By Sheryl Nance-Nash for the Orbitz Travel Blog
How far is too far? For some, it's the ends of the earth--as long as the journey leads to the paradise they've always dreamed of. Traveling to far flung destinations has a certain cachet, too, earning you bragging rights as a true global adventurer, willing to do anything to get there--take a seaplane, rickety boat, 20-hour flight or whatever. For those who have vowed to travel all corners of the world, here are eight of the world's most remote places that are totally worth the trip:
Turtle Island, FijiIf you're flying from Los Angeles International Airport, it's nearly 11 hours to Fiji. When you land, expect to transfer via boat or most likely seaplane for another half-hour or so trip to Turtle Island. Once there, be ready to have your breath taken away. Remember, the 80s flick, The Blue Lagoon? That's Turtle Island. Now you get the picture. You and your honey will feel like the world is your oyster. Only 14 couples are on the island at a time, so you'll have a Bure (Fijian villa) and private beach all to yourselves. Scuba dive, horseback ride, fish, sail, bike, picnic on the beach, or just chill. You'll enjoy dining like never before: Imagine dinner for two on a floating, lantern lit pontoon.
Bora Bora, French PolynesiaSome say Bora Bora wins the contest for the most romantic island in the world. Think neon-lit turquoise lagoon waters, flowers, flowers and more flowers, then add white-sand beaches and the abundance of colorful fish that call the coral gardens home. The hard part will be deciding where to stay. There's ample choice in luxury resorts with overwater bungalows, thatched roof villas and spas. Bet if you've never seen a stingray swimming beneath the see-through floor of your villa, you can in Bora Bora. When you're done oohing and ahhing, hit the water in a canoe, snorkel, dive, jet ski or take a sunset cruise aboard a catamaran sailboat. Hike and shopping are other options: Bora Bora's got plenty of art, Tahitian pearls, perfumes and oils.
Fulidhoo, Maldives | Photo courtesy of Thundi Guest House
Fulidhoo, MaldivesSure, everyone knows the Maldives are all about luxury, but there is a developing budget travel scene that's under the radar. Take for example Fulidhoo. After taking two ferries from the capital city of Malé (the trip takes about four hours and costs around $4), you'll find a few great inexpensive options, including the Thundi Guest House, with prices starting at $79 per night. Snorkeling trips are available at Thundi, too, and like elsewhere in the Maldives, the waters are crystal clear turquoise. Take a boat ride to spot whale sharks and manta rays. If you're feeling like you're missing the pampering of resorts, you can purchase a day pass to one of them.
Pico, Azores Pico is part of The Triangle, an island cluster that's part of The Azores archipelago. Picture a lush, green dormant volcano named for its imposing stature and for the fact that it's the highest point in Portugal. Anthony Berklich, travel expert and founder of Inspired Citizen, a luxury travel platform, says Pico is the perfect place for those who want to step back in time and see how Portugal once was. He gives it kudos for its incredible wines, Unesco vineyards and delicious Portuguese food. Hiking, walking, swimming in natural pools, and fishing are popular. The adventurous and ambitious will relish the joy of climbing Pico Mountain.
See all of the world's most remote places on the Orbitz Travel Blog