Private Islands Magazine

Island Buying in the Bahamas

Private Islands Magazine — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:35:33 +0000

A major player in the Bahamas private island scene since 1992, Kevin Cross is one of the top island brokers in the world.

Why buy? “The Bahamas have the best beaches on earth,” declares Kevin. “What also makes us stand out from a lot of other places is that we’re just a stone’s throw from the U.S. There are direct flights to Nassau, which makes it easy for people from Europe to get here. And there is a stable democracy, which makes buying here even more appealing.”

How to buy? With only between 20 and 25 private island properties on the market at any time, potential buyers need to work with the right broker to find the right island. Kevin says, “A lot of people don’t know the Bahamas; I try to give them answers, details, maps—the best picture they can get without actually being here—something to visualize. When I’ve answered enough questions the client usually comes down. So about once a month I charter a seaplane or helicopter and take a client to view properties. It’s difficult to call it work when you’re in a seaplane in shorts, landing on a beach, but it is still work.”

“Buying in the Bahamas is straightforward,” the Bahamas-born broker says. “It takes a bit more time when you buy property over a certain size. The government has to investigate that a buyer is a ‘desirable person.’” Foreign Investment Board reviews take between two and eight months, depending on the size of the development.

He adds, “People don’t always realize how much an island costs to upkeep. I tell them as it is; there’s a lot of work and a lot of money involved in private island ownership. One of my clients spends one million a year to operate their island compared to the $100,000 a non-island property would cost them. I offer insight into the ins and outs of island ownership if someone hasn’t owned a private island before, and advice on how to avoid the pitfalls. It’s a very specialized type of lifestyle. I advise on whom to contact for what and the best way to get materials to the island when constructing. My knowledge of the Bahamas, and its specific regions, is as detailed as the nature and personalities of the people in certain areas. I walk buyers through the whole process and am a resource to them after they have bought. ”

Who buys? Although the market is very much affected by the strength of world currencies, Cross’ clients are predominantly American. “I seem to be getting more Europeans these days,” says Cross. “I’ve yet to have Japanese or Chinese clients. A couple of Russian oligarchs have shown interest in Bahamas. The market is changing a bit. It used to be that private island interest was from very wealthy families. More recently, because so many more celebrities are buying, developers are now eyeing private islands. Everything slowed the past year, but the Agha Khan just bought property in the Exumas. There are a lot of celebrities nosing around right now, although none have bought recently.”

And is it a good time to buy in the Bahamas? “Yes,” says Kevin, “For some properties.” He estimates that up to 10% of properties on the market have been “fire sales.”

Hot properties.
The 167-acre Children’s Bay Cay ($60,000,000 for all 167 acres or a pre-development price of $650,000 per acre), just north of Great Exuma, is offered as one property or sub-divided into 14 beachfront or pristine waterfront parcels with lots ranging from 5.5 to 16 acres. Plans, if desired, are available. A full-time concierge and maintenance service will be available to secure the property and attend to owners’ needs. Children’s Bay Cay has been approved under the Hotel Encouragement Act and offers many tax benefits to lot owners, including savings on duty free construction materials and long-term property tax relief. Long a haven of the rich and famous, the Exumas offer some of the Bahamas’ most spectacular real estate.
With an international reputation as a fishing destination, Walker’s Cay ($26,000,000) already boasts a fishing resort on the 58-acre island. Sitting, unused, since suffering hurricane damage, plans are in place for a grander, more upscale development. With an already established name and reputation, an airstrip, and a fantastic marina, Walker Cay has vast potential.

A crown leasehold property in the Abacos, Little Hog Cay ($1,950,000) is a 20-plus-acre island in the North Bahamas, just a mile from mainland Abaco. The island boasts a 1000-foot-wide, mangrove-rich lagoon, two magnificent beaches, a studio home, and beachfront guest cabana. Offering the only completely protected deepwater dockage in North Abaco and a slew of permissions in place that often otherwise take years to approve, Little Hog Cay is an angler’s paradise situated between the area’s four best sportfishing destinations (Walker’s Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay, and Marsh Harbour.) A full-service marina and airstrip is just fifteen minutes by boat.

Great Whale Cay ($80,000,000), an 850-acre, whale-shaped gem in the Berry Islands with dramatic cliffs and above sea level heights of up to 60 feet, offers the convenience of a 4000-foot paved runway and some of the Bahamas’ best beaches. The perfect cay for diving and sportfishing fans, Great Whale Cay—formerly owned by heiress Joe Carstairs— is one of the closest islands to mainland U.S.A. It sits just 150 miles east of Fort Lauderdale. Crying out for development, the cay boasts 850 acres of incredible beaches, deep water, and coral reefs. Fly-fishing, big name fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking are all obvious attractions. Extensive development plans and permissions are already in place, including for an airstrip, marina, marina village, inn, parks, restaurants, swimming pools, spa villas, and 155 individual homes.

For first-time private island buyers, Kevin points out “Goat Cay is not so exciting to look at, but is a good price and great location.” The 22-acre cay is “a nice size for a private island, right next to Great Harbour Cay and close to Florida.” Goat Cay is a five-minute boat ride from the stores and international airport at Great Harbour Cay where Jack Nicklaus used to bring his yacht and play golf until a legal dispute closed the fairways. With legal matters seemingly close to a resolution, prices could soar, making this $1,200,000 island a potentially valuable property.

Just 130 nautical miles from Florida’s Palm Beach, 30-acre Moraine Cay ($2,750,000) is one of the most incredible spots in the Abacos.

Only nine miles northeast of Foxtown, Little Abaco, the secluded, tropical isle is one of the closest Abaco destinations to the U.S. Rising to an elevation of 24-feet above sea level and offering back-to-back crescent beaches, Moraine’s three villas (currently at varying levels of completion) enjoy pleasant breezes at all times. The island also offers a dock, boulder breakwater, and utility shed. Extensive reefs nestle just offshore and ocean sportfishing (monster grouper, yellow fin tuna, dolphin, and wahoo) is magnificent. Closer to shore, fishing enthusiasts can find an abundance of lobster, conch, snapper, stone crabs, and hogfish in the crystal clear waters.

To view a selection of islands for sale in the Bahamas, click here

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Scott Island, British Columbia

Private Islands Magazine — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 15:53:19 +0000

Just three miles across the Stuart Channel from the Vancouver Island town of Chemainus, Scott Island is a tree-covered, 5.26-acre gem, easily accessible by boat, floatplane, or helicopter. A regular ferry service from Chemainus links to nearby Thetis Island, from where a quick boat trip then gets you to Scott. Amenity-wise, anything not readily available at Chemainus can be found in the larger city of Nanaimo, population 70,000, about 20 miles to the north.

Scott Island’s main residence is a modern, 4,541-square foot, bi-level home with five bedrooms and six bathrooms, an octagonal great room/entertainment area, an open and airy kitchen/dining/family room, and a separate living room with a brick fireplace. Attached is a 1,644-square foot, self-contained caretaker’s wing with two bedrooms and two bathrooms of its own. Both the main residence and caretaker’s section have large wrap-around decks and all upstairs bedrooms have balconies. Best of all, most rooms have southwest views for taking in the awesome sunsets over Vancouver Island and the Pacific beyond.

Arbutus, maple, fir, oak, pine, and juniper blanket the island’s rocky outcrops. Scott Island is brimming with outdoor activity options from playing the full-size tennis court, hiking and bird watching on land to kayaking, swimming, diving, fishing, and crabbing in the waters offshore. One of the island’s unique perks is its large and protected all-weather and all-tide harbor, rendering boating a breeze.
Offered, furnished, at CAD $4,900,000, Scott Island is a well-priced Northwest sanctuary, perfect for a second family home or company getaway in beautiful British Columbia.

To Inquire about Purchasing Scott Island, click here

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Watch Island, New York

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 24 May 2010 17:37:53 +0000

One of the 1800 islands that dot the majestic St. Lawrence Seaway, yet one of only an elite handful of islands available to rent in the area, Watch Island nestles in a peaceful bay with views of ships, sunsets, Thousand Island Bridge, and the venerable Rock Island Lighthouse spread before it. Situated between Clayton and Alexandria Bay, this upscale, upstate New York rental offers an impeccably restored, 6,500 square foot Victorian mansion to the discerning family seeking an elegant vacation home.

The house contains gracious living quarters that include an antique-filled living room with fireplace – ideal for family gatherings after a long day’s exploring. The turn-of-the-century house also boasts a country kitchen, impressively equipped pantry, four furnished porches, and a grand dining room that seats up to 16. The dining room’s 12 generous windows offer ever-changing views of the seaway and sunsets. Ten bedrooms sleep a maximum of 20 people. Magnificent Victorian detailing, such as wood paneling and a grand staircase, features throughout. The home is air-conditioned and centrally heated and all four baths have claw-foot soaking tubs or showers. A deep-water boathouse and extensive docking facilities accommodate a number of craft.

Spend lazy days on-island curled up in a nook or catching up with current events by satellite, cable, or online. Grill the day’s catch on the outdoor grill or barbecue. Paddle the periphery of the island in the property’s canoe or pedal past quaint, century-old gingerbread houses and grand, old hotels onshore on one of the island’s two bicycles. While away long summer evenings in the screened porch watching river life pass by and lights begin to glow on shore.

With its proximity to Alexandria Bay and the inland ponds and rivers of Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties, the 1.3-acre island is perfect for an activity-packed family vacation. Kayaking is possible between islands, and the waters of Alexandria Bay offer excellent wreck diving. Float fishing excursions for bass, pike, muskie, and walleye make memorable family bonding experiences. In winter, snow kite skiing and snowmobiling are merely two of the exhilarating outdoor options on offer nearby.

Historic Clayton, New York, once the northern terminus of the New York Central Railway, is now very much the cultural center of the Thousand Islands area. The town is home to an array of intriguing museums, and much of the historic downtown dates back to the early 1800s. Clayton offers a plethora of restaurants and even a spa. Other options awaiting onshore range from antiquing, cycling, sailing, and golf to fishing, horseback riding, and big game and upland bird hunting.

Yet more treasures lie mere minutes downriver. Boldt Castle, George C. Boldt’s fabled 120-room testament of love to his wife, basks on Hart Island and is open to visitors May through early October. Only accessible by boat, Rock Island Lighthouse welcomes visitors to the perfectly preserved 1847 structure. Island parks on Wellesley Island and Keewaydin State Park boast charming old fashioned children’s playgrounds,

Watch Island is offered for weekly and monthly rental for up to two families at a time, with additional families at extra charge. Those who truly fall in love with this unique property can opt to stay indefinitely; Watch Island is offered for sale for $1,950,000.

To Inquire about Purchasing or Renting, click here

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Summer Hill Island: The Heart of Lake Glenville

Private Islands Magazine — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 15:19:08 +0000

Lake Glenville, one of the treasures of North Carolina’s Southern Blue Ridge Mountains, is a pristine mountain lake that sits on the Highlands/Cashiers Plateau at an elevation of 3542 feet. The lake is the highest manmade lake east of the Mississippi, created in 1941 when a dam was constructed on the Tuckasegee River, flooding the entire valley north of the town of Cashiers. First settled in 1827 and known as Hamburg Township, the original town of Glenville now sits at the bottom of a lake that reaches depths of 300 feet.

With 26 miles of winding shoreline and a surface area of 1500 acres, the lake is a paradise for boaters, fishing enthusiasts, kayakers, and water-skiers. The lake offers an abundance of trout, walleye, bass, and catfish. Five main tributaries and a bevy of springs and creeks feed the popular recreational lake and the safe, clean Ralph J. Andrews County Park—the lakeshore’s 79-acre recreational facility—offers hiking, picnic spots, and camping. Even more hiking opportunities await on trails that wind through the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The village of Cashiers and town of Highlands offer galleries, restaurants, and stores, as well as construction specialists and landscape companies. The towns are within 2.5 hours drive of Atlanta. Asheville is just over an hour away. An area of temperate rainforest, the Plateau’s 70-90 inches annual rainfall and high altitude is responsible for a wonderful wealth of plant life.

Amidst all this wealth of natural wonders sits 4.6-acre Summer Hill Island. Offering a well appointed, custom, four-bedroom, four-bathroom home with antique heart pine wood floors, the island is the perfect weekend and summer getaway. A fine family kitchen offers upscale cottage elegance. Expansive covered decks are perfectly positioned for enjoying the beautiful lake and Blue Ridge Mountains views and cool summer breezes. Flag stones lead to a genteel sitting area. Lawns are impeccably manicured. Keep the entire island for yourself or take advantage of Summer Hill Island’s gentle topography—ideal for the construction of up to three additional guest homes or other amenities. This splendid property is offered for sale for $3,450,000.

SUMMER HILL ISLAND
Glenville, North Carolina
4.6 acres

OFFERED AT
US$ 3.45 Million

INQUIRIES
Rob Whitney
Landmark Realty Group
Broker Associate
888-743-0510 Office
828-743-0511 Fax
828-399-1196 Cell
mlpnc.com

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How the Private Island Business Began

Private Islands Magazine — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 16:59:01 +0000

By Aefa Mulholland

In 1965 nobody had even contemplated the existence of an international private islands market. René Böhm and an article in a London newspaper changed that.

Böhm recalls the article reporting “An island for sale in the Seychelles for a nominal amount only.” While details of the article proved to be unfounded, the idea had been planted and Böhm had started on a path that would see him become one of the world’s most successful private island brokers.

He says, “Nobody knew about the Seychelles. They did not have an airport. There were no Google maps. We had to communicate with the Lands and Survey Department in London [to find out details of properties].” Tracking down properties was a difficult task in the days before the internet, but Böhm’s research turned up a priceless nugget of information—an international airport was not only planned for the Seychelles, but was already budgeted. This made properties in the then British crown colony suddenly internationally marketable.

Initial attempts to find island properties to represent were met with derision by crown representatives, but Böhm persisted. Eventually, determined letter writing paid off with the offer of a palm-studded island in the Seychelles. However, celebrations were cut short. Then a law student at Hamburg University, Böhm’s research in the geography department revealed the island was in the epicenter of the cyclone belt, losing all its beautiful palms to storms approximately once a decade. Undeterred, the young German and his business partner persisted and got the word out to the Seychelles business community. None other than James R. Mancham, future president of the island nation, responded. Böhm recalls, “[Mancham] represented a friend and client who had bought an island, spent lovely days there with his fiancée and—after a split—wanted to get rid of the island.” Years of attempts to sell the island followed—with no success.

Finally, the duo decided they were done with the island business, but unwilling to give up, Böhm gave it one last shot. He took the last three flyers he had written and offered the island to three investors he knew. He says, “One responded and—after checking the local conditions, legal requisites, and doing the necessary government applications—a two-year-long process, bought the island. On March 12, 1971, the deal was done.” That island was Cousine, today one of the world’s most exclusive private island resorts. World of the sale spread like wildfire with reports in the press around the world. Rene was in business.

At first simply thinking of selling Seychelles land—not necessarily islands—because, as Böhm says, “In those days you could pick up large tracts of land, including whole bays with long beaches, for nothing,” the island broker-to-be traveled to the 115-island, archipelago nation, searching for properties. One of the first examples of Bohm’s determined approach to scouring the world for the best off-market islands was running radio commercials before visiting each area. As a result, Böhm and his business partner were often met by large numbers of island owners when they reached their hotel lobby. Böhm says of the days before the internet, “We had to go the places and do research. Of course, this gave us a good knowledge of local intricacies and made us good consultants.” Encountering unusual title situations, Böhm—working with top, local lawyers—used his legal expertise to devise solutions. He says, “In one case I created a 2000-year leasehold with a renewal clause for another 2000 years. Maybe that’s something for the Guinness Book of Records.”

After Cousine, Böhm sold North Island, then his firm sold Fregate. Both North and Fregate now operate as luxury resorts. When the government of the Seychelles toughened land control, Böhm turned his gaze to other islands. He says this was the first time the “island business” occurred to him. He worked diligently, “Systematically, like a PR agent” to generate interest in his services and listings and it paid off.

Böhm soon stacked up the “firsts”; he sold the first major Nova Scotia island to a German buyer and—armed only with a faint photograph and his reputation—sold the first island in Panama to an international buyer. Böhm has sold islands to industrialists, developers, consortiums, and royalty. He has traveled the world studying geographical archives and charts, screening the most promising maritime areas in search of the ideal island. Böhm has sold many of the world’s most sought-after island properties, from the craggy, castle island of Costaeres in Brittany to Panama’s Bayoneta Island (now worth over $100 million) to New York’s Robins Island—a property he spied while on an inspection tour of another island. His keen eye for the potential of a property and indefatigable energy for seeking out spectacular sale contenders is what distinguishes the renowned broker from many others in the field.

“In the essence the business is the same,” he states. “There is much information around, but some islands still need to be dug out by making the right contacts. This requires a strong foothold in the local community, with experts on stand-by for consultation. Also, thinking and vision still helps to find the solution and pick the right thing.”

Böhm has been working with Private Islands Inc. for close to a decade. The partnership between Böhm and Private Islands Inc. has brought to fruition the island dreams of buyers and sellers round the world and brokered the sale of a large number of diverse properties, including Jacopin, France; Hog Island, Nova Scotia; and Espiritu Santo, Panama. Private Islands Inc. owns and operates www.PrivateIslandsOnline.com, the only marketplace for private islands. Rene says of this partnership, “The clients have the feeling that they can really compare and make an educated decision.” Chris Krolow, C.E.O. of Private Islands Inc. agrees, “Some international brokers only offer properties that earn them large commissions. Their limited inventory does not reflect the market so buyers need to look elsewhere for unbiased comparables.”

Now, almost forty years after his first island sale, the distinguished broker—who studied political science at New York’s Columbia in addition to graduating from Hamburg’s law department—looks back at how his island business began. “At first it was the challenge and the joke. Nobody thought it possible to find or sell an island at that time. Later I became interested in providing my clients with advice on making the right investment. My legal education definitely helped. Back then my predictions of rising values sounded like lies, or exaggerations, at least. Now, people believe me.”

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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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Hayman Private Residences, Australia

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:36:01 +0000

Luxury Living on Australia’s Premier Island Destination

Set amid the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, Hayman is Australia’s premier private island destination. Rising from turquoise tropical waters, with a sweeping view out to the Coral Sea, the forested hills of this epic island rest atop a bed of ancient coral – part of one of the natural wonders of the world. Surrounded by sparkling beaches fringed in coral and covered in lush tropical grounds, the iconic 5-star resort has been offering the world uniquely luxurious experiences for almost 60 years – it’s no wonder that many guests have longed to have a piece of Hayman’s paradise for their own.

For the first time, that dream can now be a reality – designed by renowned architect Kerry Hill, private residences are now being offered in secluded enclaves of the island. Spectacular luxury homes will be set against Hayman’s richly forested hillside, affording broad views of the magnificent Whitsunday Passage – or for a closer view of the crystal-clear surrounding waters, located by an impressive marina with a superyacht mooring facility. With a significant portfolio that includes Asia’s famed Amanresorts, Kerry Hill is uniquely suited to designing these luxurious, modern spaces for enjoying Hayman, and will individually create each residence to harmoniously fit within the island’s beautiful natural environment.

Owning a residence on Hayman means a private, personal place to experience the island lifestyle – with the incredible amenities and services of its resort at your doorstep. Residents can relax in the pampering Spa Hayman – accredited as a Leading Spa – and feel rejuvenated with a Hayman Signature Experience like the Ocean Massage – performed on the island’s shores, you’ll receive your expert massage suspended just above the waters that gently lap at the sands of breathtaking Hayman Beach.

Imagine the luxury and convenience of the lifestyle offered on Hayman – awakening in the morning to a spectacular sunrise viewed from your private deck, enjoying the renowned buffet breakfast at Azure, and a languid lunch at The Beach Pavilion or The Pool Bar after a refreshing afternoon swim.

For your evenings on Hayman, there are superb restaurants that come alive at night – including the chic and modern Azure, which puts a singularly Australian spin on fresh seafood, and La Trattoria, with authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine in a rustic al fresco setting. In the exquisite Oriental, you’ll find extraordinary Asian dishes offered in an environment of gorgeous gardens and peaceful waterfalls, while beautiful La Fontaine presents modern European cuisine in a setting of Louis XVI furnishings, Waterford crystal chandeliers and a central limestone fountain.

For another unique Hayman Signature Experience, you can discover The Chef’s Table, where you’ll be given a behind-the-scenes dinner in the resort’s Main Kitchen, and experience new creations of skilled Hayman and celebrity chefs, together with expert wine pairings from the approximately 20,000 bottle cellar.

Hayman Managing Director Lloyd Donaldson described the new exclusive residences as an important step forward in the evolution of this celebrated resort.

“Hayman owning company Mulpha Australia Limited has redefined the concept of luxury living with the release of new Hayman Private Residences, and now Hayman Marina Residences, both with prime positioning on one of the world’s most celebrated private islands. After 10 years at the helm of Hayman I remain proudly committed to strengthening the depth and integrity that has been synonymous with the Hayman name and experience for almost 60 years. I am delighted to present this unique opportunity to own part of an acclaimed Australian address.”

Contact: Lloyd Donaldson
E enquiries@haymanprivateresidences.com.au
T (61-7) 5577-6200
www.hayman.com.au

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Creating a Private Island Paradise

Private Islands Magazine — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 05:09:29 +0000

Image - Conrad Rangali, Per Aquum

Most designers spend their days creating office blocks, shopping malls, and suburban wastelands – not so for Carl Ettensperger of C&C Studio, the man who pioneered some of the world’s most striking tropical private island resorts, including Maldivian oases like Huvafen Fushi and the spectacular Conrad Rangali Resort. In his illustrious career, he’s also been the driving creative force behind international resort projects for Mandarin Oriental, Hyatt Regency, and now the eagerly anticipated Dellis Cay, soon to be home to the Caribbean’s most stylish residence and resort development. We spoke with him to get his unique perspective on just what it takes to make private island resorts such unforgettable, luxurious places for guests.

Image - Huvafen Fushi, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: What initially attracted you to resort design – did you start off doing something more traditional, or was it always your ambition?

ETTENSPERGER: I actually started doing resorts very early in my career, starting with Golf & Spa related resorts in Palm Springs California, the restoration of the Hotel del Cornado in San Diego, and moved on to doing resorts in the Arizona desert as well as Hawaii. I like the freedom of being able to mix interiors with the exteriors and have large impact on how the resort is used. I find resorts a lot more fun for this than city hotels where the interior designer is often confined to the interior only.

Image - Huvafen Fushi, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: As someone with a broad range of experience in hotel and resort design, have you found any particular challenges inherent in creating private island resorts?

ETTENSPERGER: Yes, very much so. One of the most important issues is privacy for the guest while in their guestroom. Islands are small places with limited views and points of interest – another challenge is limiting the public areas to what is just necessary, and hiding from the guest’s view the “back-of-the-house” service areas that would diminish their fantasy experience of the island.

Image - Huvafen Fushi, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: Can you describe the inspiration behind the design for Conrad Rangali in the Maldives, which is one of the world’s most iconic island resorts?

ETTENSPERGER: The inspiration for what I did there was to do my best to blend the structures of the resort with the island’s natural beauty. It was a rare virgin island that had never had construction – on my first arrival on the island I was amazed at the variety of bird life. We purposely made sure that there was not any kind of over-crowding with the guestrooms, and used natural materials throughout – keeping the principle that when it comes to structures, less is more.

Image - Huvafen Fushi, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: Huvafen Fushi is another exceptional Maldives property - when designing the resort, what sort of experience did you intend for guests to have, and is there a particular mood created by setting the guestrooms over the water?

ETTENSPERGER: I’d describe it as “the best, with ease”. We kept saying to ourselves that this resort needed to represent the atmosphere we coined as “bare-foot” luxury. Over water bungalows create a beautiful experience that is very calming, and at the same time gives guests a true sense of freedom, and a relaxing proximity to the natural world.

Image - Conrad Rangali, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: What steps do you take to ensure that island resorts balance with the needs of the environment?

ETTENSPERGER: The issue of being “environmentally friendly” has been around for a good amount of time now – I personally think other than using sustainable materials and maintenance there is not much else an interior designer can really do. The real savings and impact on the environment comes from how efficient the building can be in terms of the use of energy, waste, and operational items used.

Image - Conrad Rangali, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: Is there a particular private island project that you feel especially proud of creating?

ETTENSPERGER: My newest one that I am working on currently as part of a team of architects, Dellis Cay, located in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Image - Conrad Rangali, Per Aquum

PRIVATE ISLANDS: Was there any overarching theme or inspiration you used in your designs on Dellis?

ETTENSPERGER: I did not wish Dellis Cay to look like I transplanted South East Asia to the Caribbean. I had always admired Luis Barrigon and Recardo Reguletta while in college, so I took some of the simple design principles these two great architects have done – which all said to me, this is Spanish. This is the true tropical vernacular of this region of the world, and I combined it with my own experience of designing a villa completely over the water. It was a very interesting and fun project for me.

PRIVATE ISLANDS: How is designing a residential project like Dellis Cay different from the many island resorts you’ve created, such as those in the Maldives?

ETTENSPERGER: A project like Dellis Cay needs to be about more than simply creating a fantasy vacation, like that of a resort – people are functioning independently in their residences, and more consideration needs to be given to the practical aspects of life, like laundry and cooking facilities. Other than that, there is a very similar quality to the design – incorporating style, luxury and modern conveniences into the natural beauty of the island’s environment.

CARL ETTENSPERGER
Designer and Managing Director

C&C STUDIO
48 Defu Lane 7, #03-06
Singapore 539355
Tel: 65 6285 6354
www.ccstudiodesign.com

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CARL ETTENSPERGER
Designer and Managing Director

C&C STUDIO
48 Defu Lane 7, #03-06
Singapore 539355
Tel: 65 6285 6354
www.ccstudiodesign.comSimilar Articles:

Desroches Island, Seychelles

Private Islands Magazine — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 20:43:17 +0000

The advent of civilization usually disturbs the allure and simplicity of paradise. To procure ultimate luxury there usually has to be sacrifice. It is a rare occasion when an untouched island sanctuary in becomes available as an idyllic getaway and unique investment opportunity. Such is the pleasure of Desroches… paradise found.

Located close to the Seychelles capital Mahé, Desroches Island is part of the Amirantes Archipelago - some of the most pristine islands in the world. Villa ownership here provides access to activities and facilities unmatched on a tropical island - from an exclusive, luxury 20 suite island hotel, exotic restaurants, dive and fishing centre, spa and gym, children’s edu-centre and business centre, to over 13km of unspoilt beaches and virgin forest.

Villas are fully furnished in impeccable style and equipped with every amenity, including bicycles and kayaks for personal exploration of this paradise. Private swimming pools, central entertainment areas and extensive outdoor decks equipped with luxurious loungers allow you to while away slow-moving time. A full service is provided by the hotel to both guest and Villa owner. The low density and versatile modular design provides rental opportunities which make the Villas sought after as investment units as well as the idyllic holiday home.

Blessed with one of the healthiest climates in the world, the balmy days and sultry island nights will lull you into the possibility of an endless summer. Activities are virtually infinite: nature trails alongside ancient tortoise colonies, nesting turtles on uninhabited beaches, and an array of marine life unmatched in diversity and splendor to explore. Ocean-based activities that will keep you enthralled include scuba diving; deep-sea diving; guided snorkeling trips; big game fishing; sea fly-fishing; to sun-filled hours of kayaking and windsurfing.

Cycle tours and jungle picnics allow one to lose yourself in relaxation, with sensory spa treatments and private sunset cruises offering pampering of the highest standard.

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For more information on Desroches Island, please contact:

Jonathan Meyer
Phone: +27 41 368 1231
Mobile: +27 83 267 5215
Fax: 086 572 2092
Skype: JonathanMeyerGP
Email: jonathan@m2props.co.za
www.desroches-island.com
www.desrochesvillas.com
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The Best View in the British Virgin Islands

Private Islands Magazine — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:41:15 +0000

There are few places in the world that can only be described as pure luxury – welcome to Buck Island, one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful private island estates. As part of the gorgeous British Virgin Islands, this 43-acre isle encircled by sparkling beaches rests in the calm waters of the Sir Frances Drake Channel, which has long been a renowned area for lovers of boating and fishing.

Indeed, the BVI has few competitors when it comes to water activities of any kind – gentle trade winds and peaceful waters have made it one of the world’s premier sailing destinations, and unlike in many parts of the Caribbean, sailors can island-hop without worries of constantly having to clear Customs. And breathtaking scenery like its high, emerald green hillsides, unusual rock formations like at Virgin Gorda, and miles of powder sand beaches all provide the perfect environment to enjoy them in.

With its own marina, Buck Island is a perfect example of the BVI’s elegant, yet sporty charms - completed in 2006, the estate’s spectacular modern villa perches atop the island’s southern cliff, affording 360 degree views of the surrounding seas and neighbouring islands. And giving an almost surreal panorama of the Channel, a gorgeous infinity pool has been constructed at one of the island’s highest vantage points.

Conveniently accessible from the country’s main airport on Beef Island, the sale of Buck Island also includes a 1.37-acre piece of land on the mainland of Tortola, which hosts a simple two-bedroom house and gatehouse. Perfect for days when you may want to return to the mainland for a taste of civilization – such as an afternoon exploring the caves and underwater treasures you’ll discover at nearby Virgin Gorda, followed by a late night out enjoying the fine dining in Road Town, the country’s vibrant capital.

Listed by Edward Childs of BVI brokerage firm Smiths Gore Ltd., Buck Island is available for purchase for US $50M. And while owning this incomparable estate may not be within reach for everyone, the island can also be experienced as a rental – exclusive use of the island is available on a weekly basis, and includes use of the villa, clubhouse, marina, and a full set of pampering staff, and will easily accommodates 16 or more guests for a vacation of a lifetime.

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BUCK ISLAND
British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
43+1.37 acres

LATITUDE: 18°25’28.39”N
LONGITUDE: 64°33’30.40”W

OFFERED AT
US$ 50 Million

INQUIRIES
Edward Childs
Smiths Gore Limited
P.O. Box 135
Road Town Tortola
British Virgin Islands

Telephone: (284) 494 2446
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Schloss Island, British Columbia

Private Islands Magazine — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:13:33 +0000

On the wild and epic west coast of British Columbia’s beautiful Vancouver Island, it’s a rare thing to find a private island available for purchase. Perhaps the only such property currently on the market, Schloss Island is a spectacular large island found sheltered within Quatsino Sound, only seven miles
from the Pacifi c Ocean and close to the village of Winter Harbour. Just a 1000 yards from a boat dock on shore and accessible by helicopter, float plane and byboat, this piece of BC paradise feels a million miles from civilization, but is in reality, highly accessible and convenient to amenities.

Schloss Island is protected from harsh winds within Koprino Harbour, and has low, sloping banks and beaches that are ideal for boat or plane ramps. Its 82 acres are covered in a rich forest fi lled with hemlock trees, many of which are over a century old, and one currently hosts a nest of eagles that at times, one can see circling above the island. Two freshwater springs provide ample drinking water, safe and clean – the island’s environment is a pure and untouched part of BC wilderness. Dinner will never be a problem - offshore, you’ll fi nd incredible fi shing for salmon, halibut and tuna, and when the tides sweep out to expose broad beaches, there is prawning and clam digging.

There are a variety of possibilities for Schloss Island’s use and development, each taking advantage of its unique location and abundant nature. Already zoned A-1 subdividable, the island can be parcelled into individual plots for the construction of individual residences – with more than 80 acres, the island could host numerous subdivisions while retaining a secluded and private feel for each resident. Kept as a private holiday retreat, it would be an incredible luxury and very convenient for residents of Vancouver or Seattle. The excellent fi shing and scenic environment would also lend itself well to development as a fi shing lodge or rustic eco-resort. The island is also covered in 21,000 metres of marketable timber.

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Own the Next 5-Star Maldives Island Resort

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:21:05 +0000

The waters of the Indian Ocean are crystal clear, stretching out to the horizon in an almost impossible shade of blue – few islands dot this vast expanse, but just south west of Sri Lanka, you’ll discover a stunningly beautiful archipelago – and the most exclusive location for private island resorts in the world. Welcome to the Republic of the Maldives, a group of 26 coral atolls hosting almost 1200 sand-dusted islands and islets.

It’s a truly extraordinary place – the feeling of being at the edge of the earth is almost palpable in this low-lying paradise, with nothing to break the view of spectacular sunrises and sunsets against the horizon. People come to the Maldives to escape – and experience the truest tropical luxury in its famous resorts. Renowned across the globe and favoured by celebrities like Tom Cruise, Madonna and British royalty, virtually every major resort brand offers their own private island hideaway in this secluded chain. Does yours?

There is a reason that the Maldives has remained such an exclusive sphere, dominated by major brand players like Conrad Hilton, Starwood and Universal. These properties –available only on the basis of long-term leases – are very unusual to find in the international real estate industry, and competition is fierce for entry into this lucrative high-end travel market. However, one such opportunity has just become available, on a stunning crescent-shaped 40-acre island, already hosting a 5-star resort with development already well under way.

Kan’baalifaru Island, found in the country’s pristine northern Shaviyani Atoll, will no doubt become one of the Maldives’ premier travel destinations. This highly sought-after property has recently entered the market on the basis of a 35-year lease and a below market price of US $18,000,000, and offers one of the few opportunities for breaking into this exceptional tourism economy. For any hotel brand seeking to add a flagship luxury resort as the crowning jewel in their portfolio, this is a chance not to be missed.

For further details on Kan’baalifaru Island, please visit: http://www.privateislandsonline.com/maldives-island-for-sale.htm

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Monk’s Island, North Carolina

Private Islands Magazine — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:19:58 +0000

The sandy beaches and waving palms of Florida are often considered the paradise of the United States mainland - but just a little further north, a warm and sunny haven offers another unforgettable experience of America’s coastal charms. The Intracoastal Waterway is a 3,000-mile body of water that meanders along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, varying from saltwater rivers, scenic inlets and man-made canals – and arguably the most picturesque stretch sweeps out onto the banks of North Carolina, where long, beautiful beaches border the Atlantic Ocean.

Monk’s Island sits right here, in the middle of this incredible environment of unspoiled nature, clear ocean waters, and upscale waterfront communities. Found in the Intracoastal Waterway between Ocean Isle Beach and Holden Beach, just east of the charming town of Shallotte, Monk’s Island is 30 gorgeous acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Within a 40-minute drive of each of the bustling NC cities of Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, Shallotte is a peaceful and upmarket town with readily available shopping, dining and amenities.

Perfectly situated to take advantage of both mainland amenities and a plethora of activities like fishing, shrimping, sailing and kayaking, the island is easy to access with a secure 10-space parking area in a nearby gated community, 5 mainland boat slips, 5 boat docks with lifts on the island itself, and a salt water marsh boat docking for fishing or recreational boats. And for the extremely busy individual, the island even offers a helicopter landing pad.

When it comes to creating a dream personal retreat for oneself, or constructing a set of unique residences for resale, Monk’s Island has all of the potential one could hope for – and many of the most challenging aspects of development have already been taken care of. Complete utilities are in place, including water, septic, electricity, cable television and phone service. The island is in ready-to-build condition, and is prime for division into 5 separate home sites. And the neighbourhood couldn’t be more ideal – across the marsh dividing the island from the mainland, you’ll find elegant developments of multi-million dollar homes.

Offered at US $2,495,000, the possibilities are endless for Monk’s Island. Enjoying mild year-round temperatures, blissfully hot summer weather and pretty scenery, the banks of North Carolina are home to a thriving tourism industry and a booming market in seasonal homes. Whether you’re seeking to create your perfect second home or an exclusive development project, explore what Monk’s Island has to offer. For more information or to inquire, please contact:

Doug Nixon
IronHorse Auction
Email: doug@ironhorseauction.com
Phone: 980-254-6208

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Escape to the Conch Republic: Islands of the Florida Keys

Private Islands Magazine — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 20:49:51 +0000

Proving that you don’t need to travel far to find a perfect sun-swept tropical isle, the Florida Keys offer Americans an exotic getaway right in their own backyard.

Ragged Key - 8 Acres - US$ 5 Million

Beautiful Private Island located in Biscayne Bay just 18 miles from Miami. Property features two guest houses, above ground pool and dockage.

A secluded chain of 1700 islands stretching from cosmopolitan Miami down to colourful Key West, the Florida Keys are the notable exception to America’s image as a place for rustic cottage islands. With a laid-back culture and a feeling of pleasant isolation from the mainland, the Keys have long exerted a gravitational pull on artists, writers and other eccentrics seeking to escape from the urban world… and more than a few unsavoury types on the run. Cemented in the public imagination as an underworld haven by Noir films like John Huston’s 1949 “Key Largo”, and a storied history as a hideout for pirates and smugglers, this slightly shady reputation seems to have only added to the islands’ romantic allure. And while the Keys may have undergone some gentrification over the past decades, the 1980’s move by the mayor of Key West to secede as the “Conch Republic” speaks volumes about the sleepy chain’s still-independent character.

Ballast Key - 23 Acres - US$ 13.8 Million

The celebrity owner of this island in the heart of the Keys has entertained the likes of Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote and Dick Cavett.

Our tour of the Keys starts just south of Miami in Biscayne Bay, with one of the swankiest private islands to hit the American market. This long lagoon is home to several highly exclusive communities where you’ll find the homes of celebrities and some of Miami’s top executives, and manages to retain a natural feel even with the metropolitan skyline in the distance. Our first island’s name of Ragged Key may sound a little rustic, but the ultra-modern residence is surrounded by manicured grounds and comes with guesthouses, a pool, and just enough untouched land to add a little sense of wilderness. This 8-acre property is offered at US $5M, and for those who crave even more opulence or want to make a permanent move to the Miami area, an option to purchase the island together with a luxurious nearby mainland estate is available.

Fanny Key - 1.7 Acres - US$ 8 Million

The ultimate in luxury awaits you on this beautiful Florida Key, complete with a perfectly appointed home, freshwater pool, and unique lagoon.

The town of Duck Key is the next stop down the archipelago, with a rare opportunity to purchase two twin islands near this upscale community. Surrounded by excellent diving and close to all amenities, Tom’s Harbor Keys are prime for development into a resort or residential complex. Located right by multi-million dollar mainland homes, they total 46 acres and are offered at a very reasonable US $2.9M. Heading south towards the tip of the chain is the sleepy town of Summerland Key, an area that sees a fair amount of private island activity. Listed at US $4.5M, the 9-acre Howell Key is a rare larger property that currently offers adventure camping to guests, and could be further commercially developed or kept for personal use. Also close to Summerland is the celebrity-owned Melody Key, a relaxed and modern island retreat with a price that’s just been reduced to a highly attractive US $4.9M.

Howell Key - 9.5 Acres - US$ 4.5 Million

This jewel in the Florida Keys is an excellent prospect for tourist development, featuring extensive building permits and quintessential Keys charm.

One of the biggest towns in the Keys, the city of Marathon is spread over a number of individual islands, and prides itself on having a perfect combination of history, nature and sophistication. Here you’ll long sandy beaches, incredible fishing and the famous Seven Mile Bridge, which stretches across the ocean and is considered by many to be one of the most picturesque drives in the world. The little 1.7 acre Fanny Key is only private island found for sale in the Marathon area, and you can enjoy its beautifully designed home and sunset views for $8M. Concluding our tour, at the tail end of the Keys is an incomparable estate and one of the few private islands found in the pristine Key West Wildlife Refuge. With 26 acres of white sand beaches and tropical forests, the $13.8M Ballast Key has provided a relaxing retreat for cultural luminaries like Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote. A short distance from the city of Key West, the island is also the southernmost inhabited point of the continental USA. Continue any further and you’ll only find little barren islets, and after a few hundred empty miles, eventually reach Cuba.

Melody Key - 5.5 Acres - US$ 4.9 Million

Everything you need is included in the sale of Melody Key: a fully furnished house, pool, two boats, and a canal lot on the mainland.

From Miami’s Biscayne Bay to the most remote reaches of the American continent, each of these islands offers a special kind of luxury, and an opportunity to create a new lifestyle within the vivid culture and natural beauty of the Keys. While their price point may be slightly higher than that of properties found in the lakes and rugged coasts of the northern states, Florida’s private islands are exceptionally well-priced when compared to the tropical isles for sale in the Caribbean, and have the added advantage of American property laws and ease of development. And unlike more exotic areas of the world, a majority of the islands on the market in the Keys are close to abundant shopping and fine dining, come in a finished state with a modern home ready to be enjoyed, and are easily accessed through numerous regional airports. Perfect for those who crave independence without the challenges of being truly remote, your piece of the Keys may not be your own Conch Republic, but will feel just close enough.

Tom’s Harbor Keys - 46 Acres - US$ 2.9 Million

The Tom’s Harbor Keys constitute two separate islands in the Atlantic, just south of Hawk’s Cay Resort. A perfect development prospect, the islands total 46 acres.

For more information on private islands for sale in Florida, please see: http://www.privateislandsonline.com/florida.htm

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Cottage Living on the Isle of Mews

Private Islands Magazine — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:37:35 +0000

Dotted with small lakes and charming towns, the Monadnock region of Southern New Hampshire is one of the region’s top spots for that favourite of summer activities – cottaging. Surrounded by woodlands and wildlife yet with many small towns and amenities, this picturesque New England area offers it all. And in one of its pure little lakes, you’ll find a summer retreat like no other. Set on 2.5 heavily wooded acres, the Isle of Mews (a reference to the owners’ pet felines) is a fully-developed private isle ready and waiting to be enjoyed.

A beautiful ivory home in a classic Saltbox Colonial style, the acorn post-and-beam residence on the Isle of Mews has a spacious, bright floor plan, three bedrooms and 2.5 baths, utilities from the mainland, and large windows offering stunning nature views in every direction. But for truly enjoying the beauty New England has to offer, there is no better place than the little gazebo at the water’s edge, an ideal setting for nature watching, viewing the incredible sunsets over the water, or just contemplating the gentle undulations of the lake. A retreat with endless possibilities at any time of year, even in winter months one can snowshoe, ice fish and snowmobile on the lake’s frozen surface, and the island is accessible by foot.

However, the Isle of Mews wasn’t actually always an isle – its first incarnation was as a small, forested hilltop set in the middle of a farm. During the 1950s, the Army Corps of Engineers initiated a project to transform a number of small ponds into one large recreational lake, leaving just a few islands above the water. No doubt residents wound up happy with the project – the resulting Lake Monomonac is one of the region’s top spots for fishing, swimming, boating and all kinds of summer activities – all within less than a 4 hour’s drive to Manhattan.

Ready to pass the island to the next owners, the island’s current owners say that “the Isle of Mews has been a wondrous place for us. We hope a new owner respects and enjoys the beautiful natural surroundings as much as we have.” And this beautiful piece of New England’s cottage country can be yours for just US $695K – please see http://www.privateislandsonline.com/isleofmews.htm for more details.

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Yadua Island, Fiji

Private Islands Magazine — Thu, 21 May 2009 12:01:42 +0000

What comes to mind when you think of Fiji? An exaltation of colourful exotic birds, and twisting vines dripping with large, fragrant flowers. Romantic, candlelit dinners against a backdrop of mountain peaks and brilliant ocean sunsets. Smiling, friendly locals greeting you every way you turn with a melodious “Bula”. And of course, some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands, many home to luxurious resorts favoured by royalty – Hollywood and otherwise. Make an offer, and one of them could one of them be yours.

Serious offers are now being accepted under a Deadline Private Treaty until July 10th on the 27-acre Yadua Island, a perfect green jewel set against deep blue Koro Sea. Part of Fiji’s renowned Mamanuca Group, Yadua is centrally located and ideal for resort development, and this exciting proposal means that the island could sell for significantly less than estimated value. Also undoubtedly the South Pacific’s strongest tourism economy, real estate investment in Fiji has historically been some of the most profitable in the region, and continues to thrive even in the global economic downturn.

Uninhabited, untouched, and with just the hint of neighbouring isles on the horizon - it’s hard to imagine that this remote-seeming island is just a 10 minute flight from the capital of Fiji, the charming city of Nadi. There you’ll find an international airport and all amenities, making your tropical isle just a little more hospitable than Robinson Crusoe’s. But with its majestic hillside covered in rich green forests, and a sparkling white beach gazing out on to clear lagoon waters, there is no question you’ll feel a world apart from the pressures of civilization.

Within just a 20-minute boat ride, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants and attractions on the surrounding isles, like the popular Castaway, Plantation and Mana Islands. Some of the world’s premier diving and surfing sites can also be found within minutes, which is just one of the reasons why Yadua is so ideal for tourism development. Plans for a luxurious resort with a complex of holiday villas, created by an expert architect, are available to purchasers who want to take advantage of Fiji’s booming tourism industry.

If pursued, the incredible proposal for Yadua’s development will be a stand-out among Fijian island resorts, with an eco-friendly sensibility that makes full use of the island’s stunning topography. An airy, Balinese-style central core would lead into winding pathways connecting to 10 chic ‘bures’, or casual island-style residences. Each bure would have a private, secluded feel, while providing gorgeous sea views. The project would also include a marina, areas for watersports, pathways throughout the island’s forests, and most strikingly, a man-made lagoon in the hollow of the island’s ancient volcanic crater.

Of course, Yadua is also a perfect size for personal use, and if you choose, the island could be yours alone, home to just a luxury residence hidden on its sweeping cliff sides. Opportunities for investment in Yadua are available both as an entire purchase, or a 50% share of the New Zealand company that owns the island. The future of Fijian tourism shines brightly, and whether your ambition is the creation of Fiji’s newest celebrity resort or just an island paradise to call your own, Yadua is a rare opportunity for a limited time only.

For more details on this Deadline Private Treaty, please view: http://www.privateislandsonline.com/yandua-island-fiji.htm

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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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Do You Have what it Takes to Own a Private Island?

Private Islands Magazine — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:24:40 +0000

The challenges of island ownership often require a certain kind of personality; driven, entrepreneurial and capable of doing what it takes to survive away from civilization. Do you measure up?

As you’ll see in the print edition of Private Islands Magazine, it takes a certain kind of person to own a private island. From the ranks of A-list celebrities and CEOs, to outdoor enthusiasts, families and retirees, there are certain things that they’ll virtually all have in common. So what skills make for a successful private island owner?

1. Entrepreneurial Drive

It’s no coincidence that many private island owners are found among the ranks of the entrepreneur and business owner. But it’s not just about money. The traits needed as the founder or head of a corporation – executive thinking, problem solving and leadership– all come into play when buying, developing and living on an island. And for those buying in unfamiliar countries or places where a comprehensive development plan is a requirement for purchase, these skills are even more important.

2. Independence

Unusual challenges are just a part of island life, and unlike on the mainland, you’ll have to deal with many of them on your own. Seclusion and privacy are two of the top benefits of island ownership – and why many celebrities like Johnny Depp and David Copperfield choose to maroon themselves on their isles – but of course, there can be a down side. You’ve got to be comfortable spending a significant amount of time alone, and above all, confident in your ability to solve problems without outside help.

3. Adaptability

From the moment you first begin searching for an island to call your own, the process calls for flexible, creative thinking and the ability to go with the flow (even in times of rapids). You’ve got to quickly adapt to the requisites of island life; getting comfortable with solitude, possibly taking on new skill sets like carpentry or driving a boat, and for those buying in foreign lands, maybe even learning unfamiliar culture, customs and language. Those who come into island ownership expecting life to be just like on the mainland are destined for a rough time.

4. Love of Nature

As an island owner, you have a unique opportunity to protect and foster your island’s special ecosystem. And since your property is fairly small and self-contained, you have an equally rare chance to see the immediate results of your efforts. A boom in popularity for eco-tourism has brought much attention to the potential offered by private islands, with even film stars like Leonardo DiCaprio starting earth-friendly island resorts. Above all, many owners just find stewardship immensely satisfying and enjoyable. While you may not be able to have big impact in the pollution and habitat destruction in the outside world, you’ll make all the difference for your island’s environment.

5. Sense of Adventure

Of all of the qualities you’ll find in successful island owners, a love of adventure is probably the most important. Everything about private islands – from choosing a location, to travelling to exotic places to view properties, to making a purchase and taking on a whole new way of life – requires a courageous spirit and willingness to throw yourself into the world. If you find yourself excited by the unknown and thrive on new, interesting challenges, island ownership could indeed be right for you.

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Private Paradises Close to Home

Private Islands Magazine — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:50:42 +0000

From the picturesque Great Lakes down to the tropical Florida Keys, private islands in the USA and Canada are as diverse as the people who own them. Featured here are a selection of “close to home” private islands currently available for sale between US $1M and $8M. North America is by far the largest private island market in the world and offers hundreds of islands for sale in many different price ranges, so it’s no surprise that enterprising Americans are the largest group of island buyers. As the commercial for Private Islands Inc. puts it; “make your mark!”

For information on purchasing any of the following islands, please contact www.privateislandsinc.com

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Faith Hill and Tim McGraw’s Private Island

Private Islands Magazine — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 15:22:07 +0000

You might imagine country music royalty preferring to relax on an old-school American horse ranch, but New Country stars Faith Hill and Tim McGraw are actually king and queen of their own Bahamian island. Their piece of paradise is located in the rapidly growing Exumas, home to many luxury resorts, quaint towns and the island and mainland retreats of other celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jordan and Johnny Depp. Found in the sleepy mid-point of the chain, this couple’s beautiful little island is fully developed, with perfect sandy beaches and lots of trails throughout… perhaps for horseback riding?

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