Paradise can feel like a million miles away – and utterly unaffordable – but with some clever planning, escaping from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and jet off to crystal clear waters, white sands and lush rainforests is easier than you think.
If the price of paradise is a concern, we have some idyllic options to keep your vacation costs as low as possible without sacrificing on stunning scenery, tropical cocktails and hotels with all the amenities you’ll ever need.
Whether you’re looking for exquisite wildlife in its natural habitat, pristine sandy beaches or traditional charms to explore, OK! has rounded up some of the best slices of heaven on earth – all far more budget-friendly than you’d think for such dreamy destinations…
SEYCHELLES
The crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean await, with an abundance of wildlife to watch out for, too
(Image: Vincent Pommeyrol)
An archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, it’s home to beautiful beaches and nature reserves, with rare animals including giant Aldabra tortoises.
Where to stay
Located in the remote southeast of Mahé, Doubletree by Hilton Seychelles’ intimate Allamanda Resort features bright and airy sea-view rooms on a bed and breakfast basis from £190 per night, with private beach and infinity pool access. The most convenient way to see the island is by hire car – ask at reception for local rates.
What to do
Start in capital Victoria’s Natural History Museum for a fascinating Seychelles backstory. Then head inland to the Copolia Trail entrance – where a 45-minute uphill path takes you through dense forest to a peak overlooking the striking eastern coastline. The Takamaka Distillery offers free tours around the former plantation-turned-rum factory. Tastings come at a small cost (£7 or SCR125 pp). Scoot further south to escape the crowds and relax on the powdery-soft sands of Anse Royal, Surfer’s and Anse Forbans beaches.
Where to eat
Enjoy delicious creole curries, rich with coconut milk and cinnamon at Seychellois favourite Marie Antoinette in Victoria. Beach Shak Seychelles in Beau Vallon is the place to be for sunset cocktails, while The Boatshed is great for grilled snapper, burgers and other casual fair.
MO’OREA
Mo’orea is picture perfect and more affordable than neighbouring Tahiti and Bora Bora
(Image: Vincent Pommeyrol)
This South Pacific island is known for its jagged volcanic mountains and sandy beaches.
Where to stay
In contrast to Tahiti and Bora Bora with their big-name resorts, picture-perfect Mo’orea is loved for its affordable pensions and bungalows. With a beautiful swimming pool and prime location near the north-western beaches, double rooms at the Hibiscus Hotel starting from £140pn.
What to do
As well as its lush green mountains and endless sandy beaches, for those seeking it, Mo’orea offers complete seclusion. Hire a car and take the coastal Mount Rotui Road to serene Õpnohu Bay – the ideal spot for sun-bathing. Or embark on the winding hill hike up Magic Mountain (fee £1.50) to capture stunning views over the coastline. Inland, a short forest walk leads to pretty Ãfareaitu Waterfall. To see it in full glory, go after a rainfall. From July to November, humpback whales are spotted in these waters and if you’re lucky, you might see them breach from your hotel terrace.
Where to eat
Humble Fare Tutava is the place to go for fruity smoothies, fresh coconuts and tasty omelette breakfasts, while Banh-Mi & Co in the southeast serves lunch-size crunchy rice bowls. Local favourite, Coco Beach – located on Motu Tiahuru (islet) in the northwest – is revered for its quality, locally-sourced ingredients. The Tahitian Ceviche is standout.
SRI LANKA
Catch the cross-island train on the lush Indian Ocean island or Sri Lanka
(Image: ©2017 John Crux)
Lying in the Indian Ocean, it’s a land of awe-inspiring mountains and lush green tea gardens.
Where to stay
Gorgeous Amaranthe Bay Resort is a five minute stroll from Upuvelli Beach. A large pool, quiet rooms and superb (optional) breakfasts are the highlights, and room rates start from £61pn.
What to do
Escape the southwestern tourist hub by catching the early morning cross-island train to Trincomalee from Colombo Fort Railway Station. Having suffered brutally through the decades-long civil war, Trinco is now a vibrant eastern city with the flamboyant, food markets of ‘Dutch’ bay at its heart. Head an hour or so north – easily accessible by taxi or moped – to laidback Upuvelli Beach where a string of bars and cafes cater to travellers from all walks of life. Here, you can sit back, sip on fresh coconuts, swim in sheltered bays and immerse in the local way of life.
Where to eat
Head to Café on 18th for fruit-laden platters, salads, sushi and poke bowls. On the backstreets, Rice ‘n’ Curry serves up steaming bowls of delicious coconut-milk fairs alongside salads and rice. Don’t miss the crab curry – delicious!
JAMAICA
A haven for divers of all abilities, Jamaica is the perfect balance of lush greenery and coral-filled ocean, ready to explore
(Image: Getty)
This Caribbean island has lush rainforests and reef-lined beaches popular with divers.
Where to stay
Book a room at The Moon San Villa at Blue Lagoon to wake up to exquisite sea views, with bed and breakfast rates starting from £145pn. An airport shuttle is available for those who don’t wish to drive.
What to do
To the east of the island, Frenchman’s Cove is a secluded crescent-shaped beach paradise where the cooling freshwater meets the warm sea. Get there early for a prime position on the white sand (entrance fee is approx. £10) before the crowds come in during the afternoon. Nearby, the sweeping gold-sands of Long Bay is the perfect place to relocate too for a change of scenery (and more space) when the cove gets busy. The Ochos Rios craft market sells everything from wooden carvings and textiles to handbags, all made by local vendors.
Where to eat
Vegetarians will love Rasta restaurant Calabash Ital in Ochos Rios – its freshly cooked coconut-infused vegetarian curries are mouth-wateringly good. At the rustic Boston Jerk Centre, sit around a communal table and enjoy the feast of traditional jerk dishes from £3 a plate.
MAURITIUS
Known for spectacular scenery and warm lagoons, Mauritius will take your breath away
(Image: Copyright Anton Petrus)
Spectacular lagoons, dazzling beaches and soaring peaks make this Indian Ocean island heaven on earth.
Where to stay
Veranda Tamarin, on the west coast, offers a lovely community feel – plus the beach is a two-minute walk away – with cafes, restaurants and bars all nearby. Room rates start from £125pppn on a bed and breakfast basis.
What to do
Get to know Mauritius buzzing capital, Port Louis, by joining the community-run My Moris team on a walking tour of the city. The super-knowledgeable guides will explain Mauritius’ cultural history in depth, while you sample the local snacks, visit artisans and learn about religious monuments. In the scenic south, Electro Bike Mauritius offers half and full day itineraries – the Belle Ombré to Souillac route is especially scenic.
Where to eat
Taste Mauritian delicacies at Port Louis Central Market where dahl pouri – a roti-style wrap overflowing with garlic chilli sauce and white bean curry – is served hot-hot off the plate. You’ll also find delicious fresh papaya, mango and passionfruit to indulge in.
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