Beaches & relaxation

◆What the best beach trips really are

The best beaches are not the ones in brochures. The Maldives is not just an all-inclusive resort. Bali has white sand corners 30 minutes from tourist areas. Croatia hides coves that only boats can reach. And French Polynesia offers a blue lagoon that doesn't exist anywhere else.

A good beach trip is finding the balance between seclusion and comfort. Far enough away not to end up on a towel between two strangers, accessible enough not to spend three days in transit.

◆Beach destinations that are worth the trip

The Maldives: atolls, water villas, manta ray and whale shark snorkeling. Affordable luxury with the right operators, starting at 3,000 euros per week with full board. French Polynesia: Bora Bora, Moorea, Fakarava. The most photographed lagoon in the world, and unique diving experiences. Bali: Seminyak, Uluwatu, Nusa Penida. Black and white sand beaches, spectacular cliffs, surfing for all levels. Croatia: islands of Hvar, Korčula, Brač. Crystal clear water and medieval villages without the prices of the Balearics. Mauritius: calm beaches, coral reef, Creole cuisine and mixed culture.

These destinations have very different seasons to check before booking: cyclones in the Maldives and Polynesia, well-marked dry season in Bali, Croatia ideal from June to September.

◆What an organized stay in a seaside destination changes

For the Maldives, organization is often essential. Seaplane transfers between Male airport and the atolls can be booked in advance. Some resorts have exclusives on entire islands. Arriving without a reservation on an atoll is difficult, if not impossible, out of season.

In Polynesia, the combination of islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora) requires air logistics that local operators manage better than any independent traveler. And in Croatia, renting a boat with skipper to reach the coves of the private islands is the experience that the majority of visitors miss by staying on the coast.

◆How to choose the right seaside destination

What kind of sea? The lagoons (Maldives, Polynesia) offer calm, shallow water, ideal for snorkeling. The Mediterranean (Croatia, Greece) is cooler. The Indian Ocean (Mauritius, Zanzibar) is warm all year round.

What level of activity? A beach holiday can be 100% lazy or include diving, surfing, kayaking. Bali and Croatia offer the best activity options. The Maldives is more focused on pure relaxation.

Budget. The Maldives and Polynesia are the most expensive destinations. Mauritius and Croatia offer excellent value for money for a high-end beach holiday.