5 Of The Most Relaxing Holiday Destinations

When it comes to holidays, relaxing is usually first and foremost on your agenda, am I right?

We want to unwind and take time out, so the perfect way to do so is to head somewhere where the sands are golden, the waters are crystal clear, and you can switch off (phones included) and enjoy a peaceful week or so basking under the sun.

Maldives

When you say ‘relaxing holiday’, tell me the first place that springs to mind isn’t the Maldives  – it tops many people’s most relaxing holiday lists and destinations they’d love to visit.

Made up of more than 1,000 islands, this nation scattered across the Indian Ocean is a popular honeymoon destination, and it’s not hard to see why. There isn’t a lot going on apart from the stunning beaches and tropical landscape, which is why it’s great for doing exactly that – nothing.

Spend your days with a best-seller in hand, sipping champagne by the pool. Enjoy a massage on the beach, all of which are long, white and powdery, or take a dip in the warm, shallow waters.

You can even go up a notch and stay in one of the swanky water villas – just be prepared to save up a bit beforehand.

Bali

Continuing the theme of tranquil islands, the list wouldn’t be complete without Bali. Here, it’s common to stay in your own private villa, enjoying breakfast floating in your private pool, before heading off to explore one of the nearby beaches.

Drinks at sunset are a must, as Bali boasts some of the most spectacular views at golden hour. See some of the best spots via the 1Cover Bali Travel Guide, which cites the country’s top-notch beaches, great surf and stacks of culture as part of its appeal.

Jamaica

Any of the Caribbean islands make for a perfect relaxing getaway. Jamaica is one which has a notorious laid-back attitude, perhaps it’s down to being the home of Bob Marley himself.

Surrounded by turquoise waters, it has some of the best beaches, as well as hidden coves and bays. It’s also home to numerous all-inclusive resorts, all of which are designed for spending time doing not much more than relaxing under the sun.

When it comes to beaches, head to Negril Beach if you fancy feeling as though you’ve just stepped into a screensaver. Sheer bliss.

Thailand

There’s no denying Thailand is one of the best destinations for a relaxing holiday.

Island hopping is a must in order to soak up all the zen vibes. Head to the north of Koh Phangan to see Bottle Beach (once a pirate hideaway), which is now adorned with palm trees and hammocks swaying in the wind. Or, Sunset Beach on the island of Phuket, and Tubkaak Beach on Krabi – both of which are lovely and quiet, consisting of not much more than white sands and clear blue waters.

There’s no better place to enjoy sipping out of a coconut in front of the ocean.

Mauritius

Incredible beaches, snorkelling, diving, hidden lagoons, and a national park containing a big tropical rainforest in the centre – this is Mauritius.

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, holidays in Mauritius are made purely for kicking back and forgetting about your troubles. Sample the best seafood, enjoy strolls along the never-ending beaches, and laze around on an inflatable in the bath-like warm waters.