Our latest beach highlight comes from nearby Portugal. This up-and-coming hot spot has been touted as a secluded and stylish Ibiza-style escape.

BEACH:Pego Beach (or Praia do Pego, as they say locally)

WHERE: Comporta in Portugal, a hidden gem along the Troia peninsula, just over an hour south of Lisbon. Comporta is slowly beginning to garner the exposure it deserves – much to the dismay of its long-standing loyal visitors.

WHY: Pego Beach, much like its neighbouring Comporta coastline, is a beautiful long stretch of beach – but Sal, the buzzy restaurant nestled in the dunes, sets it apart. Comporta, in general, is an unassuming place and has long been a discreet yet chic escape for a-list celebrities (Christian Louboutin and Madonna to name a couple). There’s nothing super fancy about it; it’s a rice-farming village along the Alentejo coast with simple low-rise architecture. But a combination of its stylish inhabitants and the beautiful fertile land it calls home, make it something rather special. Think swathes of straight golden sands and blue surf, set against vibrant green rice paddies, evergreen-trees and pastel-coloured boutiques. There is a quiet buzz that makes you want to go back for more.

HOW: Drive 120km south of Lisbon (which is a lovely start or finish to your trip) and you’ll find yourself in a chic and secluded spot that you’ll find hard to leave.

H2O TONE: Lapis

SAND TONE: Ice-cream cone

STAY: Sublime Comporta. A resort that lives and breathes its surroundings, and is every bit as stylish. From the dappled pine pathway and straw lamps that emulate the stork’s nests in the trees, to the crisp interiors and local linens. We love this place!

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Sporting ladies listen up, if you’re looking for an inspiring role model then look no further than Aruba’s windsurfing champ Sarah-Quita. She’s trailblazed her way through a male-dominated sport to become the Queen of Freestyle, winning the world championships no less than 14 times. The final in our ‘Interviews to Inspire’ series from Aruba, here’s how Sarah-Quita turned life on the beach into an inspiring journey and career.

How did you get into windsurfing journey?

I started windsurfing when I was about 9 years old. My parents just made my brother and I practice as many sports as possible. I was young and couldn’t lift the sail so I didn’t really take to windsurfing that well. Until a year later I saw my brother competing at the Aruba hi winds. The atmosphere at the beach with so many international people was amazing. After that I decided to give it another try. My mom entered me for the next contest in Bonaire. We travelled there with a big group of kids, and to this day that was still one of the best trips ever staying in a house together and sharing sessions on the water. I have been hooked on windsurfing ever since.

Did you ever think you’d become a world champion?

There wasn’t a moment where I said I wanted to become a world champion. What I do remember is, watching the professionals competing in Bonaire for the first time, and telling myself that I wanted to do the same. I just wanted to train hard so I could perform as well as they did. I was really young when I started the tour and I just loved the fact that I was travelling to far away places and sailing with the best in the world. And I think to this day, that’s still my motivation. Travelling with the best in the world and just improving as much as I can.

How has Aruba inspired you?

Aruba is windy practically all year long and the water is shallow which makes it easy to get on and off the board. It is the place to be to learn how to windsurf. Later on, when I started travelling I think that my upbringing in Aruba has helped me a lot to do well abroad. Aruba is a melting pot of cultures and growing up on the island we speak three languages, Dutch, English and Papiamento, then you also get Spanish and French in high school. We’re very used to visitors so we all grow up being quite open and welcoming to other people. I think this has helped me to enjoy travelling as I adapt quickly and can appreciate different cultures.

Any fond moments?

We’re all so connected and distracted lately. Windsurfing forces you to be in the moment. The moment you’re not concentrating and adapting to the conditions you’ll find yourself catapulting into the water. It’s a difficult sport, but the satisfaction of performing a new trick that you have been practicing for a while is like no other. It gives me an adrenaline rush that keeps me coming back for more.

How does it feel to represent Aruba and women in sport on the world stage?

Well like any other Aruban, I’m quite patriotic. I just love showing and proving that as an island we have a lot to offer even on the world stage.

We’re all so connected and distracted lately. Windsurfing forces you to be in the moment

Your career highlight?

There have been a couple of highlights. But I think winning my first wave contest in Maui back in 2016 was definitely a highlight. Besides that I’m pretty excited about the movie I made together with Julian Robinet. We travelled for 8 months and put together a nice movie showing my life as a female windsurfer travelling the world. Can you imagine a Caribbean girl paddling through icebergs in Iceland !? ( Hard to believe, but true!) Check it out on vimeo: Cabeibusha, the curly gem.

Your greatest challenge?

I’m working on it at the moment. I have been putting my focus on wave sailing. Aruba doesn’t provide too many waves during the year, so I didn’t grow up with it and am still intimidated by big waves. So that is quite challenging. But I have been dedicating my travels to places like Australia and cape town, and I hope to slowly get better and better at wave riding.

How does Aruba standout as a great destination for an active lifestyle?

Well it’s always summertime in Aruba so it encourages outdoor activities. We’re surrounded by gorgeous Caribbean water which makes it super appealing for watersports. But there’s a ton of other things you can do like, mountain biking (I know right!? I did a trail the other day which was too cool!) horseback riding, hiking on the east coast, cave exploring. You name it!

Any favourite windsurfing spots in Aruba?

Fishermen’s huts is a great spot to learn how to windsurf. Besides that, my favourite spot is called Barcadera. The wind is a bit stronger and the conditions are more challenging which allows you to go for bigger jumps.

Your favourite way to relax?

I think I really like getting lost on you tube searching for new music. Swimming, or just floating underwater is pretty relaxing. What? No Yoga? No. I don’t do yoga.

Any advice for women who want to become a world sporting champion too?

Well, I think it’s important to find the right people around you to help you reach your goals. You can go further together. And I think it’s important to enjoy the process and not only focus on the end goal.

You get to travel the world to compete, but what does it feel like when you finally come back to Aruba?

Yes travelling is great, but when I come back to Aruba I can finally completely unwind. My family is in Aruba and everything is so easy going on the island. I especially notice the moment you walk out of the airport and feel the breeze caressing your face. That’s Dushi Aruba welcoming you!

Follow Sarah-Quita on Insta @cabeibusha or check out her website sarah-quita.com for more.

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The next of our inspiring interviews from people who made the life changing decision to move to Aruba is chef Marc Giesbers who helms the kitchen of Elements, the first restaurant in Aruba to offer vegan and vegetarian menus. Marc started his career as a pot washer in the mid eighties, and worked his way up to Michelin star restaurants. He arrived in Aruba in 2000 for a life beside the beach and never looked back…

Did you always want to be a chef?

Yes. I always wanted to become a chef.  It’s maybe a cliché, but since I was a young kid I have liked very much to assist my grandmother in her kitchen. A young chef was in the making…

Do people in Aruba have a love for food?

Like Papiamento (our native language), the cuisine of Aruba is representative of diverse cultures. Locals for sure have a love for food. They like a real Aruban BBQ, preparing an Indonesian meal, or to eat the fresh catch served at several eateries. One of the challenges in healthy eating is that we are a little island, and we need to purchase a lot of fresh products abroad. But actually, the good thing about the high prices is that more and more locals are going back to their roots and growing or purchasing locally sourced products like cucumbers, pumpkins, peanuts.

How does Aruba inspire you in the kitchen?

The mix of cultures reflects back in the dishes. The zest and tangy flavours from Spain, Portugal and Latin America. The Dutch brought the exotica from Indonesia, as well as their hearty robust cooking. This cultural melting pot brings enough inspiration for me to create new dishes that combine the styles.

Does Aruba have any amazing superfoods?

Yes it does. Of course, there are quite a few ingredients that Arubans grown locally and which have great nutritional properties. The main ones are “concomber di mondi” (cucumis anguria), calbas largo (similar to zucchini) , bonchi largo (long green beans), peanuts, cashew fruit, among others.

more and more locals are going back to their roots and growing or purchasing locally sourced products

Any current foodie trends?

Currently vegan, gluten free and organic eating are the main foodie trends.

Can you eat well in Aruba?

Absolutely, Aruba locals and visitors are more and more aware of the impact their food choices have on the health and well-being of their bodies and the planet. Recently more restaurants are adding vegan options to their menu, which are not only fully plant-based, but also healthy and minimally processed. Our restaurant was one of the first to offer a Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten Free menu.

Does that mean sacrificing flavour?

No! I think there are enough alternatives using other ingredients to make a delicious “healthy dish”. If you focus on healthy cuisine you discover so many possibilities. The sky is the limit.

What are your plans for your menu at Elements?

Eating well and avoiding food waste! Guests often remarked in the past that our food portions were too large which generated significant food waste. Therefore, we introduced perfectly sized healthy portions with nutritious protein servings completed wholesome carbohydrates and fresh vegetables. Elements’ dining experience is now an extension of the resort’s commitment to a sense of total wellness for our guests and on reducing waste.

Do you have any favourite dishes you like to cook?

Recently I created an excellent lionfish ceviche. Lionfish are beautiful, elegant, vibrant, graceful and unique ….. but the lionfish which is native to the South Pacific are an invasive threat to the reefs of Aruba. Lionfish have no natural predators and have multiplied formidably. But once stripped of its venomous spines, cleaned, and filleted like any other fish, the lionfish becomes delectable seafood fare and rich in Omega 3.

If you focus on healthy cuisine you discover so many possibilities. The sky is the limit.

Any other must-try dishes in Aruba?

Most foodies are interested in visiting local restaurants where they can appreciate the authentic Aruban flavors. Elements restaurant at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is located on one of the “dream beaches” of the world. We have fresh ingredients including sustainable fish and seafood, organic harvest and locally grown produce. Also we have the largest Gluten Free & Vegan menu dishes on Aruba. And of course don’t miss my lion fish ceviche!

What is your favourite part about living and cooking in Aruba?

Living in the tropics all year round, what else could you wish for…..

When you’re not cooking, what do you like to do in Aruba to relax?

Family time. I like to spend time with my lovely wife and son, go for a swim, a nice BBQ or go out for dinner – like me, my son likes good food.

Don’t miss Marc’s sustainable and delicious Lionfish ceviche on your next trip to Aruba…

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Have you ever dreamed of making a life-changing move to give up city life and live on a beautiful beach somewhere? Us too.

But it takes courage to jump onto a plane and into a new life. That’s why we’re catching up with the people who have already taken the plunge to make a life-altering change, to sunshine-filled Aruba – a place strewn with to-die-for beaches and azure seas that we all dream of spending out our days on.

First in our Aruba ‘Interviews to Inspire’ is yoga instructor Corinne Voermans. In 2013, she left her full on fitness-guru life in the Netherlands to start a makeshift yoga studio on Aruba’s gorgeous Palm Beach. When there wasn’t even a yoga scene in Aruba yet. But more than her spirituality and yogi lifestyle, at the heart of it, like in any big change, it’s Corinne’s courage and open mind that keep her life in Aruba flourishing. Read on to hear her story:

Why Aruba?

Aruba does something to you (in a positive sense)! In 2002 my husband and I decided to take an 8-month sabbatical and spend this time on Aruba with our 14-month-old daughter. After 8 months I felt more balanced, mentally, physically and spiritually…and I was crying in the airplane not wanting to go back to my hectic life in Holland. It took 4 more years and several holidays to Aruba to finally come to the decision to permanently settle down here. In 2006 we emigrated from Holland to Aruba. Personally, Aruba gives me a feeling of ‘freedom’ and ‘peace’ which I no longer experienced in my homeland.

Did you find it hard to make the move?

The first 3 months of our stay I had trouble adjusting to the island life because I felt there was little more to do then go to the beach. In the Netherlands I was always on the go, driving from one health club to another to teach classes (Aerobics, Step Reebok, Bootcamps, Yoga & Pilates) so after a while I offered to teach classes for some of the major resorts. This made a huge change because I felt that I could be productive and also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere when not working.

What makes Aruba a unique place in your eyes?

The tranquillity I experience here is beyond words. From my desk I see and hear the birds, feel the wind and my dogs (I have 4) can run around free. Every day I am grateful that I can work from my home, meet the locals and visitors from around the globe who sign up for yoga classes…. and if I want to go to the beach, it’s only a 10 min walk.

Aruba gives me a feeling of ‘freedom’ and ‘peace’ which I no longer experienced in my homeland.

What is the wellness scene like in Aruba?

The wellness scene has exploded over the last 12 years. In 2006 there were only a very few places where you could work on mental, physical & spiritual wellbeing, but now in 2018 it’s a booming business. Happy Buddha Aruba holds events and workshops, like our Vegan Nights, where we introduce people to yoga and the benefits of a plant-based diet by supplying vegan food samples and recipes. We make an effort to build a more conscious community based on the yoga principles.

How did it feel to open your own yoga studio?

When my husband (now ex-husband) and I got divorced and sold our business in Aruba people asked me what I was going to do. Someone suggested that I start teaching from my house which at first didn’t appeal to me. After many requests I decided to take a chance. In 2012 I opened the doors to Happy Buddha Aruba and decided to devote my life to teaching meditation and yoga. I also included the Bikram Yoga (Hot Yoga) sequence. Since this was not taught on Aruba I took a chance to introduce it. Hot Yoga in an already hot climate … To my surprise, a lot of people were curious to partake and most of them also fell in love with it. I am proud that we can offer such a diverse class schedule.

What is the best thing about living in Aruba?

Working from my home makes it so much easier to be a mom. My daughter is now 17 years old, lives with me, and I am always available for her. Very different from how I was raised with two parents who came home at 7 PM in the evening. The quality time that I get to spend with my daughter is priceless.

Is Aruba a healing place?

Aruba is a wonderful destination for wellness retreats. For those who just want to destress…daily yoga and meditation classes, swimming in our turquoise sea, sunbathing on our white beaches, doing some SUP yoga or snorkeling, taking a Sun Set Sail cruise, riding a horse or taking a tour around the island will do the trick, ?

The island is breathtaking and makes you feel like you are the victor of one self.

Do you have a favourite meditation spot on the island?

My favourite meditation spot is the top of the Hooiberg. It requires a physical effort of 565 steps up but the panoramic view of the island is breathtaking and makes you feel like you are the victor of one self.

Any tips for a holistic experience in Aruba?

Just come and experience the Bon Bini feeling yourself. Don’t just sit with a cocktail on the beach, take a walk or rent a bike….Get out there. Visit our National Park Arikok, go into the caves, rent a paddle board into the Spanish Lagoon, take a mountain bike tour! Continue to exercise while on holiday and feel good about yourself. The sun is here 365 days and it only takes 30-60 min daily to get a tan….so do something…Explore, Experience, Evolve!

Any favourite places to grab a bite?

We have, more and more restaurants including Vegetarian and Vegan options. But we also have specialised ones now like: Garden Fresch in front of Playa Linda, Eduardo’s Shack a short beach walk behind Playa Linda, Al Fresco in Bushiri and Green Food Service in Orange Plaza.

do something…Explore, Experience, Evolve!

Any advice for people looking to inspire a change in their own lives?

Come to Aruba, meet me and my teachers in the studio. We’re here to guide you on a mental, physical and spiritual level. This review I received yesterday says it all: “My solo trip to Aruba has been an unforgettable experience. I couldn’t think of a better way to begin my 30s than to tackle some difficulties I’ve held on to and have let hold me back. Only good can come from working on yourself”.

Do you think you’ll always live in Aruba?

Aruba will continue to be my home base…I still get goosebumps when I am on the airplane and see my island. So YES, for the years to come I’ll continue to live on Aruba until an offer is made which I can’t refuse. Time will tell… For now I feel my work is not done here yet.

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Short-Haul: Comporta, Portugal

The secret may slowly be getting out about Comporta – the effortlessly chic seaside town just an hour south of Lisbon – but for now it still retains its quiet charms. Perched on the Atlantic coast, head here for a weekend of tranquillity and simplicity: think blue skies, golden beaches and a glass or two of excellent Portuguese wine.

How to get there: Flights from London to Lisbon are just under three hours. Comporta is a 70-minute drive from Lisbon airport.

Where to stay: The impeccable Casas na Areia started life as a weekend house but has ended up as a unique small hotel. Fully embracing its beachfront location, soft sand replaces traditional floors, juxtaposing beautifully with fresh, sleek interiors.

Mid-Haul: Essaouira, Morocco

Slip out of the hectic hubbub of Marrakech and make a beeline for laid-back Essaouira. This historic port city is well-loved by surfers and backpackers, but a new set of travellers are discovering its atmospheric charms. Along with rich cultural offerings, Essaouira is the perfect active beach escape, as strong winds whip up waves for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing along the city’s wide crescent beach.

How to get there: Fly directly from London Luton to Essaouira (approximately three hours).

Where to stay: Soak up those ocean views with a stay at Madada Mogador. Set in an enviable location poised between the ancient medina and the beach (make sure to nab a room with a private ocean-facing terrace), the hotel also offers yoga classes for a truly blissed out stay.

Long-Haul: Cape Town, South Africa

Fancy being a multitasking maestro this Bank Holiday? Savvy sleepers can pack in a 6,000 mile trip with an overnight flight to Cape Town. With only a minor time-zone change (GMT+2), hit the ground running with a hike up Table Mountain to get the lay of the land. Back down in the city, set off to find your own slice of paradise along the rugged coastline; where mountains, sand and sea make for dramatic vistas around every corner – more than justifying that 12-hour flight.

How to get there: Flights from London to Cape Town are just under 12 hours.

Where to stay: Prepare for some seriously eye-widening views upon checking into Cape View Clifton. This intimate hotel has just seven bedrooms and suites, making it feel like you’re stepping into a friend’s (unbelievably) alluring home.

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My Paris, by Luke Ross

A city with beauty that never fails to amaze us. This may not be a beach escape, but Paris will always hold a special place in our hearts. Fashion Editor Luke Ross gives us his tour of the French capital as he captures it on his much-loved, and very well-travelled, camera.

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The location

Perched on the edge of the unspoilt village of St. Mawes, Hotel Tresanton offers luxury coastal living in the heart of Cornwall.

The hotel experience

If you’re escaping to this coastal retreat, you’ll probably want the coastal experience every waking moment. Luckily, almost every one of the 30 rooms has dreamy sea views – and many with private terraces as well. But what about the inside of the hotel, you say? Think crisp linens, designer prints, lush bathrooms, Cornish artwork and touches of antique decor. It has all the luxurious touches of a boutique hotel with enough homeliness to induce some serious bedroom envy.

And what’s more, you can settle into the laidback luxe of this Cornish bolthole with no need to leave until you’re packing your bags. There are indulgent spa treatments to be had, crystal clear waters to swim, paddleboard or kayak in, and a gorgeous restaurant with fresh seafood and fine wines.

What’s wow

Make your Cornish adventures truly memorable by booking an excursion on Tresanton’s magnificent 8-metre classic yacht. It’s the perfect way to spend a day or evening, with a picnic prepared by the restaurant, complete with champagne. For those wanting to instil some of the inner calm that this corner of the world promotes, Tresanton also offers some pretty special yoga retreats.

Throw in some sunshine (fingers crossed) and you’ll barely believe this beach escape is in Britain.

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Abel Tasman National Park 

New Zealand’s most visited national park at the northern tip of the South Island and just a stone’s throw from renowned sun trap town of Nelson, Abel Tasman – the nation’s smallest national park – is a mere 22,000 hectares of thriving green backdrop, honey comb caves and golden coves of sun-tinged sands. With cars banned, Abel Tasman’s beaches require a smidge of effort on your part, but the rewards are plentiful. Hike or rent a kayak for a few days, stopping off at the endless unoccupied bays along the way. Make sure you schedule in some time to soothe aching muscles on little crescent of Te Pukatea Bay. Accessible by water or a 30-minute walk that deviates off the popular Abel Tasman trail, it’s all about the undisturbed sands and stretching views.

WHEN: Dec-Feb

Hot Water Beach – The Coromandel 

Situated in the North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula, 175 kilometres from Auckland Hot Water beach is as unique as it is appropriately named. Two hours either side of low tide, it’s time to get your spade out and start digging – beneath the sand streams of hot water run into the Pacific Ocean. A few minutes of digging and you will have hollowed out your own thermal spa pool – relax back in the mineral goodness as the steam envelopes you. Nature’s very own spa experience.

WHEN: Dec-Feb

Cape Reinga 

If it’s exhilarating views and blustery walks you’re after then it’s time to head north – essentially, as far as your overly-keen feet will take you. Situated at the most north western tip of New Zealand, Cape Reinga is the final stop along the renowned ‘90 Mile Beach’ – though to be factually thorough, it is actually a less-catchy 55 miles. A significant distance from the nearest, well, anything really, but with views that will make you stand rooted to the spot, recurrently gasping at the beauty of it all, Reinga is a destination that makes the mammoth journey feel like an effortless stroll to the corner shop. Skip along the beach amongst the undulating sand dunes or up the hill to the light house for expansive panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea before a luxurious overnight stay at the incredible Eagles Nest in Russell..

WHEN: All year round amazing views but Dec-Feb for a less blustery experience!

Onetangi Bay, Waiheke Island 

The first rule of travel – observe the locals and then, like a stalker in shorts, stick to them day and night until they file a restraining order. In this case, that notion should land you on the delightful sand stretch of Onetangi Bay. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from central Auckland it’s where the stressed-out city set goes to unwind and the Waiheke Islanders proudly bask in the beauty on their doorstep. After a day of sun worshipping on its sleepy golden sands work up an appetite with a brisk walk along the shore before sampling some some of the phenomenal vineyards that Waiheke island has to offer. Lay your head at the exquisite The Boatshed .

WHEN: Nov-Feb

Kaikoura, South Island 

Beyond the rugged seal-guarded shores of eastern Kaikoura, dusky dolphins and sperm whales cut through the icy waters. And we highly recommend that you join them. Head out on an early morning boat trip, take the plunge and come face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most amazing mammals (though you might be more comfortable watching the sperm whales from a distance). If you’re not so keen on a close encounter, simply enjoy this quaint coastal town with the snow-capped Mount Fytte in the distance, dining on local crayfish and putting your pallet through its paces at the Kaikoura winery.

WHEN: Dec-March

Mount Maunganui Beach, Bay of Plenty, North Island 

Located in the North Island’s renowned Bay of Plenty, Mount Maunganui, is known to be one of the top surf spots in New Zealand; pros flock for some of the best breaks around and the recent addition of an artificial coral reef has only upped the wave quality. Beyond the gnarly swell, the wide stretch of golden sand not only boasts never ending views – the perfect panorama to get lost in.

WHEN: Dec-Feb

Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay 

If it’s undisturbed stress-dissolving beach time you’re after, head an hour north of New Zealand’s famous Bay of Plenty and away from the crowds to the peaceful, unspoilt Cooper’s beach nestled along the shore of Doubtless Bay. Its warm sub-tropical climate and ultra-secluded feel make it the perfect spot to focus on absolutely nothing. Two-and-a-half kilometres of peace and quiet fringed with Pohutukawa (New Zealand’s answer to the Christmas tree), ideal for a spot of afternoon shade and a good book.

WHEN: Dec-March

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