Are These the Best Islands in the World?

Janeen Christoff
by Janeen Christoff
Last updated: 7:00 PM ET, Tue October 25, 2016

Relaxation is one of the prime reasons behind many vacations and there's really no better place to bliss out than on a tropical island. Conde Nast Traveler readers have weighed in on some of the best.

The Philippines plays a prominent role on the list with several islands making the top 20, but Boracay was number one.

"This itty-bitty island (just under four square miles) in the Western Philippines is as close to a tropical idyll as you'll find in Southeast Asia, with gentle coastlines and transporting sunsets. Add in a thriving nightlife scene, and you have one of the top tourist spots in the region," writes Conde Nast.

The inside scoop is to head to White Beach.

"The aptly named White Beach is Boracay's main draw, with powdery white sand and shallow azure water ideal for swimming and snorkeling," says Conde Nast.

Coming in at number two is another island in the Philippines - Palawan.

"This small island-one of the Philippines' 7,107-shot to the top of our list again this year with a recent claim to fame: It's now home to one of the new seven natural wonders of the world, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River," writes TK.

The river is one of the longest underwater rivers in the world and the Conde Nast editors suggest taking a boat tour.

"Guided boat tours take visitors down a portion of the waterway, where karsts, natural rock formations created by dissolving limestone, loom in every direction," suggests Conde Nast.

[READMORE]READ MORE: 5 Unexpected Adventures in Tenerife [/READMORE]

Mallorca, Spain, is the third best island in the world, according to Conde Nast Traveler readers.

"Generations of Europeans have been flocking to the Spanish isle every summer but Mallorca still exhibits a laid-back charm. You'll find classic Mediterranean blue waters, stunning mountain views, and winding cobble-stoned streets, depending on which type of vacation you take," says Conde Nast.

For more of the world's best islands and suggestions on what to do and where to stay, read on here.


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