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Not Your Typical Island
September 1st, 2009
The current issue of Traveluxe (released today!) is a Cruise & Island issue, in honor of the World’s Largest Cruise Night celebrated on October 14th. However, some of the world’s greatest islands are not so traditional and won’t be found on too many cruise itineraries. Still, these islands deserve their due and since they didn’t quite fit the theme of this most recent issue, I’m honoring them in a blog – or several!
Madagascar
Location: 250 miles off the eastern coast of Africa across the Mozambique channel
Distinguishing features: Approximately 80 percent of the wildlife found on Madagascar cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The island has over 30 species of lemur, 60 species of chameleon and the endagered fossa.
Travel tips:
- Wildlife viewing is generally best from August – November; January & February can be quite rainy.
- All visitors to Madagascar need visas. Many will be able to obtain this at the airport upon arrival.
- MasterCard is not accepted in Madagascar and few hotels take credit cards at all. It is one of the few places where traveller’s cheques (in USD or Euro) are the way to go. Cash is also accepted, of course.
Maldives
Location: On the equator in the Indian Ocean to the west of Sri Lanka.
Distinguishing features: While they are islands of sun and sand, what make the Maldives unique is its location and isolation. Made up of 26 atols – 1190 islands, only 200 of which are inhabited – it’s known a top destination for sailing, snorkeling and diving. It’s underwater beauty is tough to compete with.
Travel Tips:
- A 30-day visa is granted upon arrival.
- The southwest monsoon season runs from May to October, while the northeast season runs from November to April. Know where your destination within the Maldives is and plan carefully!
- The Maldives is an Islamic country. When visiting inhabited islands (non-resort island), clothing that covers the thighs and upper body is requested.
Iceland
Location: Near the arctic circle
Distinguishing features: Extreme natural beauty, ability to cross the arctic circle from Northern Iceland, geothermically-heated pools and 24-hour daylight in the summer.
Travel Tips:
- In the summer, Iceland is not quite as cold as it sounds, though it’s not especially warm (highs hit around 60 degrees Farenheit at the peak of summer).
- Reykjavik, the capital city, is known for being a trendy center of shopping, dining and nightlife, though there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. It can be easily seen in a day or two.
- No visa is needed for American passport holders.
- Travel the iceland either by self-drive or a tour. Most of the natural beauty exists outside of the main city.
