Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

The 10 Most Popular Destinations Abroad For First-Time Travelers, Ranked

staff@islands.com (Sarah Salisbury) — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 23:30:00 +0000

Planning your first international trip can be daunting. Here are some low-barrier countries around the world that offer tons of experiences with less stress.

One Of New Zealand's Best National Parks Is A Wild Haven With Ridgeline Hikes And Dramatic Ocean Views

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 23:15:00 +0000

Tucked on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is a rugged wonderland known for its unique rock formations, cave systems, and epic multi-day treks.

The World's Most Unique Skiing Locations

staff@islands.com (Waverly Colville) — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000

An incredible ski vacation doesn't have to mean visiting the Rockies or the Alps. There are ski resorts and backcountry slopes in places you might not expect.

This Mountain-Ringed Lakeside Retreat In The Southern Alps Was Ranked The World's Top Spot For Serenity

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 23:45:00 +0000

Looking for a serene vacation destination that puts you in direct contact with nature? This town in the Southern Hemisphere may just be the spot for you.

This Remote National Park Is A Birdwatcher's Paradise Where Forests, Mountains, And Rare Wildlife Flourish

staff@islands.com (David McElhinney) — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 16:00:00 +0000

On top of its world-class geographic beauty, New Zealand is home to animal species you won't see anywhere else. Head to this park to see them.

New Zealand's Gateway To The Islands Is A Sunny Haven With Quirky Shops And Iconic Trails

staff@islands.com (Marta Benigni) — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 01:00:00 +0000

There aren't many places in New Zealand where you won't find beautiful scenery and laid-back vibes, but this port town is maybe the best located of them all.

The 3 Most Peaceful Countries In The World Have 1 Thing In Common: They're All Islands

staff@islands.com (Tanni Deb) — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 01:45:00 +0000

These three countries were named the most peaceful nations in the world - they all happen to be island nations and ones known for their natural beauty.

The World's Best Country To Stargaze Has Skies So Clear You Have To See To Believe

staff@islands.com (Lisandra Moor) — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 21:25:00 +0000

There's not much as awe-inspiring as a crystal-clear view of stars dotting the night sky, and you can't beat this spot if that's what you're looking for.

This Pacific-Facing Getaway Is A Hidden Seaside Town With Ocean Air, Endless Horizons, And Treetop Massages

staff@islands.com (Marta Benigni) — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 23:25:00 +0000

This Pacific-facing haven on New Zealand's coast boasts geothermal pools, golden beaches, and forested trails, making for an ideal nature-driven getaway.

This Coastal Village Getaway Is An Island Haven With Some Of New Zealand's Best Dining

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:15:00 +0000

This village on Waiheke Island has everything you could wish for, from a long sandy beach to exceptional wine tasting at Cable Bay and tons of tasty eats.

New Zealand's Mountain Village Is A South Island Escape With Mineral Springs And Nearby Whitewater Rapids

staff@islands.com (Tanni Deb) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 01:00:00 +0000

This riverside village in the mountains of New Zealand's South Island is home to world class hot springs, as well as world class river running.

This Laid-Back Surf Town Is A New Zealand Gem With Black Sand Beaches And World-Class Waves

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 18:00:00 +0000

This New Zealand town is a slice of hippie surf paradise, home to one of the best waves in the world, cute cafes and coffee shops, and waterfall hiking trails.

This Fantasy-Filled Corner Of New Zealand Is A Storybook Escape With Hobbit Holes And Scenic Waterfalls

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 18:25:00 +0000

Surrounded by waterfalls and vivid greenery, this New Zealand haven of hobbit homes and serene trails feels lifted straight from a fantasy world.

This Surfer's Paradise Is A New Zealand Gem With World-Class Waves, Lush Waterfalls, And Scenic Trails

staff@islands.com (Natasha Bernstein) — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 01:45:00 +0000

Soak up the best of New Zealand's surf scene at this coastal paradise, with stunning waterfalls, majestic nature trails, and a relaxed, bohemian vibe.

The 'Gumboot Capital Of The World' Is A Riverside Destination With Lush Gardens And Fun-Filled Festivals

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 01:15:00 +0000

A small town with a big personality, this New Zealand destination offers wild rivers, scenic reserves, cozy cafes, and a festival devoted to footwear.

New Zealand's Enchanting Coastal Escape Offers Majestic Mountains, Roaming Wildlife, And Fresh Seafood

staff@islands.com (Valentina Pucciano) — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 03:45:00 +0000

Aotearoa's lush landscapes are home to many magical destinations. For one that blends natural wonders with delicious cuisine, you'll need to head to the shore.

This Coastal New Zealand Town Is A Scenic Gem Offering Historical French Charm, Wildlife, And Harbor Views

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 19:45:00 +0000

Discover a magical coastal village in New Zealand where French heritage, turquoise bays, and wildlife cruises create the perfect blend of culture and nature.

New Zealand's Magical Lakeside Town Offers Snowy Peaks, Outdoor Adventure, And Mind-Bending Attractions

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 20:15:00 +0000

This waterfront town in New Zealand is a nature lovers' dream, with nearby ski resorts, stunning hiking trails, and lakeside activities like paddle boarding.

This Fairytale Coastal Town In New Zealand Offers Black-Sand Beaches And Bioluminescent Wonders

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:15:00 +0000

New Zealand's underrated South Island hides a fairytale coastal town with black-sand beaches, a glowworm dell, a limestone gorge, and other local wonders.

'New Zealand's Most Beautiful Town' Has Friendly Faces, Friday Markets, And Big Retirement Appeal

staff@islands.com (Katie Morris) — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 14:15:00 +0000

Skip the Kiwi capital for something a bit slower, more scenic, and certainly more friendly. New Zealand's most beautiful town awaits you in the North Island.