10 great tickets to a warm and sunny island paradise
— -- Ditch that hat, scarf and parka. The first day of winter is fast approaching, so start planning now for a warm-weather island getaway. Steve Davey, author of Unforgettable Islands to Escape to Before You Die, shares his picks with Kelly DiNardo for USA TODAY.
Bali Indonesia
This Indonesian island features palm-tree-fringed beaches, bustling villages, exotic crafts and, well, much more. "You can be hiking through rice terraces in the morning and lying on a beautiful beach in the afternoon," Davey says. "It's a cultural haven of temples and temple festivals. Every day seems to be a festival day, and the food is glorious." bali-tourism-board.com
Huahine French Polynesia
The French Polynesian islands all feature beautiful landscapes of dramatic peaks and turquoise lagoons. And this idyllic getaway is no exception, though it's much less renowned than nearby Tahiti. "The lesser-known Huahine maintains a vibrant sense of community, where you can still hang out in local bars and restaurants, as well as relax on an idyllic beach paradise," Davey says. "The lagoon is full of all manner of tropical fish, and you can even snorkel with rays and reef sharks." go-to-tahiti.com/islands/huahine/huahine.asp
St. Lucia
This volcanic island in the Caribbean is more mountainous than most islands there. "It is a laid-back yet stylish island, dominated by the twin peaks of the Pitons," Davey says. "The steep slopes of the Pitons are covered in lush rain forest." In addition to snorkeling, diving and other water-based activities, there are various trails through the rain-forest-covered mountains. The island also features a now-dormant volcano, which visitors can drive into and see the steamy sulfur springs.stlucia.org
Yasawa Islands Fiji
"Usually you have to spend serious money to enjoy the best beachside properties, but in the Yasawa Islands you will find a range of midrange and even backpacker places right on the waterfront," Davey says of this chain of about 20 islands in the South Pacific. "The islands themselves are craggy and verdant green. Right at the end of the chain is the fabled Blue Lagoon from the film of the same name." bulafiji.com
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