My Favourite Islands Part 2

                                                                   Madagascar ©Solange Hando  

       Beaches? Of course, including off-shore luxury resorts, but the main island -the oldest in the world- is a must for nature lovers, with an amazing variety of unique flora and fauna which evolved in isolation.

    Stretching 1000 miles over 40 reserves and national parks, Madagascar takes your breath away, especially when you spot the lemurs swinging in the trees or gambolling on the grass. There are over 100 species out in the jungle, sightings guaranteed with expert guides, such as the lovely Dancing Lemur above, hopping around with her young.

Reunion Island ©Solange Hando

    Looking for sweeping sands and blue water? Here you are on a French island between Madagascar and Mauritius. Above is St Gilles, beach (near the marina) affectionately known as St Tropez on the exotic Reunion.

    

    But make no mistake, the island is among the top hotspots on the planet, its lush interior carved with gorges, ravines and rocks, three calderas and a mighty volcano, the Furnace Peak, spitting out its lava into the the sea every few months. But it is all under control, away from the villages, and when it is safe, you can trek on stunning trails or see it all from a microlight or helicopter. Fabulous...

Corfu ©Solange Hando

    North-west of mainland Greece, this is the greenest of the Ionian islands, an enticing place with tiny coves and sweeping sands dotted with holiday resorts, lapped by the turquoise sea. The pretty capital (by the same name) claims two Venetian fortresses and an old town lined with craft shops and convivial café-terrace.

    But beyond the coastal strip, the monasteries and bell-ringing churches, you will find hills and mountains  laced in scenic trails, off the beaten track. See golden broom, lemon groves, jasmine, honeysuckle and if you feel like it, hike up to the highest peak (Pantokrator, over 900m) for panoramic views across the island and nearby Albania.

Japan Miyajima ©Solange Hando

        In Hiroshima Bay, the 'inland sea', this is a popular escape away from the bustling cities.

It's also a pilgrimage site where the traditional red Torii gate marks the entrance of a sacred site, leading to the 12th Shinto shrine on the nearby inlet. Most inspiring time is at high tide when gate and shrine (still accessible) seem to float like magic on quiet waters.

        Away from restaurants and shops, paths meander through the forest (see wild deer) to a lovely temple in its own oasis of peace. Then you can walk up or take the cable car to the highest hill (500m) for breath taking views. 

Tobago ©Solange Hando

     At the southern end of the Caribbean, they call it the 'quieter side of paradise.' It's a bucolic place with brightly painted huts, a gentle pace of life and a wide variety of landscapes, including hills and 

jungle home to 400 species of birds.

        The coast includes beautiful crescent coves and wide sands where pelicans come to feed at dusk and leatherhead turtles return every year to build their nests. But like on other islands, make sure you choose your favourite shore: here the north coast is the true Caribbean postcard lapped by calm blue waters while the south is rugged and wild, foaming with Atlantic breakers. 

Tup Island ©Solange Hando

        On Thailand's south-west coast, this is one of over 100 paradise islands in the Krabi province. Hop on a traditional long tail boat in Ao Nang Bay and you'll soon be dazzled by pristine white sands, tropical fish and here and there, dramatic rocks rising from the sea.

    Come low tide, you can walk on the soft powdery sand to the next island (no 'chicken' but that's its name) and enjoy panoramic views along the Krabi coast. You'll probably spot James Bond and Phi Phi islands but with so much space, Tup rarely feels crowded.

Sunset on the Indian Ocean ©Solange Hando