Chasing the Sun

Travel to where the days are long and the nights are perfectly balmy. Here are our top 3 coastal treats right now to enjoy sun kissed skin, sandy feet and laid-back hammocked dreams.

Zanzibar, Tanzania: Barefoot Paradise

Zanzibar (off the coast of East Africa) as a summer holiday destination is a real crowd pleaser. As if images of its spice markets, world-heritage listed Stone Town and bustling coastline is not enough, the beaches certainly will be.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is 15 miles off the coast of Tanzania surrounded by turquoise blue water, quaint fishing villages with many islands still virtually untouched by tourists. Locals say the best beaches are located along Zanzibar’s eastern coastline where a protective barrier reef meets the Indian Ocean.

For a special occasion, visit Mnemba Island Lodge; the ultimate in carefree, barefoot luxury. It’s a rustic paradise for a small number of guests and as the whole of Mnemba Island is an atoll, it’s famous for its rich marine life and coral reefs making it one of Africa’s most impressive dive sites.

For those that need more than world famous beaches, there’s a small forest in the interior of the main island called Jozani, home to red colobus monkeys and even a working spice farm. Either way, there’s a vast array of options for divers, culture vultures and beach lovers alike.

Laucala Island, Fiji: Paradise Lost

Even the most seasoned luxury beach lovers are stunned by the beauty and opulence offered by this tropical hideaway. This Fijian destination is set between lush rainforest, dramatic volcanic mountains and sandy white beaches. If you’re lucky enough to stay at Laucala Island Resort, you’ll have a choice of villas that are all glamorous interpretations of South-Pacific life, either perched on hilltops, over-water or along private beaches and they all have their infinity pool lit with tikki torches come dusk. Prepare to be amazed (and start daydreaming over at www.laucala.com)

Anywhere you find yourself in Fiji is paradise. Tumbling waterfalls, coconut palms and white sandy beaches are almost commonplace. Fijians are known as the friendliest people on earth, plus its fertile marine waters make it perfect for divers and snorkelling.

Costa Rica: Where Jungle Meets Beach

The suitably named Costa Rica (Spanish for “rich coast”) offers the sun seeking traveller more than just amazing beaches. Its lush jungles, diverse wildlife, hot springs, and rich local culture captivate all travellers needing more than world famous beaches.

A quarter of the country is protected parks and reserves, with the jewel in the crown known as the Corcovado National Park. Remote, rugged and largely impenetrable it’s home to wild big cats including the jaguar and puma, sloths, tapirs and monkeys and at the right time of year, pods of whales can be spotted off its shores.

There are plenty of shores too! Costa Rica has over 300 beaches; all of them postcard perfect. But if it’s luxury five-star resorts you’re after, stick to the Pacific Ocean side to be spoilt for choice. If you’re more an adventurous type, explore the Caribbean side to indulge in its rich culture.

Surfers beware, you may never leave! Playa Guiones and Playa Pavones offer great breaks for both beginners and intermediate surfers and if you want to see some breath-taking surf skills watch the brave at Salsa Brava ride some of the biggest waves in the country.