10 FAB ISLAND DESTINATIONS YOU'LL LOVE (BUT NOT THE USUAL SUSPECTS).

I’ve put together a list of 10 islands that I think deserve a spot on your travel radar. They’re spread across the globe, they each have their own character, and they all offer something you just won’t get on the big package-holiday circuit.

Corsica, France. Corsica feels like France and Italy had a love child. It’s rugged and mountainous, yet the coastline is ridiculously pretty with turquoise bays that look like they’ve been Photoshopped. You can spend mornings hiking the dramatic GR20 trail and afternoons lingering over a long lunch in a harbour café.

• Best time to visit: May to September (warm, sunny, and perfect for swimming or hiking).

• Must do: Take a boat trip around the Calanques de Piana — those red cliffs against blue sea are unreal.

  

Sri Lanka. This island is like a whole world rolled into one. Beaches? Tick. Ancient ruins and temples? Tick. Elephants, leopards, whales? Big tick. And don’t get me started on the food — curries bursting with flavour, fresh seafood, and sweet cups of chai.

• Best time to visit: December to April for the south and west coasts; May to September for the east.

• Must do: Hop on the scenic train from Kandy to Ella — it’s one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world.

  

Sicily, Italy. Sicily isn’t just an island, it’s an epic storybook of cultures. Greek temples, Roman mosaics, Norman cathedrals, Baroque towns — all of it layered together under the watchful eye of Mount Etna. And then there’s the food: arancini, cannoli, fresh pasta with pistachio pesto… Need I say more?

• Best time to visit: April to June or September to October — sunny, but not scorching.

• Must do: Hike (or cable car) up Mount Etna for incredible views and a peek at Europe’s most active volcano.

  

Réunion Island, Indian Ocean. Here’s one you might not have thought of. Réunion is a French island way out in the Indian Ocean, and it’s all about adventure. Imagine hiking across lunar-like volcanic landscapes in the morning and chasing waterfalls in the rainforest by the afternoon. Plus, you still get French pastries for breakfast. It’s basically adventure travel with croissants — what’s not to love?

• Best time to visit: May to November (cooler and drier, perfect for hiking).

• Must do: Trek into the Cirque de Mafate — a stunning volcanic crater only accessible on foot or by helicopter.

  

Jeju Island, South Korea. Jeju is like South Korea’s secret island getaway. Locals call it their Hawaii, and once you see the lava tubes, waterfalls, and wild coastline, you’ll get why. Hike Hallasan, the island’s dormant volcano, and reward yourself with Jeju’s famous black pork barbecue.

• Best time to visit: April to June for spring flowers, or September to October for cooler hiking weather.

• Must do: Explore the Manjanggul Lava Tube — one of the longest in the world.

  

Zanzibar, Tanzania. Zanzibar just oozes atmosphere. Stone Town is a maze of narrow lanes, carved wooden doors, and spice markets that smell like heaven. Then, when you’re done exploring, you can flop on a palm-fringed beach with the warm Indian Ocean lapping at your toes.

• Best time to visit: June to October for dry, sunny days.

• Must do: Go on a spice farm tour — you’ll never look at cinnamon or cloves the same way again.

  

Madeira, Portugal. Madeira is known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” and it really does live up to the name. It’s green, it’s lush, and the views are insane — towering cliffs, hidden valleys, and flower-filled gardens everywhere you look. Walk a levada trail, sip a glass of Madeira wine, and you’ll quickly understand why people rave about this little Portuguese gem.

• Best time to visit: April to October for sunshine, though it’s mild year-round.

• Must do: Take the cable car from Funchal up to Monte, then ride a traditional wicker toboggan back down.

  

Dominica, Caribbean. Dominica is the Caribbean, but not as you know it. Forget all-inclusive resorts — this island is wild, green, and refreshingly untamed. You’ll find volcanic hot springs, secret waterfalls, and even a bubbling lake (yes, really). If you’re into hiking and love being outdoors, Dominica will completely steal your heart.

• Best time to visit: February to May (drier and sunnier, but still lush and green).

• Must do: Hike to Trafalgar Falls and take a dip in the hot springs at the base.

  

Tasmania, Australia. Tasmania feels like Australia’s wild younger cousin. The landscapes are jaw-dropping: think rugged mountains, white sandy beaches, and forests that look like they’ve been untouched for centuries. Wildlife is everywhere too — wombats, wallabies, and of course the famous Tasmanian devil. Hobart’s foodie scene is fantastic as well, so you can balance your wilderness hikes with excellent wine and seafood.

• Best time to visit: December to February for summer sunshine (but pack layers — Tassie weather is changeable).

• Must do: Hike up to Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park for one of the best coastal views you’ll ever see.

  

Palawan, Philippines. And finally, Palawan — a tropical dream come true. Picture limestone cliffs plunging into emerald lagoons, hidden coves you can only reach by boat, and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world. El Nido and Coron are jaw-dropping, but even just lazing on a quiet beach here feels like paradise.

• Best time to visit: November to May (dry season, with calm seas).

• Must do: Island-hop around El Nido’s Bacuit Bay — each lagoon is more beautiful than the last.

Ready to pack your bags?

So there you go - 10 islands that are every bit as magical as the classics, but with fewer crowds and a bit more character. Whether you’re after a cultural deep dive, an outdoor adventure, or simply a gorgeous stretch of sand to call your own, there’s something here that might just be your new favourite holiday spot. Get in touch to plan your next island adventure.