If someone asked me to name my top 5 most memorable holiday destinations, the entire list would consist of islands. There's something about island hopping that makes you feel like you're really on an adventure. Maybe it’s the enveloping coastline that wraps around a mini-eco system, the ocean breeze that sweeps in, the combination of beaches and forests, or maybe it's the secluded atmosphere that does the trick. But not all islands are the same (some aren't that great, actually), so here's my top 5 for the world's best islands for a relaxing escape:

1. Bali
If you're talking scenic beauty and the diversity of the landscape, there are few islands that can compete with Bali. Fantasy world beaches, volcanic mountains covered in lush greenery, Sumatran elephants, and amazingly majestic pagodas give this heavenly Indonesian island a unique look that is hard to forget. The best time to visit is between the months of April and October, if you intend to stay dry, as the rest of the year is considered the wet season. However, the climate varies between 80 and 95 degrees year-round, so if you don't mind the precipitation you can find cheaper flights during the wet season. I packed my Salsa Rimowa suitcase full of rainwear and had a great 3-week holiday in Bali during the off season for a fraction of what I would've paid had I gone in mid-April.

2. Bora Bora
Contrary to the phonics of the name, Bora Bora, is anything but boring. When you're approaching the island, either via plane or boat, it literally looks like you're traveling back in time to the land of the dinosaurs. This exotic island in the Southern Pacific is home to some of the world's most relaxing beaches lined with thatched-roof huts that sit suspended over the turquoise clear waters below. White sand beaches combine with jungles and mountains to make this place a must see.

3. Santorini
Of all the islands in the Mediterranean, I'd have to say that Santorini is my favourite by far. The people here have done an amazing job of preserving their culture and architecture for thousands of years, and the local Greek cuisine is on par with the best food ever. Red sand beaches, stunning views of the Aegean Sea, and the ancient remains of Akrotiri and Thira make this place a popular honeymoon destination.

4. Maui
If you're thinking of taking a trip to Hawaii, the island of Maui would be your best bet for relaxation without complete isolation. Unlike Lanai, there are enough accommodations scattered about to keep you comfortable, yet it's not as busy as Oahu. Snorkelling, nature tours, and walks on the beach in Maui are some of the most relaxing and enjoyable things you can do on this planet.

5. St. Kitts
The twin islands of Nevis and St. Kitts in the Caribbean are some of the most luxurious tourist destinations on Earth. Nevis is the more relaxed of the two, while St. Kitts is home to more hospitality and entertainment venues like hotels and restaurants. It's nice to have quick access to the hustle and bustle of St. Kitts while still being secluded enough to relax on Nevis.

Everyone is getting ready for summer vacation and while many will choose to stay at home getting some of those odds and ends seen to that kept getting pushed aside throughout the year, many are looking for some place new and interesting to explore. While national parks and camping grounds are big on the list, most vacationers like to go somewhere with a bit more action and certainly more services to enjoy. Here are the top 7 travel destinations in the USA for those looking to visit bigger cities with an active nightlife.

1. New York City, New York
What can be said about New York? From Broadway to the site of the Twin Towers to the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, there is so much to do and see that you would need a lifetime of vacations to take it all in.

2. Denver, Colorado
Since they have legalized marijuana in Colorado, a growing number of young people come here from non-legal states. Those reading marijuana industry news will know just how many ways in which visitors can buy pot for recreational purposes and until more states go legal, what was once a vacation spot for winter sports is enjoying visitors every month of the year.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada
There are only 24 states in which some form of gambling is legal which leaves 26 states, the District of Columbia and the territories with no access to gambling. Las Vegas is still the king in this country and only one city in China is said to host more visiting gamblers yearly.

4. San Francisco, California
Since the 1960s San Francisco has led the world in counter culture activities and those wanting to relive the days of Flower Power when Haight-Ashbury was at its prime will surely want to spend a vacation here riding the trolleys and getting a look at the world famous Golden Gate Bridge.

5. Miami, Florida
South Beach is the new Hollywood (California that is!) and not a day goes by when you can’t see literally dozens of big name celebs making the rounds of shops and clubs. Those traveling to Miami are probably looking to rub elbows with some of the leading musicians and actors from around the world.

6. Orlando, Florida
Home to Disney World on the East Coast, there are a number of other attractions in or near Orlando. Epcot Center, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando, Discovery Cove, Islands of Adventure and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park are just some of the major attractions that draw literally millions of visitors a year.

7. Washington, D.C.
Although Washington, D.C. also draws millions of visitors every year, being the nation’s capital and home of the Senate and Congress, during a presidential election year the traffic more than doubles. If you are looking to visit the nation’s capital this year, make your reservations early because there is no telling how heated the presidential campaigning will get as we draw closer to that first Tuesday in November.

Visit one or go on a road trip and visit a few, but be assured you will enjoy your stay in any one of these top 7 travel destinations in the USA. Have fun, learn a bit of history and get refreshed for the year ahead. Just keep these locations in mind because next year you can hit the ones you missed in 2016.