Man, otherwise known simply as Mann, is a self-governing British Crown Dependency, located in the Irish Sea between the islands of Great Britain and Ireland. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, who holds the title of Lord of Mann. The Lord of Mann is represented by a Lieutenant Governor. The island is not part of the United Kingdom but its foreign relations, defence, and ultimate good governance are the responsibility of the Government of the United Kingdom. The Isle of Man became separated from Britain and Ireland by about 8000 BC. It appears that colonisation took place by sea sometime before 6500 BC. The first residents lived in small natural shelters, hunting, fishing and gathering for their food. They used small tools made of flint or bone, which have been found near the coast. Representatives of these artifacts are kept at the Manx Museum. (based on awikipedia article / cc by-sa)
Pacific & Antarctica
71. Fraser Island (Australia)
Blick von Indian Head, Fraser Island, Queensland, Australien [ Photo by Joern Brauns / public domain ]
Fraser Island, is an island located along the southern coast of Queensland, Australia, approximately 300 kilometres (190 mi) north of Brisbane. Its length is about 120 kilometres (75 mi). It was inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1992. The island is considered to be the largest sand island in the world at 1840 km². Its resident human population was 360 at the census of 2006, of whom 11 were Indigenous Australians. It is administered by the Fraser Coast Regional Council. The island can be reached by ferry from Hervey Bay or Inskip Point north of Rainbow Beach, or by chartered flight via Maroochydore Airport. Four-wheel drive is required for some landings, and travel on the island. A RAM permit is required for vehicles. Several firms provide four-wheel drive vehicles for rent. Tour buses travel the island as well. The Fraser Island Great Walk offers an opportunity to explore the island on foot. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
72. Kangaroo Island (Australia)
Remarkable Rocks – Kangaroo Island – South Australia [ Photo by Didier B / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third-largest island after Tasmania and Melville Island. It is 112 kilometres (70 mi) southwest of Adelaide at the entrance of Gulf Saint Vincent. At its closest point to the mainland, it is 13 kilometres (8 mi) offshore from Cape Jervis, on the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula in the state of South Australia. The island is 150 km (93 mi) long and between 900 m (980 yd) and 57 km (35 mi) wide, its area covering 4,405 km2 (1,701 sq mi). Its coastline is 540 kilometres (340 mi) long and highest altitude is 307 m (1,010 ft). It is separated from Yorke Peninsula to the northwest by Investigator Strait and from Cape Jervis to the northeast by Backstairs Passage. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
73. Whitsunday Islands (Australia)
Hill inlet, Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia. [ Photo by Ester Inbar / free for use ]
The Whitsunday Islands are a collection of continental islands of various sizes off the central coast of Queensland, Australia, situated between just south of Bowen and to the north of Mackay, some 900 kilometres (560 mi) north of Brisbane. The island group is centred on Whitsunday Island, while the group’s commercial centre is Hamilton Island. The Whitsunday islands are a popular tourist destination for travelers to Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. The island received about 700,000 visitors between March 2008 and March 2009. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
74. Cook Islands
Aerial photograph of the Island of Pukapuka in the Cook Islands [ Photo by EwanSmith / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Cook Islands are a self-governing parliamentary democracy in free association with New Zealand. The fifteen small islands in this South Pacific Ocean country have a total land area of 240 square kilometres (92.7 sq mi), but the Cook Islands Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) covers 1.8 million square kilometres (0.7 million sq mi) of ocean. The main population centres are on the island of Rarotonga (14,153 as of 2006), where there is an international airport. There is also a much larger population of Cook Islanders in New Zealand, particularly the North Island. In the 2006 census, 58,008 self-identified as being of ethnic Cook Island Māori descent. With over 90,000 visitors travelling to the islands in 2006, tourism is the country’s number one industry, and the leading element of the economy, far ahead of offshore banking, pearls, marine and fruit exports. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
75. Federated States of Micronesia
Kolonia Town looking down from Sokehs Ridge [ Photo by Gargoylepni / public domain ]
The Federated States of Micronesia is an island nation located in the Pacific Ocean, north of New Guinea. It is a sovereign state in free association with the United States. The Federated States of Micronesia were formerly part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, a United Nations Trust Territory under U.S. administration. In 1979 they adopted a constitution, and in 1986 independence was attained under a Compact of Free Association with the United States. The Federated States of Micronesia is spread across the Caroline Islands in the wider region of Micronesia, which consists of hundreds of small islands divided between several countries. The term Micronesia may refer to the Federated States or to the region as a whole. (based on a wikipediaarticle / cc by-sa)
76. Yasawa Islands (Fiji)
The islands of Waya and Wayasewa connected by a tidal sandbar, Yasawa Group, Fiji. [ Photo by Doron / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Yasawa volcanic group consists of six main islands and numerous smaller islets. The archipelago, which stretches in a north-easterly direction for more than 80 kilometers from a point 40 kilometers north-west of Lautoka, is volcanic in origin and very mountainous, with peaks ranging from 250 to 600 meters in height. The only safe passage for shipping is between Yasawa Island (the largest in the archipelago, about 22 kilometers long and less than a kilometer wide) and Round Island, 22 kilometers to the north-east. Until 1987, it was the policy of the Fiji government that the Yasawa Group was closed to land-based tourism. There has been limited cruise operations since the 1950s, but passengers had to stay aboard their ships. Local residents benefited little from the passengers presence. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
77. Bora Bora (French Polynesia)
The over the sea bungalows (Motu Tape – Le Meridien Bora Bora) [ Photo by scalleja / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 metres (2,385 ft). The original name of the island in the Tahitian language might be better rendered as Pora Pora, meaning “First Born”; an early transcription found in 18th- and 19th century accounts, is Bolabolla or Bollabolla. Today the island is mainly dependent on tourism. Over the last few years several resorts have been built on motu (small islands) surrounding the lagoon. Thirty years ago, Hotel Bora Bora built the first over-the-water bungalows on stilts over the lagoon and today, overwater bungalows are a standard feature of most Bora Bora resorts. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
78. Moorea (French Polynesia)
Panorama view of the Cook's Bay in Moorea, French Polynesia [ Photo by 100zax / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Moorea is a high island in French Polynesia, part of the Society Islands, 17 km (roughly 9mi) northwest of Tahiti. Moorea means “yellow lizard” in Tahitian. An older name for the island is Aimeho, sometimes spelled Aimeo or Eimeo (among other spellings misunderstood by early visitors with no knowledge of the language). Early Western colonists and voyagers also referred to Moorea as York Island. Because of its stunning scenery and accessibility to Papeete, Moorea is visited by many western tourists who travel to French Polynesia. Especially popular as a honeymoon destination, Moorea can often be seen in advertisements in American wedding magazines. Authur Frommer declared in Frommer’s travel guide that he considered it the most beautiful island in the world. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
79. Tahiti (French Polynesia)
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. The island has a population of 178,133 according to an August 2007 census. This makes it the most populous island of French Polynesia, accounting for 68.6% of the total population. The capital, Papeete, is located on the northwest coast. Tahiti has also been known as O’tahiti. One of the most widely recognised images of the islands is the world famous Tahitian dance. The ʻōteʻa, sometimes written as otea, is a traditional dance from Tahiti, where the dancers, standing in several rows, execute different figures. This dance, easily recognized by its “fast hip-shaking,” and “grass skirts” is often confused with the Hawaiian hula, a generally slower more graceful dance which focuses more on the hands and story telling than the hips. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
80. Palau
Palau [ Photo by LuxTonnerre / CC BY 2.0 ]
Palau, officially the Republic of Palau (Palauan: Beluu er a Belau), is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean, some 500 miles (800 km) east of the Philippines and 2,000 miles (3,200 km) south of Tokyo. Having emerged from United Nations trusteeship (administered by the United States) in 1994, it is one of the world’s youngest and smallest sovereign states. In English, the name is sometimes spelled Belau in accordance with the native pronunciation. Consists primarily of tourism, subsistence agriculture, and fishing. Tourist activity focuses on scuba diving and snorkeling in the islands’ rich marine environment, including its barrier reefs walls and World War II wrecks. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
81. Tonga
Neiafu [ Photo by Boris T. Johnson / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Tonga, an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprises 169 islands, 36 of them inhabited. The Kingdom stretches over a distance of about 800 kilometres (500 miles) in a north-south line. The islands that constitute the archipelago lie south of Samoa, about one-third of the way from New Zealand to Hawaiʻi. The tourist industry is relatively undeveloped; however, the government recognizes that tourism can play a major role in economic development, and efforts are being made to increase this source of revenue. Cruise ships often stop in Nukuʻalofa and Vavaʻu. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
82. Vanuatu
Vanuatu, officially the Republic of Vanuatu, is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some 1,750 kilometres (1,090 mi) east of northern Australia, 500 kilometres (310 mi) northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea. The four mainstays of the economy are agriculture, tourism, offshore financial services, and cattle raising. There is substantial fishing activity although this industry doesn’t bring in much foreign exchange. Exports include copra, kava, beef, cocoa, and timber, and imports include machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, and fuels. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
Africa
83. Canary Islands
Hacha Grande, a mountain in the south of Lanzarote, viewed from the road to the Playa de Papagayo. [ Photo by Yummifruitbat / CC BY-SA 2.5 ]
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago which, in turn, forms one of the Spanish Autonomous Communities and an Outermost Region of the European Union. The archipelago is located just off the northwest coast of mainland Africa, 100 km west of the disputed border between Morocco and the Western Sahara. The sea currents which depart from Canary’s coasts used to lead ships away to America. The islands from largest to smallest are: Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, Alegranza, La Graciosa and Montaña Clara. The economy is based primarily on tourism, which makes up 32% of the GDP. The Canaries receive about 10 million tourists per year. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
84. Cape Verde
Sao Vicente Island, Cape Verde. The beach of Calhau and Monte Verde in the background. [ Photo by Henryk Kotowski / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
The Republic of Cape Verde is an island country, spanning an archipelago located in the Macaronesia ecoregion of the Central Atlantic Ocean, off the western coast of Africa, opposite Mauritania and Senegal. Tourism is taking off. Large hotels have been built across the country. In particular, on the islands of Boa Vista (Club Hotel Riu Karamboa (750 rooms)), and Sal (Club Hotel Riu Funana/Garopa (1000 rooms)–the largest hotel in all of West Africa). The Cape Verde islands has a relatively low crime rate and beautiful beaches, as well as engaging people. Tourists and leisure seekers from across Europe and elsewhere are flocking to the country. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
85. Mauritius
Mauritius, officially the Republic of Mauritius is an island nation off the coast of the African continent in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometres (560 mi) east of Madagascar. In addition to the island of Mauritius, the Republic includes the islands of Cargados Carajos, Rodrigues and the Agalega Islands. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, with the French island of Réunion 200 km (120 mi) to the southwest and the island of Rodrigues 570 km (350 mi) to the northeast. Recreational activities in Mauritius are quite varied to support the local tourism industry. Water sports are facilitated as the island is surrounded with coral reef, providing plenty of relatively shallow and calm water. Activities such as deep sea fishing, windsurfing, water-skiing, cruising in yachts and even submarines are some of the many water based recreations available. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
86. Réunion
Manapany [ Photo by JoKerozen / CC BY-SA 2.5 ]
Réunion is a French island of about 800,000 population located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar, about 200 kilometres (120 mi) south west of Mauritius, the nearest island. The island is 63 kilometres (39 mi) long; 45 kilometres (28 mi) wide; and covers 2,512 square kilometres (970 sq mi). It is similar to the island Hawaii insofar as both are located above hotspots in the Earth’s crust. Réunion is home to a variety of birds such as the paille en queue. Its largest native land animal is the Panther chameleon, Furcifer pardalis. Much of the West coast is ringed by coral reef which harbours, amongst other animals, sea urchins, conger eels and parrot fish. Sea turtles also visit the coastal waters. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
87. São Tomé and Príncipe
Sao_Tome_-_Resort_Pestana_Equador [ Photo by Joao Maximo / CC BY 2.0 ]
São Tomé and Príncipe, officially the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, is a Portuguese-speaking island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Africa. It consists of two islands: São Tomé and Príncipe, located about 140 kilometres (87 mi) apart and about 250 and 225 kilometres (155 and 140 mi), respectively, off the northwestern coast of Gabon. Both islands are part of an extinct volcanic mountain range. São Tomé, the sizable southern island, is situated just north of the equator. It was named in honour of Saint Thomas by Portuguese explorers who happened to arrive at the island on his feast day. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
88. Seychelles
Seychelles – Anse l'Islette [ Photo by rachel_thecat / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Seychelles, officially the Republic of Seychelles (French: République des Seychelles; Creole: Repiblik Sesel), is an archipelago nation of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, some 1,500 kilometres (932 mi) east of mainland Africa, northeast of the island of Madagascar. Other nearby island countries and territories include Zanzibar to the west, Mauritius and Réunion to the south, Comoros and Mayotte to the southwest. The Seychelles has the smallest population of any African state. Environmental legislation is very strict, and every tourism project must undergo an environmental review and a lengthy process of consultations with the public and conservationists. The Seychelles is a world leader in sustainable tourism. The end result of this sustainable development is an intact and stable natural environment, which attracts financially strong visitors (150,000 in 2007) rather than short term mass tourism. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
89. Zanzibar (Tanzania)
Pristine Beach East Zanzibar [ Photo by Bakersville / CC BY-SA 3.0 ]
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of the United Republic of Tanzania, in East Africa. It comprises the Zanzibar Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, 25–50 kilometres (16–31 mi) off the coast of the mainland, and consists of numerous small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, informally referred to as Zanzibar), and Pemba. Other nearby island countries and territories include Comoros and Mayotte to the south, Mauritius and Réunion to the far southeast, and the Seychelles Islands about 1500 km to the east. Zanzibar’s main industries are spices, raffia, and tourism. In particular, the islands produce cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper. For this reason, the islands, together with Tanzania’s Mafia Island, are sometimes called the Spice Islands (a term also associated with the Maluku Islands in Indonesia). Zanzibar’s ecology is of note for being the home of the endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus and the (possibly extinct) Zanzibar Leopard. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
Asia
90. Sanya (China)
Sanya Sun Photo Original photo author Dale Preston Beach in Sanya, Hainan province, China [ Photo by Dale Preston / public domain ]
Sanya is a city in southern Hainan province of China. It has a population of 536,000 as of 2006. After Haikou, the capital, it is the second most populous city of the island. Sanya is renowned for its tropical climate and has emerged as a popular tourist destination. It is also the focus city for China’s Utsul Muslims. It is the site for training of the Chinese national beach volleyball team. Presently, international hotel chains have established in what is becoming a world-known destination, especially following the Miss World beauty pageant in Crowne Plaza, a hotel along Yalong Bay. The resort in Sanya Bay, the Palm Beach Resort and Spa welcomed the first Miss China beauty pageant in modern times. The organizer Julia Morley was decided by Sanya to welcome the international pageant the following year. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
91. Bali (Indonesia)
Infinity Pool [ Photo by seanmcgrath / CC BY 2.0 ]
Bali is an Indonesian island, the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country’s 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island. Three decades ago, the Balinese economy was largely agriculture-based in terms of both output and employment. Tourism is now the largest single industry; and as a result, Bali is one of Indonesia’s wealthiest regions. About 80% of Bali’s economy depends on tourism. The economy, however, suffered significantly as a result of the terrorist bombings 2002 and 2005. The tourism industry is slowly recovering once again. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
92. Lombok (Indonesia)
Lombok is an island in West Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia. It is part of the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with the Lombok Strait separating it from Bali to the west and the Alas Strait between it and Sumbawa to the east. It is roughly circular, with a “tail” to the southwest, about 70 km across and a total area of about 4,725 km² (1,825 sq mi). The provincial capital and largest city on the island is Mataram. Lombok now appears to be on the verge of a tourist boom. With the commercialization of Bali over the past few years, and with it the accompanying traffic and reduction in open, natural spaces, many tourists are discovering the charm of ‘Undiscovered’ Lombok. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
93. Naoshima (Japan)
Naoshima Outdoor Art [ Photo by Ms. President / CC BY-SA 2.0 ]
Naoshima is an island town administratively part of Kagawa District, Kagawa, Japan located in the Seto Inland Sea. As of 2003, the town has an estimated population of 3,583 and a density of 251.97 persons per km². The total area is 14.22 km². The island is known for its many contemporary art museums. For example, the Chichu Art Museum (literally, “in the earth”) houses a number of site-specific installations by James Turrell, Walter De Maria and paintings by Claude Monet. Designed by Tadao Ando, it is located on one of the highest points of the island, and various exhibits and facets of the museum’s architecture take advantage of its commanding view. Another contemporary museum (and hotel) is Benesse House, also by Ando. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
94. Langkawi (Malaysia)
The Langkawi Sky Brigde, Malaysia [ Photo by The Dilly Lama / CC BY 2.0 ]
Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah is an archipelago of 99 islands (an extra 5 temporary islands are revealed at low tide ) in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah, which is adjacent to the Thai border. On July 15, 2008, Sultan Abdul Halim of Kedah had consented to the change of name to Langkawi Permata Kedah in conjunction with his Golden Jubilee Celebration. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 64,792, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. Langkawi is a duty-free island. (based on a wikipediaarticle / cc by-sa)
95. Perhentian Islands (Malaysia)
The Perhentian Islands lie approximately 10 nautical miles (19 km) offshore the coast of northeastern Malaysia in the state of Terengganu, approximately 40 miles (64 km) south of the Thai border. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (“Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Perhentian”). The small, uninhabited islands of Susu Dara (Virgin Milk), Serenggeh and Rawa lie off Kecil. The Perhentians belong to Pulau Redang National Marine Park, which means that fishing, collecting coral and littering are strictly prohibited. Like Besut, people here generally speak Kelantanese Malay. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
96. Sipadan (Malaysia)
Sipadan is the only oceanic island in Malaysia, rising 600 metres (2,000 ft) from the seabed. It is located in the Celebes Sea east of the major town of Tawau and off the coast of Sabah, East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. It was formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct volcanic cone that took thousands of years to develop. Sipadan is located at the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin, the centre of one of the richest marine habitats in the world. More than 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in this ecosystem. Sipadan claims to be the world’s Top 10 best dive site. Normally, rare diving scenes are frequently seen in the waters around Sipadan: schools of green and hawksbill turtles nesting and mating, schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally in tornado-like formations, pelagic species such as manta rays, eagle rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and whale sharks. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
97. Maldives
Just one from all the gems, Mirihi Island Resort, Maldives [ Photo by Ahmed Amir / CC BY 2.0 ]
The Maldives or Maldive Islands, officially Republic of Maldives, is an island country in the Indian Ocean formed by a double chain of twenty-six atolls stretching in a north-south direction off India’s Lakshadweep islands, between Minicoy Island and Chagos Archipelago. It stands in the Laccadive Sea, about seven hundred kilometres (435 mi) south-west of Sri Lanka. Tourism is the country’s biggest foreign currency earner and the single largest contributor to the GDP. Today, there are 89 resorts in the Maldives with a bed capacity of over 17,000, providing world class facilities for tourists whose annual arrival figure exceeds 600,000. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
98. Palawan (Philippines)
Palawan is an island province of the Philippines located in the MIMAROPA region. Its capital is Puerto Princesa City, and it is the largest province in the country in terms of total area of jurisdiction. The islands of Palawan stretch from Mindoro in the northeast to Borneo in the southwest. It lies between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. The province is named after its largest island, Palawan Island, measuring 450 kilometers (280 mi) long, and 50 kilometers (31 mi) wide. (based on a wikipediaarticle / cc by-sa)
99. Jeju-do (South Korea)
Jeju-do is the only special autonomous province of South Korea, situated on and coterminous with the country’s largest island. Jeju-do lies in the Korea Strait, southwest of Jeollanam-do Province, of which it was a part before it became a separate province in 1946. Its capital is the city of Jeju. The island contains the Natural World Heritage Site entitled Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes. Tourism commands a large fraction of Jeju’s economy. Jeju’s temperate climate, natural scenery, and beaches make it a popular tourist destination for South Koreans as well as visitors from other parts of East Asia. The most popular tourist spots on the island are Cheonjeyeon and Cheonjiyeon waterfalls, Mount Halla, Hyeobje cave, and Hyeongje island. (based on a wikipediaarticle / cc by-sa)
100. Phuket (Thailand)
Phuket is one of the southern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighbouring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phang Nga and Krabi, but as Phuket is an island there are no land boundaries. Phuket, which is approximately the size of Singapore, is Thailand’s largest island. The island is connected to mainland Thailand by a bridge. It is situated off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Phuket formerly derived its wealth from tin and rubber, and enjoyed a rich and colorful history. The island was on one of the major trading routes between India and China, and was frequently mentioned in foreign ship logs of Portuguese, French, Dutch and English traders. The region now derives much of its income from tourism. (based on a wikipedia article / cc by-sa)
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