Private Islands Magazine» Luxury Island Travel

Double Life in Far North Queensland

Private Islands Magazine — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 19:57:06 +0000

As I woke the first morning on Double Island, with the insistent rays of the Far North Queensland sun streaming through the bedroom’s long, linen drapes, I had an intriguing realization – I didn’t actually know what this island looked like. It had been dark – with a humid tropical heat that came as a blissful contrast to Sydney’s winter chill – when our plane landed outside of Cairns, and the island was as pitch black as the surrounding seas upon our arrival by boat later that night. Never having seen a picture, I lay in bed and tried to imagine what was waiting for me outside.

Curiosity quickly got the better of me – throwing on a terrycloth robe, I eagerly opened the sliding glass doors. I was immediately overwhelmed by the warmth of the early morning light, glistening as it refracted off the placid waters surrounding the island. Unnoticed last night was a private plunge pool on my bungalow’s patio, adorned with a small stone frog fountain. Gardens surrounded the petite, Modernist house, leading into vibrant flowers bordering a small stone pathway. I felt drawn to follow it wherever it led, like Alice searching for her white rabbit – although in my case, it was a wallaby.

On the Australian continent for the first time, and having spent my days here in the heart of cosmopolitan Sydney, I felt compelled to add some of its iconic wildlife to my mental portraits of the visit – you know, the real Australia. Having only seen kangaroos during childhood zoo visits, I was excited when Sean Howard, the island’s entrepreneur owner, told me that the previous owner had imported wallabies – small marsupials that were close enough to a kangaroo for me – and that they still grazed in healthy numbers throughout the island’s interior.

After a relaxing breakfast in Double’s airy, cool restaurant – often used for conferences and weddings, the island has many large-scale amenities – Sean and his colleague, John, took me for a tour along the island’s pathways in one of its cheerful white golf carts. It seemed immense – lined with perfect sandy beaches, and steeply elevated, rising to a mountainous peak in the centre. Two peaks, actually – it’s called Double for a reason, after all. I kept glancing into the forests as we drove around the island’s perimeter, but despite hearing rustling in the trees, no luck.

We spent a lazy afternoon lying in the sun around the island’s pool – I’d never felt anything as fierce as the Australian sun, beating down like a hypnotic massage, making the slightest movement seem like an impossibility. Flocks of tropical birds played in the towering palms above us – long tails fluttering as they raced from tree to tree, diving and swooping in some obscure avian game of tag.

Later that day, as the sun subsided, John and I tore around the island in one of its small silver dinghies. We sped around Haycock Island, a tiny, uninhabited mountain just off of Double’s coast, avoiding the long stretches of sandy flats in between – at low tide, a sweeping bar of sand almost connects the two isles – and made our way to the remote portions where nature lay undisturbed.

As we cut through the waves, he told me fascinating bits of the island’s history with early European explorers – Captain James Cook passed by Double as early as 1770, and the island was named by another famed South Pacific voyager in the mid-19th century. Suddenly, John pointed out one high, rocky cliff, and I looked up, squinting against the sun, where the craggy branches of a lone tree were painted in relief against the brilliant sky. “It’s home to a family of eagles,” he said – and at that moment, we saw her alight from the nest – the mother flying off to find the next meal for her brood.

The sun had made me drowsy, and after dinner, I wandered back through the path to try to find my bungalow – the island is dotted with them, all beautiful and tastefully appointed – and was surprised to easily recall the voluptuous crimson flowers that greeted my particular entrance. Once again feeling the cool bed sheets against my skin, I was out for hours, a heavy sleep that passed without a dream – this Capricorn sun is like a drug for the uninitiated, and certainly for a Canadian girl like me.

When I woke, it was black as tar outside, the exterior light reaching out only a few feet into the night. Deciding to find out what the others were doing, I slipped on my heels and began down the path – and promptly ran back inside. The bushes around the porch were crashing with noises – branches slapping together, loud ferns rustling, crackling twigs in the dry underbrush – it was an absolute cacophony. I peered out into the dark from the safety of my porch, heart pounding. What on earth could it be?

The next morning, as we prepared to leave to visit Sean’s nearby Kewarra Beach Resort, an elegant mix of guest houses, restaurants and residences found just across on the mainland, I mentioned the strange noises I had heard the night before – of course, leaving out the part where I stood frozen as a statue, unable to brave the walk down the pathway. When he told me what it had been, I had to laugh – I’d been held hostage by a mob of exactly what I’d been longing to find. In the end, I may not have seen a wallaby on Double – but they, no doubt, must have seen me.

www.doubleisland.com.au

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The Mysterious Paradise of Palawan

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:52:17 +0000

Certain particularly beautiful tropical islands brighten the desktops of thousands of computers around the world –extraordinary rocky shapes jutting out of the sea, adorned with sparkling beaches and covered in rich green jungle. These islands are exotic, compelling and like nothing else on earth. But as the staff at Private Islands Inc. can attest, the question on hundreds of people’s minds is - where on earth are they?

The mystery is hereby solved – these stunning castaway isles are found in the Palawan province of the Philippines, one of the world’s most beautifully preserved Edens. A naturally rich region with abundant forests and fishing, there’s little wonder that early Spanish explorers referred to Palawan as the ‘Land of Promise’. Located to the west of the country’s main island of Luzon, the isles of Palawan Province snake between the South China Sea to the northeast, and the Sulu Sea to the southeast, closing in on Malaysia at its southernmost point. Relatively unpopulated, the province is home to less than 800,000 residents, more than a quarter of whom inhabit the capital and primary urban center, Puerto Princessa City.

When you land for your Palawan adventure, odd are it will be just to the south of Puerto Princessa, at the region’s main airport. Found roughly in the centre of the large main island, from here a number of boat services and small charter flights can take you north, to the tourism destinations of El Nido, Busuanga and Pamalican, or south, to the remote isle of Balabac at the province’s tip.

Those who decide on the northern path will find one of the most striking sceneries at the tip of the main island, a six-hour bus ride or few hour’s flight from the capital; famed El Nido and its eerie rock formations. Relatively unexplored until almost 1980, the now-renowned area was serendipitously discovered by a few lucky stranded divers. Forced to moor in one of its bays after become lost during the night, the dive team awoke in the morning to a surreal view of primeval, strangely-formed islets rising in clusters from the sea. El Nido offers a range of rustic, eco-friendly resorts fit for adventurous divers, and more recently, has developed some truly luxurious boutique hotels.

Off the coast of the main island, there are also some amazing spots; reachable by boat from El Nido, Linapacan Island is home to old Spanish ruins and unexplored jungle, and has recently become popular as a haven for backpackers and other visitors who long for something off the beaten path. Past Linapacan, the tourist-friendly islands of Culion, Busuanga and Coron offer a bit more civilization, with small towns, shopping, and restaurants. Coron in particular is known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and spectacular diving amidst the numerous Japanese shipwrecks that scatter the neighbouring sea floor.

But one of Palawan’s most beautiful secrets is Amanpulo Resort on Pamalican Island, found in the secluded Cuyo group lying out into the brilliant blue Sulu Sea. Once a failing coconut and pineapple plantation, the island was purchased in the early 1990’s by the Aman Group of Resorts, and turned into arguably the most luxurious speck of land in Palawan. Guests are flown in straight from Manilla by the resort’s own plane, and enjoy total privacy in one of the exclusive casitas that dot the island’s jungle and beachside. With elegant restaurants, clubhouses and spas, Amanpulo is a perfect blend of nature and sophistication.

Pamalican may be isolated, but the most southern route is only for the truly adventurous. No commercial flights service Balabac Island at Palawan’s bottom edge, and there are no airports, meaning those without access to a floatplane must take a leisurely 4-day boat journey from Puerta Princessa – that is, 4 days in good weather. But when you arrive at this far-flung island, the trip will have been more than worth it. The ecologically-rich island is truly a piece of the earth’s past, with no cities or major roadways, and just 20,000 scattered inhabitants.

Looking south across the misty Balabac Strait, the coast of famously remote Borneo is visible less than 60 miles away. This island is a reminder of the true allure of Palawan; it’s not the elegant resorts and pretty beaches that make the province so unique and compelling, but the raw, mysterious nature found in so few other places on earth.

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Sri Lanka’s Exotic Island Paradise

Private Islands Magazine — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:44:56 +0000

At the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka’s coast sits a small, lush island, with a luxurious mansion offering the ultimate in gracious colonial living. Discover the unique history of this pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Rarely has a country had such an evocative series of names as the beautiful nation now called Sri Lanka, or “sacred island”. Inspired by the verdant forests and perfect beaches, it was known as “Tenerism” in Arabic, meaning “isle of delight”, and the heroic nature of the country’s early warriors led neighbouring India to refer to it as the “place of lions”, a term from which the British Colonial name of Ceylon was derived. After a fortuitous discovery, the Persians called it “Serendib”, giving rise to the concept of serendipity. But it was ancient Greek geographers who gave the island the name of “Taprobane”- or “copper-colored”, after the bronze-hued beaches on which early mariners first landed- and a worldwide reputation as a hidden paradise.

Few could resist the descriptions in ancient Greek texts of the island as a place of perfect beauty and societal peace, where the citizens lived in harmony and industry amid tropical gardens and idyllic seas. But the exact location of “Taprobane” became obscured through key mapping errors, prompting thousands of quixotic adventurers to chase the dream of this fabled land. Much like the mythical city of Atlantis, its whereabouts were fiercely debated for centuries, with Sumatra, Madagascar and even the Maldives raised as contenders. When it was finally settled that the long-sought Taprobane was indeed the gorgeous isle to India’s south, it’s difficult to believe that any true paradise-seekers were disappointed.

A similar hunt for an earthly Eden inspired the creation of Taprobane Island, one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned luxury destinations. The horrors of the Great War had spawned an escapist, utopian mindset in many of Europe’s young elite, including Maurice de Mauny-Talvande, a descendant of a Napoleonic general and self-styled French aristocrat. In the 1920’s, the “Count” left behind London’s polite society for more exotic realms, to find what he described as “the one spot which, by its sublime beauty, would fulfill my dreams and hold me there for life.” During a Sri Lankan trip with the heir to the Lipton Tea empire, he waded to sit and gaze at the sea from the little island’s hilltop, and looked no further. And this must indeed have been the sublime spot he had dreamed of, since he stayed on the island until his death 30 years later, perfecting the mansion, hosting grand parties, and penning a well-received book about his island gardens.

Set along the country’s famous South Coast, just 30 minutes from the provincial capital of Galle, the small, thickly forested island perches 100 metres from the soft mainland beaches, so close that guests may choose to wade through the warm knee-high tide, or ride elephant-back to the island’s cliff-side dock. Facing out onto the turquoise Indian Ocean and with the lush South Coast jungles at its back, the island’s octagonal, 5-bedroom stone mansion has spectacular views in every direction- the sea views are particularly romantic, since not a single speck of land can be found between Taprobane and the Antarctic. Combining European colonial architecture with the languid, open style found in the tropics, the home has played host to heads of state, famous authors, and some of the world’s most prominent business elite.

Taprobane Island has an undeniable air of the exotic, from its unusual origins to the stunning, remote location. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, rates start in the off-season at US $7000 per week for the exclusive island rental.

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For more information or to book your stay, please see: http://www.privateislandsonline.com/taprobane-island.htm Similar Articles:

Exclusive Cruise Line Ports of Call

Private Islands Magazine — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:24:43 +0000

Some of the world’s biggest cruise lines are now snapping up private islands for their guests to enjoy, putting this exclusive experience within reach of almost anyone. While sharing a private island with a few thousand other guests may not seem quite so “private” after all, cruise line islands often do have the advantage of many fun amenities and adventures not found on your ordinary island destinations. And unlike with many island resorts you won’t just find luxury spas and fine dining, because the private ports of call of the top cruise line companies usually offer a uniquely child-friendly experience packed with activities for the whole family. As any parent who’s searched for a private island vacation will understand, the chance to experience an island catering to the little ones might be worth the cruise itself.

The Bahamas undoubtedly reigns supreme in terms of the number and variety of cruise line islands, with Disney, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Lines all having staked a claim on one of this Caribbean country’s beautiful cays. These purchases may have helped create a boom in Bahamas private island prices, and have definitely created thousands of new devotees to the charms of the private isle. Kayaking, volleyball, snorkelling and plenty of cocktails are all expected island fare, and you’ll often also find horseback riding and basic spas. Holland America’s Half Moon Cay has a full waterpark with slides and wave pools, and groups can rent their own Private Oasis with a personal swimming area and hot tub. Disney Cruise’s Castaway Cay is famed for its kid-friendly activities, but also has a secluded “adult only” beach and bar.

Cruise line islands are rarer finds outside of the Caribbean, but one gorgeous South Pacific “motu” does offer cruisers a chance to play castaway on a private isle. Inside one of the Society Island’s most stunning lagoons, Regent Seven Seas Cruises has created an authentic Polynesian experience for its guests to enjoy on Motu Mahana. A floating bar, thatched massage huts and adding a taste of true Polynesian flair, you’ll fall in love with “Les Gauguines”, young local hostesses who offer language, dancing and art lessons. Also in the South Pacific, the small and eco-friendly Captain Cook Cruises offers what may be the closest thing to a true private island escape. Their week-long Fijian tours can stop at five or more secluded islands, plus a variety of small towns and points of interest. A more intimate experience than most cruises, it’s a chance to get to know your fellow travellers and have a deeper look at local cultures.

A fantastic way to experience a day or two on a private island without a big price tag, private cruise line islands are growing in popularity and becoming a major attraction for holidayers. For more information on any of the cruise line islands mentioned here, please visit:

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Captain Cook Cruises
www.captaincook.com.au
+67 94 59 7441

Disney Cruises
www.disneycruise.com
1-800-951-3532

Holland America Line
www.hollandamerica.com
1-877-724-5425

Regent Seven Seas Cruises
www.rssc.com
1-877-505-5370

Norwegian Cruise Line
www.ncl.com
1-866-234-0292
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World’s Most Extravagant Island Rentals - Top Five

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 23:32:28 +0000

5. Caye Chapel, Belize

Caye Chapel is a sprawling island resort in the Caribbean Sea, lying in seclusion miles from the Belizean coast. At an incredible 265 acres, this unique destination is one of the largest islands available for exclusive rental in the entire Caribbean, and also has the distinction of being the only private island resort to come complete with an perfectly maintained 18-hole championship golf course. Available for your sole pleasure for just under US $110,000 per week, the villas and casitas of Caye Chapel can host up to 40 of your friends and family for one of the most unforgettable holidays that money can buy.

www.chapelcaye.com

4. Rania Experience, Maldives

Few areas of the globe can boast as many luxurious resorts as the tiny Indian Ocean republic of the Maldives. When flying above, virtually every little island and atoll seems to be encircled by the over-water bungalows that signal the presence of a chic boutique hotel. In the midst of this fierce competition, one resort in particular offers a highly unique twist- offering guests access to not just a single island, but all of the islands and attractions of this beautiful country. Included in the rental is use of both little Water Garden island, with its spa and bungalows and beaches, and the amazing 86ft yacht Rania. This perfect combination of sand and sea accommodates up to 9 guests, and starts at US $66,500 per week.

www.raniaexperience.com

3. Isla de sa Ferradura, Spain

Taking its name of “Ferradura” from the island’s roughly horseshoe shape, it’s not hard to imagine that guests at this spectacular resort must feel lucky indeed. The scarce European private islands are always among the world’s most exclusive, and no luxury or expense is spared at Isla de sa Ferradura to make visitors feel like royalty. Set amid the island’s lanscaped gardens, the sparkling white hacienda offers a spa, gameroom, romantic suites, a gourmet chef, and a full set of attentive staff. Perfectly situated off the coast of Ibiza, guests can party at some of the world’s most famous clubs and retire to the seclusion of Ferradura for EUR €147,000 per week.

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2. Musha Cay, Bahamas

Owner and creator David Copperfield is a well-known master of prestidigitation, so it’s no surprise that the Bahamian paradise of Musha Cay possesses a certain magical quality. In fact, Copperfield himself has suggested that the sparkling water running through one of the island’s streams is a literal “Fountain of Youth”. Regardless, there’s nothing like the expansive white beaches and lush tropical environment of a Caribbean island to make one feel years younger, and few resorts compare to the luxury of Musha. With unforgettable villas suitable for up to 20 guests in total, the main island has 30 staff to cater to guests’ every whim. Encompassing several neighbouring islands as well, the resort’s 40 powdery beaches and 700 acres can be your playground for US $325,000 per week.

http://www.mushcay.com

1. Soneva Gili, Maldives

The top contender for the world’s most extravagant island rental is another Maldivian gem- the incomparable Six Senses Soneva Gili Resort. Found in one of the country’s largest, most beautiful lagoons, it’s no wonder that the resort’s creators were inspired to ensure that every guest had 360 degree views of the crystal-clear sea. The small, perfect coral island is surrounded by 44 thatched bungalows, an innovative design that blazed a trail for over-water resort developments in the Maldives. Following the Soneva company motto of “intelligent luxury”, guests are lavished with gourmet feasts, traditional Maldivian entertainments, and expert massages above a unique glass-floor spa. Hosting almost 100 guests and ideal for a wedding or other special celebration, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is offered at a record-setting US $1,000,000 per week.

http://www.sonevagili.com

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Introducing the World’s Most Expensive Island Rental

Private Islands Magazine — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 06:09:02 +0000

After a visit to the unforgettable Indian Ocean nation of the Maldives, many things will assuredly stand out in your memory. A small nation comprised of nineteen coral atolls, the Maldives is world-renowned for its sparkling white beaches, perfect clear waters, and a rich cultural history. The beautiful resorts that dot the country’s many small isles are famous for providing discriminating travelers with the ultimate tropical experience- and now two of these hideaways have set an unprecedented standard for luxury at an exclusive rental for US $1M per week.

Two of the most iconic island resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Gili, are extending the opportunity to exclusively rent their complement of resort services for seven days.

Soneva Fushi Resort on the island of Kunfunadhoo, located in the north Baa Atoll, is host to sixty-five residences and a Robinson Crusoe-style environment. Easily accessible from Male by a half-hour plane ride, this 138-acre island is beautifully isolated from the rest of the ocean, not to mention the world, dotted with thirty-two private swimming pools and villas. These villas offer “Intelligent Luxury” themed by category, ranging from the Jungle Reserve to The Retreats, all presided over by expert personal attendants.

The Six Senses Spa, one of Soneva Fushi’s most reputed attractions, invites visitors to melt in mind and body amid a rejuvenating, utterly serene setting. For those less inclined to lay back, hidden jogging trails and bike paths winding through the rich vegetation offer a rare opportunity to explore the island’s tropical depths, a must for the intrepid spirit.

It gets better. Nearby Soneva Gili Resort, set on a tiny coral island, holds the distinction of the first ever over-water resort in the Maldives. If you’re wondering what ‘over-water’ means, imagine an exotic, beautifully-designed stilted hideaway hovering over the still atoll waters, commanding a view of the sea and a seaside experience unlike anywhere else. With forty-four of these, lavish wine options and a wealth of dining choices ranging from barbeques to gourmet feasts in the over-water restaurant and lounge, it’s entertainment well worth the cost of admission.

Here, the Six Senses Spa replenishes with traditional Maldivian sand massages and other unexpected delights, including glass floor panels beneath the massage tables affording visitors an inspiring, intimate experience with the marine beauty of the Maldives in the most relaxing way imaginable. A PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) dive school and a wide range of water sports extend the opportunity for adventure to those seeking the full spectrum of island thrills.

For children, the resorts offer the opportunity to hang out in a tree house bunk, surrounded by a lush natural playground straight out of their wildest imagination. Don’t trim your guest list, either. Soneva Fushi can handle around 134 adults and 20 children, while Soneva Gili can comfortably house 94 adults.

Still, this is an offer available only from May through November of each year. If you’re keen to take advantage of the rare, absolutely exclusive opportunity to take over an entire island for a wedding or whatever else you’ve got in mind, remember to give plenty of lead time. There’s a lot to organize, but even more to offer.

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Bedarra Island- Paradise at the Edge of the Earth

Private Islands Magazine — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 20:44:02 +0000

Remote and mysterious, the tropical edge of North Queensland lay undiscovered by the West until late in the 18th century. In stark contrast to the arid, rocky Australian interior, this far-flung coast was blessed with perfect white beaches, lush foliage and a scattering of some of the world’s most beautiful granite islands. The smaller cousin to the more famous Whitsunday Chain, the Family Islands are found about a 2-hour drive south of the city of Cairns, within the bounds of the Great Barrier Reef National Park. Just 9 small islands form this little chain, including Bederra, known as the group’s “Mother”, and home to one of Australia’s premier small resorts.

Designed for those who appreciate their luxury in an exclusive and private setting, Voyages Bedarra Island Resort has won numerous awards for its sleek pavillions, exceptional cuisine and warm Aussie hospitality. With one of the most complete “all-inclusive” policies available, Bederra is famed for having a chic open bar where guests are encouraged to devise their own personalized cocktails, and even champagne and an extensive wine list are included in the rental cost. Spa treatments, massages and an array of water-based adventures are all options for resort visitors, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef means that one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders is at your doorstep.

Just 16 villas decorate the hills of Bedarra’s almost 250 acres, and the truly private guest need never see another visitor. Hidden within the island’s lush rainforest, each villa is appointed with spacious living areas, deep relaxing baths and incredible ocean views. All are luxurious, but the Pavillion suites are true standouts. Private plunge pools, heightened staff service and outdoor daybeds create a lavish setting favoured for honeymoons and romantic retreats. A central restaurant and lounge area is available for those who wish to join in the island’s festivities, where they can enjoy modern atmosphere and overlooking a cascading freshwater pool. The exquisite food offered by Bedarra’s expert chefs is indeed one of the qualities most celebrated by visitors, particularly the gourmet hampers provided for scenic beachside picnics.

When Captain James Cook first came upon this little island chain in 1770, he couldn’t possibly have imagined that these most remote outposts would someday offer the kind of luxury that Bederra Resort lavishes upon its guests. But perhaps he saw some essentially welcoming character when he bestowed the title of the “Family” islands. Certainly Bederra, a place where guests can find that rarest experience of having every need indulged, for is uniquely suited to it’s designation of “Mother”.

Learn more about Bedarra Island

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Round Island, Seychelles

Private Islands Magazine — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 18:07:43 +0000

A taste of French “savior vivre” in the remote seclusion of the Indian Ocean, Round Island is a stunning 5-acre resort with just three beautiful chalets and one separate residence. The lush, private setting and incomparably attentive staff create a perfect honeymoon experience, and the island is indeed considered one of the world’s premier romantic destinations. A Creole-trained chef provides delicious meals, and the close proximity to the second-largest Seychelles island of Praslin means that activities such as golfing, horseback riding and shopping are all close at hand. Visit the famed rock formations that give Praslin’s coast an otherworldly atmosphere, see the ancient forests of the Valee de Mai, or soak up a bit of local culture in the markets in the largest town, St. Anse. Just a 10-minute boat ride away, Round Island offers exceptional luxury, convenience and a perfect experience of the Seychelles.

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Isla de sa Ferradura - Spain

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:37:16 +0000

One of the most iconic haciendas in Spain, the spectacular Isla de sa Ferradura has played host to royalty, A-list celebrities and many of the world’s most discriminating elite. And with very good reason. Beauty, elegance and a transcendent experience of luxury define Ferradura, with interiors created by a well-known designer and no detail left to chance. A full suite of expert staff are included in the rental, offering custom meals, planning for private parties and fabulous spa treatments. Manicured gardens cover the island, yet underneath this perfect exterior lies a darker past that only adds to the island’s allure. Favoured in the 17th century as a hidden base for pirates on the run from the Spanish military, Ferradura sits atop deep cliff sides that may have provided shelter for these shady characters. These days, the pirates and raiders likely to seek refuge on Ferradura are of the corporate variety, but the island still retains an undeniable air of romance and intrigue. Available as an exclusive rental for just under €150, 000 per week.

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Malolo Island, Fiji

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:35:21 +0000

This basic yet gorgeous resort prides itself on giving guests a true sense of Fijian hospitality, and with simple bures, exceptionally friendly staff and a variety of sports and activities, Malolo Island is a perfect choice for a laid-back and relaxed holiday. One of the few Fijian resorts to be considered “family-friendly”, harried parents will have no worries as their little ones are welcomed into the resort’s club for children and rare time alone as a couple is enjoyed. All within one of the most beautiful natural settings on earth, with a rich turquoise lagoon, coconut tree forests and surrounding seas filled with corals, brightly-coloured fish and even dolphins. One of the largest islands in Fiji’s Mamanuca chain, this unusual size has allowed for extensive resort development while preserving the tropical beauty that makes Fiji one of the world’s most exceptional destinations.

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Vomo Island, Fiji

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:33:45 +0000

One of the most beautiful isles in the South Pacific, Vomo Island Resort has an extraordinary combination of ruggedness and refinement. Part of the famous Yawasawa chain, the volcanic origins of Vomo have resulted in a dramatic rocky interior surrounded by exquisite powdery beaches. Exploring the raw, mountainous hillsides and pristine surrounding coral reefs are prime island attractions, but the island hasn’t remained entirely untouched by the comforts of civilization. In fact, Vomo is one of the most exquisitely designed resorts in all of Fiji. The height of luxury, the minimalist villas emphasize the sensual with bouquet of fragrant local flowers, baskets of fruit, and romantic scented candles. Located next to Vomo’s most beautiful beach, the Royal Deluxe Villa in particular offers an incomparable experience of South Pacific luxury, including an exquisitely relaxing wooden-louvered indoor bath. With custom spa treatments, fine dining and a variety of activities, paradise is yours for under US $10,000 per week.

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Melody Key, Florida

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:32:17 +0000

Since discovery by Ponce de Leon, the sleepy Florida Keys have been a notorious haven for pirates, hunters of shipwrecked treasure, and a wide variety of characters seeking adventure and escapism. While this remote archipelago may have been somewhat gentrified since the days when an economic mainstay was pillaging Spanish galleons, the Keys have retained an isolated, secretive feel that makes for an unforgettable vacation. With its “clothing-optional” policy and a modern home ideal for parties, Melody Key is a perfect example of the laid-back freedom unique to the Keys. A lush wall of trees and bushes protects the island’s home from prying eyes, and a wrap-around deck gives incredible 360-degree views of the Atlantic and tranquil Gulf of Mexico. Originally called “Money Key” due to rumours of pirate booty found on the island, owner Nick Hexum of alternative band 3-11 changed the name to “Melody Key” because of how incredibly inspired he felt when relaxing on the island. Whether you’re seeking a little creative inspiration or just a total sense of relaxation, Melody Key is all yours for US $8500 per week.

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Jonathan Island, RI - United States

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:30:22 +0000

The stately home found amidst the wildflowers on this small isle is simply the epitome of East Coast elegance. Located near Narragansett, home to some of Rhode Island’s best beaches, Jonathan Island is one of America’s premier island rentals (at a surprisingly affordable US $3000 per week). Inside of a 6-mile nature preserve, the 3-acre property has maintained the native flowers and trees that give New England its unique character, and the island’s shores teem with clams, flounder and crabs that the enterprising vacationer can catch for a delicious self-created meal. Nearby in Narragansett, all of the amenities of a resort community are available, including golfing, fishing excursions and excellent dining, both casual and formal. But with such a feast available just offshore of Jonathan Island, and decks with 360-degree sunset views on which to enjoy your dinner, you may never want to leave for the mainland.

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Cayo Espanto, Belize

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:28:22 +0000

Few other island resorts can boast of having hosted as many vacations and honeymoons by top celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert DeNiro, Harrison Ford and Calista Flockheart. And with some of the most perfectly elegant accommodations in the Caribbean, Cayo Espanto is truly in a class of its own. Translated loosely to mean “Phantom Key”, memories of your visit to this Belizean paradise are certain to pleasantly “haunt” your mind after you reluctantly return to the pressures of urban living. Dedicated staff will cater to your every whim, offering meals by award-winning chefs and luxurious spa treatments. A maximum of 16 visitors and well-spaced villas means that you will rarely, if ever, meet another island guest, creating an exclusive and highly romantic atmosphere. For anyone who has ever fantasized about being marooned on a tropical island (albeit one with a personal house staffer and gourmet meals), Cayo Espanto should be a top holiday priority.

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Caye Chapel, Belize

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:25:30 +0000

The 250 acres of Caye Chapel Island Resort are like nothing else in the Caribbean. For a weekly exclusive rental of less than US $110,000, the entire island can be your personal playground… including the championship 18-hole golf course. Lying just 10 miles from the coast of Belize, the island is easily accessible by sea or air, and with extensive conference facilities that make it ideal for corporate functions, special events or weddings. An unparalleled experience for the golfing enthusiast, imagine teeing off in the middle of paradise, inspired by views of the beautiful palms and turquoise seas. A variety of off-island activities are also offered, such as tours of Belize City, exciting caving expeditions, excursions to Mayan ruins on the mainland, and Caribbean mainstays like deep-sea fishing and parasailing. For those looking for less extravagance than an exclusive rental, you’ll be pleased to know that luxury beachfront villas are available to guests for around US $1000 per night, and smaller casitas can be had for a nightly rental of just a few hundred dollars.

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Petit St. Vincent, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:22:46 +0000

One of the most romantic Caribbean colonial outposts, the sleepy island nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was a jewel desired by both France and England, passing its allegiance back and forth until finally settling under the Commonwealth umbrella in the late 18th century. And with such stunning natural beauty, it’s not surprising that the dominion of these Lesser Antilles islands were such a point of contention. One of the largest in the chain, the 113-acre Petit St. Vincent (PSV) is one of the only fully-privately owned islands left in the Grenadines. With only 22 secluded villas, PSV offers simple, elegant accommodations and an experience of being far removed from the pressures of the world. Sailing, swimming and exploring the island’s rolling hills and coastlines are just some of the activities guests enjoy, in one of the most tranquil settings possible. Starting from just US $6000 per week for a cottage rental, this sought-after Caribbean experience is also surprisingly accessible.

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Guana Island, BVI

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:16:41 +0000

With 850 expansive acres, Guana Island is an extraordinary resort that provides a glimpse of the early years of Caribbean travel. A time before visits from giant cruise liners, sprawling mega-hotels, and the widespread popularity that has made the experience seem a little less… exclusive. This former 18th century sugarcane plantation is virtually untouched, aside from a series of beautiful small villas located atop a central ridge. With high elevations offering incredible views, the full picture of Guana’s biodiversity comes into focus. Considered by scientists to have one of the strongest concentrations of flora and fauna in the world, the well-protected Guana is home to exotic creatures such as Caribbean flamingos, rare tortoises, and a wide array of flowers and rare forest ecosystems. With three surrounding reefs, the feeling of being in an utter tropical paradise is even magnified. Available for full rental at US $136, 500 per week, the experience is simply unforgettable.

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Rania Experience, Maldives

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:14:29 +0000

The very deserving recipient of countless travel and tourism awards, the Rania Experience offers something beyond that of any other private island resort. More than just a simple private island retreat, the exquisite yacht Rania expands your vacation to many other sparkling islands and beaches of the Maldives. Guests can split their time between the perfectly-appointed yacht and the barefoot luxury of Water Garden Island, with its powdery sand beaches, unlimited spa treatments and even colourful displays of local culture through concerts and drum exhibitions. On board the Rania, a full home theatre, several lounges, a Jacuzzi and an on-call chef are available to keep guests happy and entertained, either while docked at Water Garden Island or en route to shopping and visiting beaches or ruins on other nearby islands. For combining the best of a private island holiday with the luxury and versatility of yachting, the Rania Experience is truly one-of-a-kind.

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Chumbe Island Resort, Tanzania

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:12:39 +0000

Facing the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, Tanzania is one of Africa’s most picture-perfect tropical destinations. Amazing stretches of white beaches, a vibrant Swahili culture and a warm year-round climate make this East Coast country one of the most sought-after areas for international tourists longing for the exotic. Tanzania has preserved much of its native beauty through the designation of protected areas, one of which hosts Chumbe Island, a resort with a strong eco-friendly flavour. Designed with the natural environment as a foremost concern, the owners of this beautiful private island close to the Zanzibar border created the resort with the consultation of Seacology, the world’s premier island preservation charity. From the romantic low-impact bungalows to the solar panels that provide the island’s electricity, Chumbe has gone to extraordinary lengths to bring to life a unique and eco-friendly vision of an African adventure.

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