Greece When it comes to Greece, island hopping is the quintessential way to experience this country. There are more than 60 inhabited postcardperfect isles bobbing in its crystal clear waters and thousands more uninhabited outcrops to explore. And with myriad possibilities for travel between them, the simple, olive oil drenched Greek island lifestyle opens up for exploration and adventure in vastly enthralling ways. The islands vary greatly in size, architecture, cultural influences and terrain. There are so many islands in this area that even a month’s time might not be enough to explore all of them. If you can't leave everything for a month, you should set aside at least two weeks if you want to cover any ground. While exploration of historical ruins is a primary attraction of these islands, there are many more things you can indulge in. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, mountain biking, hiking, sun worshipping, gawking at ancient ruins, eating and drinking in seaside taverns and swimming in the turquoise sea are ideal ways to pass the balmy days and nights. Crete happens to be the largest island in the area. It is the home to the astonishing Samaria Gorge and Minoan Palace at Knossos; the rugged Cyclades islands throw the ambiance of a natural paradise, it is the domain of volcanic Santorini and Mykonos as well as lush and mountainous Naxos. It is possible to fly to Greece’s larger islands; you can often score cheap deals on flights and it can be an ideal way to start or finish your island-hopping odyssey. However, sailing is a far more relaxing and romantic way to travel. If money is no object, chartering a yacht is the way to go.

Seychelles This sublime Indian Ocean archipelago, with its 115 jewels of islands, is tailor-made for an island hopping excursion. Granitic or coral, each individual island is truly unique and presents its own strikingly different version of paradise. Visitors to Seychelles are wowed by its unbroken expanses of powder white beaches lapped by cerulean waters and stunning verdant landscapes. But that’s not all. Some of world’s best hotels and resorts are based in Seychelles, so if luxury is what gets you to a new high, there is much of it that you will find amidst this group of islands. The Sainte Anne Resort & Spa lounging just 3 miles off the east coast of Mahe, ten minutes by boat, is quite popular with Hollywood stars, who tend to stay here when they visit Seychelles. The resort lies on a private island within a national marine park.