The best island for affordable luxury REVEALED - with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters
And now, the very best islands for a dream holiday have been revealed – amid a huge rise in global interest for some island escapism.
In its first-ever 'island hot list', Expedia – a global online travel platform – has found exotic destinations for all sorts of interests, whether holidaymakers are looking to soak up the sun, catch some surf or eat their way around.
The results are 'based on verified data and traveller insights', according to the travel giant.
Koh Samui, a tropical island in southern Thailand, was named best for affordable luxury.
Expedia said it has seen a 55 per cent jump in people searching for the island – which they've dubbed the 'wellness island of the east' – year-on-year, attracting visitors for yoga retreats, detox programmes and 'beachside spirituality'.
At the same time, it maintains its reputation for nightlife and natural beauty, it added.
Narin Tijayang, former executive director of Koh Samui Office, Tourism Authority of Thailand, said that being selected was a 'testament to the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of our island'.
The island of Aruba in the Caribbean was ranked top for year-round sunshine
A Dutch island in the Caribbean was ranked top for year-round sunshine.
The arid landscapes of Aruba, home to biking trails and eco-friendly stays, come first for those looking to top up their tan.
It 'blends outdoor adventure with relaxed Caribbean vibes', says Expedia.
The lush landscapes, rice terraces and 'spiritual atmosphere' of Bali helped it be named the best island for relaxation.
Like Aruba, the Indonesian island has seen a 15 per cent growth in search interest.
Food lovers should book a break to Sardinia, which has seen a boom in agritourism and immersive experiences – including plenty of opportunities to eat like a local.
The 'Blue Zone', known for its high concentration of centenarians and healthy lifestyle, continues to draw wellness seekers, as does its rugged coastline and hilltop villages.
Partyseekers are being advised to put Paros on their go-to list.
Expedia 2025 island hot list
Aruba (best for tear-round Sunshine)
Bali, Indonesia (best for relaxation)
Dominican Republic (best for adventure)
Fiji (best for community)
Jamaica (best for culture)
Koh Samui, Thailand (best for affordable luxury)
Maldives (best for romance)
Oahu, Hawaii (best for surfing)
Paros, Greece (best for nightlife)
Sardinia, Italy (best for food lovers)
Santorini and Mykonos remain popular, Paros is emerging as the Cycladic gem to watch.
'A rising design scene, low-key luxury stays, and its charming port towns make it ideal for travellers looking for serenity with soul,' says Expedia.
The Expedia Island Hot List was created by analysing a number of factors, including the firm's travel data, accommodation rates and quality (based on real traveller reviews).
Accessibility, air connectivity, weather and seasonality, tourism appeal, and traveller safety and inclusivity – as informed by travel advisories and traveller sentiment – were also considered.
The research showed a soaring interest in islands for Brits.
At the top of the list are Jersey (+75 per cent), Crete, Greece (+50 per cent), Mauritius (+50 per cent), Malta (+55 per cent), and Madeira, Portugal (+65 per cent).
'Powered by real traveller data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travellers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape,' says Melanie Fish, spokesperson for Expedia Group brands.
'Island adventurers want standout stays, affordable prices and seamless flight access. To get that, our top tips are to travel out of season when average stay prices can fluctuate by as much as 50 per cent and bundle flights and hotels together, where you can knock nearly £160 on average off your trip.'
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