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Barbados & St Vincent

I can definitely say I started my trip in pure style, as I entered the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse I was greeted by some extremely friendly faces with a selection of breakfast options and bubbly, only to be made better by a complimentary spa treatment – definitely took away the standard pre-departure stress. Feeling relaxed, I then boarded my Virgin Atlantic flight.

It was my first time in Premium economy & it certainly won’t be last. The seats were so comfortable, delicious food and the delightful stewardess ensured my glass was never empty. I didn’t want my flight to end! The flights were on time, and I quickly landed at Barbados airport. A quick browse around the shops & after a short wait, I was then on my next flight to St Vincent via a small island hopper flight. Upon arrival at St Vincent, a lush, 1376576_10153283099625346_1626513669_ngreen island, we were promptly greeted by our friendly driver. The transfer from the airport to our hotel only took about 30 minutes, and it was lovely to see such a beautiful, remote island not overrun with high-rise buildings and nothing but locals going about their typical days.

The sun started to set as we pulled up to the accommodation, Buccament Bay Resort – a luxury 5* resort cradled by lush mountains of vibrant rainforest. I stayed in a huge villa with my own plunge pool and private beach. The villa had the most comfortable bed I have ever witnessed, a sitting area, air con and a kitchen. The fridge was stocked up constantly with complimentary refreshments which was a nice touch! I couldn’t recommend Buccament Bay enough; the food was beyond amazing, with so much choice & so many different restaurants to choose from. The staff at the resort was second to none, really couldn’t do enough for you & made the stay that extra bit special. I can honestly say I have never been so spoilt in my life! The perfect holiday for couples / honeymooners. Or anybody wanting a luxurious, relaxing break away. Whilst at the resort they had a fantastic water sports centre, where I went on a glass-bottom boat to explore the rich & colourful coral reef, and Buccament-Bay-Resortsome extraordinary wildlife.

We stopped at Wallilabou bay where Pirates of The Caribbean was shot, amazing views and really worth seeing! The driver then stopped the boat in a stunning bay, when we jumped off and went snorkelling! The next day, after relaxing by the pool all day, we went on another boat trip off the coast of St Vincent to go dolphin & Whale spotting. We saw loads of lovely dolphins frolicking beside our boat & following us. I even saw a whale in the distance! After an amazing few days in St Vincent, I was sad to leave but it was off to Barbados for the last night, I stayed in The Tamarind Hotel. Set right on the beach, it was a perfect location and very modern and bright interior, food again was top notch and service impeccable. A more varied market, perfect for families or couples.

On the last day before catching my flight, I decided to go snorkelling in the Turquoise sea of Barbados, again only a matter of centimetres away from the coral reef, and much to my surprise I came across a turtle, only touching distance away. It’s safe to say it topped my holiday off perfectly.

Been to Barbados before, or wanting to experience for the first time? I now have lots of recommendations for some beautiful hotels! For anybody wanting to experience something a little different from the usual holiday, I couldn’t recommend Buccament Bay in St Vincent enough!- Total paradise!1379840_10153276095540346_1114969567_n

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Top 10 white-sand beaches in the world

Bora Bora, Tahiti

It’s billed as the most romantic island in the world, and it’s hard to find any reasons to argue with that. Private over water bungalows provide sublime relaxation. Mount Otemanu rises into the sky like spires of a castle, inviting you explore the fantastic panoramas above the glistening beaches. Matira Beach is enchanting while also being exciting. With plenty of water sports, Bora Bora brings all of the best amenities together in one place.

Bora Bora

Playa Paraiso, Cayao Largo, Cuba

Cuba you say? It is getting easier for Americans to travel there, as this report in the New York Times Points out. Experience remote and exotic before the exquisite beauty of this stretch of sand becomes more common knowledge. You can take a train ride from the hotel zone. Don’t confuse it with another fantastic beach by the same name in Tulum, Mexico.

Playa Paraiso

White Beach, Boracay, Philippines

Unlike the more remote Playa Paraiso mentioned above, White Beach on Boracay is definitely on the map when it comes to white sand tourist destinations. Inviting bars and restaurants that stay open until dawn are steps away from the white sand. The winds in the earlier months of the year make Bulabog Beach on the east side of Boracay a great destination for wind surfers and kite boarders, while White Beach offers exceptional snorkeling and diving.

White Beach

The Maldives, Indian Ocean

It’s a big island chain near the Equator, with lots of different resort options for those seeking a sublime getaway or a sport-filled excursion. Try the beaches near the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru for the best of both. With villas spread across the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, guests experience five-star elegance amid grand natural wonder.

Maldives

Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa, Italy

Located about halfway between Malta and the shores of North Africa, Lampedusa is graced with white sand beaches, crystal clear water, stunning bluffs, Rabbit beach was named the top Traveler’s Choice Beach in the World for 2013 on TripAdvisor. Looking at it makes it clear why it was so honored. Charming villas and hotels in styles from Mediterranean to Caribbean and African offer a nice variety.

Rabbit Beach

Langkawi, Malaysia

The word Langkawi, when translated, means “land of wishes.” Part of an archipelago of about 100 islands, it’s full of stunning white sand beaches. The Detai Langkawi embodies the land of wishes with its extraordinary location. Set in the midst of virgin rainforest with pathways leading to gorgeous white sand, the resort sets a high standard. Bountiful natural grandeur and luxurious pampering await.

Langkawi

Kauna’oa Bay, Hawaii

This treasure on the Big Island is the classic crescent-shaped white sand beach, lined with palm trees and beautiful blue water. Everything you might imagine a tropical Hawaiian paradise can be seen at one location. Resort hotels offer all the best amenities while the beach calls for you to explore, relax, and experience its serene beauty.

Kauna'oa

Wineglass Bay, Tasmania

Gorgeous sunsets, sparking white sands under pink granite rock formations and green mountain peaks, and stunning water vistas await. Part of spectacular Freycinet National Park, the natural grandeur will envelop you in its beauty. From camping to luxurious resorts, there is a range of lodging options. About 2 and 1/2 hours drive from Hobart on the East Coast of Tasmania, it’s exotic and enticing.

Wineglass

Grand Anse Beach, Seychelles

Located on La Digue Island in this remote chain in the Indian Ocean off the East Coast of Africa, this is truly one of the most beautiful locations in the world. The granite rock formations set against the beach, ocean, and green landscape draw you in. The Seychelles are astounding objects of natural wonder that will stir your imagination to the hilt. The beach does experience big waves – great news if you want to surf while on vacation.

Grand Anse

Anse de Grande Saline, St. Barts

The crystal blue water is in the mid-80s year round, while the glistening white sand is favored by naturalists. The marshy salt pool behind the stretch of sand gives the beach its name and is a haven for tropical birds. Taking in the scenery while sipping a nice tropical drink defines a beach paradise. The island promises enough relaxation and recreation to satiate anyone who desires a tropical holiday.

Anse de Grande Saline, St. Barts

Any of these beaches are worthy of being placed at the top of any list covering the world’s best beaches. Fine white sand, great amenities, natural wonder, and luxurious accommodations await those who dare to venture forth. Get rid of your winter blues straight away when you find yourself literally stepping into paradise