The best beaches in the world have long since attracted travellers from all across the world. There’s just something about beaches that appeal to pretty much everyone. Even if you’re not one to spend all day on a beach, a few minutes or even hours on a picturesque sandy beach is something that’s probably an easy yes for most of us.

In fact, I’d go as far as saying many of us plan our holidays around beautiful beaches (beautiful beaches do tend to come hand-in-hand with beautiful weather so there’s a rationale behind those decisions).

If you’re looking to plan a longer holiday and hoping to happen upon beautiful beaches on your travels or perhaps even if you’re looking to centre your holiday around beautiful beaches, here are 11 countries with some of the best beaches in the world


1.) Australia

Australia is a gigantic country (the 6th largest in the world by area) with a huge amount of coastline, so it comes as no surprise that it’s home to some of the best beaches in the world.

The great thing is, whatever type of beach you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Australia. From bustling city beaches like Bondi beach, to the tropical white sand and coral reefs of Fraser Island, it has everything.



2.) Spain





Travelers flock to Spain not only for its popular cities (hey Barcelona!)but also for its particularly fantastic beaches.

For some, the words ‘beach’ and ‘Spain’ might bring to mind images of the big holiday resorts with packed beaches in front of rows of grey hotels, but the reality is so much more. From the desert-island-feel of Playa de Ses Illetes on the Balearic Islands to the impressive rock formations of Playa de las Catedrales in Ribadeo, Spain’s coastline is one that just keeps on giving. 😁

3.) Fiji
It’s a popular honeymoon and wedding destination, mainly because with its calm turquoise waters, stunningly white sand and immaculate coral reefs… and probably because Fiji is pretty much anyone’s idea of tropical paradise.
With its 333 tropical islands and over 500 islets, there’s plenty to explore – which is particularly great if you find that spending all your time on a beach isn’t your idea of a perfect holiday. When you’re here (and of course, depending on where you’re staying some beaches worth checking out here are Cove Beach, Liku Beach, and Vatulele Island).


4.) Greece
Whilst the colour of the waters surrounding Greece range from turquoise and emerald right through to dark blue, Greek beaches have long since attracted visitors from Europe, and the world over to come splash around


s

The beaches here range from fine white sands to jet black (if you’re on a volcanic island), with golden and red in between (also found on volcanic islands rich in iron). It’s safe to say that whatever your picture of the perfect beach entails, you’re sure to find it somewhere in Greece.

5.) Bali
First of all, Bali is technically not a country (Indonesia is the country) but Bali has its own unique identity (and even its own language) that it feels deserving of its own place on here outside of that of Indonesia as a whole.

For what, once upon a time, used to be a quiet verdant island, Bali has more recently become a rather fashionable (and very fun) destination for many-a-traveller of all ages (like on our flight over – every single age group was represented) and it’s easy to see why.


In addition to its rich culture and fascinating geological features, Bali boasts a huge amount of seriously idyllic beaches. Despite the country’s growing popularity, there are a number of quieter beaches tucked away just waiting to be explored. Seek out hidden gems like Gunung Payung or Pandawa Beach to enjoy the Bali coast away from the crowds.

6.) Hawaii
*Again, not a country are more of a state within a country but definitely another one special enough to get its own independent mention. ðŸ˜

Hawaii is another one of those places we just automatically associate with being the perfect idyllic holiday – even the sunsets here are unlike anywhere else in the world



With its stunning flower blooms, beautiful islands and amazing rather dramatic coastline, Hawaii is already a much-coveted destination. Its gorgeous beaches are really just the icing on the cake. There are lots of different kinds of beaches on here so you’ll definitely find something to make you very happy when you visit
Oh, and if you visit certain islands during whale season, you can head the whales when you’re swimming away in the water

7.) Malaysia
Malaysia’s beaches have a huge amount to offer, whatever it is you’re looking for. Adventure junkies and budding mermaids can explore the country’s gorgeous coast by scuba diving (or, if you’re not certified yet – by snorkelling).
Foodies can take advantage of some of the world’s best (and freshest) seafood. Many of the beaches are shrouded in thick rainforest, giving them that real tropical island feels.

8.) The Philippines
The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands so as you can imagine, there’s not really much of a shortage of beaches here. Its tropical sandy beaches are notoriously beautiful (the notoriety has increased dramatically in recent times.

Like seriously, just google “Philippines Beach” and you’ll see what I mean, and seeing as there are so many of them, it’s not a huge challenge to find yourself that beach that’s just perfect for you.

The highlight here is easily El Nido in Palawan, where you can try caving, kayaking and climbing if you don’t fancy (or are done with) lying on the sand all day. Check out some more reasons why you need to visit Palawan in the Philippines (home to some of the best beaches in the world), below.

9.) The Maldives
Oh, the Maldives! We’ve gone on and on here about how amazing the Maldives are and honestly, even after visiting twice, I’m still very crazy about these islands in the Indian Ocean.
Oh, the Maldives! We’ve gone on and on here about how amazing the Maldives are and honestly, even after visiting twice, I’m still very crazy about these islands in the Indian Ocean.
Suffice to say, the Maldives is easily one of those island countries you have to visit, if for nothing else but for the chance to relax on some of the best beaches in the world! Check out the link below for more info and tips to

10.) The Seychelles
The Seychelles is home to some of the best beaches in the world and is another place that’s reminiscent of the Maldives. Although it’s a lot bigger than most of the islands you’d visit in the Maldives, you shouldn’t let that put you off though – the Seychelles are amazing!




Possibly the most laidback piece of paradise in the Seychelles is Praslin Island. Its truly laid-back vibe and the impressive backdrop of the islands’ rock formations make the Seychelles a firm favourite amongst sunseekers

11.) Cuba
Cuba’s sprawling stretch of beaches is touched by two major oceans: the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean (each of which brings its own different advantage).

It’s a sub-tropical country, so in Cuba, it’s beach time all year round. 😎🍹🏖 Cuba’s Spanish culture also throws in a fantastic vibe to the proceedings
When you do visit Cuba, as nice as the beaches are, I’d definitely recommend doing yourself a favour and heading outside of your resort (preferably with the guidance of an expert) to explore the more rustic (read: real) side of Cuba to get a real sense of what life is like here.

You can get beautiful beaches in a lot of places across the world but it’s the people that can truly set a place apart and that’s no truer than in Cuba. And you know what, if beaches aren’t your thing, just pop over to Havana to explore its amazing sites.

Despite being something that everyone does literally every day, getting dressed (or putting together an outfit, if you want to get fancy), can feel like the trickiest, most frustrating part of the morning. Who hasn't stood in front of a closet full of clothing and thought “I have nothing to wear!?” Rest assured, you're not alone in this daily conundrum. To that end, we consulted a panel of experts—top designers, style consultants, and retail pros—to demystify the act (art?) of getting dressed, once and for all

Jessica Antola
1
Balance proportions.
How to actually do it: Obviously, you want to show off what you're proud of—toned arms or a slim waist. It's the downplaying of less beloved parts that's tricky. One tactic? Add opposite volume, like wearing wide-leg trousers to offset a heavier upper half that's wearing something fitted. "The object is to even yourself out," explains designer Nicole Miller. "So avoid anything too oversize or you'll look bigger." Another idea: Distraction. If you're pear shaped, wear forgettable black pants, then bring the focus upward with a bold scarf, says Louise Roe, the author of the style-advice book Front Roe.
2
Wear trends in an age-appropriate way.
How to actually do it: Odds are, there's a grown-up version of the style du jour. Take crop tops: To avoid revealing skin, pair a shirt that hits at the navel with a high-waisted skirt—or a longer top with a crop top over it. "It gives you a similar look," promises designer Rebecca Minkoff. Bottom line: "You never want to seem like you're uncomfortable with your age and trying to look younger," says Lilliana Vazquez, a style expert and the editor of TheLVGuide.com.
 
3
The right bra makes you look slimmer.
How to actually do it: "Where your breasts sit on your chest makes a big difference in how clothes fit," says Vazquez. In other words, if you're wearing a bra that fits properly, there will be no sagging or bulging—and that means your silhouette will look trimmer from every angle. The target is midway between your elbows and shoulders. You've scored a match when "the front center panel of the bra lays flat, there's no wrinkling or gapping in the cups, and the bra is not hiking up or creating bulges," says Kristen Supulski, the director of merchandising for Vanity Fair Brands lingerie. "If you can squeeze just two fingers under the band and it still feels snug, that's the perfect fit."
4
Don’t be too matchy matchy.
How to actually do it: Strive to wear colors that enhance one another rather than "match" in the traditional sense. For an easy hack, says Minkoff, "look at a simple color wheel. The colors that are opposite each other on the wheel complement each other." (Think non-obvious but fetching combos, like orange and navy or purple and saffron.) Diversifying your accessories, in both color and texture, is another do. (A beloved trio from the vault of Betty Halbreich, a personal shopper at New York City's Bergdorf Goodman and the author of the style memoir I'll Drink to That: "A black dress, navy shoes, and a burgundy handbag.") And under no circumstances should you ever rock a suite of jewelry. Says Vazquez, " Anything that was sold together as a set looks really dated."
 
5
Show skin selectively.
How to actually do it: "Don't give people too many things to look at all at once," says Halbreich. "If you're wearing a low-cut dress, focus on the cleavage—you don't also need bare arms and legs." The concept applies to fit as well: A body-hugging dress is better with a more sensible neckline and hem, whereas a skirt that hits a few inches above the knee won't raise eyebrows if it's flared rather than tight.
6
Spend as much as you can afford on staples.
How to actually do it: First, a disclaimer. There's no need to break the bank on the basics—tees, button-downs, jeans—of which there are plenty of quality options available at low prices. Instead, splurge (if you can) on the types of items in which even the cheapo versions aren't exactly steals. For instance, bargain cashmere will still set you back $100. But that sweater will stretch out quickly, and then you'll have to blow another $100 to replace it, rather than spending a little more only once. "When buying classics, like a great black blazer, it's important to invest in better fabrics— say, wool—that will hold up better over time," says Minkoff. Try calculating the price per wear to help stave off sticker shock.
7
Develop a signature style.
How to actually do it: "Figure out your go-to, foolproof looks," says designer Nanette Lepore, then seek out variations on that theme. Stumped? Picture the outfits that you feel most comfortable in. Or ask people close to you what you look best in. Once you've zeroed in on what works, find different takes. "I gravitate toward jackets, so I'll do a bomber style, then a silk version, or a denim jacket with leather sleeves," says Minkoff. "Whenever you feel the need to talk yourself into things, that's a red flag that you shouldn't buy them," says Minkoff. If you have doubts in the dressing room, it may help to take a photo of yourself in the item, suggests Aerin Lauder, the founder and creative director of the lifestyle brand Aerin. "It's much more accurate than looking in the mirror."
8
Everyone should own a classic white shirt.
How to actually do it: Opt for a pure white, rather than ivory, which may skew dingy. “But since white has the potential to make your teeth look yellow in comparison, consider wearing a bold lipstick with a blue undertone, like fuchsia, so teeth appear brighter,” recommends Florence Thomas, the creative director for Thomas Pink. Not sure which cut is best for you? A button-up with darting at the waist or curved princess seams can create a feminine hourglass shape on anyone. Be sure the seams of the shoulders line up with your shoulders and that there is no pulling across the front or the back. “Anything else can be tailored,” says Thomas. To keep all-cotton shirts from discoloring, don't dry-clean them. Have them laundered and pressed, the same as men's shirts.
9
Mix prints and patterns.
How to actually do it: Doubling up on patterns can help you come across as confident and chic—or as if you got dressed in the dark. Achieve the former by following these guidelines. Stick to a similar color family—and preferably the same background shade. Some pairings are like PB & J—they just work. "Polka dots with stripes or florals typically go well together," says Minkoff. The same holds for leopard print with a non-critter pattern or paisley with squares or checks. Near matches are a no-no. For example, says Vazquez, houndstooth and plaid are too similar to be simpatico. And two large-scale prints will compete for dominance—and give people a headache. Finish off the outfit with neutral accessories. Cautions Roe: "Don't add another color into the mix."
10
Jewelry should accentuate your features.
How to actually do it: The right pair of earrings can flatter your face shape. For instance, long earrings make your face look skinnier, if it’s on the round side, says jewelry designer Lizzie Fortunato. On the other hand, if you have an oblong face, short, chunky earrings, like oversize studs, will draw focus outward, and your face won't read quite as narrow. If you have a large bust, a necklace should hit an inch above the cleavage or higher. Longer strands or pendants will rest awkwardly on the body and call attention to every contour. Lastly, choose earrings in lighter colors, such as pearls or white stone, to make your face look radiant