Inside tip
highlights include Boracay, an island of powdery white beaches, numerous hotels and restaurants and long happy hours; the Unesco-listed rice terraces in Banau, North Luzon; the surreal Chocolate Hills of Bohol; and the boroboro (witch doctor) hub of Siguijor, a snorkeller and diver’s dream.
Tear drop-shaped Siargao, a renowned surfing hotspot, is ideal for a low-key holiday with forests full of wildlife and waterfalls and offshore islands to explore.
Hawai’i
More flights to the Islands of Aloha at more affordable prices are enticing Kiwis to their white sand shores in droves. The six islands are very different geographically, offering different holiday experiences.
Molokai, home to the world’s tallest sea cliffs, and Hawai’i (the Big Island), home to the Volcanoes National Park, are great for active travellers, while Ka’anapali Beach on Maui is ideal for those looking to relax or snorkel.
The North Shore on Oahu, meanwhile, is a foodie paradise. ‘‘Eat local and hire a car to try fresh seafood – look out for Giovanni’s as this is one of the original (and best) food trucks in Hawaii,’’ Fordyce suggests.
Inside tip
On Hawai’i Island, ‘‘head up to the end of Highway 130 in Puna District and hike an area where lava from Kilauea Volcano flows into the sea,’’ Fordyce suggests.
Portugal
Long overshadowed by neighbouring Spain, Portugal is having its turn in the international limelight. Named the best destination in the 2017 World Travel Awards, Portugal is a land of hilltop castles, colourful cities, walled towns, terraced vineyards and stunning beaches. And you can experience all of it at a relatively affordable price.
‘‘Not only is it incredibly affordable but it remains authentic, offering superb city experiences in the likes of Porto and Lisbon, as well as off-thebeaten-path treats, such as discovering incredible Roman ruins or following one of the multiple wine routes that criss-cross the picturesque countryside,’’ Zeiher says.