Daily Archives: August 11, 2017

Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato, which delivers luxe experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations and honeymoons is unique and incomparableand he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more with BAZAAR.com.

While there are more island getaways and resorts than can be counted, having a private island at your disposal is (naturally) one of the most decadent and undeniably exclusive experience in existence. Remote, uncharted, unfettered and in many instances, inaccessible, these natural wonders can be the ultimate way to reset in style. Going off the grid has great implications for mental and physical well-being; and whether youre seeking a villa or suiteor an entire island all to yourselfthese are the very best private islands on which to unwind, rejuvenate and explore.

Take a note from Proust, who notably said, "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." On your very own retreat, you are bound to see dazzling flora and fauna (much of which is unique to these islands' isolated ecosystems) and taste and feel vibrant community cultures. Here, the top ten private islands on Earthand where to find them.

1 North Island: Seychelles

For something truly extravagant, look no further than North Island, where Prince William and The Duchess of Cambridge honeymooned. An exclusive and secluded paradise, this five hundred acre island is a sanctuary that has garnered Seychelles a reputation as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean. With accommodations for just a few lucky travelers, the island is utterly tranquil and privateso much so that you likely won't see another guest throughout your stay.

Fly in by helicopter, landing discreetly at the on-site helipad, and check out the stunning white-sand beaches that line the east and west side of the island, with a library, spa, gym and 'round-the-clock in-villa spa treatments at your disposal. What makes this gem truly shine is the islands utterly bespoke and discreet serviceincluding a no menu policy. Here, the chef meets with each guest and creates inspiring meals based on their specific tastes and preferences, complemented with wine from their extensive cellar. The dedicated staff will set up a candlelight dinner anywhere, be it the Island Piazza, in-villa or by moonlight at one of the many secluded beach spots dotting the island. Renting out the entire island gives you exclusive access to its 11 villas, replete with giant terraces with sweeping ocean views, private butlers and island buggies. The crown jewel here is Villa 11, the 8,000 square foot and totally isolated villa with an oversized bath made for two and the best views on the island. It doesnt get much more glamorous than this.

Rates from $442,000 (for the entire island) for 7 nights. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

2 The Brando: French Polynesia

The Brando is truly worlds awayset on the otherworldly private island of Tetiaroaand a must for those seeking incredible flora and fauna in a secluded, authentic Polynesian setting. This stunning resort plays host to manta rays, sea turtles, exotic birds, tropical fish and each of its exclusive villas are positioned on heavenly white sand beaches. The ideal union of relaxation and exploration, check out the surrounding wildlife and lush setting by cycle, kayak, snorkel, paddle board, take a dip in Mermaid Bay or lounge at the beach and pool. Expect unforgettable sunsets, best spent in tree-top seating areas with cocktails, for unparalleled views across palm canopies.

All The Brando's villas are incredible and spacious (the smallest being 1,033 square feet) and designed to enhance the serenity of the island's natural surroundings. The Brandos ethos is inspiring: offer out of this world, authentic luxury and soul-enriching experiences in an environmentally sustainable and culturally rich way. The Brandos commitment to preserving and protecting the wondrous beauty and biodiversity of Tetiaroa expands to Polynesian culture itself, with its unique hospitality and traditions taking center stage at this magnificent spot. This is the ultimate private island, from feasting on fresh fruits grown in the islands orchards, enjoying shellfish prepared by a Michelin-starred chef, or indulging in a native spa treatment high up in the treescape, it will be hard to leave this slice of heaven. Expert Tip: Fly in by private air charter.

Rates from $3,066 per villa per night. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

3 Miavana: Madagascar

Madagascar is off the grid and home to an unbelievable 80% of extraordinary endemic greenery and plant-life found nowhere else on Earth. A stay at the heavenly Miavana, set to the dramatic backdrop of the Nosy Ankao archipelago, means experiencing truly unchartered territory. Miavana is an ideal private island escape thats set in over 37,000 acres of protected marine territory. Only 14 private villas comprise the island's accommodations, and a stay at this luxurious eco-lodge is right out of a Robinson Crusoe reverie.

Miavana is wild and isolated. A stay here will ignite the explorer in you, with days spent delving into lush tropical rainforests teeming with lemurs and watching turtles nest on pristine white beaches. So remote its only accessible by helicopter, this stunning lodge is the perfect starting point to explore the wealth of azure blue bays, beaches and hidden lagoons. The magic comes to life with activities like scuba diving, snorkeling from your villa and whale and dolphin watching excursions. If you want to unwind, theres no finer place to do it than at their world class spa. Accommodations are unparalleled here, and you dont sacrifice luxury for off the grid exploration. Miavana oozes elegance with award-winning architecture that seamlessly integrates barefoot luxury with European renaissance. Every secluded villa boasts private pools, ocean views and direct private access to the beach.

Rates from $2,500 per night, all inclusive. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

4 Petit St Vincent: Grenadines

If your goal is to fully disconnect on an exceptional private island, Petit St. Vincent is a must. Petit St. Vincent sits peacefully 40 miles south of St Vincent in the Grenadines and is accessible by private plane and boat. Once here, you will discover a deliberate absence of TV and internet in the cottages to encourage unfettered immersion in all the wonders the island has to offer. Unique to this haven is a flagpole system outside each villa, where attentive butlers will come by for room service, cocktails, to book a massage or anything travelers desire. Villas here are tastefully decorated with plush beds, loungers, indoor and outdoor dining areas, sun decks and some even have beachfront gardens.

In a nod to heritage, villas here are constructed with local materials to discreetly blend into the landscape and are replete with panoramic views of the ocean. The islands on-site PADI diving instructor will get you ready for a deep plunge into the abyss, and the property has a private boat thats perfect for nearby island-hopping or a champagne picnic on a deserted beach. Unwind at Petit St Vincents stimulating treetop luxury spa with therapeutic massages and facials and for yogis, beachside morning sessions are a great way to start the day. Lauded for top notch service, fresh local cuisine and utter seclusion, this is truly one of the best island getaways out there.

Rates from $1,100 per day; includes 3 gourmet meals, butler service and use of all non-motorized water sports and island facilities. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

5 Tagomago Island: Spain

Secluded, private islands in the Mediterranean arent a common site, but the ultra-luxurious and secluded Tagomago hits all the high notes. Just a 10-minute helicopter ride from the bustle of Ibiza to a private helipad, this setting could not seem more far flung from the Ibiza scene. Perfect for those who want to party on Ibiza and then unwind in utter seclusion, this epic hilltop estate is surrounded by turquoise blue waters and skies and a completely isolated, private beach. Severe, rocky cliffs are home to an extravagant, elegantly appointed 5 bedroom villa, with dramatic terraces and views of the Mediterranean Sea from all angles, and best experienced poolside.

You can even (safely) see Ibiza from a distanceand relax while doing it. Take a walk down the bucolic country paths, nature reserve and bird sanctuary on site. Theres even your very own private beach club with a full restaurant and bar at your disposal. Rest assured, you wont be on your ownthe property comes complete with a full staff including an Island Manager, private chef, kitchen staff, housekeeping, butlers, and even a captain for tender. Tagomago is perfect for underwater exploration of the Mediterranean, with deep cliffs and coves teeming with barracudas, exotic fish and even sharks. We'll admit, it's hard to figure out what this property doesnt havebecause at your disposal is a Mangusta yacht, 2 boats and a helicopter for easy transfer to and from Ibiza.

Rates from $218,000 for seven nights; all inclusive and sleeps up to 10 guests. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

6 Mnemba Island Lodge: Zanzibar

If the goal is to get lost amid unpretentious beachfront luxury, head to Mnemba Island, picturesquely situated on the pristine Indian Ocean. A place that was made for romance, envisage fragrant sea breezes stirring canopied beds in your beachside Banda. Flanked by white coral sloping into the turquoise Indian Ocean, the 11 secluded Bandas are a perfect place to stare off into the distance in the privacy of your own beach sala and plush Zanzibari sun bed.

Bandas are delicately composed with soft natural fabrics, traditional woodcarvings, magnificent stone showers and all with the quite necessary luxury of a personal butler. Sea kayaking in this island paradise is a must, and diving doesnt get any better than the fully stocked PADI dive center, where you will uncover marvels like giant turtles, vibrant tropical fish, and prehistoric giant turtles. The food here is fresh and fun with locally sourced fruit, fish, lobsters, crabs and prawns arriving every morning. Take a long walk on the beach and return to an amorous candlelit dinner on the beach as the sun sets in all its glory.

Rates from $1,270 per person; includes 3 meals, select spirits wine and beer, water sports and transfers. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

7 Four Seasons Maldives: Voavah, Baa Atoll

If you want to, literally, have it all then hard stop at The Four Seasons Private Island in the Maldives, the first exclusive-use UNESCO retreat. The supremely luxurious Voavah island has all the Four Seasons luxuries one expects, but this property takes all inclusive to the next level, with access to a 7 bedroom luxury resort, a 92-foot mega yacht and multiple poolsall in a maritime area that is inaccessible to anyone else. The Beach House is stellar, set up with a formal dining room, library, gym and pool deck.

The food here is locally sourced, exceptional and chefs will cater to your every whim. The on-site yacht, Voavah Summer, is a perfect base to deep dive into the Maldives and meet some of the robust population of manta rays who call it home. This private island escape is truly best in class as can be seen with the expertly curated staff that includes an on-site doctor, Beach House Maitre D, therapist and yogi, yacht captain and, of course, diving and snorkeling instructors.

Rates from $46,360 per night; all inclusive, accommodating up to 22 guests. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

8 Orpheus Island: Australia

Seemingly out of a Jurassic Park set, Orpheus Island is the most secluded island in the Great Barrier Reef and home to a protected, densely forested national park that houses dazzling wildlife like echidnas, bandicoots, vibrant tree frogs, ospreys and sea eagles. Renting out the island ensures the utmost privacy. Here, guided scuba and snorkeling excursions in the coral reefs surrounding the island happen via the resorts custom-built dive boat.

Rooms, suites and villas all face the mesmerizing Hazard Bay beach and can accommodate up to 42 guests, making this an idyllic corporate retreat for those in the know. The chef prepares a fresh, daily-changing selection of contemporary, locally-sourced, freshly-caught seasonal fare paired with some of the regions most inventive and stunning local wines. Pro tip: take your dinner under starlight on the islands private jetty or set sail to a secluded bay. Its absolutely worth a visit to the day spa, and splurge on the 3-hour long Sacred Spa Journey, a restorative must. For added serenity, ask for the massage portion to be performed on the beach. Pure bliss.

Rates from $189,605 for seven nights, all inclusive, exclusive use of the island. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

9 Calala Island: Nicaragua

Unknown to most, The Caribbean side of Nicaragua is less developed and offers a quieter, more unspoiled coastline to relish. Enter Calalathis exceptional private island is nestled in the undiscovered part of Nicaraguas Caribbean Coast. This is one of the best properties in the entire country, so much so that it's worth scooping up all four suites.

Calala embodies discreet, Caribbean charm with furnishings designed by leading architect, Matthew Falkiner, using the finest handcrafted furniture from the local craftsmen. The Caribbean is not often associated with fine dining, but thats not the case here. Calala takes its food seriously with Executive Chef, Tom Morrell, leading the charge. This is the place to unwind, disconnect and take in a cocktail on any of the beaches that encompass the entire island. Service here is out of this world, with a team of 25 Calala-lalas (aka staff) for a maximum of 10 guests. A staff member for every 2-3 guests? Thats quite a ratio.

Rates by request. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

10 Amanwana: Indonesia

Amanwana is set in a dreamscape on the protected nature and marine reserve of Moyo Island. Just east of Bali, the island is surrounded by breathtaking turquoise waters and untouched reefs, making it the perfect set backdrop for diving and snorkeling. This is the private island for unheard-of nature excursions, and several starkly contrasting environments, from the savannah to tropical jungle and waterfalls. Amazing animal spotting abounds, with wild boar, macaque monkeys, sea eagles, osprey and indigenous Rusa Deer.

20 luxurious tents comprise Amanwana with a few options: beach-front tents steps from the ocean, or secluded tents deep in the jungle canopy. For the best of both worlds, book part of your stay in each. Tents are uber-luxurious (think glamping) and all come air conditioned for when it gets too balmy. Since youre already there, book an excursion on the Amanikan luxury cruiser to Komodo Island and keep your eyes peeled for the mythical Komodo dragon.

Rates from $550 per night for two people. BOOK

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Go here to read the rest:

The 10 Best Private Islands in the WorldAnd Where to Find Them - HarpersBAZAAR.com