St Lucia

Despite being nestled amid a throng of Caribbean islands, St Lucia still manages to stand out from the crowd; its eye-popping landscape, plethora of activities and rich culture drawing visitors looking for the ultimate in rest and relaxation with a luxurious West Indian twist.

This tropical island is not just ideal for a couples or family holiday, but one of the best honeymoon spots on the planet, providing an irresistible mix of laid-back beach life (much like its neighbours Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines), endless romantic moments, and breathtaking countryside ripe for exploring.

While it may be tempting to spend days on the island simply soaking up the sunshine, or enjoying the facilities of your resort, there’s plenty more to do. Hiking is among the more popular island pastimes, the striking UNESCO-list Piton sea volcanoes providing a backdrop for exploring via a jungle trek. Offshore, outdoorsy types will find the perfect conditions for windsurfing, kayaking and sailing.

There’s plenty to keep the more lethargically inclined occupied, from a pampering mud bath at the sulfur springs of Soufriere, or a tour of the butterfly farm at Maria Islands Nature Reserve.

In the evenings, the vibrant local culture comes into its own, with fresh local cuisine like green fig and salt fish, St Lucia lobster and Callaloo soup on the menu – best served while sitting out on your private beach and washed down with local rum. For something livelier, Rodney Bay Village is the best area to find authentic nightlife.