Amazing Islands to Visit for your Next Getaway

Ahoy there, AtoB Travellers! We’re setting sail on a fanciful voyage through some of the world’s most enchanting islands, with our pick for the top 5! These idyllic isles are like treasure chests waiting to be discovered, each one brimming with history, cuisine, and captivating tales. In this article, we plan to detail 3 main parts of every country: the history, the food, the people. Just be prepared: as Islanders ourselves, we may be a little biased on how much we love the people of these amazing places! So, strap on your imaginary snorkels and loosen your belt by a few notches, as we dive into our magical list, beginning, of course, with the radiant jewel of the Mediterranean – Cyprus.

Welcome to Cyprus, a sun-drenched paradise where myths and reality dance the ‘zeimpekiko’ (FYI, that’s a traditional dance). This Mediterranean marvel isn’t just a pretty face, though; it’s a living, breathing history book.

Imagine yourself strolling through the ancient ruins of Salamis, where Roman and Byzantine empires once threw lavish parties. It’s like stumbling upon a forgotten Netflix series, minus the popcorn. Perhaps go on a walk through Nicosia, the island’s capital, which combines modernity with an old-timey motif almost perfectly.

When you’re not communing with history, Cypriot cuisine will tantalize your taste buds. Mezze, their dazzling array of small dishes, is a culinary whirlwind, from savory souvlaki (barbequed meat cubes) to creamy hummus – each plate is a star in this foodie show. Don’t forget Halloumi, though – that is Cyprus’ national cheese!

But here’s the real magic: the people of Cyprus. Their hospitality is so heartwarming that you’ll swear you’ve just found your long-lost family reunion. So, dive into the crystal-clear waters, explore ancient castles, and let Cyprus whisk you away on an unforgettable journey.

Our next destination takes us across the Mediterranean sea, to the captivating island of Malta, a Mediterranean marvel that combines grandeur with a sprinkle of history that’s older than your great-grandma’s secret recipe book.

Malta is like a treasure trove of antiquity, boasting a history that dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans. Explore the ancient city of Mdina, and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a living museum, complete with limestone walls and those winding cobblestone streets that tourists are just nuts about lately.

Now, let’s talk food – Maltese cuisine is a glorious mishmash of Mediterranean flavors. Stuff your face with pastizzi (savory pastries) and ftira (Maltese bread). And don’t even get us started on rabbit stew, otherwise known as ‘Stuffat tal-Fenek’ – it’s gonna blow your taste buds’ mind!

The people? They’re as welcoming as a cup of hot cocoa on a winter’s day. Their smiles are contagious, and you’ll leave Malta with a heart full of memories and probably a few extra pounds from all that delicious food.

Our next stop is the island you’ve seen in way too many instagram pics, Santorini, Greece. This place is so picturesque; it’s like stepping into a postcard, if postcards were magical.

The history here is like a captivating bedtime story. Ancient villages cling to cliffs overlooking the caldera, like houses on the edge of the world. You’ll feel like an archaeologist-slash-adventurer-slash-sunset-chaser, all wrapped into one.

And Greek cuisine, oh my gyro, right?! Moussaka, souvlaki, baklava – it’s like a culinary hug from the Mediterranean. Wash it down with some crisp Assyrtiko wine, and you’ll be living the dream.

But what makes Santorini truly special? The people, of course! They’re like human sunshine, radiating warmth and hospitality. Soak in the Greek culture, and you’ll wonder if you’ve found your long-lost family.

Our penultimate stop is the sun-kissed beauty of Fuerteventura, a place where nature’s canvas unfolds in a spectacle of sand dunes, volcanic landscapes, and endless beaches.

Fuerteventura’s history is etched in its lunar-like terrain, shaped by volcanic activity over the eons. Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Corralejo Natural Park, and you’ll feel like you’re on a sci-fi movie set.

When hunger eventually strikes, sample the island’s cuisine. Fresh seafood like parrotfish and vieja, paired with the local mojo sauce, will make your taste buds do the tango. And let’s not forget gofio, a traditional Canarian dish that’s like a nutritious secret weapon.

What about the locals? They are your usual bunch of easygoing islanders. They’re as laid-back as a hammock on a breezy beach day. So, whether you’re catching waves, hiking through the dramatic terrain, or simply soaking in the sun, Fuerteventura is where your island dreams come true.

Now, over to Iceland, a land where nature puts on a show that’d make Broadway blush. It’s like Mother Nature’s favorite child.Iceland’s history is a tale of Vikings and their epic adventures. Wander through Reykjavik and Thingvellir National Park, and you’ll feel like you’ve time-traveled.But Iceland’s true magic lies in its natural wonders. Geysers, waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon – it’s like being in a National Geographic documentary, but with better snacks.

Don’t leave without tasting Icelandic cuisine, including langoustines, lamb stew, and the infamous hákarl (fermented shark). It’s an adventure for your taste buds.

And the Icelanders? They’re made of Viking mettle and warmth. They’ll regale you with stories of elves, trolls, and the Northern Lights, adding a touch of enchantment to your Icelandic escapade.

As our island-hopping journey comes to a close, remember that these treasures are just a plane ride away. Each island offers a unique blend of history, cuisine, and the warm embrace of its people. We could never even attempt to choose a favourite amongst these amazing places. So, visit one, visit all of them, you will never be disappointed.