At 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile, Easter Island is one of the most remote islands on Earth---and one of the most famous. The 63-square-mile Pacific island is known for the hundreds of ancient and massive stone statutes that dot its grassy hillsides and shores. These statues, called moai and weighing some 50 tons, have been a source of mystery and fascination for archaeologists and other visitors to the island for centuries. This cultural attraction, plus the island's extreme remoteness and tiny population (3,800 people), makes the place an ideal vacation spot for someone truly wanting to get away from it all. LanChile Airlines travels from Chile to the island twice per week. There are nearly a dozen hotels on the island, including one luxury resort.
This British island lies in the South Atlantic, approximately 1,500 miles from Cape Town, South Africa. Its inhabitants label it "the most remote inhabited island in the world". Located on the edge of an active volcano (the last eruption was in 1961) and resembling a volcano itself, the island is primarily composed of rocks and green mountains. There are only five square kilometers of flat land, which is where the island's 275 residents make their home. Nonetheless a fair number of tourists make the trek to Tristan da Cunha to witness the island's lush beauty and exotic wildlife. Tristan da Cunha's official website advises that if you want to visit the island, allow plenty of time to prepare for the trip. The island is only accessible by ship and you will need to coordinate your visit with the shipping schedule. Moreover, as the Island Council must approve your visit, you will need to email the Secretary to the Administrator detailing the purpose of your visit, the length of time you intend to stay, nationality, age and accommodations needed.
Mauritius is an idyllic island situated in the Indian Ocean approximately 550 miles from Madagascar. Famed for its pristine white beaches, stunning lagoons, and luxury hotels, a trip to Mauritius makes for a classic tropical island get-away. The island offers much more than sunbathing and swimming, however. Cultural attractions include the Natural History museum, Black River Gorges Natural Park, Botanical Gardens, La Vanille Crocodile Park, as well as various theaters, mosques, Cathedrals and the famous Hindu temple, Triolet Shivala.
