An emerald shore receding behind, a sea breeze in your face, a dolphin surfing the bow wave as escort. The magic begins as soon as you board the ferry from Scotland’s rugged west coast and head for Scotland 's Hebrides islands.
This scattering of more than 50 inhabited and uninhabited islands, islets and skerries is like a world unto itself – thrillingly isolated, wind-battered, sea-smashed  and with a beauty that is off the charts. From the ragged mountains of Skye to the snow-white beaches and cerulean seas of Harris, the mysterious standing stones of Lewis to the whisky heaven of Islay, these islands lift spirits in every possible sense of the expression.

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Some of Europe’s most alluring beaches are on these Scottish islands (but you’ll need to be made of stern stuff to brave the waters and don’t expect to return home with a tan), while remoteness and underpopulation mean that wildlife displaced elsewhere still flourishes. You’re almost guaranteed to see seals and whales; otters, dolphins and porpoises are also regularly sighted.  Seabirds – gannets, fulmars, puffins and more – thrive on jagged coasts, and geese of various species often outnumber residents. That very same isolation – Edinburgh seems another world, and London is outside the Hebridean solar system – means that life has traditionally been a tough, self-reliant affair.
Visiting the Hebrides is about being outdoors. Throughout the islands, there’s great walking, from pacing the sublime sandy beaches of Barra, Tiree or Harris to tackling the rugged challenge of Skye’s Cuillin Hills or the Paps on Jura. To get out on the water, sea-kayaking is a great option on Barra, Skye and other islands. Bicycles are easily taken on ferries, though high winds can make for tough pedaling at times. So lace up the hiking boots, grab binoculars or a paddle, fortify yourself with a local dram and throw yourself into the wilds no matter what hand the weather deals you.

Islay is known for its spectacular scenery as well as the world's best whiskies © Draper White / Getty Images

Visit Islay & Jura to try some of the world’s best whiskies
Mellow, relaxed and so friendly that even passing strangers stop for a wee chat, Islay (‘eye-la’) is the home of several of the world’s best whiskies – many famed for their peatiness – whose names reverberate on the tongue like a pantheon of Celtic deities: Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Caol Ila, Bunnahabhain, Kilchoman, Bruichladdich, Bowmore.
Wilder and more rugged, the adjacent island of Jura likes long, dark and low off the coast like a Viking longship and provides a tremendous hit of scenery, with its brooding twin hills, the Paps, providing habitat for an enormous deer population. The ferocious Corryvreckan whirlpool churns away at the north of the island, near where George Orwell wrote 1984. The author summed it up neatly as “a very un-get-at-able place”.
What to do
Top billing goes to the distilleries on Islay and Jura, which have whisky enthusiasts in raptures, among them Ardbeg, with its magnificent 10-year-old, Bowmore, which malts its own barley, Laphroig, where you can taste famously peaty whiskies, and the Isle of Jura Distillery. All welcome visitors and run tours and tastings. More expensive tours throw in more malts and take you further behind the scenes. It’s worth booking in advance online or by calling ahead.
Cracking seafood (langoustines and crabs fresh off the boat, hand-dived scallops, and tasty mussels and oysters), days spent roaming machair-fringed bays lapped by turquoise seas and brilliant wildlife watching (keep an eye out for grey seals, white-tailed sea eagles, barnacle geese and otters) ramp up Islay’s appeal beyond the dram. Hop on Islay Sea Safaris to spot all of Islay and Jura’s distilleries in a single day. Their customized tours from Port Ellen also include birdwatching trips and visits to Jura’s remote west coast and the Corryvreckan whirlpool, one of the most notorious tidal whirlpools in the world.

Whisky barrels stacked at the Bunnahabhain distillery with Jura misty in the background © Matt Gibson / Getty Images

Where to stay
Accommodation is like gold dust on Islay and Jura for the number of visitors they receive in spring and summer, so always book ahead. Get the best of Islay seafood and whisky, as well as seriously comfortable Victorian accommodation, at the Port Charlotte Hotel, or camp or stay in a self-catering cottage at Kintra Farm amid the dunes at the southern end of Laggan Bay.
How to get to Islay
Loganair flies up to three times daily from Glasgow to Islay, and Hebridean Air Services operates twice daily on Thursday from Oban to Colonsay and Islay. There are two ferry terminals: Port Askaig on the east coast, and Port Ellen in the south. Ferries are run by CalMac.
A car ferry shuttles between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin on Jura. There is no direct car-ferry connection to the mainland. From April to September, Jura Passenger Ferry runs from Tayvallich on the mainland to Craighouse on Jura.
Islay & Jura might be for you if: You’re a fan of whisky and wilderness.
Islay & Jura might not be for you if: You’re looking for serious mountains.

Around only 170 residents permanently reside in Iona, Scotland © keithsutherland / Getty Images

Find mountain drama and holy marvels on Mull and Iona
All of the islands are ravishing, but Mull really hits the scenic high notes, with wild mountains and spectacularly eroded dropping abruptly to startlingly turquoise waters. From great crags of black basalt to blindingly white sands, this is an island for slowing the pace for a spell and wholeheartedly embracing nature.
Birds of prey glide above the highest peaks, otters can be spotted along the shore, while the west coast is good for watching whales, dolphins and porpoises. You’ll for sure see seals, too, both the Atlantic gray (look for its Roman nose) and the common seal (recognizable by its doggy face).
What do do
Mull’s characterful main town, Tobermory, is an instant heart-stealer, with its row of colorful houses, Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust spotlighting local marine life, bijou distillery, excellent restaurant serving sustainable seafood and good old-fashioned pub, near the pier on the harbourfront. Even here, the focus is on the wild outdoors, with hillwalking, whale-watching excursions and boat trips to weird Fingal’s Cave, a 60m-deep chasm of hexagonal pillars, on uninhabited Staffa.
If you’re up for more, you could clamber up 966m Ben More, Mull’s highest peak, and the only island Munro outside Skye, for stirring views out across the islands. Or grab your hiking boots for the adventurous eight-mile return stomp to the phenomenal rock formations of the Carsaig Arches at Malcom’s Point.
A five-minute ferry ride from Fionnphort on Mull, the holy island of Iona weaves its own spell. St Columba sailed from Ireland and landed here in 563, establishing a monastic community with the aim of Christianizing Scotland. Its scriptorium produced some of the most important illuminated manuscripts of the period, including, allegedly, the Book of Kells now in Dublin’s Trinity College. Dotted with majestic stone crosses and monastic ruins, this emerald teardrop of an island is now a place for solitude seekers and pilgrims. The heavily restored abbey is the island’s spiritual heart.
Where to stay
There’s plenty of charming places to stay on Mull, from back-to-nature campsites to B&Bs and luxurious small hotels. For something fancier, Highland Cottage in Tobermory is enchantingly intimate, with antique-filled rooms and a hearty welcome. On a working sheep croft at Iona’s northern tip, the Green Shed is lovely, with eco-friendly self-catering digs decorated with flair and upcycled furniture and riveting sea views.
How to get to Mull
CalMac has three car ferries that link Mull with the mainland: Oban to Craignure (the busiest route), Lochaline to Fishnish and  Tobermory to Kilchoan.
Mull & Iona might be for you if: You love wildlife, mountains and ancient abbeys.
Mull & Iona might not be for you if: You want to just rock up without booking ahead.

Hiking on a trail towards The Old Man of Storr on the Trotternish peninsula © Thomas Janisch / Getty Images

Getting a natural high on the Isle of Skye
The Vikings called it sky-a, or ‘cloud island’, in old Norse, alluding to the clouds that often hovered above the menacing Cuillin Hills, which entice hardcore hikers and mountaineers with some of Scotland’s gnarliest peaks and dizzying views. But even seen from ground level, the Isle of Skye is just stunning. An ethereal light squeezes through the clouds and bathes a rugged splendor that stretches across heather-brushed moors, glittering lochs and sea cliffs razoring above pounding surf.
Skye delivers the kind of big wilderness for which Scotland is so famous – and all neatly packaged into one island. But it’s no secret, so dodge the biggest crowds (and midges) by visiting in spring or autumn. That said, most visitors stick to Portree, Dunvegan and Trotternish – you can always find peace if you’re willing to venture further afield.
What to do
Bring your boots. Hikers are in their element with some of the roughest, toughest and most soul-stirring trails in the country. Ease yourself in gently on short hikes through the remote, boggy, loch-speckled, strikingly beautiful glens of Strath Mor, keeping an eye out for red deer and otters, or on moderately challenging ramble to the Old Man of Storr, an iconic pinnacle of crumbling basalt on the Trotternish Peninsula. Or throw yourself in at the deep end with a pulse-racing, nerve-jangling five-mile trek up 992m Sgùrr Alasdair, the loftiest peak in the Black Cuillin, where dark, fierce fangs of rock punch above the sea. Its summit has sensational views all the way to the isles of Rhum, Eigg and Canna. For rock climbers, the Inaccessible Pinnacle (In Pinn) is the Holy Grail. You might need a guide.
The secluded coves and sparkling sea lochs indenting Skye’s coast are best seen with your bum in a kayak and a paddle in your hand, some say. Whitewave Outdoor Centre and Skyak Adventures get you out on the water.
The outdoors is the big draw, for sure, but when the mist descends or the dreich weather blows in, there’s still plenty to do, from castles like mighty Dunvegan on the vast MacLeod Estate to the fascinating Skye Museum of Island Life, zooming in on the island’s crofting heritage, and jolly pubs where you can shelter from the drizzle with a pint.
Where to stay
Skye is insanely popular and accommodation is therefore plentiful, from camping and glamping to backpacker hostels and high-end hotels. Nevertheless, you should book ahead. Harborside Portree is Skye’s largest and liveliest town, with options ranging from simple, homely B&Bs to the luxe Cuillin Hills Hotel, with broad views out to sea and up to the mountains.
Housed in the old village school, Skyewalker Hostel in Minginish has a cool mix of rooms, glamping huts and a glass-domed outdoor seating area.
How to get to Skye
Skye became permanently tethered to the Scottish mainland when the Skye Bridge opened in 1995. The crossing is free. There are buses from Glasgow to Portree and Uig via Crianlarich, Fort William and Kyle of Lochalsh, plus a service from Inverness to Portree.
Despite the bridge, there are still a couple of ferry links between Skye and the mainland. Ferries also operate from Uig on Skye to the Outer Hebrides. The CalMac ferry between Mallaig and Armadale is very popular on weekends and in July and August. The Glenelg–Skye Ferry runs a tiny vessel (six cars only) on the short Kylerhea to Glenelg crossing.
Skye might be for you if: You are mad about big mountains and hardcore hiking.
Skye might not be for you if: You want to totally escape the crowds.

Spot puffins and more wildlife on the Hebrides islands © Mark Caunt / Shutterstock

Give the world the slip in the Outer Hebrides
When the sun breaks through the clouds on Outer Hebrides (or Western Isles), illuminating the velvet pleats of mountains, bracken-cloaked moors and machair-draped dunes that drop to frost-white sands fizzing into a sea of exquisite turquoise, it’s like witnessing the dawn of creation. Far removed from civilization, there are times you will feel like the last soul on earth here, especially if you come in the hush of spring or autumn. Times when you will forget the century we live in, walking barefoot on mile-long beaches made afresh by the tides, looking for otter footprints, witnessing a fiery sunset after a storm, or foraging for cockles and mussels in rocky bays.
These glorious isles – some just wee specks of rock – are  isolated, windswept, treeless places that have traditionally subsisted on fishing, weaving and livestock, though renewable energy is increasingly big business. You’ll hear the gentle lilt of Scottish Gaelic everywhere here as it’s still a working language.
What to do in the Outer Hebrides
The principal island, its northern half called Lewis and its southern Harris, is a terrific starting point, with out-of-this-world coastal scenery, traditional turf-roofed blackhouses, lonely peat bogs dimpled with lochans and the famous Harris tweed.
Mountainous and virtually roadless, North Harris is the hiking dream. South Harris by turn beguiles with staggeringly lovely white-sand beaches like Luskentyre and Scarista, swirling into jade waters. They are all the more enchanting for often being deserted.
Heading to the far northern tip of Lewis brings you to the lighthouse-topped Butt of Lewis, battered by the North Atlantic. The hinterland is largely desolate peat moorland, glittering with lochans. The island is littered with mysterious prehistoric sites, most famously the late-Neolithic standing stones of Callanish, weighing in at some four and a half millennia, roughly contemporary with the Great Pyramid of Giza, and Dun Carloway, a 2000-year-old, dry-stone broch.
To the south, the lonely Uist islands are prime nature-watching territory and connected by a causeway, while little Barra offers memorable sea-kayaking and the chance to watch the Glasgow flight land on the beach.
Where to stay on the Outer Hebrides
Given how remote they are, there’s a surprisingly great assortment of places to stay in the  Outer Hebrides, from basic campsites and hostels to B&Bs, sleek, architect-designed hotels and eco-friendly beach houses. A lot of accommodation swings with the seasons, closing down during the dark, rainy months from October to March. For hostels with a dash of history and incredible views, check out the Gatliff Hebridean Hostels Trust. Or if you fancy staying in a conserved village of traditional blackhouses on the Isle of Lewis, with the crashing Atlantic as your wake-up call, try Gearrannan Holiday Cottages.
How to get to the Outer Hebrides
Loganair flights operate to Stornoway from Edinburgh, Inverness and Glasgow. There are also flights (weekdays only) between Stornoway and Benbecula. There are daily Loganair flights from Glasgow to Barra, and from Monday to Saturday to Benbecula. At Barra, the planes land on the hard-sand beach at low tide, so the schedule depends on the tides.
There are two or three CalMac ferries a day to Stornoway, one or two a day to Tarbert and Lochmaddy, and one a day to Castlebay and Lochboisdale (always weather permitting – it can get wild out here!).
The Outer Hebrides might be for you if: You love wild scenery, beaches and prehistory.
The Outer Hebrides might not be for you if: You want more action – it’s remote and quiet here.

The ultimate guide to Scotland's magical Hebrides islands

Savoring an aperitif at sundown as the fiery sun sinks into the big blue has been a sacrosanct ritual in seafaring Marseille since time immemorial.

But the bar scene has evolved far beyond sailors chugging back bottles of cheap wine portside or Marcel Pagnol film characters chinking Pastis glasses in the 1930s at the Vieux Port’s Bar de la Marine. As southern France’s grittiest, giddiest city has morphed from Mediterranean black sheep to metropolitan trendsetter with cool factor extrême, so the drinking scene is reaching heady new heights – on its rooftops.

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Iconic roof decks like MAMO with its occasional art expos atop Le Corbusier’s La Cité Radieuse or MuCEM ’s sensational lattice-shaded terrace have lost none of their pioneering edge. But they remain, first and foremost, a place of pilgrimage for art and design lovers. Social butterflies, night owls and cocktail connoisseurs seeking expertly mixed tunes, drinks and dancing: these are Marseille’s 10 rooftop hot spots.

Tuba – the best new opening in town

When the roof you’re drinking on safeguards a mosaic by French street-art king Invader, you know you’re in the right place. Trendy, eco-conscious Tuba struts its achingly cool stuff in a 1960s diving club, in the fishing hamlet of Les Goudes in Marseille’s 8e arrondissement. With tables on rocks by the water, sassy cocktails and shared plates (raw fish!) served with brilliantly creative sauces, Tuba is the city’s summer HQ for gourmet A-listers. Its new rooftop bar opens in July 2022. Expect more sea views to die for (celestial sunsets!), original tapas served in pizza boxes and signature cocktails mixing artisan spirits with thyme, rosemary, ginger and other gloriously eclectic and tangy, homemade syrups.

La Caravelle – a non-rooftop bar with incredible views

Once upon a time, decades before Marseille joined the ‘cool city’ ranks, the closest thing to a rooftop bar in the Provencal capital was La Caravelle – the city’s original "bar with million-dollar views". On the portside fringe of Le Panier, the 1920s restaurant-bar offers a romantic window on the Vieux Port from its second-floor balcony perch inside Hôtel Bellevue. The retro nautical décor, jazz concerts and vintage charm are eternally enchanting and the port-facing bijou balcony remains one of the most hotly contested seats in town for watching sunset skies blaze pink behind Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde. But it is not strictly un rooftop.

Ciel – best for sky-high dining

Downtown Marseille is hardly a skyscraper city – which made Ciel (meaning ‘sky’ in French) all the more exciting when it popped up on the 7th floor of one of the city center’s highest buildings in the summer of 2021. Strung with canvas sails to shade and garlands of twinkling fairy lights after dark, the designer rooftop restaurant cooks up mesmerizing city views and top-notch pizza and pasta by an Italian chef. Aperitivo highlights include deep-fried artichokes, aromatic San Daniele ham cured for 16 months and parmesan tempura. The best seat in the house? The Instagram-loved, wooden swing on the terrace. Yes, it swings.

R2 – dance late into the summer nights

Retired shipping containers upcycled as ethnic street-food stands, cocktails with attitude and sizzling sea-and-port views contribute to the charisma of this wildly popular, open-air bar and dance club. Wednesday to Sunday, DJs from the international circuit spin diverse sets (electro, disco, rock) to a party-loving crowd – up to 1500 night owls pack the dance floor to bursting on the best nights. Find R2 (also known locally as ‘Aire de Marseille’) on the rooftop of Les Terrasses du Port, a contemporary shopping center in the revitalized 19th-century docks of La Joliette.

Les Réformés – escape the bustle of La Canebière

When the relentless throng of shoppers and strollers on La Canebière gets too much, rise above the main-street hubbub at Les Réformés. Tucked away on the rooftop of the Arteplex multi-screen cinema on La Canebière, the restaurant-bar is named after its next-door-neighbor muse – twin-spired, 19th-century Église St Vincent de Paul or "Les Réformés" which you can admire from every angle atop the rooftop terrace. Seasonal French cuisine is the backbone of the menu and the kitchen cooks up small plates to share over drinks and weekly live jazz or DJs.

Bar Julis – drinks in a garden above the city

This alfresco cocktail bar in Jardin de la Colline Puget is another non-rooftop pick, but the soul-soaring snapshots of Lego-like Marseille laid out at your feet puts it up there with the very best of Marseillais sky bars. The garden is a steep five-minute climb on foot from portside Quai de Rive Neuve – don’t miss Invader’s dazzling gold-tile Oh Bonne Mère! mosaic, depicting the city’s traditional protector, on the corner of Rue des Lices and Rue Chaix. Once perched on a bar stool, hobnob with a local after-work crowd over signature cocktails (the Ginger Julep is fabulously feisty) and Mediterranean tapas (clam salad, caramelized leeks with oysters and haddock, chargrilled octopus and chorizo) cooked up by chef Paul Langlère from adjoining neo-bistro Sépia.

La Friche La Belle de Mai – world music, movies and outdoor tunes

To party with an almost exclusively Marseillais crowd, make a beeline for the city’s most experimental rooftop bar – the crowning glory of a revitalized tobacco factory in the La Belle de Mai neighborhood. The cultural center ’s sweeping, 8000-sq-m (86,111-sq-ft) toit terrasse (roof terrace) is accessible year-round, but it is between May and October when it really comes into its own: think free ‘Belle & Toile’ movie screenings beneath the stars on Sundays in July and August, electric African and other world-music gigs, DJ sets, dance parties and a multitude of uber-cool "Soirées On Air".

Rooftop Hôtel Hermès – incredible views of the Vieux Port

Appearances can be deceptive as this simple, two-star indie hotel at the Vieux Port illustrates so beautifully. Ride the elevator to the top floor to uncover its clandestine rooftop bar – a closely guarded secret among savvy locals, open to non-hotel guests from 6.30pm until late. The kitsch marigold-yellow seating and faux pea-green lawn might not be to everyone’s taste. But the cocktails, mixed cheese and charcuterie platters, and birds’ eye views of boats bobbing in the Vieux Port below are all spectacular. Order a Pina Colada glacée (with coconut ice cream) and a plate of panisses (mini chickpea-flour pancakes with fiery chili sauce), eye-ball Notre Dame de la Garde across the water and enter heaven à la Marseillaise.

Rowing Club – refined Mediterranean cuisine and bottomless Sunday brunch

Its name is no misnomer. Lounging by the city’s well-established rowing club in the Jardin du Pharo area, this rooftop restaurant and bar ticks all the boxes for families and couples seeking good food and ravishing sea views away from the noisy downtown crowd. The refined Mediterranean menu might include seasonal dishes like octopus with passion fruit and kumquat marmalade, deep-fried squid with garlicky rouille or elaborate tapas crafted from the catch of the day. Reservations at Rowing Club are essential on Sunday when a copious, bottomless buffet brunch is laid out.

Dantès Skylounge – five-star luxury by the port

The perfect pairing with the neighboring Rowing Club for anyone on a rooftop crawl, Dantès Skylounge squats on the seventh floor of luxury Hôtel Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port. A magnificent panorama of the entire Vieux Port, guarded by the twinset forts of St-Jean and St-Nicolas, unfolds from the sophisticated roof bar – open to non-hotel guests too until the wee hours. Sink into a comfy armchair and admire the city from above over a Provence-inspired cocktail, pastis or pink gin distilled by Mistral Gin from thyme, mint, fennel and other fragrant botanicals typical to the garrigue (Mediterranean scrub) in Marseille’s neighboring Massif des Calanques. Santé!

Marseille’s top 10 rooftops for expertly mixed tunes, drinks and dancing

From airport issues to abuse experienced while out and about, many are well acquainted with the precarity of traveling while Black.
This becomes even more tenuous for Black LGBTIQ+ travelers, considering it’s still illegal to be gay in around 70 countries. Even where it’s legal, LGBTIQ+ people have few, if any, protections. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to Black LGBTIQ+ travel.

Researching the destination ahead of time is crucial © Kike Arnaiz / Stocksy United

The lack of travel resources is a huge problem
Googling "Black LGBTIQ+ travel" tends to bring up resources primarily on Black travel or LGBTIQ+ travel, but rarely for those who are both. As a result, Black queer travelers have to undertake a lot of the legwork themselves – research is crucial to understand the precautions they may need to take abroad.
“My worry is usually how comfortably I can just exist in a space and how safe it is for me to go wandering alone, especially if I’m not presenting in a particularly feminine way,” says Garen Abel Unokan, a Black queer woman who often travels solo to countries like Morocco, Spain and Nigeria.
The 12 most LGBTIQ+ friendly places on Earth: where to go for Pride 2022
“I’ve always found the most interesting things just by walking around, so it’s really frustrating to have to Google “What is (X country) like for Black people” or “(X country) gay people” but it’s essential if I want to have the kind of holiday experience where I’m not constantly looking over my shoulder.”

Garen Abel Unokan says traveling solo brings its own set of challenges for Black LGBTIQ+ travelers © Courtesy of Garen Abel Unokan

Look up the destination’s LGBTIQ+ protections
In the face of very few robust sources of information, looking up the policies pertaining to LGBTIQ+ people in the holiday destination tends to be a useful and necessary starting place for many travelers. But it doesn’t necessarily give an indication of widely held attitudes or the important community-focused work that might be taking place.
Black South African queer traveler Tshegofatso Senne says looking up a country’s rights is always among her top priorities.
“The first thing I always do is to check the homosexuality laws in each country,” she says “The second is to do some research on safety for women in that particular country and if there are certain things I should avoid doing or places I should give a miss as a result.”
“I keep in mind the protections, or lack thereof, of LGBTIQ+ in the country, and read articles to learn more about LGBTIQ+ people (living there),” says Gloria Kimbulu, another queer Black woman. “One concern I have for the future is what it would look like to travel with a partner or friends who are visibly queer in terms of safety because as someone who is largely not read as queer, that of course changes when traveling with a partner or friends who are.”

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Gloria Kimbulu says you must do your research, and tailor it specifically to the country you're interested in visiting, like Cuba © Courtesy of Gloria Kimbulu

Visits to African or Caribbean nations are harder
Out of 72 countries where homosexuality is criminalized, 32 of them are African nations and nine are Caribbean islands. With Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni describing being LGBTIQ+ as a “western import” and former Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe calling homosexuality “un-African,” it’s little wonder Black queer travelers may not feel safe in the countries their parents and grandparents refer to as home.
“I wasn’t disappointed by experiences in Nigeria and Ghana because I had no expectations of safety there,” says Maya Okonkwo, a Black lesbian. “I stayed firmly in the closet for the entire duration of my stay, silent as family friends blamed everything from Brexit to America’s teen pregnancy on ‘the gays.’ The homophobia is another dimension of intense patriarchy present in many African cultures and it was psychologically exhausting to witness.”
But there’s a lot of joy to be found within local LGBTIQ+ communities and many different ways to find them.
Many countries don't accept our right to exist: life as a gay traveler

Connecting with the local queer community can help you get the information you need about a place © Drazen / Getty Images

For many, traveling is a way of forming relationships and bonds worldwide and for Gloria, her relationship with travel centers on connecting with people from the African diaspora in countries like Puerto Rico and Cuba.
“In Cuba, I met up with an Afro-Cuban LGBTIQ+ organization – it’s helpful to look into whether or not there is a group or organization you can meet up with if meeting with local LGBTIQ+ people is a priority to you.”
How dating apps can help travelers connect
Dating apps and meet-up sites prove especially useful when trying to connect with communities within your holiday destination, plus they are more knowledgeable about where and what will be good.
Swipe right: a traveler’s guide to dating apps

Best LGBTQ neighborhoods in New York City

“[Another priority I have] is to try and see if I can find queer people online that are in those same areas, whether it’s to meet up with them or just to get some recommendations for Black and queer-rich areas that I can make sure I go to,” says Tshegofatso.
“Remember that every single country has queer people living there – there’s room to meet and have fun with other queer people in countries you may not have assumed have a queer population.”

How Black LGBTIQ+ travelers navigate a challenging world

Everybody say "love!" We're headed around the world in pursuit of the very best cities that welcome LGBTIQ+ folx.
These are the kinds of cities that understand that life's meant for celebrating; whether it be rowdy drag shows that thrill with sass or thumping dance clubs that party on till sunrise.

Forge new connections on your next adventure with the latest advice from our weekly newsletter.

Rainbow flags fill the streets at pride festivals around the world © Arctic-Images / Getty Images

Pride festivals are back in 2022, returning with a mighty charge to rejoice and celebrate the many facets of LGBTIQ+ love and life. Read on for details about some of the world's best pride events happening this year.
These are the most progressive, inclusive and accepting destinations around the world where you can really show your pride.

Lady Bunny, the toast of New York's legendary drag scene, struts in front of The Stonewall Inn, Greenwich Village, New York City © Lottie Davies / Lonely Planet

New York, New York
2022 Pride dates: June 15-26. NYC Pride is one of the largest Pride celebrations on the planet and runs for nearly two weeks. The main festivities including the parade and music festival will be held during the weekend of June 24-26.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: No LGBTIQ+ visit to New York City would be complete without a visit to the West Village. It’s here that the Stonewall Uprising took place during the summer of 1969 after police raided the Stonewall Inn and began arresting patrons and bartenders. From here, the modern gay rights movement was born.
Aside from Stonewall, NYC has a deep history and profound connection to the LGBTIQ+ community. From painful moments, like being the epicenter of the HIV pandemic, to joyous ones, like the evolution of Harlem’s ball culture, New York City is a must-visit for all queer travelers.
NYC’s most prominent LGBTIQ+ neighborhood is Hell’s Kitchen. The neighborhood’s 9th and 10th Avenues are loaded with LGBTIQ-owned restaurants, barbershops, cafes and bars. You’ll see rainbow flags flying from windows on virtually every corner. Go-to nightlife spots in Hell’s Kitchen include the wildly popular Industry bar, and the campy, country-themed Flaming Saddles Saloon.
New York City's 10 best neighborhoods for shopping

Where to celebrate Pride around the world

Barcelona, Spain
2022 Pride dates: June 23-26, 2022. Barcelona Pride 's official lineup and event info are still to come.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Barcelona’s L'Eixample neighborhood is one of the biggest LGBTIQ+ boroughs in all of Europe. It’s even been lovingly given the nickname “Gaixample”. Here, you’ll find LGBTIQ+ beauty salons, bookshops, saunas, cafes, bars, restaurants, sex shops and everything in-between.
Spain has long been at the forefront of LGBTIQ+ rights. The nation legalized same-sex marriage back in 2005 and has since enacted numerous laws that ensure equality and protection for the queer community, including those who are nonbinary and trans. Platja de la Mar Bella is Barcelona’s premier gay beach (and it also happens to be clothing optional) with most beachgoers baring it all. Among the numerous other LGBTIQ+ hotspots, Arena Classic is a popular lesbian bar that’s a staple to the local community, and Candy Darling, a Warhol-inspired club, sees partygoers dance nightly until the early hours of morning, sometimes all the way until the sun comes up.
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Thousands join Auckland's Pride celebrations every year © Susan Blick / Getty Images

Auckland, New Zealand
2022 Pride dates : Being in the Southern Hemisphere, Auckland holds its Pride celebration in January and it will return in 2023.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Karangahape Road, referred to as “K Road” by locals, is where you'll find most of Auckland’s LGBTIQ+ nightlife. Many Aucklanders make a night of it by starting their evening at The Eagle bar, a local, unpretentious watering hole that welcomes a wide variety of members from the LGBTIQ+ community. Later in the night, locals make their way to Family Bar… which is conveniently located across the street. Family Bar has more of a club vibe, with a bustling dance floor and weekly drag shows.
New Zealand has long been known as a friendly and welcoming country. It has robust anti-discrimination laws and legalized same-sex marriage in 2013. Since then, the nation as a whole, and especially its major cities like Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, have become known as some of the most LGBTIQ-friendly places anywhere in the world.
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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
2022 Pride dates: May 23-30, 2022. Puerto Vallarta Pride is one of Mexico’s biggest Pride celebrations, with a fun mix of locals and visitors alike.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Emiliano Zapata (also called Old Town) is where a vast majority of Puerto Vallarta’s queer nightlife is based. However, the entire city is an LGBTIQ+ vacation magnet and it’s virtually impossible to find any section of town that isn’t welcoming.
Throughout the years, Mexico has become more and more LGBTIQ-friendly, and the oceanfront resort town of Puerto Vallarta is one of the nation’s most progressive cities. All the big brand resorts are LGBTIQ-inclusive, and there are even LGBTIQ-exclusive hotels, like the Almar Resort. For socializing and meeting other members of the community, the options are endless. From the beachy, indoor/outdoor Mr. Flamingo; to the comic-book-inspired Blondies Loft + Slushbar and even the sleek and trendy La Noche, there’s no shortage of places to go. Plus, there are all the fantastic beaches, with Playa de los Muertos known as PV’s “gay beach.”
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Festivities from the 2022 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras © Ruth Goodwin / Getty Images

Sydney, Australia
2022 Pride dates: Sydney’s Gay Mardi Gras is one of the largest LGBTIQ+ celebrations on the planet and takes place during February or March of each year. 2023 will be a massive year for the city as it will be hosting World Pride, a bi-yearly event that rotates between different cities and attracts visitors from around the globe.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: The heart of gay Sydney is the Darlinghurst neighborhood, which is conveniently located near Sydney’s central business district and is easily accessible by the city’s mass transit system.
Though Australia only legalized gay marriage in 2017, the country has long been a welcoming place for the queer community. Sydney is the LGBTIQ+ center of Australasia and the South Pacific and has developed a global reputation for its inclusivity. Not only does the city have excellent LGBTIQ+ nightlife, such as the expansive, three-story Stonewall Hotel, but it also has a deeply queer culture that celebrates LGBTIQ+ art and history. The Darlinghurst Bookshop has been selling queer books, magazines and films since the 80s and the city hosts the yearly Queer Screen film festival.
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A spectacle of pride: Amsterdam Gay Pride brings a burst of color and life to the canals © Salwa Afef / Shutterstock

Amsterdam, Netherlands
2022 Pride dates: July 30 - August 7, 2022. Amsterdam Pride is one of the world’s more unique celebrations since its parade takes place on boats floating along the city’s famous canals.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Amsterdam is a very progressive city and LGBTIQ+ venues can be found throughout, but a lot of activity is centered within the Reguliersdwarsstraat neighborhood, located at the center of town.
The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2001 and has remained one of the most LGBTIQ-inclusive countries on the planet thanks to its numerous anti-discrimination laws and policies that protect civil rights for the queer community.
Cafe 't Mandje is an absolute staple of the city’s queer scene. It was opened in 1927 by its boisterous lesbian owner, Bet van Beeran. To this day, patrons continue to enjoy the eclectic interior and friendly crowd. If late-night adventures are more your style, check out EXIT Café, a thumping LGBTIQ+ bar that welcomes everyone from the LGBTIQ+ spectrum and their allies. Best of all, EXIT is open later than most bars in the city, making it perfect for night owls and those looking for an epic night on the town. For first-time visitors, the Pink Point info kiosk is a great resource. It’s a dedicated LGBTIQ+ information booth that provides travelers with tips, recommendations and information on all things queer in the city.
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If you're going to go, go full out: some of the fun costumes you're likely to see at London's Pride celebration © mubus7 / Shutterstock

London, United Kingdom
2022 Pride dates: July 2, 2022. London Pride is the biggest Pride celebration in the UK, and one of the largest in Europe, and the world.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Soho, in London’s West End, has historically been the city’s epicenter of queer life, and to this day, it remains a hub of the city's LGBTIQ+ bars, shops and clubs.
London has been one of the most prominent epicenters of queer culture for hundreds of years, dating all the way back to the city’s 18th-century “Molly Houses”, which were meeting places for LGBTIQ+ people. London remains a massively queer city and is known for its brimming underground LGBTIQ+ scene that can be found at rotating parties, like those put on by Cybil’s House.
A must-visit for any LGBTIQ+ traveler is the Admiral Duncan. It’s a chance to learn about queer history, honor the past and find community… all while enjoying a pint. Admiral Duncan was bombed by a Neo-Nazi in 1999 because it’s located in the middle of London’s largest LGBTIQ+ neighborhood, Soho.
It was a massive turning point for the city. Following the bombing, a giant rally was formed outside the pub and London’s police force promised to do all they could to find the perpetrator. They even staffed a police van outside the bar with openly-LGBTIQ+ officers to help make the community feel safe and more comfortable approaching the police to file reports. To this day, the Admiral Duncan is a symbol of London’s LGBTIQ+ community coming together to grow stronger in the face of adversity.
While in the city, be sure to visit one of the various pubs that serve PROUD beer, a queer-owned beer company that helps support local charities. Best of all, PROUD is totally cheeky, naming its brew the LGBTQIPA.
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A 600-foot rainbow pride flag is marched through Palm Springs as part of Palm Springs' annual Pride Fest © constantgardener / Getty Images

Palm Springs, California
2022 Pride dates: November 4-6, 2022. Thanks to the city’s year-round warm weather, Palm Springs Pride takes place much later than most.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: All of Palm Springs is an LGBTIQ-centric neighborhood. In fact, Palm Springs has such a queer presence, that even adjacent suburbs like Cathedral City and Palm Desert are developing their own queer populations, holding their own Pride celebrations.
It’s believed that Palm Springs became an LGBTIQ+ hotspot because of the film industry. During the Golden Age of Hollywood, actors, actresses, directors, producers and agents made Palm Springs their desert escape. Naturally, with the heavy LGBTIQ+ populous within the arts, Palm Springs became a refuge for many who had to hide their sexuality. It became the go-to spot for closeted artists to let their hair down and enjoy themselves. That vibe still exists to this day, with numerous LGBTIQ+ resorts dotting the town, many of which are clothing-optional. For a bit of the city’s famed LGBTIQ+ nightlife, be sure to check out longstanding staples like Chill Bar and Hunters.
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Amnesty International marches in the Toronto Pride Parade © Shawn Goldberg / Shutterstock

Toronto, Canada
2022 Pride dates: June 24-26, 2022. Toronto’s Pride celebration consists of a parade, parties and a popular street fair that’s a great option for those looking to have a more laidback and kid-friendly Pride experience.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Queen Street has been Toronto’s main LGBTIQ+ destination for decades, perhaps most recognized as the filming location of the US version of the groundbreaking drama Queer as Folk.
Canada has some of the best protections for LGBTIQ+ people anywhere on the planet. The country as a whole is known for being welcoming and is considered one of the friendliest places on the planet. To visit the bar where Queer as Folk was filmed, make a trip to Woody’s. It’s Church Street’s oldest LGBTIQ+ establishment, dating back to 1989, and remains one of the most prominent staples of Toronto’s queer culture. For something you can only find in Toronto, visit the Buddies in Bad Times theater. It’s a queer performance space and cabaret that also transforms into a nightclub during nights when there are no performances.
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Tel Aviv's pride parade attracts folx from all around the world © Getty

Tel Aviv, Israel
2022 Pride dates: June 8-12, 2022. Tel Aviv Pride is the largest (and one of the only) Pride celebrations in the Middle East… and it also happens to be considered one of the largest in the world.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Tel Aviv doesn’t have a specific “gayborhood”, but instead, is incredibly LGBTIQ-friendly throughout. In fact, the Boston Globe cites Tel Aviv as having 25% of its population identify as gay, literally making it one of the gayest places on Earth.
Tel Aviv is a very strange anomaly. Gay marriage isn’t legal in Israel, yet Tel Aviv has become one of the most progressive, LGBTIQ-friendly cities on the planet. Many say to look at Tel Aviv as its own entity that operates differently from the rest of the country. A great example of this is Hilton Beach. While it’s technically an “unofficial" gay beach, it’s such a well-known fact that even Tel Aviv’s tourism website bills it as a hotspot for the LGBTIQ+ community. One of the city’s most popular locales for queer nightlife is Shpagat. The club is renowned for being a welcoming space frequented by people from the entire LGBTIQ+ spectrum, as well as allies. It’s also a great mix of locals and tourists, ensuring that you’ll always be meeting someone new.
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Provincetown, Massachusetts
2022 Pride dates: June 3-5, 2022. Provincetown Pride has a diverse lineup of events, including everything from the town’s famous parade to a comedy showcase, 5k race, yoga sessions and more.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: Provincetown (known as P-town) can be seen as the Palm Springs of New England. The entire city is a flourishing queer hotspot. And much like Palm Springs, it was P-town’s connection to the arts that began attracting its large LGBTIQ+ populous.
Located at the very easternmost tip of Cape Cod, P-town has been a summer escape for the LGBTIQ+ community for over 60 years. From the riotous parties at A-House to the (technically illegal) nude beachgoers at Herring Cove Beach, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in P-town. Plan your visit to align with one of the town's many queer festivals, including Bear Week, Girl Splash lesbian weekend, Fan Fair trans week and more.
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Berlin's Christopher Street Day is Germany’s largest Pride celebration © Sergey Kohl / Shutterstock

Berlin, Germany
2022 Pride dates: July 23, 2022. Berlin's Christopher Street Day is Germany’s largest Pride celebration. The annual festival is named in honor of the Manhattan street where the Stonewall Inn is located.
Must-visit LGBTIQ+ neighborhood: The heart of Berlin’s LGBTIQ+ activity is in Schöneberg, which has had gay and lesbian bars since the 1920s, making it one of the oldest gay boroughs on the planet.
Germany is a progressive nation when it comes to LGBTIQ+ rights, especially in its major city centers. Berlin especially has a fascinating queer history. In the 20s and 30s, queer culture flourished in the city, before being almost eradicated by the Nazis during World War II. After the war, the LGBTIQ community was forced to rebuild from the ground up, ultimately creating the buzzing and beautiful Berlin of today.
Berlin is famous for being a city where people stay out clubbing until the sun rises the next morning. This is great for clubbers who want to party at Berlin institutions like GMF. But Berlin has so much more than clubs. Its Gay Hostel is a unique lodging opportunity that’s only available to LGBTIQ+ people under the age of 38, creating a safe space where you’re bound to meet some new friends. The city is also home to the Schwules Museum, one of the only museums in the entire world dedicated to researching and preserving the history of LGBTIQ+ cultures around the world.
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Sliding into a bathtub after a long day is one of life’s little luxuries, but there’s nothing quite like the restorative buzz from a dip in a proper thermal pool. From Iceland’s renowned Blue Lagoon to ancient sulfur streams in the Pyrenees, here’s a rundown of some of Europe’s best hot springs.

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Iceland's Blue Lagoon is one of Europe's most beloved thermal baths © Roberto La Rosa / Shutterstock

Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The vibe: See it to believe it.
Emerged from rugged lava fields 30 minutes from Reykjavík, this vivid turquoise pool could easily be mistaken for Iceland ’s otherworldly natural landscape, but it’s actually a man-made complex fed by mineral-rich water recycled by the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Tubs of white, silica-rich geothermal mud are available for guests to apply their own face masks.
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Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, England
The vibe: Romantic British bathing.
The healing waters of Britain’s only thermal spring have been enjoyed by everyone from the Celts to the Saxons since their discovery by legendary British Prince Bladud around 863BC. Tapping the spring that feeds the city’s historic Roman Baths museum, Thermae Bath Spa boasts herbal steam rooms and four thermal baths including an open-air rooftop pool with romantic views of Bath Abbey.
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The thermal waters of Hévíz Lake, Hungary reach a balmy 38°C during summer © andras_csontos / Shutterstock

Hévíz Lake, Hévíz, Hungary
The vibe: Get back to nature.
Dotted with water lilies and surrounded by manicured parks, pretty Hévíz boasts the world’s largest biologically active, natural medicinal lake. Its on-site spa complex is convenient for wintertime visits, but with the lake’s natural water temperature hovering at around 38°C during summer, warmer months make for perfect outdoor bathing.
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Bains de Dorres, Pyrenees, France
The vibe: Vista excellence.
Offering a relaxing alternative to France’s more serious medicinal bathhouses, this small sulfurous thermal spring, sitting pretty at 1450m in altitude, allows guests to soak at 37-40°C with gorgeous views of the rolling valleys below. Just a stone’s throw from the Spanish border, Bains de Dorres dates back to Roman times.
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7132 Therme Vals is one of Switzerland's premier thermal spas, drawing bathers from far and wide © 7132 Therme Vals

7132 Therme Vals, Switzerland
The vibe: Alpine chic.
This minimalist spa complex at 7132 Therme Vals is so trendy that devotees think nothing of the 200km journey from Zürich to bathe in its hydrotherapy pools. Night bathing is offered to guests who bed down at Therme Val’s adjoining hotel, remodeled by the spa’s award-winning Swiss architect, Peter Zumthor.
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Palia Kameni, Greece
The vibe: Nature’s mud wrap.
The copper-hued springs on this volcanic island in the Santorini caldera are known for their therapeutic sulphuric mud. ‘Old Burnt’ in Greek, Palia Kameni is accessed by boat from Santorini – visitors are required to swim from a moored vessel to reach the main seaside spring. Avoid peak tourist season for the most authentic bathing experience.
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Széchenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary
The vibe: Room for everyone.
Known as the City of Spas, many of Budapest’s 16th- and 17th-century Turkish baths are still in use today. With a whopping 18 different pools and a further 10 saunas and steam chambers, the neo-baroque Széchenyi Baths complex in Budapest ’s City Park is one of the capital’s top attractions.
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Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme, Wiesbaden, Germany
The vibe: Lavish country escape.
Having celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013, the art nouveau Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme complex brims with old-world charm. Its aquatic healing heritage actually stretches back further still, with the spa built on the site of an old Roman sauna. Alongside its restorative thermal pools, the spa features a Russian steam bath and classic Finnish sauna to boot.
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Karlovy Vary’s mineral waters are good for both soaking and sipping, Czech Republic © Irina Burmistrova / Shutterstock

Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad), Czech Republic
The vibe: Soothing from the inside out.
Discovered by Roman Emperor Charles IV, who founded this west Bohemia spa town in the 14th century, Karlovy Vary ’s mineral waters are thought to have external and internal healing properties. Many hotels, such as the Grandhotel Pupp, reportedly the inspiration for Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel, operate traditional bathing spas, but it’s possible to drink from the springs at several of the town’s historic colonnade complexes.
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Hammam Al Ándalus, Granada, Spain
The vibe: Ancient Arabic opulence.
Thought to be the first traditional hammam reopened in Europe after Spain’s Christian rulers closed Andalucía’s Moorish bathhouses in the 16th century, the richly decorated Hammam Al Ándalus offer a truly opulent thermal bathing experience.

The chance to bathe beneath the aurora borealis makes a visit to Laugarvatn Fontana an enticing prospect © Laugarvatn Fontana

Laugarvatn Fontana, Iceland
The vibe: Blissful countryside seclusion.
Located 77km from Reykjavík, the bathing pools at Laugarvatn Fontana open onto the picturesque geothermal Lake Laugarvatn, the sands of which are thought to soothe arthritic joints. Built directly over a bubbling spring, the complex’s outdoor mineral pools are particularly alluring, especially when the aurora borealis are streaking across the night sky overhead.
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Pantelleria, Italy
The vibe: One for the fashion set.
This tiny volcanic island in the Strait of Sicily, not far from Tunisia, houses a series of natural, non-commercial pools. Among the most popular is the harbor at Gadir, where locals (notably Giorgio Armani, who owns a holiday home here) head to bathe in the restorative waters, said to soothe rheumatism and arthritis.
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Pamukkale, Turkey's terraced hot springs are a magnificent natural spectacle © Akugasahagy / Shutterstock

Pamukkale, Denizli Province, Turkey
The vibe: The ultimate natural phenomenon.
Translating to ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish, Pamukkale is a stunning natural pool complex that has been used for centuries to ease a range of physical maladies. Created by the build-up of carbonate minerals, the terraced hot springs fringe the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman and Byzantine city of Hierapolis.
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The exterior of Caldea spa; Andorra la Vella, Andorra © Luis Davilla / Getty

Caldea, Andorra la Vella, Andorra
The vibe: For the après-ski crowd.
With over 6000-square-meters of pools, the Andorra capital’s cavernous Caldea spa, fed from a sulfur-rich spring, is the largest thermal spa complex in southern Europe. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy socializing while stewing, with the spa hosting popular cocktail nights. Those seeking a more intimate experience should try one of the city’s boutique thermal spa hotels, such as the Roc Blanc – perfect for easing post-ski aches (or sweating out hangovers).
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Austria's Rogner Bad Blumau spa complex has a hint of the surreal about it © Nunner Patrick / Rogner Bad Blumau

Rogner Bad Blumau, Styria, Austria
The vibe: If Middle-earth had a day spa.
An artistic, aquatic Babylon, this ultra-quirky southeast Austrian spa bears the mark of eccentric Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Fed by two curative springs, Rogner Bad Blumau boasts a Dead Sea salt grotto alongside its pools, saunas and treatment rooms. Replete with rooftop meadows, its attached hotel resembles a futuristic Hobbiton.
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Chateau des Thermes, Chaudfontaine, Belgium
The vibe: One-stop indulgence.
Using Belgium ’s hottest thermal spring, Chateau des Thermes near Liège in the Vesdre Valley houses an outdoor thermal pool, two Turkish baths, a caldarium and a salt cabin, the latter is used to soothe a range of skin conditions. Part of a hotel, this swish day spa also boasts an excellent French restaurant.
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The luxurious Terme di Saturnia complex, in Tuscany © Terme di Saturnia

Terme di Saturnia, Tuscany, Italy
The vibe: Botox with that?
A truly idyllic Tuscan escape, Terme di Saturnia is one of Italy ’s premier thermal spa resorts. Replenished every four hours by a volcanic spring, Terme’s main pool hovers at a balmy 37.5°C. Also available to non-guests, the resort offers special thermal mud treatments alongside its medispa menu.
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Klevevška Toplica, Klevevž, Slovenia
The vibe: Brave a dip in the Slovenian wilds.
With the water temperature bubbling just below the 20°C mark, the tiny outdoor spring in the Slovenian village of Klevevž attracts a more hardy sort than the country’s glitzy spas. But bathers who make the pilgrimage here will be rewarded with a soak in a wonderfully serene forest setting, with medieval Klevevž Castle visible in the distance. For something a little more refined, Dolenjske Toplice, one of Slovenia ’s oldest and prettiest spa towns, is a short drive away.
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The Aqua Dome complex in Austria is home to three spectacular 'levitating' outdoor pools © Aqua Dome

Aqua Dome, Tyrol, Austria
The vibe: Futuristic-style relaxation.
Discovered in the 16th century, Längenfeld’s geothermal spring all but dried up in the 1960s. Redrilled in 1997, it now feeds this Tyrol town’s veritable alpine playground featuring three ‘levitating’ outdoor pools. For romantics, there’s moonlight bathing at the Aqua Dome on Fridays.
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Piestany, Slovakia
The vibe: Grand spa hotels a go-go.
It’s all about the mud at Piestany, Slovakia ’s largest spa town. Attached to various spa hotels, most of the thermal pools in this western Slovakian village, 86kms from Bratislava, are contained in the lush surroundings of a wooded park known as ‘spa island’.
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Nashville is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and it’s not hard to see what draws millions of visitors to Music City year after year. Between the amazing restaurants, historic sites, museums, festivals, and world-class live shows playing everywhere all the time, it’s honestly difficult to not have fun here.
Planning a trip to Nashville? Get excited. Here’s a guide to choosing the perfect hotel for you.

You'll be in awe of the lush atrium at The Gaylord Opryland Resort © Hendrickson Photography / Shutterstock

Best hotel in Nashville for families: Gaylord Opryland Resort
Of course you want to explore the city, but when you’re traveling with a big group with varied (and often conflicting) interests, having a bounty of activities on the property is a hotel perk that’s hard to beat. Gaylord Opryland Resort definitely delivers, with SoundWaves, a state-of-the-art indoor/outdoor waterpark, nine acres of indoor gardens (with waterfalls!), and more than 15 restaurants on the premises.
The Grand Ole Opry and Opry Mills Mall are both within walking distance, and a shuttle can take you downtown (a 15-minute drive) to enjoy all the rest of the fun Nashville has to offer. Fair warning, though: you might not ever get around to leaving the hotel. There’s that much to do here.
Best Nashville option for budget travelers: Millennium Maxwell House
If you’ve done a search of accommodations in Nashville, you know it’s nearly impossible to find a room in the city for less than $200 a night. Millennium Maxwell House is one of the rare exceptions – many of this historic hotel’s 287 country music-themed rooms can still be had for around $200. Hang out at the property’s saltwater pool or catch the free shuttle downtown to hit up the honky tonks and museums with a little more money in your pocket.

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Downtown Nashville is a popular destination for vacations with friends © f11photo / Shutterstock

Traveling with friends to Music City? Check out Graduate Nashville
Nashville is a popular destination for friend vacations. How to choose where to stay when there are so many options? Opt for a place that’s perfectly located, ridiculously Instagrammable and surprisingly affordable: the Graduate Nashville. A midtown location offers easy access to downtown, Centennial Park, Hillsboro Village and the Gulch. You’ll find plenty of group photo opps in the bright, wildly decorated lobby and themed rooms, including colorful paintings of country stars and no shortage of velvet.
The best part, though? Behind a door disguised with floral wallpaper, you’ll find Cross-Eyed Critters Watering Hole, a karaoke bar where singers are backed by an animatronic band plucked out of a 90s kids’ party. It’s a fever dream that’s best experienced with a group of friends who are not afraid to laugh at themselves and lean into the silliness (and hit the high notes).
Best for a pool party: Virgin Hotels Nashville
More than just a place to bed down for the night in Music City, Virgin Hotels Nashville comes through with rooftop pool party vibes. Think live music, cocktails, and endless views. Just as swanky, the downstairs bar/patio is an equally cool alternative to hang out and soak up the atmosphere of this popular boutique hotel (but without the swimsuits!).
Rooms are spacious, modern and stylish, and the hospitality is second to none — this is Nashville after all.
On-site dining is available but beyond breakfast why stay and eat in one place all day and night? Get out into Nashville for the best food experiences. You can walk to the main hotspots of Nashville from here. And book ahead, if you can, for the best room rate deals.
Solo travelers in Nashville, head to Vandyke Bed and Beverage
If you’re traveling to Nashville on your own, do yourself a favor and stay in East Nashville. This lively section of the city offers a totally different vibe from downtown’s rowdy honky tonk crowd, with a wide selection of unique coffee shops, bars, restaurants and concert venues to explore.
The Vandyke Bed and Beverage is a new boutique hotel with a prime location in East Nashville. With a lively bar and patio just downstairs, all you need to do to make new friends is plop down on a barstool – perfect for solo travelers. You’ll be just a few minutes from downtown but can spend your time eating, drinking and shopping your way through the surrounding coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques in this quirky neighborhood. At the end of the day, treat yourself to a fun twist on a classic cocktail, like the Vandyke's "Trashmopolitan."

Close to Printer's Alley, Noelle is in a buzzy part of Nashville and has a rooftop bar © courtesy of Noelle / Lonely Planet

Best hotel in Nashville for romantic getaways: Noelle
Every last detail of this stylish boutique hotel Noelle has been thoughtfully curated by tastemakers and experts, and the result is a luxurious, sexy, Mad Men -inspired experience, from the stunning art deco lobby to the artisan coffee shop and the speakeasy downstairs aptly titled Hidden Bar.
A few blocks from Broadway, Noelle’s location makes it a great launchpad to experience all of downtown’s raucous entertainment knowing you can come back for a chill nightcap by the fireplace at Rare Bird, the hotel’s rooftop bar with gorgeous views of the city. Retire to your luxurious and stylish room, enjoy morning coffee delivery, then go back to bed. Heaven.
Celebrities and luxury lovers book the Hermitage Hotel
If your taste can be described as “only the best,” then you need to check into the Hermitage Hotel for your stay in Nashville. The preferred home base of visiting celebrities and touring pop stars, The Hermitage is a five-star hotel with a perfect mix of modern amenities and old school Nashville magic. The lobby’s ornately painted ceilings, fireplaces and luxe velvet armchairs set the opulent tone, while the spacious rooms boast custom-made, hand-tufted mattresses, Bose speakers and stunning views of the Tennessee Capitol.

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You have to pity historic seafarers – with so many paradise islands to choose from in Central America, it must have been a daily challenge deciding where to weigh anchor. Stunning specks of green jungle and blond sand dot the coastline of the isthmus, all different from one another, and some quite unusual.
To set the scene, one island – more than 300 miles off the coast of Costa Rica – is said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. And real-life pirates once menaced this stretch of ocean, setting up secret bases on islands such as Roatan 0ff the coast of Honduras.
Many of the best-known isles are strung out along the Caribbean Coast, but there are also islands off the Pacific Coast, and more dotted around Central America's volcanic lakes. Some are composed of limestone and sand, while others were thrown up by volcanoes or spawned by coral reefs, and all offer a uniquely Central American taste of the tropics.
Regardless of which island you choose, pack your sunscreen and a sense of adventure. Here's our pick of the best islands in Central America.

Introducing Central America

Bocas del Toro, Panama, is the perfect tropical getaway
Best for a Caribbean vibe
When people envision a dream Caribbean getaway, clear turquoise waters, swaying palm trees and brightly colored weatherboard houses are almost obligatory, and you'll find all of this and more at Bocas del Toro. This lively archipelago off the northwestern shore of Panama consists of a sprinkling of sun-sizzled islands, all with different vibes and offerings, along with hundreds of tiny uninhabited islets.
You can show up by plane from Panama City or David, by ferry boat from Almirante, or from Puerto Viejo and Cahuita in Costa Rica. Most visitors stay on Isla Colón, the most popular and populated island, but you can also park up on quieter, forested Isla Carenero or Isla Bastimentos – the largest and most chilled out of the islands.
Short trips by water taxi connect these and other main islands, and popular ways to pass the time include boat trips to spot dolphins and mangrove birdlife, inland hikes, surfing, coastal kayaking and snorkeling, and tours of cacao farms, plus plenty of lazing on the sand.

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For island life with more action, head to Ambergris Caye, Belize
Best for reefs and nightlife
A sizable crowd of North American escapees have set up base in the seaside condos on pretty Ambergris Caye, the largest island on the Caribbean coast of Belize. Who can blame them? From beaches and diving on the largest barrier reef in the Americas to buzzing nightlife, Ambergris Caye has everything.
For starters, you’ve got the sugar-sand beaches and mangrove-lined lagoons, and you can add in glitzy resorts and the lively downtown hub of San Pedro, frequented by convivial locals and sun-dazed tourists zipping around in golf carts. It's the perfect mix for travelers who like a bit of comfort and action with their island paradise.
And Ambergris offers seemingly infinite opportunities for recreation – beachside water sports, waterslides and ziplines, secret beaches, and of course, spectacular diving and snorkeling on the barrier reef system offshore. Spend a day here and you'll quickly understand why this is Belize’s top tourist draw. Getting to Ambergris is easy by boat from Belize City, Corozal or Chetumal in Mexico, or by plane from airstrips all over Belize, but leaving can feel much harder!

Ambergris Caye is the full tropical island experience © Felipe Santiago / 500px / Getty Images

Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua, is ripe for adventure
Best for adventure activities
Formed by two conjoined volcanoes rising from the middle of Lake Nicaragua, the island of Ometepe is Central America’s premier stop for backpackers seeking outdoor adventure. Thrill-seekers arrive by ferry from the port town of St Jorge and dive straight in, renting scooters, riding horses to jungle waterfalls, kayaking on the Istián River or summiting the 1394m (4573ft) Maderas Volcano.
For less intrepid travelers, there’s great swimming on the beaches near the Ecological Reserve Charco Verde – a pretty lagoon sold rather short by its prosaic name which means 'green puddle.' Finding petroglyphs is another rewarding activity; nearly 1700 carvings adorn rocks across the island. We also recommend taking a tour of Finca Magdalena, a large organic coffee farm that also doubles as a hostel and restaurant.
Honduras' blissful Bay Islands are an underwater playground
Best for cheap diving
Formed by an underwater mountain range, these long, narrow wisps of land off the northern coast of Honduras offer some of Central America’s best underwater adventures. The largest and best-known island, Roatán, was once a notorious pirate hangout, but these days it caters to rather more mid-range travelers, drawn here by chic resorts and paradisiacal white sand beaches. Neighboring Guanaja is mostly visited by divers on all-inclusive packages.
To the west, tiny Utila is the budget option, with abundant cheap accommodation, a fun traveler scene, and some of the most affordable scuba certification courses in the world (with open-water certification going for around US$285). Additional draws include year-round whale shark sightings and backpacker parties that roam around the island's bars.
Fast ferries run to the islands from La Ceiba on the mainland, but some visitors opt to fly, with direct shuttle flights to Roatán from the US as well as from La Ceiba and other cities in Honduras.

Utila is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to dive © Joe Dovala / Getty Images

Archipiélago de San Blas, Panama is totally off-grid
Best for escaping the world
An adventurous stopover for those traveling between Panama and Colombia, the Archipiélago de San Blas – or Guna Yala, as locals call it – is a 365-island stunner self-governed by the Guna community, the first indigenous group in Latin America to secure political autonomy. There’s been almost no development here save for palm-thatched villages and livestock enclosures, and the tourist experience is delightfully rustic. There are no resorts, just camping grounds and cabañas (beach huts), and no internet access, which is exactly the point.
Most travelers arrive on sailboats from the mainland port of Gardi (Cartí) and kick back beside pristine, powdery beaches. Days are spent frolicking in the crystal-clear surf or gliding over coral reefs with masks pointed down at the undersea ecosystem. A stay here is also a chance to immerse yourself in Guna culture, which is famed across the region for its traditional dancing and artful crafts.
The tiny islands of Las Isletas, Nicaragua, are great for day-trippers
Best for freshwater island-hopping
About 20,000 years ago, Nicaragua ’s Mombacho Volcano violently erupted, launching enormous boulders into nearby Lake Nicaragua. Over time, these became Las Isletas – more than 300 tiny islands supporting abundant vegetation and thriving birdlife, found just a short hop from Nicaragua's former colonial capital, Granada.
You can stay over on some islands, but day-trippers can cruise around the islets in a panga boat or paddle around by kayak and spy on the opulent vacation homes of some of Nicaragua’s most prosperous families. Most of the islands are only big enough for a single home, restaurant or resort, but one island boasts an 18th-century Spanish fortress. For an utterly tranquil escape, hunker down at the Jicaro Island Lodge for a few days.

Kayaking is one of the most atmospheric ways to explore Lake Nicaragua © John & Lisa Merrill / Getty Images

Caye Caulker, Belize is the epitome of relaxation
Best for backpacker beach fun
If Ambergris Caye is Belize’s hyperactive and attention-grabbing diva, Caye Caulker is its chilled-out, devil-may-care younger sibling. This slender island is sought out by international backpackers and footloose families who like to spend their vacations relaxing in hammocks beside white powder beaches, and sipping fruity rum-based drinks at beachside reggae bars.
For those who simply must go exploring, there are bikes and golf carts for rent and the impossibly turquoise sea beckons on all sides, with great snorkeling and kayaking and chances to spot manatees in mangrove lagoons. Visitors arrive by ferry boat or plane either from Belize City or from Ambergris Caye.
Corn Islands, Nicaragua
Best for a low-key island escape
Off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, these far-flung islands are blissfully devoid of large-scale development. Instead, you'll find stilted-mounted, multi-colored cabañas, toothsome seafood and idyllic, unspoiled beaches. Lobster catching and tourism are the principal industries, and popular island pursuits include relaxing in hammocks strung between palms and snorkeling in the bathtub warm sea.
The two Corn Islands – Great Corn and Little Corn – are a half-hour boat ride apart and are accessed via plane or ferry from Bluefields, or flights from Managua. Tourists tend to prefer Little Corn as it’s the more charming of the two, with better snorkeling and diving and a bigger selection of restaurants.

There's a hammock with your name on it on Little Corn island © Philip Lee Harvey / Lonely Planet

Easy going Flores, Guatemala, is the gateway to Mayan wonders
Best for Mayan history
In the southern part of Guatemala 's Lake Petén Itzá, backed by vast swaths of rainforest and accessed by a narrow causeway, Flores is first and foremost a base for exploring Tikal, the most impressive ruined Mayan city in all of Central America. But it’s a lot more than that.
Cobblestone streets, romantic plazas and restaurants and guesthouses with elegant roof terraces define this easygoing town, and it even has its own set of modest Mayan ruins lining the lakeshore. Flores is also a perfect launching point for lake swimming or boating, and a place to take lovely sunset strolls along unsubmerged sections of the promenade that rings the island.
Isla del Coco, Costa Rica is full of tall tales and incredible wildlife
Best for finding the real Treasure Island
About 300 miles southwest of mainland Costa Rica, Parque Nacional Isla del Coco is a far-flung national park and UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich seafaring history. This remote island was reputedly the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, and off its shores, hammerhead sharks gather by the hundreds because their food source is constantly replenished by cold, nutrient-rich waters colliding with a submerged mountain range.
Whale sharks and humpbacks often show up for the party, as do divers on liveaboard trips from Puntarenas on the Costa Rican mainland – which are the only way to reach this somewhat inaccessible idyll. Because the island is the only source of freshwater for hundreds of miles, it became an important refuge for whalers and raiding pirates in the 17th century. Treasure is supposedly hidden within the island's yawning caves, though numerous expeditions have so far failed to unearth anything of significance.
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The best islands in Central America are a taste of tropical paradise

Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and pure escapism – say hello to an overwater bungalow or villa vacation. These luxurious getaways, suspended over some of the world's most beautiful oceans, are firm favorites with honeymooners, as well as other travelers who love the privacy and sense of adventure that overwater bungalows bring.
Several loved-up celebrities have given their seal of approval to them with both Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Kidman electing to honeymoon on overnight bungalows in Bora Bora in French Polynesia.

Basking in the ocean breeze of an overwater bungalow © stigmatize / Getty Images / iStockphoto

Overwater bungalows are more popular in 2022 than ever
“Overwater bungalows are very popular right now. I’m working with clients at the moment on a belated 50th birthday and they wanted an overwater villa with spectacular views and a plunge pool. So we are looking at French Polynesia to meet their budget,” says Andrea Strahl, a luxury travel advisor and co-owner of Black Sheep Travels. “Overwater bungalows are especially popular with honeymooners, families and those looking for a bucket list celebration.”
Strahl says there are more options for overwater bungalows around the world now than ever but some destinations remain staples.
“In 2022 we definitely are seeing a lot of interest in the Maldives, which has really been growing in popularity,” she says. “For consistently good deals look at Fiji or Jamaica.”
5 of the best Caribbean overwater bungalows for 2022: closer to home so you can relax longer

Velassaru Resort in Maldives © Nicolas Economou / NurPhoto / Getty Images

Exclusive locations
It’s estimated that worldwide there are something in the region of 8000 overwater bungalows – or overwater villas as they’re sometimes called – concentrated in approximately 200 resorts. The majority of these are located in the Maldives and the South Pacific, but they can also be found in Mexico, the Caribbean, the US and Kenya and Namibia in Africa.
Often restricted to adults only and frequently built for just two people, most units are positioned three to seven feet above the water. One of their most appealing features is that they’ll often feature a glass floor so that you look at the ocean and the sea life beneath your feet.

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The bungalows of Kia Ora Resort © Sharpshooters / VW Pics / Universal Images Group / Getty Images

Tips on choosing the best bungalow for you
Not surprisingly, such slices of paradise frequently come with a hefty price tag, not least because they’re usually in distant locations. While you might find some bungalows that are slightly cheaper, this may mean some compromises, such as not being able to swim directly under your villa. Online directory Overwaterbungalows.net suggests money-saving strategies such as booking in the off-season when you might save 20-40% off normal rates. Before you book, Overwaterbungalows.net’s editor-in-chief, Roger Wade, advises reading various guest reviews because while many of the resorts are excellent, some have different styles. "Quite a few of the better Maldives resorts have a 'No news, no shoes' policy – where they are super casual and not very fancy. Other resorts have dedicated butler service for some or all overwater bungalows." "Many resorts have one buffet restaurant for all three meals each day, while others only do a la carte. The buffet food is better than you’d expect at most places, but some people dislike buffets so it’s important to research. The all-inclusive deals in the Maldives can be fantastic for those who like to have more than a couple of drinks per day. Drinks at these places aren’t cheap." He also points out that there are no all-inclusive overwater resorts in the South Pacific.
Richard Holland was a visitor to Bora Bora for 45 years and told himself that one day he was going to have an overwater bungalow. He’s now the owner of The Black Pearl, a luxurious pad that features floor-to-ceiling koa wood and bamboo, a state-of-the-art kitchen, home theatre and a covered terrace overlooking the lagoon. 'The biggest difference about staying in overwater bungalows is the privacy and seclusion – you aren’t surrounded by other tourists, you are farther from shops, restaurants – so it’s a little bit of an adventure,' Holland says. He’s in no way surprised that floating accommodation is such a hit with honeymooners. 'Overwater bungalows are just flat-out romantic,' he says. 'We can arrange for champagne, flowers, chocolates to be sent, set up couples' massages, and more. But there’s nothing more romantic than watching the stars, seeing the Milky Way at night and having these simple experiences with the one you love and no other honeymooners around.'
From villas to palafitos: which overwater bungalow is best for you?

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma, Playa del Carmen © El Dorado Maroma, Playa del Carmen

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma, Playa del Carmen
Best in Mexico's Riviera Maya
Mexico’s only true overwater bungalows are Palafitos at the El Dorado Maroma resort outside Playa del Carmen on the Riviera Maya coastline. The all-inclusive property is adults-only and has a romantic vibe throughout. This is especially true in the Palafitos villas perched over the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Expect overwater bungalow staples like glass bottom floor panels inside and decks with alfresco showers and infinity plunge pools. The design pays homage to the region with Aztec prints and Zapote wood furniture. When you get tired of playing in the ocean head to one of the seven onsite restaurants where you can dine and drink to your heart's content. There are also a number of bars and lounges and nightly entertainment. Should you wish to be truly spoiled, partake in the 24-hour butler service included with your stay. All-inclusive rates for two start at around $1100 per night in the off-season and go above $3000 per night depending on demand.
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Reethi Beach Resort, Maldives
Best for budget
Although you likely think of the Maldives as an ultra-luxe destination, in reality, there are some properties, like Reethi Beach Resort, with budget-friendly overwater bungalows. Located about 35-minutes by seaplane from Male’s international airport, the resort is located on an island in the Baa Atoll, which has been designated a Unesco Biosphere Reserve that offers you the best chance of swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives.  The overwater bungalows here are not fancy. They don’t come with glass bottom floors or plunge pools on decks, but they are built on stilts above the clear turquoise lagoon and offer direct access to it from a ladder on your private porch. The interior of the bungalows are relatively simple with thatched roof ceilings and floor-to-ceiling window doors that open onto the porch facing the sea.
Waking up from bed here surrounded by water is a surreal experience. Even more surreal? Depending on the season and occupancy, rates for two, including meals can start as low as $300 per night. Considering this is the Maldives that’s an extra big deal. Rates can start as low as $300 per night but vary wildly based on demand.

How to choose the best Maldives island for your travel style

Casa Ventanas at Cayo Espanto resort, Belize © Cayo Espanto, Belize

Cayo Espanto, Belize
Best one-of-a-kind overwater bungalow
For a unique Caribbean overwater bungalow experience head to Cayo Espanto in Belize. The luxury property is set on a private island and has just one overwater bungalow. Called Casa Ventanas it is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea on all sides and sits at the end of a private dock. The 1100 square foot villa is made from polished wood panels inside and out with cheerful turquoise shutters and frames around the windows. There is a cut-out glass-bottom viewing panel just to the side of the mosquito netting draped bed and floor-to-ceiling window doors that open onto the deck. The entire resort is intimate with just six other villas set on the beach. Belize is known for some of the best diving in the world at the Belize Barrier Reef. It is eclipsed only by Australia’s Great Barrier Reef when it comes to size. If you don’t dive, snorkeling here is still a sublime experience. All-inclusive rates for two people start at $1,995 in summer and fall and increase to $2795 during the winter holiday season
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Silver screen dreams framed by beautiful sunsets at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives © Soneva Fushi

Soneva Jani, Maldives
Best for absolute luxury
Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner recently opted for an overwater bungalow at eco-luxury resort Soneva Fushi in the Maldives and took to Instagram to express their delight at their stay. While this high-end destination offers a range of villas, not all of them are overwater, unlike at its sister resort, Soneva Jani. Here, you’ll arrive by seaplane and there’s a choice of either a one-, two-, three- or four-bedroom villa – there are 24 in total – most of which come with their own slide. Other villa features include a wine cellar and a retractable roof. Soneva Jani also has the Maldives' first overwater cinema, Cinema Paradiso. Prices per night start from $2000.
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Relax and unwind in the rustic beauty of Sea Star Cottage © Sea Star Cottage

Sea Star Cottage, Inverness, California
Best for rustic elegance
Belying the notion that all water bungalows have to be tropical, Sea Star Cottage perches on Tomales Bay on the Point Reyes National Seashore. Built in the 1920s, it’s ideal for lovers of the great outdoors, with plenty of hiking, birdwatching, beautiful beaches and lagoons in the vicinity. Suitable for two guests, it offers a spacious deck with steamer chairs and hammock, and an incredible view of the bay. Inside the bungalow, there’s art, antiques, a king-size bed and a cast-iron fireplace, while the nearby towns of Inverness, Point Reyes Station and Olema are a haven of markets and good restaurants offering local organic produce, oysters and wine. Average prices are from $398 per night.
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Relax and unwind in total seclusion in Bora Bora © The Black Pearl

The Black Pearl Water Bungalow, Bora Bora
Best for romance
This retreat is the only privately owned overwater bungalow in French Polynesia and the only property in the complex with its own private dock where couples can lounge with a Tahitian punch, swim in the lagoon and grill on the lanai (veranda). The property, which sleeps two, is fully air-conditioned and comes with two kayaks. The owner says that the reason there’s a four-night minimum stay is to make sure travelers take the time to slow down, get into the island pace and enjoy the unique experience. This is an idyllic location in which to spend time together, as well as for swimming, snorkeling, walking and hiking. Average prices are from $480 per night.

Family fun in paradise © Yellow and Blue Houses

Yellow and Blue Houses, Isla Colon, Panama
Best for family getaways
While the perception of overwater bungalows is that they’re not child-friendly, the Yellow and Blue houses of Big Bight, Isla Colon in Panama welcomes little ones, with the proviso that children are under adult supervision 24/7. The two bedrooms will sleep five and there's also a fully-equipped kitchen, ceiling fans in the bedrooms, TV and a selection of DVDs. Outside, the sundeck with lounge chairs and hammock over the water affords you plenty of opportunities to dolphin watch and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. Avail of the water floats and snorkeling gear, and marvel at the incredible coral reefs. Average prices are from $165 per night.
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Breathe in the pure, crisp beauty of the Swiss countryside © Hotel Palafitte

Hôtel Palafitte, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Best for a European adventure
Switzerland is famous for many things, but until Hôtel Palafitte opened its doors in 2002, overwater accommodation wasn’t one of them. Situated on the banks of Lake Neuchatel, Switzerland’s largest body of water, this is the only five-star hotel in Europe built over a lake. There are 38 pavilions on stilts, each with an individual bedroom and a bathroom with moveable partitions so that you can see the lake from your tub. The terraces offer views of the Alps and sustainability is important with rainwater collection used for toilet flushing, and heating produced from kitchen waste. The hotel bar has an absinthe fountain where you can enjoy the drink in the authentic style of the Neuchâtel region. Room prices are from $540.
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Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before traveling during Covid-19 .

Why overwater villas are the ultimate luxury escape for 2022

Choosing the perfect island escape in Thailand is like shopping for cologne at a perfume store — there are just too many fabulous options to choose from! Your quest to pick the ideal speck of emerald jungle and turquoise seas could quickly descend into a state of dizzying confusion.
But help is at hand! While Thailand boasts countless islands with golden beaches, lush stands of tropical forest and dazzling coral reefs, the prime location for a first-time Thai island adventure is the Gulf of Thailand, where three lovely tropical islands compete for the attention of lovers of sand, sea and spices.
Ko Samui, Ko Pha-Ngan and Ko Tao are located smack in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand, offshore from the southern city of Surat Thani. Each offers its own unique collection of island experiences, and despite being very much on the beaten track, they are a perfect way to break into Thailand’s island circuit.
Whether you’re a luxury lover, a beach bum, a party-goer, a wellness seeker or an adventure junkie, here's our guide to choosing your ideal island in the Gulf of Thailand.

Introducing Thailand

Ko Samui
Best for high-end resorts, restaurants and spas
Also good for wellness retreats
Ko Samui ’s indulgent riviera vibe works its magic on well-heeled travelers who don’t mind-blowing their money on fancy experiences. Elegant five-star resorts occupy gorgeous vantage spots on clifftops and unfurl along white-sand beaches or amidst serene forest glades, offering luxury accommodation, finely curated dining experiences and pampering spa services. Anantara Bophut, W Koh Samui and Banyan Tree Samui are among the headliners here when it comes to top-end offerings.
For those inclined towards a lavish spa experience, rejuvenation centers such as Eranda Herbal Spa, the Spa at Four Seasons Koh Samui and Luxsa Spa take relaxation to a whole new level. In recent years, the island has also gained popularity as a destination for a holistic detox, with travelers seeking realignment of mind and soul as well as lavish pampering. Absolute Sanctuary and Kamalaya are among the country’s best-known wellness retreats – both offer all-inclusive luxury packages based on detoxing, de-stressing and emotional therapy.
Immersing yourself in nature is another way to recalibrate on a trip to Samui. Start with a boat trip to nearby Ang Thong Marine National Park, a spectacular sanctuary made up of scattered islands, defined by towering limestone cliffs that rise from sparkling lagoons. Koh Samui Boat Charter and Oceana Samui have upscale fleets of boats for day charters to the national park and other nearby beauty spots.
The biggest of the three gulf islands, Ko Samui is also known for its active nightlife, centered on bustling beach settlements such as Chaweng on the east coast, and Fisherman’s Village in Bo Phut at the north end of the island. In these commercialized hubs, you will find a generous smattering of beachside restaurants offering fine Mediterranean, pan-Asian and Thai seafood, and plenty of bars supplying delicious cocktails, wine and chilled beer to go with those stunning sunset views.
There's culture here too, in the form of dotted Buddhist monasteries such as Wat Plai Laem. Other highlights include cooking courses, snorkeling trips and Muay Thai boxing camps.

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Ko Samui is the most accessible and developed of Thailand's gulf islands, but it still has its calmer corners © daphnusia / Shutterstock

Ko Pha-Ngan
Best for younger travelers and hedonistic full-moon beach parties
Also good for yoga, digital nomad life
Bohemian Ko Pha-Ngan has aged gracefully over the years. The island was once the epicenter of hedonistic excess, but following clampdowns in recent years, its legendary full-moon parties are now a rather civilized affair compared to the heyday of the party scene in the 1990s. Nonetheless, the monthly party on Hat Rin beach is still a rite of passage for thousands of young travelers drifting through Southeast Asia, and each full moon draws party animals to Ko Pha-Ngan like moths to a flame.
Check dates for upcoming parties online in advance to help plan your trip. The party kicks off on the evening of the full moon with ramshackle beachfront bars pumping out reggae and trance beats, prompting hordes of ravers to jive onto the open stretch of beach that doubles as a dance floor. As the night gets livelier, fire breathers and fireball spinners take center stage, wowing revelers with carnival-style shows.
However, the free-flowing booze and anything-goes atmosphere tempt many people to let their guard down along with their hair. Keep your senses about you – dealers tout dodgy substances despite regular police raids (with stiff penalties for possession) and pilferers wander the crowds in search of unattended purses and mobile phones. Resist the urge to go swimming under the influence – there have been drownings in the past.
In recent years, Koh Pha-Ngan has also gained popularity as a hub for digital nomads keen on mixing work with life in a tropical paradise. Shared working and living spaces such as Beachub, La Casa Tropicana and Koh Space lure remote workers from around the world with communal workspaces and services optimized for medium- or long-term stays.
Last, but not least, the island is a yoga and Ayurveda hotspot, meaning it's easy to detox after a party all-nighter. Try Samma Karuna for packages weaving in yoga, art therapy, meditation and Ayurvedic healing, or Orion Healing Centre for vegan food, reiki treatments and yoga programs.

The monthly full-moon party at Hat Rin on Ko Pha-Ngan is a beacon for party people ©4FR/Getty Images

Ko Tao
Best for world-class scuba diving
Also good for freediving, hiking and snorkeling
Visiting Ko Tao means spending a disproportionate number of hours under its crystal-clear tropical waters. The island is among the world’s top destinations for scuba diving training, whether that means certification courses for first-timers or career courses for scuba professionals. Indeed, this is one of the cheapest places to learn to dive in the world, with PADI certification courses starting from US$300.
Boasting a fabulous selection of shallow coral reefs and a handful of deeper but still easily navigable rock formations and shipwrecks, Ko Tao appeals equally to novice divers as well as seasoned undersea explorers. There’s a mind-boggling variety of marine life to be spotted in these waters, including routine cameos by whale sharks, blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays, stingrays and hawksbill turtles. Top dive sites include legendary Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock.
Black Turtle Dive, Sairee Cottage Diving and Big Blue Diving are Ko Tao’s top dive centers in terms of facilities, equipment rental, boat services and quality of instruction. All have customizable packages covering everyone from novices taking a weekend plunge to would-be professionals booking in for divemaster or instructor training stretched over several weeks.
If you are interested in venturing beyond recreational diving to dip your toes into marine conservation, dive companies such as The Coral Tribe have specially tailored courses and educational programs exploring topics such as coral reef monitoring, marine resource management and citizen science. For non-divers, shallow sites such as Hin Wong, Ao Leuk and Shark Bay offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities, with regular turtle and reef shark sightings early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Koh Tao also caters to people who prefer to explore the marine environment without the cumbersome load of an air cylinder on their backs. Freediving — where divers plunge to depths of 30m and beyond on a single breath — is gaining traction among adventurers, and Apnea Total is a trusted center for those hoping to learn this emerging discipline.
Finally, for a spot of adventure on dry land, take a vigorous hike up to one of Ko Tao’s dramatic hilltop lookouts, such as West Coast Viewpoint, Tanote Peak Viewpoint or John Suwan Viewpoint. Accessible from Sairee Beach by long-tail boat, the nearby island of Koh Nang Yuan also offers delightful hiking opportunities – the trek to its apex viewpoint offers a gorgeous vista of Koh Tao’s eastern shoreline.

Ko Tao is the gateway to an underwater wonderland © think4photop / Shutterstock

How to get to Thailand's gulf islands
Reaching Thailand's gulf islands is easy by plane or boat. Ko Samui is served by daily flights from Bangkok and a string of other cities in Thailand and neighboring Southeast Asian countries, operated by Bangkok Airways. If you'd rather cut your carbon footprint, regular ferries run to the islands from the mainland, with easy connections from island to island.
Lomprayah runs interisland connections and transfers from Chumphon, while Songserm and Seatran run boats from Don Sak Pier and Tapee Pier, both close to Surat Thani. Daily trains from Bangkok serve Surat Thani and Chumphon, continuing on to the border with Malaysia.
Article originally publishded by Emma Sparks.
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