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An Archipelago Of Travel Ideas For The Island Hoppers

Think outside the box. Think offshore.
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Family fun at Walt Disney World? Check. Decadent dining and gambling in Vegas? Done it. A cottage by the beach? Of course.

In 2013, why not try a vacation unlike all those others? Maybe a week in an overwater bungalow. Or a stay at one of the world's best all-inclusive island resorts. Or even snorkeling adventures that the whole family can enjoy.

Think outside the box. Think offshore.

Fresh vacation ideas for 2013
Find an island closer to home(01 of10)
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If you're not up for a long plane trip and all the hassles and costs of traveling across the globe, then consider visiting the island down the street. Many beautiful islands lie just a bridge, ferry ride or short flight away – and even from inland states, you can be in a dreamy island setting within a half-day or less, and at surprisingly affordable prices. View our gallery of the top 10 islands close to home.
Take travel photos with the pros(02 of10)
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You've seen the photos in ISLANDS. Maybe you dreamed of coming with us on an exotic adventure. Now you can. Our "On Assignment" trip brings you to the unsung spots along the north shore of the Dominican Republic. For one week, you'll learn photo tips from our staff, put them to use and enjoy gourmet meals and relax in one of the most incredible villas on the island. Find out how you can join us.
Visit an elite all-inclusive resort(03 of10)
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Hawaii for many travelers is about exploring across all the islands, not staying in an all-inclusive cocoon. Yet the Travaasa Hana offers the best of everything -- all your meals included with no worries, plus a terrific schedule of activities included as well to make sure you really will experience Hawaii. See our full list of the 30 best all-inclusive island resorts in the world.
Sleep in an overwater bungalow(04 of10)
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Bora Bora is famous for luxury resorts with villas over the lagoon. For a romantic getaway or dream honeymoon, try one of these beautiful overwater bungalows in Bora Bora and Moorea in the Islands of Tahiti. ISLANDS photographer Zach Stovall recently visited the St. Regis in Bora Bora, capturing the overwater bungalows here from every angle possible. See more resorts in our Best lists.
Meet your dinner face to face(05 of10)
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Don't get the knife and fork out yet. This Nassau Grouper will grow to one to two feet in length, but has been fished to the point of possible extinction. Our friends at New World Publications created this excellent top 10 list of must-see Caribbean fish for your next snorkeling and scuba diving trips.
Take a cruise somewhere unique(06 of10)
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Norwegian Cruise Line offers some amazing trips beyond the usual Caribbean stops. Consider their 12-day journey to Norway, Iceland & Faroe Islands from Copenhagen. Or an 11-day trip to the Shetland Islands off Scotland and the Faroe Islands of Iceland. Each has the iconic sites you expect, but they also offer richer cultural experiences, welcoming people and more warmth than you'd expect. See our editors' picks of amazing cruise options this year.
Spend your vacation in a treehouse(07 of10)
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Maybe you had a treehouse as a kid, but did your version include pristine appliances, a book collection, wood-encased bathtub and floor-to-ceiling windows? No? Then perhaps you should read more about this truly unique resort in Secret Bay, Dominica.
Pamper yourself at an island spa(08 of10)
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The Kava drink (made from the roots of the Kava plant) is a traditional treat for guests at the Wakaya Club & Spa in Fiji. There's no better way to indulge on an island than with a day at the spa. Find a list of our favorite island spas online.
Bring the whole family along(09 of10)
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Who said island getaways are only for couples? The world is full of island resorts that cater to the whole family, including Hawk's Cay in the Florida Keys. See the top island resorts that we recommend for a family vacation you'll never forget, whether you're just looking for family vacation ideas or are planning a family reunion or your next trip.
Hang out with your animal friends(10 of10)
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Cuddle with a cat or pose with a penguin. Animal adventures make for some of the best vacation memories. From witnessing the red crab march across Christmas Island to spotting a rare Kermode bear in British Columbia—explore these 5 island vacations and their local habitat.

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