TripAdvisor Marvels Over Top 10 Mediterranean Islands

LONDON, August 12 /PRNewswire/ --

- Party Islands Top Places for Pleasure This August

TripAdvisor(R), the world's largest travel community, today announced the
top 10 islands in the Mediterranean for August according to traveller
popularity and TripAdvisor editors. This is the definitive list of what's hot
for this month.

1. Cyprus, Republic of Cyprus

Visit Aphrodite's birthplace in the eastern Mediterranean by heading to
Cyprus, steeped in history and bustling with energy. No longer the package
holiday location, the level of sophistication in hotels and restaurants has
increased dramatically in recent years. Beaches are the draw for many
visitors to the island, but so is the nocturnal activity, with Ayia Napa 
being the town to party in for people of all ages. According to one 
TripAdvisor traveller, "We would have to say the Troodos Mountains were 
our highlight. You will know what we mean if you take the journey. 
Breathtaking!"

2. Corfu, Ionian Islands, Greece

Corfu features a lush green landscape and serene, white beaches. Visit
one of the Venetian fortresses, or relax under an olive tree, before enjoying
the vibrant nightlife the island offers. According to one TripAdvisor
traveller, "Nightlife in Corfu should just be called morning life."

3. Crete, Greece

As the former centre of the Minoan civilization, it's no wonder that
Crete features a plethora of historical attractions including Knossos and
Phaistos. Those in search of adventure on the largest Greek island can hike
down Samaria Gorge for spectacular scenery. As one TripAdvisor traveller
said, "Crete is an amazing place to explore ancient culture. From the ancient
ruins at Knossos to the 'off the beaten track' historical sites at Olous
(Elounda) and Kritsa."

4. Santorini, Cyclades, Greece

In the south of the Aegean Sea, Santorini features dramatic cliffs
overlooking a stunning caldera. Watch the breathtaking sunset in Fira, then
head to the bars and nightclubs for an all-night extravaganza - emerging in
time to view the sunrise. One TripAdvisor traveller said, "We visited
the town of Fira, which is perched on the edge of a 260 metre cliff and
offers a fantastic panorama of the volcano as well as the sunsets."

5. Mykonos, Cyclades, Greece

Perhaps best known for its nightlife, Mykonos attracts famous DJs (and
partygoers) to its plentiful bars and clubs on the island. Rejuvenate the
next morning by strolling through the town of Mykonos and dining at a local
taverna. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, "Apart from the beaches,
Mykonos is a place to dance all night long, then as soon I got out of bed, it
was time again for nude sunbathing."

6. Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain

Visit the party Mecca of Ibiza and feel honored by joining the thousands
of revelers at Privilege, the largest club in the world. Besides the vast
nightlife, check out one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as God's
Finger, a large rock at the entrance of Benirras Bay. As one TripAdvisor
traveller said, "After last year's amazing time in Ibiza I returned for
another year of amazing music, happy people, amazing weather, beautiful
beaches, mental nightlife and all the rest."

7. Sicily, Italy

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily has the three Cs -
culture, cuisine and calm. Laden with orange and lemon orchards, the
countryside of Sicily boasts spectacular natural beauty - great for relaxing.
One TripAdvisor traveller recommended, "If you are in Sicily, go on the
sunset tour of Mount Etna. You are brought up in 4x4s and can see the
steaming ground and smell the sulfur."

8. Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

The largest island in Spain and part of the Balearic Islands, Majorca
features mountainous terrain and beautiful beaches - the perfect escape for a
holiday. Have a drink at the Abaco Bar housed in an old Majorcan manor house
with a baroque-esque interior. As one TripAdvisor traveller put it, "Visit
the Abaco bar - it's hidden behind giant wooden church-like doors, but inside
it's a theatrical experience not to be missed!"

9. Capri, Campania, Italy

Off the coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is an island of magical
scenery. Take a boat through the not-to-be-missed Blue Grotto, a beautiful
sea cave, apparently once used by Roman emperors as a personal bath.
According to one TripAdvisor traveller, "The calm sea makes it easy to get
into the grotto through the cliff wall, and the sun shining gives the water 
the most beautiful blue colour."

10. Malta, Republic of Malta

Steeped in culture and history, Malta also features beautiful beaches and
secluded coves, making the island feel like paradise. Stroll along Dingli
Cliffs, watching the sunset at the highest area in Malta or visit the
impressive Hypogeum temple featuring the sleeping Venus of Malta at the
entrance. As one TripAdvisor traveller said about Malta, "It has all the
Mediterranean inducements: amazingly clear, blue, warm waters, blue skies,
sidewalk cafes, good food and wine and charming villages."

"All of these islands offer pristine beaches and their own unique
features," said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for
TripAdvisor. "Our travellers have identified the hot islands in the Med this
summer, especially if you want sun, sea and dancing all night."

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*Source: comScore Media Metrix, May 2008

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