It’s no secret: sunlight plays a major role in shaping our mood. As much as we love a good hyggelig evening, winter can bring out the worst in us. Like plants, we tend to thrive best with fresh air and plenty of sunlight. Lately, we’ve been romanticizing about far-flung islands with sunny beaches, and wishfully perusing new vacation attire and resortwear to pull us out of a cold-weathered coma.
Seasonally speaking, humans and plants have a lot in common. Sunlight is essential in regulating our body’s biological clock and in the production of melatonin. According to multiple studies, when our body’s normal light and dark cycles are off (due to seasons or exposure to artificial light), it affects everything from our metabolism to our immune system, and even the brain chemicals that contribute to weight, energy, and more prominently — our mood. Moderate sun exposure enables the production of vitamin D in our skin, which in turn activates the genes that release dopamine and serotonin. When our levels of serotonin increase, so do our feelings of satisfaction and contentment. As if you needed a reason to swap snow for sunshine — it’s actually good for you!
Here is a list of offbeat warm-weathered destinations from the archives of our escape list, along with some essential pieces from Largo Drive to wear at each. Whether you’re looking for a week in sandy seclusion, a close encounter with wildlife or an all around wellness retreat, these destinations promise exorbitant amounts of Vitamin D to last you through the season. After all, the best way to combat the winter blues — is to escape them. Doctor’s orders!
Île aux Nattes, Madagascar
This little slice of white sand paradise, locally referred to as Nosy Nato, is a small island off the east coast of Madagascar that is quickly gaining popularity – it’s easy to discern why. The closest neighboring island, Île Sainte Marie, is just a short boat ride away (or a walk at low tide) across warm, turquoise waters. Still, there is a sense of seclusion on Île aux Nattes with few sounds other than the waves breaking the shore. Since you’ll be spending most of your time either in the water or on the beach, pack plenty of bathing suits along with lightweight fabrics for layering.
Frankie's Bikinis
Frankie's Bikinis
Frankie's Bikinis
Spell & The Gypsy Collective
Spell & The Gypsy Collective
Spell & The Gypsy Collective
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
If you’re looking for an all inclusive yet off the grid destination, Song Saa Private Island is your paradise. Opulence and wellness combine at Song Saa, a two-island resort in the Koh Rong Archipelago of Cambodia. Guests have the option to practice daily morning yoga, book spa treatments, rent kayaks, paddle boards and snorkels, take a nightly dip in bioluminescent waters, or plan an unforgettable picnic on a secluded white sand beach. Athleisure and beach cover-ups are both essential here — pack options depending on your preference of activities.
Solid & Striped
Solid & Striped
Solid & Striped
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a teardrop shaped island in the Indian Ocean, just south of India. Until the country’s civil war ended in 2009, the island had kept a low profile due to tourist restrictions. Today, Sri Lanka is extremely safe and is known for its beautiful temples, lush jungle terrain and wildlife encounters. (It’s also one of our favorite destinations.) The Yala National Park, covering the southeast region of the island, is a must for those seeking an unconventional safari-style vacation. Leopards, elephants and crocodiles are a few of the animals commonly spotted in Yala’s forests, grassland and lagoons. *Close-toed shoes are highly recommended.
One Teaspoon
One Teaspoon
One Teaspoon
Solid & Striped X Swim Team
Solid & Striped X Swim Team
Solid & Striped X Swim Team
Isla Holbox, Mexico
If Tulum had a little sibling, it would be Isla Holbox. Though geographically distant (Isla Holbox is on the north end of the Yucatán, Tulum is on the east) — the two have one thing in common: incredible access to beaches. Isla Holbox is a car-free destination, separated from the mainland by the Yalahau Lagoon, which is home to flamingos, sea turtles, and whale sharks. Don’t be afraid to pack plenty of colors here – the more the better.
Spell & The Gypsy Collective
Spell & The Gypsy Collective
Spell & The Gypsy Collective
Jen's Pirate Booty
Jen's Pirate Booty
Jen's Pirate Booty
Santa Catalina Island, California
Santa Catalina is technically only 20 miles away from the chaos of Los Angeles, but trust us — it feels worlds away. One of Southern California’s Channel Islands, Santa Catalina is an often overlooked vacation destination, even for many Angelinos. All of the Channel Islands, including Santa Catalina, are known for their wildlife and rocky coastlines. Outfit attire? California cool, of course.
Faithfull the Brand
Faithfull the Brand
Faithfull the Brand
Visit Largo Drive online or follow @largodrive on Instagram for more vacation attire inspiration.
