Seven hot island paradises to escape to this winter

Are you dreaming of sunshine and scenic beaches? Here are seven magnificent islands and archipelagos around the world that won’t disappoint.

1. Aruba: lounge on lovely beaches of soft, white sand, swim in “Conchi,” a natural pool formed by volcanic stone circles, go scuba diving and take in Oranjestad’s colonial architecture.

2. Guadeloupe: go hiking along the volcano Soufrière Saint Vincent, relax on white- or black-sand beaches amid beautiful scenery, enjoy authentic Creole cuisine and go dolphin or whale watching.

3. Martinique: bask in the sun on tranquil beaches, dive off of Diamond Rock, discover tropical flora at the Jardin de Balata and travel through gorges en route to a magnificent waterfall at Les Gorges de la Falaise.

4. New Caledonia: become acquainted with Kanak culture while you kitesurf on Anse Vata Bay, explore magical grottos and discover an array of spectacular landscapes including dense forests, immaculate beaches and turquoise creeks.

5. Phi Phi Islands: gaze upon the limestone cliffs, visit Maya Bay (made famous by the film The Beach), explore Thailand’s incredible snorkeling sites and party on the beach at night.

6. Maldives: stay in a villa propped up on stilts, fly over the isles on a seaplane, take part in your favorite aquatic sports and unwind on exquisite beaches.

7. Roatán: view Honduras’ marine life from a glass-bottom boat, see animals roaming free in Gumbalimba Park, lie on beaches with clear water and go zip-lining at Mayan Eden Park.