Latest news with #IslandHotList
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- The Irish Sun
World's ten best holiday islands revealed – here's how to find the two in Europe
THE top 10 islands in the world have been revealed, from Italian paradise to popular Greek gems. Online travel agency, 7 Paros has been recognised as the world's best island more than once Credit: Alamy 7 It has beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife Credit: Alamy The island of The Greek paradise was declared best in the world by Paros forms part of the We spoke to Read More on Holidays She also raved about the delicious seafood, hidden clubs and party boats. Also on the list is Italy's Sardinia, which Expedia said boasts a "rugged coastline and hilltop villages." The standout island has attracted lots of holidaymakers over the years, including celebrities like George Clooney and Beyonce. Most read in Beach holidays One On the island is even a I found the perfect adults-only hotel for an all-inclusive Greek island holiday 7 Sardinia is one of the top islands - and the closest on the list from the UK Credit: Alamy 7 Aruba is on the hot list too and has incredible beaches Credit: Alamy Found on the west coast of the It's where you'll find some huge dunes that look like they belong in the desert, and they rise up to heights of 60 metres. These dunes are the reason it has been nicknamed 'Little Sahara of Italy'. Also on the list was Scoring 90 out of 100 - compared to the lowest being 34 for Not only that, it's known by locals as 'One Happy Island'. It's not really a surprise because the island gets highs of 30C even in winter. The island is much drier than others that surround it as it sits just outside of the hurricane belt. Aruba is famous for having white sand beaches, and being home to Flamingo Beach where you can see the famous pink birds relaxing in shallow waters. 7 Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand Credit: Alamy 7 The island is known for the coastline and vibrant nightlife Credit: Alamy Koh Samui, Thailand's second largest island also found a place on the Island Hot List. It's known for having incredible beaches, huge temples and vibrant nightlife. Thanks to a very well-known TV series, The island also has an annual festival called Songkran which is a three-day celebration where people are armed with water pistols. The festival traditionally runs April 13-15, which just happens to be during Thailand's hottest season. One writer Expedia also found a rising interest in other islands, particularly for Brits like Jersey, Plus, here are And check out the These Are Expedia's Top 10 Islands for 2025 Aruba Bali Dominican Republic Fiji Jamaica Koh Samui Maldives Oahu, Hawaii Paros, Greece Sardinia, Italy 7 Expedia has revealed its top 10 islands for 2025 Credit: Alamy
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Scottish Sun
World's ten best holiday islands revealed – here's how to find the two in Europe
Find out the full Island Hot List for 2025 below ISLE BE THERE World's ten best holiday islands revealed – here's how to find the two in Europe Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE top 10 islands in the world have been revealed, from Italian paradise to popular Greek gems. Online travel agency, Expedia, has formed its 'Hot List' for islands across the world, judging them on standout stays, affordability, flights and appeal - and there's one in particular that's very familiar to readers. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 7 Paros has been recognised as the world's best island more than once Credit: Alamy 7 It has beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife Credit: Alamy The island of Paros has become a standout name in 2025. The Greek paradise was declared best in the world by Travel + Leisure - and has made it onto Expedia's Island Hot List too. Paros forms part of the Cyclades Islands surrounded by the likes of Naxos, Milos and Antiparos. We spoke to one holidaymaker who went to Paros recently, where she discovered beautiful beaches, traditional villages and a buzzing nightlife. She also raved about the delicious seafood, hidden clubs and party boats. Also on the list is Italy's Sardinia, which Expedia said boasts a "rugged coastline and hilltop villages." Sardinia is a large Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea, and there's almost no end to the beaches as it has over 1,000 miles worth of coastline. The standout island has attracted lots of holidaymakers over the years, including celebrities like George Clooney and Beyonce. One visitor discovered sun-drenched beaches where waiters deliver cocktails directly to sunbeds. On the island is even a little-known beach that has been compared to the Sahara Desert. I found the perfect adults-only hotel for an all-inclusive Greek island holiday 7 Sardinia is one of the top islands - and the closest on the list from the UK Credit: Alamy 7 Aruba is on the hot list too and has incredible beaches Credit: Alamy Found on the west coast of the Costa Verde coastline of the island is a beach called Spiaggia di Piscinas that has soft golden sands, clear blue waters. It's where you'll find some huge dunes that look like they belong in the desert, and they rise up to heights of 60 metres. These dunes are the reason it has been nicknamed 'Little Sahara of Italy'. Also on the list was Aruba, which was also recently revealed to be the safest island in the Caribbean Sea. Scoring 90 out of 100 - compared to the lowest being 34 for Puerto Rico - it is ranked one of the safest across the islands. Not only that, it's known by locals as 'One Happy Island'. It's not really a surprise because the island gets highs of 30C even in winter. The island is much drier than others that surround it as it sits just outside of the hurricane belt. Aruba is famous for having white sand beaches, and being home to Flamingo Beach where you can see the famous pink birds relaxing in shallow waters. 7 Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand Credit: Alamy 7 The island is known for the coastline and vibrant nightlife Credit: Alamy Koh Samui, Thailand's second largest island also found a place on the Island Hot List. It's known for having incredible beaches, huge temples and vibrant nightlife. Thanks to a very well-known TV series, White Lotus, Koh Samui is even more on the map. The island also has an annual festival called Songkran which is a three-day celebration where people are armed with water pistols. The festival traditionally runs April 13-15, which just happens to be during Thailand's hottest season. One writer checked it out for herself and had an absolute blast. Expedia also found a rising interest in other islands, particularly for Brits like Jersey, Crete, Malta and Madeira. Plus, here are 20 of Europe's most beautiful islands that all have direct flights from the UK. And check out the cheeky 48-hour holidays to Europe's best cities, beach towns and islands this summer from £167. These Are Expedia's Top 10 Islands for 2025 Aruba Bali Dominican Republic Fiji Jamaica Koh Samui Maldives Oahu, Hawaii Paros, Greece Sardinia, Italy
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a world record traveller but there are two islands left on my bucket list'
Lexie, who has 1.5 million followers on Instagram, sat down with the Mirror to share the two islands she is desperate to visit, on the same day Expedia released the 2025 Island Hot List A record-breaking traveller has revealed the two islands she is desperate to visit. Lexie Limitless is certifiably well-travelled. The record-breaking adventurer had visited every country on Earth by age 21, earning her multiple Guinness World Records. If that weren't enough globe-trotting, she recently became the first person to circumnavigate the Earth in an electric vehicle, a project with Ford called Charge Around The Globe. Now, the 27-year-old has teamed up with Expedia to share her pro tips and island hacks. 'There's something magical about island life. Time slows down, the air feels thick yet fresh, and the locals' connection to nature is undeniable. Islands are little pockets of culture and tradition surrounded by endless ocean, which makes for the perfect environment to escape your routine,' Lexie explained. 'After a very hectic past few years, I'm not surprised Expedia is seeing a spike in island travel. I think people are craving a real escape, and islands offer exactly that. A lot of people, myself included, crave feeling secluded and immersed in an entirely different, slower culture. Islands check every box, whether you're looking for adventure, wellness, or just to disconnect.' Lexie, who has 1.5 million followers on Instagram, sat down with the Mirror to share the two islands she is desperate to visit, on the same day Expedia released the 2025 Island Hot List. Koh Samui, Thailand Named the best island for affordable luxury by Expedia, Koh Samui has had a big year. It featured as the backdrop for the latest season of White Lotus, capturing viewers with its white sand beaches, amazing hotels, and waving palm trees just as much as the show did with its plot. "I've really wanted to travel there since White Lotus came out. I have been to Thailand many times, backpacking, and it is one of the most affordable backpacking destinations. When people ask where to go, I always say 'see Asia and Thailand'," Lexie said. As well as plenty of beautiful spots by the beach and pools to relax, Koh Samui offers popular attractions including the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Ang Thong National Marine Park, and Fisherman's Village. The abundance of markets and waterfalls should also be on your to-do list. Sardinia, Italy Not a million miles away geographically or landscape-wise from the filming location of season two of White Lotus (Sicily), the large Italian island floating in the middle of the Mediterranean took Lexie's spot as the second place on her island bucket list. "Sardinia, definitely. I haven't made it there yet, but Italy is one of my favourite countries to travel to. I have been to Italy 5 to 10 times, but there are so many places I haven't been to yet," she said. There's a huge amount in Sardinia to keep you busy. Popular options include visiting the Costa Smeralda for luxury and nightlife, exploring the Maddalena Archipelago for sailing and beaches, and discovering the ancient ruins of Nora or Su Nuraxi. Lexie's advice for making the most of trips to such places is not to plan too hard and to keep your mind open to the possibility of adventure. 'Always keep your mind open to unexpected adventures. With so many travel guides and TikTok showing what's going on at each island, you can get caught up in having that perfectly curated plan,' she explained. The below destinations have made it onto Expedia's global Island Hot List: Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine) Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation) Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure) Fiji (Best for Community) Jamaica (Best for Culture) Maldives (Best for Romance) Oahu, Hawaii (Best for Surfing) Paros, Greece (Best for Nightlife) Sardinia, Italy (Best for Food Lovers) Koh Samui, Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury)
Arabian Business
7 days ago
- Arabian Business
UAE summer 2025: September named best month for island travel in new Expedia report
Expedia has released its inaugural 2025 Island Hot List, identifying the world's top island destinations based on verified travel data and traveller insights. The report shows global interest in islands has increased by 30 per cent on average. The travel platform's analysis reveals September as the optimal month for island travel, with Paros and Sardinia experiencing 45 per cent year-on-year growth in traveller interest. Top 10 global islands The destinations that made Expedia's global Island Hot List include: Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine) (Best for Year-Round Sunshine) Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation) (Best for Relaxation) Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure) (Best for Adventure) Fiji (Best for Community) (Best for Community) Jamaica (Best for Culture) (Best for Culture) Koh Samui, Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury) (Best for Affordable Luxury) Maldives (Best for Romance) (Best for Romance) Oahu, Hawaii (Best for Surfing) (Best for Surfing) Paros, Greece (Best for Nightlife) (Best for Nightlife) Sardinia, Italy (Best for Food Lovers) UAE travellers prefer Cyprus, Phuket, Malta, Madagascar, Seychelles Expedia data shows rising interest in specific islands amongst UAE travellers. Cyprus leads with 140 per cent growth, followed by Phuket, Thailand (210 per cent), Malta (170 per cent), Madagascar (265 per cent), and Seychelles (205 per cent). Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations, said: 'Powered by real traveller data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travellers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape. 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.' Tourism officials from featured destinations expressed satisfaction with the recognition. The report indicates September as the optimal travel month for most destinations, excluding Caribbean islands during hurricane season. Average stay prices can vary by up to 50 per cent depending on the season. Hotel rates range from AED 550 in Bali to AED 2,405 in the Maldives. Expedia members can save 25 per cent or more on select stays during the Halfway There Sale, with bookings required by July 21, 2025 for travel by October 31, 2025. However, Expedia recommends several strategies for island travel: Travel during off-peak seasons for savings up to 50 per cent Use Flight Alerts through Price Tracking in the Expedia app Consider island hopping for varied experiences Bundle flights and hotels for additional savings Take advantage of member discounts during promotional periods Koh Samui shows the highest growth at 55 per cent year-on-year, with March identified as the optimal travel month. The island is positioning itself as Thailand's wellness capital, attracting visitors for yoga retreats and detox programmes. Paros and Sardinia both demonstrate 45 per cent year-on-year growth. Paros is emerging as an alternative to Santorini and Mykonos, offering design-focused accommodations and port towns. Sardinia attracts wellness seekers due to its Blue Zone status and agritourism experiences. Aruba, Bali, Jamaica, and Maldives each show 15 per cent year-on-year growth. Aruba offers consistent sunshine with expanded biking trails and eco-friendly accommodation. Bali focuses on zero-waste hospitality and wellness tourism. Jamaica emphasises cultural connections beyond beach tourism. The Maldives incorporates solar-powered villas and coral farming initiatives.
Business Wire
15-07-2025
- Business Wire
EXPEDIA LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER ISLAND HOT LIST, BACKED BY GLOBAL TRAVEL DATA
SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Expedia ® released the 2025 Island Hot List, the definitive guide to island travel based on verified data and traveler insights. The inaugural curated report reveals global interest for islands is up on average 30% *. From the cultural richness of Jamaica to the sunny shores of Koh Samui, the islands on the 2025 list reflect travelers' values. Beyond the beautiful photos, they offer culture and authenticity, demonstrating how islands are adapting and redefining what it means to travel to these unique edges of the world. Here are the destinations that made Expedia's global Island Hot List: Aruba (Best for Year-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) Top Islands for US Travelers Beyond these global hotspots, Expedia data also shows a rising wave of interest in islands that hold unique appeal for US travelers. Top of the list is Madeira (+ 45%), Nantucket (+ 40%), St. Thomas (+ 30%), Palm Beach (+ 30%) and Turks and Caicos (+ 10%) *. Whether driven by affordability, easy access or seasonal appeal, these locally relevant escapes are climbing the charts, offering travelers familiar flavors with a fresh twist. The Expedia Island Hot List is based on a comprehensive analysis of factors including Expedia travel data, accommodation rates and quality (based on real traveler reviews), accessibility, air connectivity, weather and seasonality, tourism appeal, and traveler safety and inclusivity – as informed by travel advisories and traveler sentiment. 'Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travelers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape,' said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations. '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% ** and bundle flights and hotels together, to knock nearly $338 *** on average off your trip.' While the optimum time to visit varies by destination, the global report pinpoints September (outside of the Caribbean where it's peak hurricane season) is typically the best time for an island getaway, when affordability and weather conditions align to offer the best overall experience. Expedia Top Tips for Island Travel: Travel off-peak and save big: Average stay prices can swing by up to 50% depending on the season **. Skip crowds and get better deals by traveling during the shoulder or off-season. Think Sardinia or Paros in September – just outside peak – where prices can drop by 35% compared to August **. Use Flight Alerts to help you know when to book: Turn on Price Tracking **** in the Expedia app to get notified the moment fares dip. It's the easiest way to catch a deal without constantly checking. Island hop for unexpected adventures: Why stay on one island when you can explore more? Ferries and short flights open a world of hidden beaches, local flavors, and off-the-radar gems, just beyond the main drag. Bundle and save more: Flights, car hire, hotels, and activities – all in one place. Expedia's customizable packages can help travelers save hundreds on average when booking multiple items together. Bonus: your full itinerary is stored in one place. Score 25%+ savings with the Expedia Halfway There Sale: With average island hotel rates ranging from $150 in Bali to $655 in the Maldives **, members can save 25% or more on select stays during Expedia's Halfway There Sale. Book by 21 July 2025, travel by 31 October 2025 *****. Inclusion in the list is a source of pride for many destinations eager to showcase their unique attributes to travelers. Leaders from Thailand and Jamaica shared their excitement about the recognition: 'We are honored that the pearl of the China Sea, Koh Samui, has been recognized among the top 10 Expedia Island Hot List – a testament to the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of our island. Koh Samui, with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality, stands ready to welcome travelers from around the world to experience the very best of Thai island life,' said Mr. Narin Tijayang, Former Executive Director of Koh Samui Office, Tourism Authority of Thailand. 'Being named among Expedia's top 10 island destinations is a proud moment for Jamaica,' said Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. 'There is a vibe that can only be found in Jamaica and this recognition reflects the soul of our island – our music, food, people, and unforgettable rhythm of life. Travelers around the world continue to choose Jamaica not just for its beauty, but for the energy and authenticity that sets us apart.' Learn more about the top 10 islands on Notes to Editor Visual Assets: Destination images and videos are available for download here. Destination Insights: Aruba Best For: Year-Round Sunshine Best time to travel: September Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: JOIA Aruba by Iberostar Insider Tip: Desert Beauty Meets Caribbean Bliss. Aruba's arid landscapes and consistent sunshine make it a standout for 2025. With expanded biking trails and eco-friendly stays, the island blends outdoor adventure with relaxed Caribbean vibes. Bali, Indonesia Best For: Relaxation Best time to travel: September Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: Potato Head Suites & Studios Insider Tip: Reimagined for the Conscious Traveler. The lush landscapes, rice terraces and spiritual atmosphere of Bali remain iconic, but the island is transforming under new creative tourism initiatives. Destinations across the island – from tranquil inland retreats to mindful beachside escapes – are embracing zero-waste hospitality, wellness, and cultural connection. Dominican Republic Best For: Adventure Best time to travel: April Travel Interest: Up 10% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: Casa de Campo Resort and Villas Insider Tip: Caribbean Cool, Redefined. Long known for all-inclusive resorts, the Dominican Republic is evolving. Cultural connections and an emphasis on adventure travel – think waterfalls and mountain biking – make it one of the most dynamic Caribbean picks for 2025. Fiji Best For: Community Best time to travel: September Travel Interest: Up 5% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: Nanuku Resort Fiji Insider Tip: Leading the Pacific in Eco-Luxury. Fiji continues to be a benchmark in regenerative tourism. With coral restoration programs, strong community-based tourism and private island retreats, Fiji blends sustainability with unforgettable luxury. Jamaica Best For: Culture Best time to travel: December Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: S Hotel Montego Bay Insider Tip: Beyond the beaches. Jamaica is tapping into its roots in 2025, inviting travelers to explore a vibrant fusion of rhythm, flavor, and natural beauty. From reggae and rum to waterfalls and authentic cuisine, whether you're exploring the Blue Mountains or relaxing on Negril's Seven Mile Beach, Jamaica offers a soulful escape worth plenty of local charm. Koh Samui, Thailand Best For: Affordable Luxury Best time to travel: March Travel Interest: Up 55% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort Insider Tip: Wellness Island of the East. Koh Samui is Thailand's rising wellness capital. In 2025, the island is attracting travelers for yoga retreats, detox programs, and beachside spirituality – all while maintaining its reputation for nightlife and natural beauty. Maldives Best For: Romance Best time to travel: May Travel Interest: Up 15% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: Jumeirah Olhahali Island Maldives Insider Tip: Remote. Relaxed. Refined. The Maldives remains the ultimate romantic, luxury escape, but 2025 marks a shift: floating villas powered by solar, coral farming initiatives, and a growing push for carbon-neutral tourism. It's paradise with a purpose. Oahu, Hawaii Best For: Surfing Best time to travel: September Travel Interest: Up 10% year-on-year * Hotel Recommendation: Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani Insider Tip: A Cultural Comeback. In 2025, Oahu is redefining itself beyond Waikiki. With renewed focus on Native Hawaiian culture, eco-tourism, and off-the-beaten-path adventures – from North Shore surf villages to sacred heiau trails – Oahu offers a deeper, more responsible way to experience Hawaii. Paros, Greece Best For: Nightlife Best time to travel: September Hotel Recommendation: Andronis Minois Travel Interest: Up 45% year-on-year * Insider Tip: The New Greek Darling. While 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 travelers looking for serenity with soul. Sardinia, Italy Best For: Food Lovers Best time to travel: September Hotel Recommendation: Aethos Sardinia Travel Interest: Up 45% year-on-year * Insider Tip: Longevity Meets Luxury. Sardinia's Blue Zone status draws wellness seekers, while its rugged coastline and hilltop villages continue to attract travelers from far and wide. 2025 sees a boom in agritourism and immersive experiences where you can eat, hike, and live like a local. About the Expedia Island Hot List The Expedia Island Hot List is based on a comprehensive analysis of factors including: Global traveler interest – islands that are trending and growing in popularity Accommodation rates – destinations offering a spectrum of affordability Flight and lodging accessibility – strong air connectivity and plenty of hotels to service demand Quality of hotels – based on real traveler reviews and overall guest experience ratings Weather and seasonality – essential considerations for any island escape Tourism appeal – range of cultural, natural, and recreational attractions Traveler safety – based on travel advisories and traveler sentiment highlighting islands considered safe, inclusive and where travelers are free to explore. * Based on global accommodation interest for islands from all Expedia POSa from May 13, 2024 to May 18, 2025 compared to May 13, 2023 to May 18, 2024 for travel from May 14, 2024 to May 14, 2026. ** Based on the average daily rate from all Expedia POSa for travel from 1 January 2024 – 1 December 2024. Prices shown are in USD and are not necessarily the rates displayed on the site. Rates are subject to accommodation selections made. Savings based on the difference in price between the cheapest and most expensive month to travel to each of the Hot List islands. *** Savings vary and are not available on all packages. Savings are compared to the price of the same components booked separately. **** Price Tracking is available as an Expedia member benefit. Price history is based on the lowest priced flight per day based on searches on Expedia, for your specific search enquiry. ***** Halfway there sale: Book by 21/7/2025 11:59pm in the hotel property's local time. Stay between 24/6/2025–31/10/2025. 25% discount applies to selected hotels. Member Prices are available to Expedia® app users and One Key members. Limited availability, blackout periods may apply. About Expedia Expedia® is one of the world's leading full-service travel brands, with a mission of helping travelers get the most out of every trip they take by providing everything they need all in one place. and feel supported every step of the way. Expedia's commitment to insights matched with its unprecedented scale allows them to understand their travelers better than anyone else, delivering exactly what they need, when they need it. Expedia's personalized experiences backed by incredible technology enables them to deliver the widest selection of product offerings across accommodations, transportation, activities and experiences, that help travelers get the most out of their journey. © 2025 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved. Expedia and the Expedia logo are trademarks of Expedia, Inc. CST# 2029030-50.
