Beautiful beaches of the Caribbean

1. Trunk Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands

Condé Nast Traveler has consistently voted this beach as one of the ten best beaches in the world. Trunk Bay is most famous for its underwater trail for snorkeling. The trail is marked off and 15 underwater plaques along the path identify the coral and colourful fish that inhabit the bay. On land, the C$4 admission fee allows you to tour the nearby historic Annaberg Plantation, with old sugar cane mills, sugar factory ruins, and the still-standing rum mill.

2. Magens Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands

National Geographic hails Magens Bay as one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. This well-protected white sand beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, perhaps because of the beautiful turquoise waters. Visitors must pay C$4 to visit the heart-shaped bay and windsurfing, snorkeling and sailboat equipment can all be rented for those who want to play. But for those who simply want to relax and take in the scenery, chaise lounges can also be rented.

3. Pink Sand Beach, Bahamas

This is one of the world's most photographed beaches for a reason; the powdery sand is named for its salmon colour due to the snow-white coral sand intermixed with flecks of red plankton. Photo opportunities are best in the early morning before there are too many shadows to interfere with the beautiful pink hue. The beach also features a top dive site known as "Current Cut Dive," which is an 18-metre plunge into raging waters. We recommend staying at the Pink Sands Resort which sits right on the edge of the beach.

4. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

Picturesque limestone cliffs line either side of the beach, making for a gorgeous setting. Snorkeling is a must-do activity here to catch glimpses of the angel fish and parrot fish, and of course sergeant majors that thrive in the waters here. But if you prefer to relax on the sand, you may catch a glimpse of a nearby crab race.

5. Seven Mile Beach, Jamaica

Located on the shores of Negril, the golden sands of this secluded beach are perfect for a day trip off of your resort. We recommend trying some of the freshly squeezed juice from one of the vendors along the beach for approximately C$3 to refresh and rejuvenate you after being out in the sun. If you want action, jet-skis can be rented for about C$30 for half an hour. But, if you are simply there to relax, you can get an hour-long massage for about C$30.

6. Varadero Beach, Cuba

Also called "Playa Azul" or "Blue Beach," this 36km stretch consists of sand that looks like powdered sugar. This is the perfect beach for scuba-divers; there are more than 40 species of coral, a wide range of tropical fish, lobsters, shrimp, crabs, and 70 kinds of mollusks in this coastal oasis. The Scuba Cuba "Barracuda" diving centre guides divers through underwater caves, channels and passages within the coral reefs, offering a great view of all the local marine life.

7. The Baths, British Virgin Islands

Located on the island Virgin Gorda, the name of this unique beach comes from the pools of water in and around rock formations that flood with warm waters when high tides come in. Over the years, the waves have eroded some of the large boulders and left many caves and grottos to explore, providing for a stunning swimming adventure.

8. Pigeon Point, Tobago

This long coral beach on the northwest coast is home to the thatched-roof jetty which has become an internationally-recognized symbol of Tobago. The jetty is a structure that extends from the coast out into the water. However, the most beautiful features of this beach are the warm, aquamarine waters, powdery white sand and swaying coconut palms.

9. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

Claimed as one of the best beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, this 20km stretch of white sandy beach is absolutely stunning. Snorkeling Grace Bay is fabulous because of its crystal-clear waters and beautiful reef. Rental equipment is easy to find along the beach. The sunset is one-of-a-kind, so it's no wonder this famous beach is lined with luxury resorts. We recommend staying at the Sands at Grace Bay Resort, which looks right out onto this awe-inspiring beach.

10. Playa Flamenco, Puerto Rico

This hot spot has been kept as a nature reserve, so the white sandy beaches are in excellent condition and sparkly clean. The water is equally clean, and is excellent for snorkeling or diving. Bird-watching is very popular here and the beach is also a renowned spot for turtle nesting.

AMAZING BEACH : THASSOS, GREECE, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Thassos, also sometimes referred to as Thasos, is a island of Greece in the northern part of the Aegean Sea. Geographically it is a part to Macedonia. Although being well know for tourist from all over Europe, the island is still a secret for most American tourists. But if you are looking for a place off Greece beaten tracks, than Thassos with its pine forests and rocky beaches is for you.

AMAZING BEACH : TAORMINA, ITALY, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Taormina is a small town on the east coast of Sicily an island of Italy. With its popular beaches and warm water as well as the vicinity to Mount Etna, Europe's largets active volcano, Taormina is attracting tourists since the 19th century.

Taormina Sicily is a destination most worthy of a visit when considering any trip to southern Italy. Located on the northeastern coast of Sicily, Taormina has long been a fixture in the history of the area and shares importance with other historical Sicilian cities like Syracuse, Messina and Catania. It is perhaps the most popular of tourist destinations in Sicily, noted both for its natural beauty and its art treasures. Taormina restaurants offer quality and diversity, whether you are looking for a quick treat or for a stunning meal set against a magical backdrop. With many Taormina hotels ranging from budget to luxury, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from. Changing hands many times over its varied history, Taormina Italy evokes strong sentiment of its historical importance and is a welcome tourist spot.

As is the case with any city in Europe, Taormina Italy boasts a long history of invasions and settlements procured by many different groups. Its historical course often begins with its founding in 395 B.C. by Greek residents of the nearby settlement of Naxos. Originally a Siculian settlement, it was left in ruins when previous residents left to flee the domination of Dionysious the Elder, who would later go on to conquer Taormina in 392 B.C. The city was given the name of Tauromenion in 358 B.C. taking its name from the nearby hill of Taurus. The Greeks would go on to conquer the entire island of Sicily, leaving behind some of the most well-preserved temples they ever built. An example of this is the stunning Greek Theatre of Taormina, one of the most celebrated relics in Sicily. The Romans would eventually enlarge the stage and add a partial roof, which was since destroyed. It is an amazing relic of the past and is an absolute must-see during your trip to Taormina Sicily.

Taormina would enjoy prosperity in the time of Julius Caesar, but go on to suffer under the rule of Octavian. Angry at the city and its residents for their support of Pompey, Octavian would go on to expel most of Taormina"s inhabitants. Roman soldiers, who moved in to occupy the homes and town after Octavian"s conquest, would also prosper at Taormina. The following Byzantine domination would continue in this prosperity, and after the fall of Constantinople, Syracuse fell in importance to Taormina, the new capital city of Eastern Sicily. The area, and the town itself, would continue its tumultuous changing of the guard and varied influence, until 1861 when Italy became united.

Taormina"s approximation to the Ionian Sea makes it a popular destination not only for its ancient architecture, but for its beaches as well. With winding medieval streets and corridors, tourists exploring on foot can be guaranteed to enjoy not only the sights, but also the many fine Taormina restaurants, cafes and ice-cream bars that abound just around every bend. Many of these culinary gems lie on terraces overlooking the sea, or amidst lush and abounding gardens. More public eateries can be found in the town"s plazas if perhaps you want to keep it more simple and enjoy a gelato while you people watch. Between the sights, sounds, and tastes, your senses are guaranteed to be alive and well, no matter where you choose to rest your legs for a bit and take it all in.

Taormina Italy offers so much to see and do. Between touring ancient ruins, you can also book a tour of the nearby Capo Sant"Andrea grottos or visit the Isola Bella (beautiful island) nature preserve just to the South. Known as the “Pearl of the Ionian”, Isola Bella is protected by the World Wildlife Federation, and is a designated Nature Preserve. To reach this amazing place, take the municipal cableway from Via Pirandello in Taormina to Mazzarò beach. Turn right on the National Strada Statale and you’ll find the entrance to the Reserve some 500 feet away. You can also walk there crossing Via Pirandello and taking a series of paths and lanes down from town to the entrance. From the end of July to September the International Taormina Arte Festival is in full swing. It is the most well-known cultural event in Taormina, and offers an array of concerts, theatre shows, and film viewings on a large screen erected in the old Greek Theatre.

Taormina Sicily and its location on a breathtakingly beautiful and hilly coast will surely reward the visitor looking for a truly Sicilian experience. It is close to Mount Etna, Europe"s largest active volcano and rich in influence through its history, which makes it an unforgettable area to tour. As amazing as it is during the day, it is as mesmerizing at night when it becomes an illuminated wonder. Whether you are out to simply stroll the nighttime streets or are looking to enjoy one of over eighty Taormina restaurants, you can be guaranteed to enjoy your time just as much after the sun goes down.

When the Sea Freezes…

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Top 10 beach destinations

1. Cable Beach Broome, Western Australia

Located 7 km (4 miles) from Broome, Cable Beach is one of Australia's premier beach destinations. Featuring 23 km of pure white sand and crystal clear turquoise water, the beach is almost perfectly flat and ideal for swimming and surfing. Bordering the Indian Ocean, and surrounded by the vast inland wildernesses of Western Australia, Cable Beach has an atmospheric "last outpost" feel. Travellers can explore the exquisite beach on foot or by four-wheel drive. Cable Beach is also renowned for its sunsets, which can be enjoyed whilst riding a camel along the beach, or from the comfort of one of the many beach-side restaurants.

2. Ao Nang Beach Krabi, Thailand

Ao Nang is known as Thailand's best all-round beach destination, due to its central location in the Andaman Sea and magnificent scenery. Ao Nang beach is relatively unspoiled and days can be spent relaxing by the shore or taking part in one of the many activities on offer, such as, snorkelling, scuba diving and kayaking. The beach is also conveniently located to restaurants and bars. The equally spectacular Railey Beach is only a 15-minute ferry ride away and is approximately two hours from Phuket.

3. Nha Trang Beach Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is the known as Vietnam's premier "traditional" seaside resort - a lively seaside town where travellers relax by day and party by night. Surrounded on three sides by mountains, Nha Trang Bay is considered among the world's most beautiful bays and one of Vietnam's best beaches. The beach is long and flat, with golden sands and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. It is also the gateway to a cluster of quieter islands which offer outstanding snorkelling and scuba diving trips.

4. Paradise Beach & others Yasawa Island, Fiji

Yasawa Island is famous for its fine sand and exquisite beaches, including Paradise Beach and Champagne Beach, and its limestone caves, which put the Island on the map when "The Blue Lagoon" blockbuster movie with Brooke Shields was filmed there in the 1980s. Yasawa Island, the largest of about 20 volcanic islands in Fiji's Yasawa island archipelago, is renowned for its spectacular rugged scenery and palm-fringed white sandy beaches. Yasawa Island is the only island in this outlying archipelago with an airstrip.

5. Azeda Beach Búzios, Brazil

Armação dos Búzios (better known as Búzios) is a peninsula surrounded by 8 km of islands and beaches, and made famous in the 1960s when film star Brigitte Bardot passed through, drawing the attention of adventurous tourists around the world. The beach is now dotted with hip restaurants, bars and boutiques. Búzios' premier beach, Adeza Beach, is considered one of the prettiest in Brazil. Accessible on foot, the beach boasts a 300-metre (yards) stretch of fine white sand and crystal clear water. With waves virtually non-existent, it is perfect for snorkelling.

6. Lanikai Beach Oahu, Hawaii

Located about 30 minutes' drive from Honolulu - in the town of Kailua - Lanikai Beach is a 500-metre stretch of powdered sugar sand, and a perfect spot for travellers seeking a quiet, remote location to relax. It is sheltered by a wide, protective offshore reef and has a clear view of the spectacular Na Mokulua islands, certainly living up to its translated name, "heavenly sea".

7. Isola Bella Beach Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Located on the east coast of Sicily, with views of Mt Etna, and protected by the bay and mountains, Isola Bella beach is without a doubt one of Sicily's most prized natural assets. The beach is located close to Taormina, a quintessential Italian beach town, and a popular holiday destination amongst artists and celebrities. The beach features pebbles rather than sand, typical of many European beaches, and crystal clear water, making a dip during the hot Italian summer irresistible. Depending on the tide, beachgoers can walk to Isola Bella, the nature reserve on the tiny islet adjoining the beach, or swimmers can swim or snorkel around the island. Taormina itself is a charming town and perched on the cliffs above its gorgeous beaches, which can be reached by an aerial tram.

8. Clifton Beach Cape Town, South Africa

Actually four adjacent beaches separated by giant granite boulders, and set against the most spectacular backdrop of the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range, Clifton Beach is considered one of Cape Town's "glamour" spots - where the rich and famous live and beach-loving locals and tourists go to relax. Each with its own identity, 4th Beach is the most popular and entertains beachgoers with volleyball and Frisbee. Although sheltered from the prevailing Southeaster in the summer, the chilly Atlantic Ocean means a quick dip is all that is required to cool down from the baking sun. The best time of the day is just before sundown, as you can kick back to watch the sun set over the sea.

9. Seven Mile Beach Negril, Jamaica

Located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, the island of Jamaica has long been the playground of sun worshippers the world over. On its western shores - at Negril - is Seven Mile Beach. Close to scores of hotels that hug the curved shoreline, it is the longest continuous stretch of beach in Jamaica. At the end of the beach is a lighthouse, with majestic views of the surrounding cliffs and spectacular rock formations. The beach is popular with families, but there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained including snorkelling, kayaking and glass-bottom boat tours.

10. Mughsayl Beach Salahah, Oman

Salalah, in southern Oman, has a unique charm with its coconut groves and banana plantations growing right to the water's edge. It is also blessed with great beaches - popular for swimming and beach football. Mughsayl Beach is one of the most popular of Oman's 2,700 km of untouched sandy beaches. The golden sands and sparkling water contrasting with the rough mountains and cliffs, make Mughsayl a truly memorable and visually unique beach experience. During rainy season the huge waves cause dramatic explosions of water through blow holes at one end of the beach. Mughsayl Beach is approximately 45 km from Salahah City, but certainly worth the trip.

Mediterranean Beach Towns

Portofino, Italy

Riviera, one of the most beautiful locations in the world and the playground for everyone from Brigitte Bardot in the ’60s to Berlusconi. Hotel Splendido, which remains intact and focuses on authentic cuisine, has played host to the likes of Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Elizabeth Taylor, Clark Gable, and Ava Gardner.

Taormina, Italy

Located on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina is often described as the epitome of southern Italian beach towns. Home to as many poets and painters as playboys and boulevardiers, Taormina represents the creative cross-section that has made the region famous for the last 60 years. Hotel El Jebel is a classic Mediterranean property that often serves as a meeting place for the many artists, celebrities and politicians that frequent town.

Cassis, France

Cassis was once a small fishing village that retained the purity of southern France without the glitz and glamour of neighboring Nice, Cannes and St. Tropez. Cassis is still certainly less travelled by many tourists, but since the early 1950s it has become something of a hideaway for wealthy Europeans. Cassis is also home to some top-notch vineyards. The Michelin-star rated La Villa Madie may only be a few years old, but it is the type of restaurant designed to cater to the wealthy aristocrats and actors that call Cassis home.

Port Grimaud, France

Conceived by architect Francois Spoerry in the 1960s as a “Provencal Venice,” Port Grimaud retains the same canals and islands of its Italian inspiration, but with a decidedly more exotic atmosphere. Designed to be the midway point between St. Tropez and Frejus, Port Grimaud is now home to some of the wealthiest yacht enthusiasts in the world.

Naxos, Greece

Naxos is known as the greenest island in the area with high mountains and fertile valleys. The beaches are truly pristine and many of the island’s inhabitants still work on looms each day and live off the land. That said, the beautiful landscape has not gone unnoticed and lately the Aegean jet-set crowd is making its way down Naxos’ shores. The Lucullus taverna is a 100-year-old restaurant famous for the freshest grilled octopus in the region.