Who doesn’t love the gentle whoosh of turquoise water against sand? If you’re keen for your next holiday to be a sojourn by the sea, here are some dreamy options, both near and far.
Greece
With so many incredible beach destinations right on the doorstep it’s easy not to think about going further afield. However, there’s one specific beach destination that we’re wander-lusting over right now and that’s Greece – the Mediterranean megastar! Exquisite islands, beautiful coastline, ancient stories and delicious food all play their part in the worldwide appeal of this fabulous place.
Families should look to the dramatic beauty of Greece’s largest island, Crete, where you’ll find Daios Cove, a five-star hotel with a spectacular setting on a private sandy bay. Think luxury contemporary villas and suites with private pools, great facilities and an exclusive Scott Dunn Explorers kids’ club. For couples, we’re loving the small Greek island of Mykonos, known for its white-washed villages and sparkling blue sea. Santa Marina Resort & Villas, located 20 minutes from Mykonos Town, has its own private beach with beautiful clear waters, where you’ll find cabanas stretched out along the beach, attentive service, and peace and seclusion.
Madagascar
Known as the Great Red Island, Madagascar is situated off Africa’s coast, and remains a relatively off-the-radar destination. It has some of the world’s most beautiful marine environments, with shallow turquoise waters, pristine coral reefs and a mainland boasting unique forests with endemic wildlife.
Time and Tide Miavana, set on a private island archipelago in the northeast, is a beach destination with a rich natural history spanning millions of years. The island’s 14 elegant private villas all have uninterrupted ocean views and direct access to the beach. At this exclusive resort, you’ll snorkel in private coves, enjoy a luxe Robinson Crusoestyle picnic on an uninhabited island, drink champagne sundowners on a secluded white beach, and meet resident lemur families.
Time and Time properties are located in some of the wildest places on Earth, and the company holds conservation at the core of its values. Each stay at Time and Tide Miavana contributes to wildlife and community conservation efforts ranging from translocating lemurs from poaching areas, to monitoring sea turtle hatchlings and supporting a marine protected zone to reduce overfishing.
The signature “blue safari” concept at Miavana allows for experiences that are ideal for the modern-day luxury traveller with a love for activities spanning land, sea and air.
Expat Living readers can enjoy an exclusive offer of a complimentary helicopter excursion on any itinerary of five or more nights.
Thailand
How do you like the sound of a luxurious family style villa perched on top of a Koh Samui mountain, overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand and the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park? You can enjoy exactly that at InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort, a sublime tropical escape on Samui’s southwest coast. The Club Two Bedroom Residence Villa has just been made more affordable, too, thanks to a “third night free” deal that is currently available.
With a separate dining room, lounge, balconies on the upper and lower level, and two private bedrooms with their own ensuites, the Villa allows ample space for the whole family to unwind in peace and quiet. (Visit the resort website for a 360-degree interactive sneak peek.)
What’s more, you can enjoy a break within a break by being looked after rather than doing all the looking after, thanks to the resort’s kids’ club. Known as Planet Trekkers, the club has a special cultural programme that keeps young ones entertained all day.
Quote “Stay3Pay2” when booking to take advantage of the free third night.
icsamui.rsvn@ihg.com samui.intercontinental.com
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This article first appeared in the May 2019 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
