It was around the end of August when Peter and Jennifer Bernard moored their 50ft cutter-rigged ketch, Steel Sapphire, at the marina below Londons Tower Bridge.

Their journey to circumnavigate the globe was supposed to have taken them back to Sydney within five years, but after four, they had only reached the British capital. They were halfway round and years late.

The forces of the natural world with the dictates of seasonal cyclones and a global pandemic had seen their beautifully laid plan fall apart.

Peter, 50, learned to sail as a teenager and had always planned to sail around the world when he retired. It was Jennifer, 52, having lost a close friend to cancer, who challenged Peter when they got together: Why would we wait until we were in our 60s?

Unlike most who tackle the odyssey, they didnt come from engineering or trade backgrounds, so the two self-described corporate desk jockeys spent eight years learning about engine maintenance, plumbing and first aid.

But the truth is, we could never have learned everything, Peter says. Ultimately, you just have to set a date.

The couple sold their three-bedroom house in Glebe to buy the yacht that would become their home on the seas. They left their management jobs in the pharmaceutical industry and set off from Sydney Harbour on 1 July 2018.

Between 2010 and 2018, everything that we planned we did to the letter and left on the day we said we would leave, Peter says.

Everything was perfect. And we then had a very detailed plan for what was going to happen next month by month, everywhere we were going to be in the world, and not a damn thing of [that] has come true.

After travelling along the east coast of Australia and then from Darwin to Indonesia, Jennifer says it was in Thailand that their beautifully laid plan fell apart.

There, a small refit got delayed and delayed and delayed, and we missed our opportunity to sail across the Indian Ocean.

Because of seasonal cyclones, You have to follow the weather. The weather dictates as to where we could be in the world and what time its safest.

The couple decided to make the most of the situation by returning to Indonesias Anambas Islands, which they had raced through on their way north.

If no one knows about them, thats great, because they are a hidden gem, Jennifer says.

At the time, Peter says, they thought: Its not that bad, its only the first year. Weve got all of 2020. What can possibly go wrong in 2020?

The Bernards arrived in Maldives the same day authorities declared a Covid-19 lockdown, which saw them and those aboard 15 other boats confined to their vessels.

After a month of being forbidden from setting foot on land, the government gave those on private boats permission to go ashore on a private island during daylight hours.

After four months in the Maldives, on 11 July 2020 the couple sailed on.

They were one of nine boats to secure a permit from the British Indian Ocean Territory Administration to enter Chagos Islands despite Covid restrictions.

The islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean, 500km south of the southern tip of the Maldives, and thousands of miles from land in any other direction, was the home of the Chagossian people until 1973, when the entire population was forcibly removed by the British colonial administration.

While the British allow private boats to stop at Chagos if they can prove they have a valid reason for safety at sea respite, the UK refuses to allow the descendants of Chagos Islanders to return.

As part of their three weeks on the islands, the couple spent time on Boddam Island, seeing the vestiges of homes, stores, a church and a cemetery all solidly built over a 100-year period from stone, and now lying in ruins since the people were forced to leave.

Peter says what was equally sobering was the rubbish broken beer bottles scattered among the ruins, and assorted sailing debris including buoys, floats, jerry cans, a damaged rudder, even a mast left by a different era of cruising before the concept of leaving a clean wake was established.

It was hard to know what to feel more sad about the fate of the Chagossian people, forcibly evicted and unable to return despite UN resolutions demanding that the UK allow them to, or the terrible abuse of the white privilege enjoyed by the yachties who were allowed to come here when the Chagossians were not, and showed so little appreciation of the beautiful and pristine environment that they spoiled it for everyone in the future, Peter says.

After three weeks on the Chagos Islands, the Bernards sailed on to Seychelles on 4 August 2020, and thats where the world really wasnt opening up as fast as we hoped or wanted, Jennifer recalls.

We had to weigh up that decision: do we sail on to South Africa and miss out all the islands we wanted to see, like Mauritius and Runion and Madagascar, because they were all closed, and even South Africa was closed, so it was a risk to sail there, albeit wed been told it was likely to open soon, Peter explains.

They made the decision to stay in Seychelles for an extra year to be able to see all the places they had planned to on their adventure.

The Bernards had to accept theyd lost two years out of their five-year plan. They decided that in order to get their finances back on track, they would stop in London to work and earn enough money to complete the second half of their circumnavigation.

While the pandemics disruptions cast their plans into disarray, this also took them off the beaten track for most sailing cruising routes, and the couple say its some of these places that proved the most memorable. For example, because Covid prevented them from visiting so many countries, they decided to sail an alternative route through the Red Sea, which took them to Tanzania.

There they climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, went on safari, hung out in coffee houses in Zanzibar and spent a few days helping a remote island community where their friends had installed a generator the year before.

Weve had places where the sailing was better for sure. Weve had places where the food was better for sure, but Tanzania was just this multifaceted experience Peter says.

When the couple sailed through the South Atlantic, they travelled from Cape Town to Namibia, then on to Saint Helena, where Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled, and eventually on to Ascension Island.

Jennifer says it was in this last place that to get ashore, its the most difficult dinghy landing with this huge swell coming in.

You have to partially tie up to this pier, which you then have to leap in between swells with these huge Galpagos sharks circling underneath your dinghy just waiting for you to fall in.

And these are the bitey human-eating kind of sharks. Youre not allowed to swim in Ascension, because the sharks developed a taste for humans. It was incredibly exhilarating and scary, and I cant believe I did it.

For Peter who emigrated to Australia from Scotland in his 20s after falling in love with the country as a backpacker the highlight of their journey was sailing up the River Clyde into the port in Largs, where his father taught him to sail.

I was expecting that my dad would come out in his boat and greet us, Peter says. The bit I wasnt expecting was that my parents had organised for a bagpiper to be standing on the bow of my dads boat so as we moored it up to them, the bagpiper struck up Scotland the Brave and then proceeded to serenade us all the way into the marina.

That was a pretty epic moment. I dont know that many other moments in my life will be as epic. Bear in mind, this is Scotland and by rights it should be pouring down with rain, but it wasnt. It was beautiful sunshine and the heavens smiled and it was perfect.

The pandemic has made us change our plans, Jennifer explains. This is just a different chapter to our journey. And so were going to make the most of living in London and enjoying what this amazing city has to offer.

We dont know how long its going to be. We know it has to be a fair length of time because we really need to save up a lot more money, and its a chance to spend time with Peters family and friends.

We do believe that we will finish our circumnavigation, but as they say, sailors plans are drawn in the sand at low tide.

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What can possibly go wrong? Global headwinds stall Australian couples epic round-the-world voyage - The Guardian

As winter inevitably returns, bringing with it gloom and cold weather, its time to start planning that getaway to warmer temperatures. The US Virgin Islands is one of the most convenient tropical escapes for travelers from the States. Enjoy crystal blue waters, warm days, and soft sandy beaches just a few hours flight from almost anywhere in the continental US. The hospitality of the people here will easily make visitors feel at home. Plan a winter escape at one of these 10 resorts in the US Virgin Islands to enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience.

A purely luxurious experience from check in to check out, this iconic hotel features sweeping vistas of the stunning coast. A private beach and infinity pool add a touch of luxury to the pervasive chill vibe. Guests can also enjoy on-site water sports activities and relax in the spa and wellness center. The hotels restaurant offers delightful meals for discerning tastes.

Offering a relaxed and local vibe, this complex is tucked into the hills around Margens Bay Beach. From the resort, guests can pick up Margens Bay Trailhead for a day of hiking and immersion in nature. The resort is the perfect end to a day of hiking. The on-premises pool and the comfortable and cozy rooms are ideal for relaxing. The family-friendly accommodation features kitchenettes in rooms and a shallow secondary swimming pool for little ones.

A castle located in the charming neighborhood of Charlotte Amelie, this accommodation overlooks the iconic Frederiksberg Point, with sweeping views of the quaint town below. This area is the downtown area but lacks the hustle and bustle one might expect in the islands major urban area. The location is excellent for guests wanting to explore the historical core of the Charlotte Amelie neighborhood.

Related: America's Pacific American Samoan Islands Vs. Caribbean Virgin Islands: Which One Should You Visit?

With brightly colored rooms bathed in sunshine and a sparkling deck pool, this accommodation is charming, local, and eco-friendly. The location is ideal for guests looking for a central location from which to explore the area and go island hopping. Perched on a lush, leafy hillside, the Green Iguana Hotel overlooks historic Fort Christian and the Harbor of Charlotte Amelie. The propertys amenities include rooms with balconies and terraces, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities.

On the north side of St. Croix, this elegant resort offers well-appointed rooms, gorgeous vistas, and premium amenities, including fully equipped kitchenettes. The discreet location and cozy rooms create an air of intimacy and cozy relaxation. The bar and restaurant are ideal places to enjoy a drink or meal while gazing over endless sunset-lit waves. Guests can easily explore the island thanks to its proximity to Cane Bay Road, which runs along the northern edge of the island and connects to N Shore Rd. The historic Rustoptwist Sugar Mill is not far away and worth a mornings exploration.

Related: Jamaica Vs. The British Virgin Islands: How They Compare

Secret Harbor Beach Resort offers homey apartment-style accommodation overlooking Nazareth Bay on St. Thomas. The location is ideal for exploring the western side of the island and its rugged coast. Guests can enjoy the best of island adventures with the simplicity of resort life in beautiful surroundings. The resort offers scuba diving, tennis courts, and boating trips. Amenities include a beach bar, 24/7 concierge, and grocery delivery.

On St. John Island, Estate Lindholm embodies the graceful design of the colonial error and the free spirit of the contemporary island. Overlooking the Lind Point Trail, the location is ideal for hiking and easily accessible to the stunning Virgin Islands National Park. Close to the Cruz Bay Ferry Dock, guests can easily enjoy island hopping in addition to the many outdoor activities on the island. At the end of a day of exploring, guests can luxuriate in the colonial period-inspired decor and the comfortable rooms with charming views. The adults-only result is a perfect getaway to enjoy the unique vibe of the Caribbean.

Related: What To Know About The Baths At The British Virgin Islands

Overlooking Great Cruz Bay on St. John Island, this resort features fully equipped villas with stunning views of the ocean and the forested hillside. Each villa is unique, featuring seating areas and a balcony or terrace. The location is both private and easily accessible to multiple ferry ports and roads, making exploring all the islands surprisingly convenient. A fitness center, spa, and sprawling pool keep resort life interesting and active.

For a true island escape, Lovango Cay is one of the more remote islands of the USVI. Lovango Resort and Beach Club welcomes guests to an exclusive experience among the hills of the Islands southern coast. This private island resort features endless vistas across beaches and forested hills. Outdoor activities abound here, including water sports and swimming. The trendy beach bar and well-appointed rooms are perfect for lazy days, and Instagram snaps.

On the eastern end of St. Thomas Island, not far from the popular Margaritaville Resort, this accommodation offers a quiet and upscale stay for guests seeking views, sun, and pure leisure. Villas are built into the hillsides, ensuring excellent views from each room. Three is no shortage of things to do here three pools and two restaurants offer guests a refreshing variety. The private nature trail connects visitors to the islands flora, fauna, and stunning natural beauty. Grocery delivery is available for added convenience.

Read more here:

10 Resorts In The US Virgin Islands You Should Book This Winter - TheTravel

Fiji is full of private island resorts with a small number of luxury accommodations on an entire ... [+] fantasy island. This is just a single villa on a peninsula at the most famous and luxurious of all, COMO Laucala Island.

I visited Fiji last winter when it had some of the strictest COVID-19 travel protocols of any destination, including testing before departure, testing on arrival, special mandatory insurance to cover potential quarantine housing, and on top of all that, some individual resorts had their own testing on arrival requirements. It was a lot of hoops to jump through, but it was worth it, because Fiji was wonderful, and is in many ways a true Bucket List tropical paradise, justifiably renowned as a honeymoon destination.

But now travel to Fiji is much easier, and last month, the country dropped the last of its strict requirements, eliminating both testing upon arrival and testing to board flights to Fiji.

Fiji is famous for its healthy, colorful reefs, and is known in the SCUBA community as the "soft ... [+] coral capitol of the world."

As a nation of islands, the main appeals revolve around beaches and ocean. Relaxation and escapism are big draws, but Fiji is also a world-class Scuba diving destination, home to some of the very best diving in the world, and excels at just about every other kind of watersport, from snorkeling to fishing to surfing. But what really sets it apart from other beautiful tropical destinations like the Caribbean is its extensive range of boutique private island resorts, properties where a single hotel has its own island, often with surprisingly large acreage for a small number of guests. Almost all of these are independent and non-chain, in sharp contrast to the other big private island destination, the Maldives, which has many large name brand resorts.

The Fiji model is much more family-owned and operated, intimate, warm and friendly, and there is only one notable international chain operating a private island resort here. Even this exception is a relatively new management deal for a longstanding resort, as COMO Resorts was brought in to operate Fijis most exclusive propertyand one of the worlds most over-the-top luxury hotspotsLaucala, better known as Red Bull Island. Thats because the resorton a 3,200-acre island once owned by Malcom Forbesit is the fantasy creation and passion project of Austrian billionaire Dietrich Mateschitz, creator of the Red Bull energy drink company.

Fiji's private island resorts specialize in privacy with lots of space for very few guests, like ... [+] these visitors on a snorkeling trip.

COMO Laucala Island is one of the worlds most famous luxury resorts, and has been home away for home for a bevy of A-List celebrities and tycoons, including George Clooney, Bill Gates, and Oprah Winfrey. For just 25 oversized luxury residences spanning up to 8,000 square feet, it has five restaurants and an acclaimed 18-hole golf course by world-renowned architect David McLay Kidd, who also did the game changing original Bandon Dunes, the Castle Course in Scotlands St. Andrews and many other very highly ranked layouts from Wisconsins Mammoth Dunes to Washingtons Gamble Sands to Hawaiis exclusive Nanea. Laucala has its own modern international airstrip for private jets, an extensive spa, hiking trail network, horse stables, tennis center and full-service marina with its own fleet of dive and sportfishing boats. Guest can snorkel the inner reef just offshore right from their residences, there is kayaking and sailing, and a full PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) dive shop with a complete array of instruction and certification classes as well as guided dives and night dives.

Laucala is the priciest of Fijis private island resorts, for A-list budgets, but the rest of the options are much broader in appeal, including some very affordable luxury. In fact, you can stay in a sumptuous villa, or bure as the traditional thatched roof structures are known in Fiji, at an all-inclusive private island resort with meals and activities here for less than many urban luxury hotels U.S. charge just for a basic room.

One of the famous "treehouse" bures at Matangi Private Island Resort.

Just minutes from Laucala by boat is Matangi Private Island Resort, an adult-only option that features just 12 bures on 240-acres. These include two honeymoon favorite treehouse units that have been featured on the Travel Channel. Matangi, like just about every other resort in Fiji, has its own full service PADI dive shop and boats, fishing, beaches and excursions, plus hiking trails around the lush island, and a spa. It also offers two very unique and special activities for visitors. First, its one of only two SCUBA centers allowed to offer dives with the resident hammerhead sharks at nearby Civa Pearl Farm. Among SCUBA aficionados, hammerhead dives are an ultra-desirable pilgrimage trip, but this is the single most reliable place on earth to see them - in the three years since the dives began there has not been a single shark-free day. In addition, Civa offers tours and discounted direct sales and produces some of the most coveted pearls on earth, in every color.

Back on the private island, Matangis signature activity is a half day champagne picnic package to its very own Horseshoe Bay. Ringed by cliffs and accessible only by boat, Horseshoe Bay is private and hidden, with a gorgeous beach, a day lodge and watersports gear for just a single party at a time, and was chosen as an entrant in the original edition of the bestselling travel classic 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Direct booking rates at the exceptional (Ive been) family-owned property start at just $750 nightly and include all meals, with sumptuous offerings showcasing local fish and produce. Fascinating Fijian cooking demos are available and Matangi has its own large farm plantation on a neighboring island providing fruits and veggies while local fishermen stock the kitchen daily.

Fiji is full of natural beauty and wonders, like the Sawa-i-Lau caves.

Rates include all non-motorized and cultural activities, and like several top Fijian private islands, even more affordable packages are offered through the travel arm of big box giant Costco, which has quietly become a leader in vacation savings, and is especially powerful in this market. Basically, Costcos agreements require resorts to offer lower prices and/or more inclusions in these turnkey packages than through any other outlet. But they are typically weeklong stays at a single resort, while many independent travelers planning their own trips, or better yet, using travel agents (another great way to save, read more here) might combine two or more islands for 3-4 nights each. If the Costco packages are a fit for you, they tend to be great deals, and for comparable quality of resorts, Fiji is far less expensive than other winter beach options like Hawaii or the Caribbean.

Fiji is a Holy Grail for SCUBA divers.

Another plus of visiting the country is the ease and cost of getting there. Fiji Airlines flies non-stop from both Los Angeles and San Francisco, and is usually at the inexpensive end of the long-haul spectrum. It offers epically good values for business class, complete with lay flat seats and excellent lounge access. When I flew, many of the passengers were Australians or New Zealanders heading home via Fiji, people who fly the route regularly because business class is substantially less than on alternatives Qantas or Air New Zealand. Once you land, just about every private island is one domestic short hop away, on what amounts to a s flightseeing leg. Fiji Airways is a member of OneWorld, so you can use or accrue points and status on American or other OneWorld carriers.

Royal Davui Island Resort is a paradise unto itself, surrounded by a huge protected marine reserve.

One of the easiest options to reach is Royal Davui Private Island Resort, with just 16 villas located off Fijis main island of Viti Leveu, where the international airport in Nadi is. Transfers can be done by boat and propeller plane, boat and driving or directly by helicopter. Ive also visited Royal Davui, and its great. Like Matangi it is adult-only, but while the larger Matangi island is more about privacy and beach bum toes in the sand flair, Royal Davui has a more social feel with nightly gatherings at the main bar, live music, a high number of annual repeat guests in addition to honeymooners, and lots of scheduled activities. The island is smaller (10-acres) but has extra amenities some competitors lack, like a fitness center. While most private islands in Fiji go with traditional thatched bures, Davui offers more contemporary luxury bungalows, complete with private plunge pools and outdoor showers.

The resort island sits in the gorgeous and pristine Beqa Lagoon, has white sandy beaches, and the reef surrounding the island, easily accessed for snorkeling, is within a sacred marine reserve. No fishing is allowed within a mile of the island, keeping the waters fully stocked with colorful undersea life. There is also an uninhabited small island, Castaway Cay, nearby, where Davui offers private boat transfer picnics. Royal Davui has a full service PADI dive center and excellent fishing (more than a mile out), and if a guest catches a fish, it is often made the centerpiece of the evening meal for all island residents with extra platters of sushi or sashimi during cocktail hour. Food is superb and all-inclusive rates cover activities such as kayaks, stand up paddleboards, Hobie cats, snorkeling gear, as well as guided reef snorkeling trips, beach picnics, and lots of lawn and beach games, from sand rugby and volleyball to croquet and bocce, plus cultural activities like cooking classes. Royal Davui also has a full-service spa.

Current offers at Royal Davui include a 7-night stay with free plane and boat transfers from Nadi international airport for just $6000 per couple, or less than $850 a night for two with all meals and a wealth of other inclusions. Like Matangi, Royal Davui also offers packages via Costco Travel.

One of the beachfront bures at Wakaya Club & Spa, on its own private island.

Wakaya Club and Spa, on its own Wakaya Island, is also surrounded by a Marine Protected Area, ensuring vibrant coral reefs. The island resort has just 10 beachfront bure suites and two luxury private villas. This is Fiji, so of course there are stunning beaches, but the resort has taken the tact of setting itself apart via culinary offerings. Wakaya Club & Spa has two on-site organic farms and heavily promotes food experiences for culinary-minded travelers looking to immerse themselves in local culture. Chef Marielle Hajj has worked with chefs around the world including Alain Ducasse and Daniel Boulud, and here promotes her own take on South Pacific culinary traditions using fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Guests can forage daily with Chef Hajj and her team, then enjoy a hands-on cooking class prepared in a traditional lovo fire, piled with volcanic stones. Other culinary options include a private picnic, where guests are taken to a remote beach with a curated picnic hamper and left to enjoy their oceanside meal, or a group picnic with a Fijian barbecue on the beach. Guests can even catch their own fresh fish for dinner. There is a 9-hole golf course, game room, fitness center, tennis, guided hikes, spa, dive center, and Wakaya is one of the only private island resorts in Fiji that includes alcoholic beverages in its rates, even fully stocked mini-bars in each accommodation.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is one of the most famous SCUBA destinations in the world and one of ... [+] Fiji's most family friendly.

While many Fijian resorts are adult-only, there are family friendly exceptions, and the most notable is the famed Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, a larger, full-service property. This is not on a private island, but does enjoy an isolated beachfront location for its 25 bures, and has a private island just offshore for escapist picnics. The all-inclusive rates feature more activities than most competitors, including tennis, glass bottom boat rides, guided eco and nature walks, daily yoga classes, and more. It also has a full childrens club program with daily activities, as well as spa. But this resort is most famous for its diving, considered one of the worlds best SCUBA spots, with a 5-Star PADI center and resident marine biologist.

VOMO island resort has some of the most luxurious lodging in Fiji, including its lavish and unique ... [+] residences.

VOMO is another top Fijian luxury private island resort in the Mamanuca Island group. The 255-acre island is home to signature feature, Mt. Vomo, which can be hiked to the summit for stunning 360-fegree views best enjoyed for sunrise. It is family friendly with baby butlers and a kids village, easily reached from Nadi and has beautiful beaches. Snorkeling is readily available on your own, and they also include daily guided snorkeling safaris, as well as complimentary fitness classes with the resorts personal trainer, and hiking. The extensive range of lodging options skews luxury, and consists of 34 unites, including hillside villas, beachfront villas and larger and more lavish Residences, each unique but with extras like full size swimming pools, gourmet kitchens, private dining areas, butler service, and tons of room. Another thing that sets VOMO apart is the island amenities, including a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course, tennis courts, full 24-hour fitness center and extensive network of hiking and running trails. VOMO is a top choice for both families and the active-minded, and of course, the island has its own PADI scuba center and excellent access to great dive sites nearby. All-inclusive nightly rates begin at about $1,000 per couple, but there are multi-night packages that discount this 20-40%.

There are lots more options including 52-acre Savasi Island, with just eight villas and three beachfront bures. spa, and dive center. Nukubati is a unique private island resort for just a single party takeover, accommodating a group of up to 10 guests in five beachfront bures - with no strangers. Its location on the Great Sea Reef, the worlds third largest barrier reef, makes it especially popular with divers. But then so is pretty much all of Fiji.

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Fiji Reopens With Great Private Island Resorts For Every Traveler - Forbes

Fiji has been named as the top island Australia and The South Pacific by readers of the influential tourism magazine, Cond Nast Traveler.

Fiji has beaten destinations such as Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Tasmania, Australia, Moorea, French Polynesia and Tahiti, French Polynesia in the Top Islands: Readers Choice Awards 2022 category.

Very proud to today announce that Fiji has been named #1 Island in the Pacific by travel Bible Cond Nast in the US, said Tourism Fiji chief executive officer Brent Hill in a social media post.

Fiji has also been featured on the cover of the Cond Nast Traveler and featuring an right page spread on Fiji tourism.

Fantastic exposure for us in one of our key markets.

Congratulations also to Royal Davui Island Resort, Turtle Island, Kokomo Private Island Fiji and Nanuku Resort, Fiji being named in the top 10 resorts in the Pacific.

Book in and come and see what all the hype is about where Happiness Finds You!

See original here:

The Fiji Times In the top 10 resorts in the Pacific - Fiji Times

You may wonder what it's like to actually own and run an island: Is it all sunshine and lazy afternoons on the beach, iced tea in hand and a good book?

Or is it filled with challenge after challenge, pushing the owners to question whether they made the right decision, or if they should abandon ship?

In the early 2000s, Clem Newton-Brown and his family bought Picnic Island and used it for regular camping trips.

Based in Melbourne, they would fly to Tasmania, hire a car, drive two and half hours to Coles Bay on the east coast and then try to organise a lift out to the island or hire a tinny.

"When our family bought the island 15 years ago, we never thought we could do anything with it," he said.

"We knocked up a little shed to store camping gear and used to come down from Melbourne for wild camping trips with our young kids.

"They grew up appreciating the wild outdoors."

The Newton-Brownsthink it is, but they also admit it's hard work.

"Running an island is hard really hard, but we also love it. There is a lot that can go wrong and often does. You have to love the challenges, be self-sufficient and a little bit mad," Clem said.

"The environment is harsh, so there is always maintenance to do."

It took two years and dozens of boat trips to and from Tasmania to set up and build the current accommodation on the island.

"Having all the systems running for power and water is a real challenge, as we do not have [an] on-island manager however, we have set the place up such that most people can enjoy the island on their own and in comfort," he said.

The 5-bedroom retreat is now used for private bookingsof up to 10 people for$2,200 per night.

"We spent a lot of time working as labourers, carting materials out to the island by tinny," Clem said.

There are about 5,000 islands off Tasmania's coast and only nineare freehold.

One of them is Satellite Island, which a Melbourne-based couple, Kate and Will Alstergren, inherited 12 years ago from Will's uncle, Ian Alstergren, one of the founders of Tasmania's salmon-farming industry.

It's situated in the D'Entrecasteaux Channelin southern Tasmania, a five-minute boat trip from Bruny Island.

"It is hard to describe the magic of staying on your own private island," the couple has said on the island's website.

"Time seems to stand still. Satellite Island is about slowing life down and enjoying the simple things."

The owners are also sharing their island life with paying guests.

Their renovated summer housetakes private bookings, at $3,350 a night for two people.

Queensland investor Peter Huang saw an advertisement for Ninth Island off Tasmania's north-east coast in a Chinese newspaper in 2015, and called to make an offer shortly after.

He hadn't seen the island but said it was an opportunity he couldn't pass up.

Seven and a half years on, he said it was time to part ways.

"It's very sad the decision to sell was made clear for my family during COVID," he said.

Ninth Island is about 1.3km long, 550 metres wide and covers 16 hectares (40 acres). It's 11 kilometres from the Tasmanian coast.

It has been on and off the market for years.

"We had big plans for it, to build an eco-resort, but then the pandemic happened and we had to reconsider," Peter said.

In 2016, nearby Waterhouse Island sold to Singaporean businessman James Koh the owner of Fragrance Group for $5.5million.

Flinders Island deputy mayor, David Williams, said buying and running an island comes with a lot of responsibilities.

"There's a lot to it. You do need to have regard for the environment, otherwise it just destroys everything," he said.

"You need to be very eco-friendly and conscious."

For lots of reasons, it seems, life on aTasmanian island may not be for everybody.

Set the ABC News website or the app to "TasmaniaTop Stories"from either the homepage or the settings menu in the appto continue getting the same national news but with a sprinkle of more relevant state stories.

Here's a taste of the latest stories from Tasmania:

See the article here:

What's it like owning an island? These people can give you a heads up - ABC News

Today, MSC Cruises is moving forward with its continuedexpansion throughout the United States by revealing plans for arecord 5 ships set to sail from American homeports by the end of 2023. The company is diversifying the range of itineraries offered in The Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Northeast,and Canada beginning in the Winter 2023-2024 season.

The brand-new MSC Seascape will lead the way with Eastern and Western Caribbean 7-night cruises after the ships inaugural voyage from Port Miami later this year. MSC Divina will join MSC Seascape in Port Miami, and both will offer a range of itineraries, including 3-night cruises to The Bahamas and 11-night cruises through South and Central America. MSC Magnifica will also join the record-breaking 5 ship fleet and offer shorter cruises to destinations like Key West and The Bahamas.

Sailing from Port Canaveral, MSC Seashore will offer a variety of shorter cruises to The Bahamas and 7-night Western Caribbean expeditions. This marks the very first time that one of MSC Cruises innovative Seaside EVO ships will set sail from Port Canaveral, providing travelers who prefer shorter cruises to enjoy all that MSC Seashore has to offer.

Setting sail from New York, MSC Meraviglia will travel to destinations like Florida, Bermuda, and The Bahamas after finishing up the ships inaugural summer season in the Northeast. Like every ship in MSC Cruises U.S. fleet, MSC Meraviglias trips to The Bahamas will include stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the companys own eco-friendly private island focused on the ever-so-important topic of sustainability.

Rubn A. Rodrguez, President of MSC Cruises USA, said:Bringing more ships to the U.S. allows us to offer a wide variety of itineraries, adding new destinations and providing more opportunities for travelers to discover our unique international flavor. Its especially exciting to know how many of those guests will experience Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and see firsthand how weve embraced the islands natural beauty, and how committed we are to sustainability. Caring for the ocean and showing our guests the true extent of its wonders drives everything we do at MSC Cruises.

AVAILABLE NOW- MSC Seashore:

Sailing from Port Canaveral with options including:

o 5-night Western Caribbean cruises: Calling at Costa Maya (Mexico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

o 6-night Western Caribbean cruises: Calling at Cozumel and Costa Maya (Mexico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

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o Shorter 24-night cruises: Calling at Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

AVAILABLE NOW- MSC Seascape:

Offering 2 different 7-night itineraries sailing from Port Miami

o Western Caribbean cruises: Calling at Ocho Rios (Jamaica), George Town (Cayman Islands), Cozumel (Mexico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

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Sailing from Brooklyn, New York to Bermuda, The Bahamas, or Florida

o 5-to-6-night cruises: 2 or 3 days docked at Kings Wharf (Bermuda)

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AVAILABLE SOON- MSC Magnifica:

Offering short cruises sailing from Port Miami

o 3-to-4-night cruises: Calling at either Nassau (The Bahamas) or Key West (Florida), plus Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

o 7-night Christmas Cruise: Calling at Ocho Rios (Jamaica, Christmas Day), George Town (Cayman Islands), Cozumel (Mexico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

o 7-night New Years Cruise: At Sea (New Years Eve), Isla de Roatan (Honduras, New Years Day), Belize City (Belize), Costa Maya (Mexico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

AVAILABLE SOON: MSC Divina:

Setting sail from Port Miami

o 3-night cruises: Calling at Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

o 7-night cruises: Calling at various combinations of Isla de Roatan (Honduras), Belize City (Belize), Costa Maya and Cozumel (Mexico), George Town (Cayman Islands), Ocho Rios (Jamaica), Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

o 11-night cruises: Destinations include Montego Bay (Jamaica), Cartagena (Colombia), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica), Isla de Roatan (Honduras), Oranjestad(Aruba), Cozumel (Mexico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas)

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MSC Cruises to Sail Five Ships from the US During Winter 2023-2024 Season - Porthole Cruise and Travel

New Zealand isnt the only nation to court rich foreign visitors in the era of Covid-19, with others also choosing to market themselves as exclusive destinations better suited to big spenders than backpackers.

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash has said Aotearoa will unashamedly target high quality tourists who spend more and stay longer as opposed to those who travel around our country on $10 a day eating two-minute noodles.

Aiming to boost tourism spending after the sector was devastated during the earlier part of the pandemic, countries looking to lure wealthy visitors often argue that welcoming fewer, but higher-spending visitors will also benefit local people and the environment.

Below are five destinations which have made no secret of their attempt to woo the rich as international travel rebounds. Fortunately for those of us of more modest means, most cater pretty well to budget travellers too.

READ MORE:* Kiwis top resort bookings in Fiji as holidaymakers put pandemic behind them* This is what it's like to snorkel with manta rays at night in Hawaii* What could New Zealand learn from Bhutan?

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Bhutan protects its unique cultural and natural heritage with a policy of high-value, low-volume tourism.

Often referred to as the last Shangri-La for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has never been a cheap place to visit, taxing tourists to help protect its environment.

Before the country reopened to international visitors in September, its high-value, low-volume tourism policy saw it charge them at least US$250 (NZ$440) a day, which covered accommodation, meals, a tour guide and a US$65 sustainable development fee.

Now, tourists are required to cough up US$200 a day to visit, and pay separately for their accommodation, meals, tours and other travel expenses, significantly increasing the cost of a stay.

Officials said the new policy would rebrand Bhutan, which is wedged between China and India, as an exclusive destination attracting discerning tourists (Nash, by the way, said New Zealand was after discerning travellers.

Bhutans foreign minister and chairman of the Tourism Council of Bhutan, Tandi Dorji, said the aim was to create high-value experiences for visitors and well-paying jobs for citizens while keeping the countrys carbon footprint low.

Those who can afford a trip can look forward to hiking through a network of pristine national parks, soaking up the Buddhist culture in well-preserved traditional villages, visiting intricate temples clinging to bare cliffs, and generally experiencing daily life in a country that measures its wealth and prosperity through a national happiness index rather than its gross domestic product (GDP).

BROOK SABIN

Bali has made it easier for remote workers (aka digital nomads) to work on the island.

Indonesias coordinating minister for maritime affairs and investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, caused quite a kerfuffle in 2021 when he said the country would ban backpackers from Bali when it reopened to overseas visitors.

We'll aim for quality tourism in Bali, so we won't allow backpackers to enter once the reopening plan for international travellers is officially put in place in the near future, local media quoted him as saying.

Pandjaitan later clarified that he had meant Bali wouldnt welcome those who might violate Indonesias health or immigration rules, but there are signs the country is looking to change its image as a budget traveller haven.

The Indonesian government has announced that remote workers from overseas (aka digital nomads) will be able to conduct online work in the country for up to six months without paying tax on a B211A visa. A five-year digital nomad visa is under discussion in the hopes it will lure more high-spending foreigners to Balis shores.

The islands mountainous hinterland, wild surf beaches, plethora of elaborately decorated temples, and famously hospitable people have attracted travellers of all budgets since it opened to tourism in 1914.

In recent years, Bali has become a hotbed for digital nomads, while a proliferation of luxury hotels (2022 arrivals include Banyan Tree and Jumeirah) draw travellers with plenty of Deutsches (or rather rupiah) to spend.

Brook Sabin/Stuff

VOMO resort in Fiji.

During the pandemic, Fiji famously advertised itself as a haven for the mega-rich, with Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama inviting billionaires to make the Pacific Island nation their temporary home.

So, say youre a billionaire looking to fly your own jet, rent your own island, and invest millions of dollars in Fiji in the process if youve taken all the necessary precautions and borne all associated costs, you may have a new home to escape the pandemic in paradise, he tweeted.

With tourism accounting for 38% of GDP, Fiji has made luxury travel a focus since reopening to foreign visitors.

The country aims to attract and expand high value customer segments and encourage a growth in visitor spend to promote sustainable tourism, Tourism Fiji says in its corporate plan for 2022 to 2024.

Private island resort Vomo is among the many accommodation providers in Fiji aimed at high-end visitors, but there are options for all budgets.

Brook Sabin/Stuff

There are more than 160 resorts scattered among the islands of the Maldives, most with overwater villas.

A once-in-a-lifetime destination for many visitors, the Maldives is famed for luxury resorts set on private islands boasting some of the best beaches in the world.

But in September 2020, the tourism-reliant Indian Ocean nation launched a loyalty programme it hopes will encourage people worldwide to make a Maldives getaway a regular treat.

Developed by Maldives Immigration and the Ministry of Tourism, the Maldives Border Miles programme rewards tourists for multiple visits.

Each of the programmes three tiers abaarana (gold), antara (silver) and aida (bronze) offers its own set of perks, with visitors rising up the ranks by paying repeat visits, staying longer and celebrating special events there.

While widely regarded as a playground for the rich and famous, its possible to hit up its powder white beaches for less than $100 a night.

RYAN ANDERSON/Stuff

Hawaii, a dream destination for many.

A dream tropical destination for many, Hawaii has become a victim of its own tourism success, with a record number of visitors in 2019 prompting locals to lament its effects on the environment and cost of living.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) aims to better protect the states citizens and natural resources by attracting mindful, respectful and high-value travellers.

HTA chief executive John DeFries said the organisation wanted to change the popular perception of the state as the playground of the Pacific to a diverse destination with a rich culture and fragile ecosystem.

New initiatives include requiring visitors to make a reservation to visit popular parks, such as Waianapanapa State Park and Kauais Kalalau Trail (non-residents must also pay parking and entry fees).

Some attractions have also put up their prices Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve in Oahu, for one, has capped visitors at 720 a day and hiked fees for non-residents from US$5 to US$20. Visitors also have to watch a nine-minute video before entering the water which aims to educate them on topics such as coral regeneration and marine life.

Oahu is lobbying for a regenerative tourism fee that would support conservation and environmental management programmes, while Hawaiian Airlines and various hotels have taken steps to raise cultural and environmental awareness among visitors.

The state has also launched a campaign similar to New Zealands Tiaki Promise, based on the concept of malama, or caring for the land. Participating hotels reward guests with a free nights stay if they spend a day helping to clean beaches or reforest land.

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The countries unashamedly selling themselves to rich (and responsible) tourists - Stuff

Indonesias Gili Islands look like heaven. But are they now a paradise lost? Allegations of catcalling, animal cruelty, pollution, damage to the reef and thievery now have some people questioning the impact of tourism on this once chilled-out trio of islands, with one Tripadvisor user calling it the Magaluf of Australia.

An Indonesian woman and former flight attendant recently shared a video on TikTok about being catcalled on the holiday island Gili Trawangan. The video has now been set to private, but it reportedly got 9 million views in just four days. It has been reported by Radar Lombok that in the video it was said: [This] catcalling thing is not playing anymore.It also makes me emotional if I remember until now.

This is so fucking annoying.Im really angry.I wont be going back to Gili Trawangan again, to be honest.

Honestly, Ive travelled everywhere, of course because I used to be a cabin crew, Ive travelled to various islands, like Love Island in Gorontalo, Papua, Manado, Bali, even every month to Bali, because I love its with Bali.Every time I go to Bali I dont have to be boring about the cat calling thing, because in Bali the people are that kind.

The woman also allegedly said (translated from Indonesian): I never got catcalling in Bali.What kind of clothes do you want me to wear?But when I go to Gili yesterday, thats so fucking disgusting.The catcalling is really amazing, its unbelievable.

Just arrived at the port, dragging the suitcase already has a lot of cat calling.Where are you going, sis, beautiful, beautiful;Do you want to snorkel for free or not, Ill give you free snorkelling;Ms. Asking for your WhatsApp number;Ms. come here first, let me accompany you;do you want to accompany me?And they are so fucking annoying.But they dont catcall Caucasians, they want Caucasians to use bicycles while wearing bikinis, they dont care.

So if you ask, dont blame the island, yes, the island is indeed good, but the people should change if they want tourism to progress.

Later on she posted a follow-up video, which was captioned: Hopefully the clarification I made can be accepted, I hope Gili Trawangan will be better and take action against these people, because honestly the island is very beautiful. Thank you. In the comments section of this video she wrote: The Minister and the local government have intervened. Thank you very much Mr. Minister @Sandiaga Uno [the minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia] may you always be healthy and blessed by Allah SWT.

For those who want to take advantage of my problems, remember that karma exists.

Her video also sparked lots of comments from other travellers, with comments like: Is it true that the local authorities have investigated thoroughly? Want to go there [sic] so Im afraid where is a solo traveler flowing in.

According to news outlet Coconuts (who appear to have sourced this piece of information from tribunlombok.com), a resident who represents the North Lombok community,filed a complaint with the West Nusa Tenggara Police over [the video].

According to Coconuts, the complainant said the video suggested that North Lombok people are perverted and therefore damaged the islands image as a tourist destination.

Whats worse is that she claimed that the [harassment] was conducted by many people there, the complainant reportedly said.

RELATED: The Ugly Truth About Staying In An Instagram-Famous Treehouse

Coconuts reported in September that the woman was now facing defamation charges.

This isnt the first time the Gili Islands have got some bad press. As we reported earlier this year, one tourist complained of a boat ride from hell while trying to leave. On Tripadvisor, too, there are a slew of complaints about (alleged) animal abuse, litter, poor protection of the reef and the proliferation of partying.

One Tripadvisor user wrote: While Gili T itself is quite pretty with beautiful beaches, I could not get [sic] passed the extreme animal cruelty. The only means of transport in all of the Gili Islands is bike or horse, and the horses are actually a single small pony carrying loads of often 3+ people and luggage, whipped and beaten, underfed etc We only stayed for three days and while Id love to come back, I simply wont until the island considers a more sustainable form of transport (solar powered Tuk Tuks have been proposed).

Another Tripadvisor user wrote: Litter is everywhere all over the island! Whether it be on the beach, in the sea or into the centre, you cant help but get annoyed at something that should be dealt with! It seems tourism became too much for this small island.

Another wrote: What I seen was animals being abused while working in the baking hot sun without any water, food or shade! I felt physically sick every time I seen one! What I would say is yes Gili T is great if you want a party, even to see turtles and grab a sunset pic on the famous swings. However apart from that Gili T left me sad, knowing that the environment, local people and animals are the ones suffering!

Yet another said the island had been totally ruined by tourists and that I was shocked to see what became from Trawagan after I visit it before, 6 years ago, by that time it was a magical place, now sadly it became a hell with drunk kids [and] screamingfamilies.

Another Tripadvisor user spoke of the Gili Islands dark side, writing: This is a nice island. A pretty chilled, unique but affordable location. Lots of fun to be had. However it has a dark side. There are no motorised vehicles on the island. Sounds cool. The major form of transport is bikes and horse drawn carts. Romantic? NO. The way these little ponies are treated is criminal and appalling.

Others claimed things like locals they dont like you and shared stories where they claimed they were robbed. Further Tripadvisor users bemoaned the dead coral, with some claiming that they had seen people being allowed to walk on it.

Whether you believe tourists are the real problem, or whether you think Indonesian tourism authorities need to take a closer look at how the Gili Islands are managed, it seems many people can agree the situation on the Gili Islands needs to be improved for the sake of the environment, the people and the economy.

The rest is here:

'Catcalling, Animal Cruelty & Litter': The Dark Side Of The Gili Islands - DMARGE