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ISLAND QUESTS

"Islomania is a rare affliction of spirit. There are people who find islands somehow irresistible. The mere knowledge that they are in a little world surrounded by sea fills them with an indescribable intoxication",

by Lawrence Durrell.

Our Island Quests celebrate the powerful attraction of islands which fully or partly delivers on the promise of isolation.

 

They offer escapes from the cares of life on the mainland. That is what you want as you search for a few weeks of nearly total escape.

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Some of these islands that we visited can be characterized  by an insularity or "islandness" that set them apart from all the rest. We prefer to visit those kind of islands.

Locating and visiting these islands draws on decades spent pouring over maps and studying the different oceans. Often, we will travel for a long time to visit these islands since they also offer possibilities for geograhpical exploration or even deeper cultural immersion and thus connecting with fascinating island communities. Possibly, we’ll experience unique landscapes, a special history or even a way of life a million miles from our own.

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ISLAND QUESTS

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Exploring India's last emote frontier outposts:

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The Andamans are a remote and pristine escape with stunning beaches, lush jungles, and colorful coral reefs. The islands are sparsely populated, featuring the indigenous Jarawa tribe, and provide an untouched, Eden-like environment. Havelock Island, in particular, offers a peaceful and wild experience.

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Mozambique's hidden archipelago: 

Bazaruto Islands

Mozambique! And its pristine islands with clear waters, vibrant marine life, and secluded beaches. Highlights include snorkeling around Santa Carolina, Magarouge's turtle nesting, and exploring the untouched beauty of Banguerra and Bengué islands. The trip also took us to the coastal towns  rich in culture and scenic beaches.

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Korea's island of freediving grandmothers:

Jeju Island

Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient culture, and the Haenyeo women divers. We went there to experience the freediving grandmothers of South Korea, a super unique culture like nowhere else on Earth. 

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The best kept secret of the Indian Ocean:

Lakshadweep Islands

Part of India, this island group is hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, located off the Kerala coast. These remote, unspoiled islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and exceptional diving, much like the Maldives, but with far fewer tourists. The islands' charm lies in their untouched beauty, seclusion, and simplicity.

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Misquito Coast, Corn Islands & Boca del Toro:

Central American island gems

The Miskito Coast, Corn Islands (Nicaragua), and Bocas del Toro (Panama) are remote, untouched paradises known for turquoise waters, coral reefs, indigenous cultures, and serene landscapes—perfect for adventurous travelers seeking seclusion and natural beauty.

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Volcanic disaster and Carribbean vibes on

Monterrat Island

Montserrat, a Caribbean island devastated by volcanic eruptions in 1995, offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking adventure. Two-thirds of the island is a no-go zone, including the buried capital, Plymouth. Travelers can experiemce a glimpse of its modern-day Pompeii-like landscape

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Diving and island hopping in Micronesia's

Palau

Palau, a Pacific island nation, is renowned for its world-class diving and snorkeling. The archipelago, consisting of over 300 coral islands, features spectacular underwater landscapes including steep walls, caves, and drop-offs. Beyond diving, visitors can explore cultural sites and WWII remains. With its remote location and unspoiled beauty, Palau is a top destination for adventure seekers.

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Island hops in the Last Frontier of the Philippines

Palawan & Calamian Islands

Palawan and the Calamian Islands have stunning landscapes, world-class diving, and rich history. With remote beaches, incredible wreck dives, and ancient caves, it’s a top island-hopping destination. Key highlights include Puerto Princesa’s underground river, El Nido’s lagoons, and Busuanga’s WWII shipwrecks.

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Exploring Central Africa's premier islands:

São Tomé & Príncipe

STP are remote, peaceful islands known for volcanoes, rainforests, and pristine beaches. Ideal for adventure, hiking, village exploration, and cultural immersion. Despite high travel costs, the islands provide affordable stays and a laid-back atmosphere, making for a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.

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Island pearl of Yemen:

Soqotra Island

Soqotra, Yemen’s remote island, is known for its unique landscapes, rare Dragon’s Blood trees, and diverse wildlife. With dramatic sand dunes, turquoise pools, pristine beaches, and coral reefs, Soqotra is a truly otherworldly adventure. The island’s isolation and rich culture make it an unforgettable destination. Its "the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean".

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Sea gypsies of Sulawesi, Indonesia:

Togian Islands

The travel to get here is long and difficult. The Togian Islands in Sulawesi are home to the Bajau sea gypsies, a nomadic people who live off the ocean. They use simple tools to forage for food and live in stilt houses or boats. The islands offer a unique, isolated experience with pristine reefs and a fascinating culture tied to the sea.

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Across dozens of Philippine islands in:

Visayas & Mindanao islands

Island hopping extravaganza! The Visayas and Mindanao in the Philippines are two archipelagos of tropical islands that promise endless opportunities for island-hopping, adventure, and cultural immersion. We visited more than 20 islands over 3 months of traveling.

© Anders M. Pedersen & Jakob M. Pedersen. All photos have been taken by Anders & Jakob.

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