Category Archives: Private Islands

When most folks think of Texas in the summertime, visions of barbecue, Lone Star-shaped swimming pools, and Texas chainsaw massacres might come to mindbut how about dolphins, rocket launches, and sandcastles the size of actual castles? The states barrier islands might surprise you.

What the keys are to Florida, the barrier islands are to Texas: a 234-mile string of islands that hug the Gulf of Mexico coast, made primarily of sand built up over thousands of years from tidal ebb and flow, ranging in size from four miles to the largest barrier island on Earth. There are seven main islands in total, and just like Snow Whites Seven Dwarfs, each one has a totally distinct personality, from the touristy trappings of Galveston to the utter solitude of San Jose.

No matter your summer beach vibe of choice, Texas barrier islands deliver. Want some R&R on a remote beach populated almost exclusively by seagulls? You got it. Want to go kayaking in a national park? Thats a distinct possibility. Want to eat foot-long corn dogs and mermaid soup? You can and you shouldand rest assured no mermaids were harmed in the making of either of those delicacies. Heres your guide to Texas barrier islands.

Galveston

The northernmost barrier island, and by far the most popular with more than 7 million annual visitors, Galvestons reputation as a summertime beach destination for Texans can largely be chalked up to its proximity to nearby-ish Houston. Although it has somewhat of a campy reputation thanks to its Pleasure Pier boardwalk, eccentric mini golf courses, sea turtle statues in Lisa Frank colors, and pyramid-shaped aquarium, giving it sort of an Atlantic City of the south aesthetic, Galveston actually has a lot going for it. As evidenced by those previously stated attractions, the 27-mile island is far and away Texas quirkiest barrier island, teeming with endearing kitsch, historic architecture, and larger-than-life nautical lore. After all, a city with lofty nicknames like Playground of the South and Ellis Island of the West is bound to at least be intriguing.

The most hard-to-miss attraction, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a mammoth boardwalk lined with carnival games and enough rides to fill a theme park, including the Iron Shark Rollercoaster and the Pirates Plunge flume ride. For something a bit more subdued, The Grand 1894 Opera House is an ornate institution, home to popular productions like Charles Dickens

A Christmas Carol. The theater harkens to the islands earliest days, when Galveston first emerged as a primary shipping and immigration port in the 1800s. Nearby is The Strand, Galvestons historic, bayside district filled with Victorian and Greek Revival architecture. You'll also find the tall ship Elissa, an 1877 vessel that now serves as a floating museum of maritime history. Further south on the island, Jamaica Beach offers a quieter reprieve from the touristy clamor, for those looking to soak up the sun without being cast under the shadow of the Galaxy Wheel.

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Follets Island

Next up on the coastal rosterand basically the antithesis of Galveston in terms of hustle and bustleFollets Island is a smaller, 13-mile island thats largely untouched and undeveloped, save for some remote beach houses that look like the ideal rental for introverts.

The entire island is one big beach, most of which is quiet and wide-open, providing ample opportunity for swimming, beach camping, fishing, and BYO kayaking. Seeing as the beach is largely undeveloped and open, its entirely free to visit and camp, and horseback riding is also allowed on the beach. Whatever your chill activity of choice, be mindful of sea turtles; give them a wide berth if you spot one, and report sightings to local marine authorities by calling 1-866-TURTLE-5 to help protect them.

Matagorda Island

If you thought Follets Island was quiet, just wait until you see whats next. Further south, Matagorda Island is the most remote island, a 38-mile stretch of solitude only accessible by boat. A far cry from the shrieking thrill rides of Galveston, Matagorda is largely comprised of the Matagorda Island National Wildlife Refuge and State Natural Area.

For visitors who have a private boat, or are able to charter one, the car-free island is a beachy bastion for rugged campers willing to forgo the niceties of electricity and running water. As wild as a season of Survivor, this is an undeveloped place preserved for primitive activities like saltwater fishing and huntingfor those with a valid hunting license, 20,000 acres of land are open to deer and waterfowl, just as long as you keep in mind that whooping cranes, which occasionally flock to the area, are endangered and protected. At night, thanks to its remoteness and lack of light pollution, stargazing is a popular pastime out here too.

San Jose Island

Equally as undeveloped as Matagorda, yet decidedly easier to access, San Jose Island is the next barrier island on the docket. Its immediately north of populated Port Aransas on Mustang Island, where a ferry takes visitors back and forth all day, offering 21 miles of undeveloped beachfront, excellent fishing for redfish and trout (especially off the craggy edge of the North Jetty), and endless beach combing for seashell groupies. Cars are also prohibited on San Jose, which is entirely protected as a sanctuary for wildlife of both the nautical and four-legged varietiesdue to the islands history as a former ranch, wild cattle roam the island, and its not uncommon to see cows on the beach.

As quiet and untouched as the island seems today, its actually rich with Texas history. This was the first site to fly the American flag on Texas soil, when a lieutenant swam ashore from the USS Alabama and planted it in the sand in 1845. A short-lived town on the island, called Aransas, was razed by Union forces in the Civil War. In 1935, wealthy oil magnate Sid Richardson established a miles-long ranch and estate, where he once wined and dined with the likes of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Said estate is long gone, but riches may or may not remainlegend has it the island contains actual buried treasure from pirate Jean Lafitte. Ahoy!

Mustang Island

While San Jose offers remote solitude and potential pirate riches, the island on the other side of Aransas Pass is a haven of seafood restaurants, margaritas, beachside festivals, and Easter egg-colored cottages. Mustang Island is a mecca for families and spring breakers alike, especially in the city of Port Aransas that comprises most of the 18-mile island. The pirate Jean Lafitte used to frequent the island, arguably making him the original spring breaker. And while you likely wont find buried treasure here, youre sure to find treasures of other kindslike award-winning sand sculptures, adrenaline-pumping jet ski jaunts, and all the shrimp and redfish you can eat.

For a town with a year round population of about 3,000, Port Aransas is surprisingly happening and delightfully quirky. For instance, Texas SandFest is an annual springtime attraction that features carnival-style snacks, live music, and epic sand sculptures right on the beach. It's an ideal place to scarf foot-long corn dogs and funnel cakes while marveling at giant sand castles as intricately detailed as an actual castle.

Further north on the island, this is one of the few beaches where you can literally drive your car on the sand, making it convenient for heavy-duty fishermen, while seafood-centric restaurants abound further inland. Just about every place on the island offers top-tier fish and seafood, perhaps best exemplified by Lisabellas. The beachy-chic restaurant sits in a bougie community called Cinnamon Shore (named for the fact that Port Aransas beaches look like theyre swirled with cinnamon). There you can pair on-trend espresso martinis with cheesy baked oysters, pancetta-wrapped shrimp, and something called Mermaid Soup: a curried medley of lobster-coconut broth and shrimpand mercifully, no mermaids.

To fully immerse yourself in the action-packed island, though, you need to get out on the water, and by that we mean go on a guided jet ski romp. Gettin Salty Watersports takes visitors out into the bay and to a couple seashell-strewn islands, with lots of thrilling dolphin sightings along the way.

Padre Island

The next island is not only Texas largest, it's also the largest barrier island in the world. Clocking in at a casual 113 miles, Padre Island is bookended by Corpus Christi and Padre Island National Seashore on the north and beach bars and theme park rides on the south. Naturally, an island larger than the state of Delaware is bound to have a wide array of attractions, and Padre Island is the kind of something-for-everyone enclave that runs the gamut from urban outings to all-natural tranquility and nature preserves.

Divvied into North Padre Island and South Padre Island, separated by the Port Mansfield Channel, the top half starts with Corpus Christi, the most populated area in the region. From the Selena Museum and the Texas State Aquarium to beachside breweries and guided tours aboard the USS Lexington, theres no shortage of sights to drink in here. North Padre is also home to a national park site, Padre Island National Seashore, the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world and proof that that whole everythings bigger in Texas slogan isnt always an eye-rolling cliche. The 66-mile park protects sea turtles and hundreds of bird species, and its an ideal haven for fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, and primitive tent camping in the sand.

On the southern side of the channel, South Padre is known equally as a family-friendly getaway and a collegiate spring break staple. It's swarming with beach bars (including Claytons, the largest beach bar in the state), live music, carnival rides, an enormous water park, and Gravity Park, a theme park with some seriously intense attractions, including the tallest reverse-bungee in the world. You can also embark on a standup paddle board tour with Eh Brah SUP, slurp painkillers and margaritas on the bay at the Painted Marlin Grille, and go on a seafood spree with coconut shrimp, crab-stuffed mushrooms, broiled red snapper, and seafood enchiladas at Sea Ranch Restaurant. Of course, with this much mileage of coastline, there are plenty of beaches to choose from, too, like Isla Blanca park and South Padre Bayside Beach.

Brazos Island

The last barrier island is also the teeniest. Brazos Island is a diminutive four-mile island, home to 217 undeveloped acres of seaside wilderness. Located just north of the mouth of the Rio Grande, its a peaceful retreat for swimming, fishing, bird watching, hopeful dolphin-spotting, and camping.

Aside from that, the main draw here nowadays is Elon Musks SpaceX launch facility, which set up shop on the Boca Chita peninsula. There visitors can watch the worlds richest manand the god of Twittershow off his billions by blasting rockets into space.

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These Islands Are Like the Florida Keys of Texas - Thrillist

World's most unique arrival to the Brgenstock Hotel Photo courtesy of Brgenstock Hotels AG

The old saying, Its not about the destination, its about the journey, isnt always true. Sometimes it's both. And a water arrival could be just the thing to level up your next vacation. Heres a look at a few resorts that you can reach via an adventure on the water.

Arriving to the island of Nevis Photo courtesy of Nevis Island

Nevis is one of the most unspoiled islands in the Caribbean. With blue skies and empty beaches, Nevis has a pace that encourages you to stop and take in all of its beauty.

After arriving in St. Kitts, hop on a Four Seasons Resort Nevis transfer service. Then, head off on a breathtaking and scenic 15-minute ride to Christophe Harbour. There, enjoy a drink before boarding a Four Seasons speedboat to the resort, with spectacular views of Nevis Peak.

Most public boats, small cruise ships and ferries also travel to Charlestown (the capital), where its easy to find transportation to other hotels.

If you want to travel on your own schedule, book a water taxi from Reggae Beach, on the southeast peninsula of St. Kitts, and dock at Oualie Bay, on the north of the island.

Arriving by panga to Finch Bay Resort Photo courtesy of Ava Roxanne Stritt

Finch Bay Resort is all about nature and this begins before you even arrive. The journey to the resort allows you to witness all that this remarkable location has to offer.

After arriving to the Galapagos Islands, its time to journey to Finch Bay. Your luggage is whisked away, and your guide helps you load up into the resorts own panga.

The hotel is located in a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, and a panga ride there is a fitting arrival to one of the most unique places on the planet. Bonus: While arriving by water, you may actually see the blue-footed booby and be able to check it off your must-see list.

Enjoy the views on the way to Brgenstock Hotel Photo courtesy of Ava Roxanne Stritt

Brgenstock is perched on the top of a mountain that you can see in the distance as you jump on the ferry to take you across Lake Lucerne. During your journey to this dreamy Swiss destination, you'll see stunning Medieval architecture and snowcapped mountains.

Your journey doesnt stop there. Once you reach the shore, you must get to the top of the mountain resort by funicular, a type of cable railway system.

The hotel, in the heart of central Switzerland, feels like a fantasy world, with private residence suites, four luxury hotels, nine restaurants and bars, two spa areas and one remarkable wellness center.

Arrival to your own private island Cayo Espanto Photo courtesy of Ava Roxanne Stritt

Cayo Espanto is located on its own private four-acre island, just seven minutes by boat from San Pedro. Its the ultimate luxury goal a vacation to a private island.

Once you land in San Pedro, your houseman meets you at the plane. You are escorted to a golf cart, which will bring you to your own private boat, stocked with towels and water. This scenic ride takes you to your villa.

Chilled towels and cocktails upon arrival Photo courtesy of Ava Roxanne Stritt

When I visited Cayo Espanto, the staff was ready and waiting for us by our private dock, refreshing drinks in hand. Every last detail was accounted for, from wrapping cocktails in cloth napkins to carrying your luggage from the boat to the bungalow. All we had to do was relax and enjoy.

Helicopter to Casa Vieja Photo courtesy of Ava Roxanne Stritt

Imagine arriving at a boutique, luxury lodge not in the water, but above the water in a private helicopter. Thats how you start this Guatemalan vacation.

A helicopter brings you to Guatemala's Casa Vieja Lodge and arrives waterside near the marina. This is only appropriate, as Casa Vieja combines unbeatable fishing with high-quality hospitality. In fact, it's considered the most luxurious, all-inclusive fishing lodge in the world.

Anglers who choose the helicopter upon arrival in Guatemala City also have the opportunity for a thrilling, 45-minute tour. It takes you past the volcanos (Pacaya, Agua, Fuego), ancient Antigua and marina before you land at the lodge.

Bimini feels a world away Photo courtesy of Resorts World Bimini

Travel by sea to your personal playground, Resorts World Bimini, only a two-hour ride from Fort Lauderdale on the Balearia Caribbean ferry. Enjoy drinks and snacks on the scenic ride. Or up the luxury and arrive on your own personal yacht.

This resort is only 50 nautical miles offshore from Miami, but it feels a world away. Bimini is the closest Bahamian island to the coastal United States.

Glide over the calm Gulf Stream waters and then step off on the resorts private marina or the Hilton Dock, steps away with direct access to the Lagoon Pool from water to water. No vacation time is wasted when the journey is half the fun.

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Arrive by water at these 6 incredible hotels and resorts - USA Today 10Best

Trigger Warning: this article deals with allegations of sexual assaultand may be triggering to some readers.

No matter how invested in celebrity culture you are, by now, youve likely seen the headlines detailing the trial between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard.

Making news globally, all eyes have been on the former couple as the defamation lawsuit unfolds in Virginia, US. Depp, 58, is suing Heard, 35, for USD $50 million (AUD $67 million) alleging she devastated his career in the wake of a 2018 op-ed she wrote for the Washington Post where she described herself as a public figure representing domestic abuse.

A counterclaim for USD $100 million (AUD $134 million) has also been filed by Heard against her ex-husband.

If the media coverage wasnt enough to satiate public interest in the trial, a documentary, titled Johnny Vs Amber, covering the couples romance, split and lawsuits is now set to air on the Discovery Channel.

The synopsis for the two-part documentary reads: Johnny vs. Amber takes audiences to the very genesis of this tragic union. This public account of he said/she said began when Johnny Depp brought a libel case against News Group Newspapers Ltd. in the UK, specifically suing The Sun for calling him a 'wife-beater.' Depp ultimately lost that case.

It continues: This two-part documentary takes a deep dive into the original trial from two polarized perspectives. Featuring interviews with legal experts on all sides of the proceedings, as well as family, friends, and associates of both Depp and Heard; the first hour is devoted to a deep dive into Depp's account of events while in hour two there is a dedicated look at the evidence and accusations presented by Heard.

So far, the trial has revealed intimate and startling details about the couples relationship which first began in 2012 before marrying in 2015 on Depps private islands in the Bahamas.

On the first day of proceedings, Heard's attorney, Ben Rottenborn, claimed Depp is "an obsessed ex-husband hellbent on revenge."

"For years, all Mr. Depp has wanted to do is humiliate Amber, to haunt her, to wreck her career," he said in his opening statement.

Meanwhile, Depp's attorneys alleged that Heard had falsely represented herself as a "virtuous representative of innocent women".

"The evidence will show that was a lie."

For all the details on the trial and allegations, you can read our piece here.

The Johnny Vs Amber documentary will premiere Thursday, 26 May at 9.30pm AEST on ID which can be accessed through Foxtel with a 10 day free trial, here.

If you are experiencing sexual abuse or other unwanted behaviour, please contactFull Stop Australiaor call1800RESPECT.

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Where To Watch The 'Johnny Depp Vs Amber Heard' Documentary In Australia - Marie Claire

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'What a lovely couple!' former president says weighing in on ongoing trial

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Amber Heards former best friend and her sister were among the witnesses who testified Wednesday as they sought to help prove her claims that her former husband Johnny Depp was abusive during their five-year relationship.

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Raquel Pennington, a onetime close friend of Heards, said she was frightened for the Aquaman stars physical safety as she recounted details from the aftermath of some of the couples alleged fights.

I was scared for Amber, she tearfully said in a pre-recorded deposition. I was sad for her and I was also sad for Johnny because he is my friend too, and I really wanted them to be able to get it together.

Pennington testified that she never saw Depp hit Heard, but that she saw evidence of abuse following incidents of alleged physical assault.

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There were many times that I saw injuries on her, Pennington said, adding that she had seen very, very long, deep cuts on Heards arm following the pairs alleged fight while Depp was shooting Pirates of the Caribbean 5 in Australia in 2015.

During that trip, Heard has claimed Depp beat her and sexually assaulted her with a bottle, while he maintains she abused him and severed his fingertip.

After another fight in December 2015, Pennington said she observed a bloody patch with hair missing on Heards scalp. Pennington also declared that Heard had sustained a black eye, a swollen nose and a busted lip.

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Depp, 58, is suing Heard for $50 million, saying she smeared him in a 2018 op-ed for The Washington Post when she claimed she was a victim of domestic abuse.

Heard, 36, is counter-suing for $100 million, claiming that Depp defamed her by calling her a liar.

Later on, Heards sister Whitney Henriquez continued to try and paint a portrait of an unhinged, drug-addicted Depp when she took the stand in Fairfax County, Va. We all thought Johnny would get better, she said, adding that she had observed bruising and weird marks on her (sisters) arms.

During one fight, the actor was screaming like an animal and Henriquez woke the next morning to find the place was destroyed.

After a getaway to Hicksville Trailer Palace in Joshua Tree, Calif., Henriquez described the scene after an argument in an Airstream trailer. I went to my sisters trailer and it looked like a bomb went off in there it looked like someone had ransacked it, she said.

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If he was using or if he was drinking, there was almost always a fight, she asserted.

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In 2013, when her beau arranged an overseas flight to surprise Heard for her birthday in England, Henriquez described how a drunken Depp picked up a steak knife and hurled it at his assistant and called his soon-to-be wife a slimy whore.

They fought and got back together, Henriquez said of their tumultuous relationship adding that they seemed really in love when they first got together in 2011.

Echoing Heards portrayal of Depp as a jealous partner, Henriquez said Depp would ramble about my sister having affairs and questioned why she wanted to work. He began to try and control how she would look at various red carpets as well. Eventually they had the same stylist, and he was essentially controlling what she wore to events, Henriquez said.

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Elsewhere, Henriquez alleged Depp hit her, which prompted Heard to lash out at the Edward Scissorhands star, screaming, Dont hit my fing sister.

But Henriquez said that despite Heards assertion that she was the victim of domestic violence her sister just wants to move on. Her reputation is all she has, she doesnt have piles of money and private islands, Henriquez said.

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Elizabeth Marz, a friend of Heards, took to the stand late Wednesday and told jurors via video that she was personally scared of Depp following a purported row that took place between the couple in May 2016.

The one interaction I had with him was frightening to me.

When he took the stand last month, Depp was forced to admit his past drug use, but he alleged that Heard abused him and severed the tip of his finger.

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She has a need for violence. It erupts out of nowhere, Depp said.

With the defamation trial still ongoing, former U.S. President Donald Trump took a swipe at the proceedings through his Truth Social platform.

Has anybody been watching the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard trial? What a lovely couple! First of all, Johnny sued her for writing an article in a tiny outlet, that practically nobody read, because he didnt want to get bad publicity. How did that work out? She counter-sued for $100 million, Trump said mocking Heards op-ed in The Washington Post. The charges are many & salacious, the nicest of which is that she threw a bottle at him and it took off his finger She must have a Sandy Koufax type arm. Will they get back together and live happily in PEACE?

The trial is expected to continue until the end of the month.

mdaniell@postmedia.com

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Amber Heard's former pal and sister paint terrifying portrait of Johnny Depp as Trump weighs in on trial - Toronto Sun

Miami is a beautiful city, but sometimes day trips are calling your name, and you're just itching to explore and seek more adventure.

The Magic City is located in a spot that's close enough to different islands, beaches, and even preserves leaving you nothing short of an exciting plan when you just want to get out of town.

A widely known roadblock in a day is how much time each activity takes, so we made sure to find super unique spots that are just about three hours to get to, making it the perfect day trip for you, your friends, and your family.

Price: Free

Address: Jupiter Island, Florida

Why You Need To Go: Blowing Rocks Preserve looks like a beach that would be in California or the Pacific Northwest with all of its gorgeous rocky landscape. It's only about 2 hours and a couple of minutes from the city.

Website

Price: Free

Address: Downtown Fort Lauderdale

Why You Need To Go: Las Olas is considered Fort Lauderdale's downtown area and is the perfect place to find cool art, exciting nightlife, and exquisite restaurants. It kind of has a similar vibe to Miami and is located along the Intracoastal. It is about an hour and a couple of minutes north.

Website

Price: Prices vary depending on how you get there.

Address: Country in the Caribbean

Why You Need To Go: The Bahamas, no doubt, has breathtaking scenery, and there's so much to do in the Caribbean, like hanging out with pigs in crystal blue water on the beach. It takes about three hours to get here depending on your transportation from Miami, and two hours to get to the Bimini Islands.

Website

Price: Free

Address: Melbourne, FL

Why You Need To Go: Melbourne was recently named one of the best cities to live in the U.S. You can visit Kennedy Space Center and learn about NASA or visit the beach. Florida's Space Coast is a little over three hours. It's just a half-hour stretch longer to get there from Miami.

Website

Price: $30 for a boat ride, or you can go by air.

Address: The northern end of Pine Island Sound in Lee County, FL

Why You Need To Go: This is a private island, but non-members are allowed to visit and spend the day there. You can visit cottages, hang out at the beach, head to the museum... and, if you're lucky, you might see dolphins! This island is in Lee County which is about three hours and 20 minutes from Miami.

Website

Price: Free to enter the city

Address: Marco Island, FL

Why You Need To Go: Marco Island has tons of adventures, like taking boat tours and seeing dolphins, sea shelling, and even kayaking through mangrove tunnels. It is about two hours and a couple of minutes west.

Website

Price: Free to go to the city

Address: The Florida Keys

Why You Need To Go: Islamorada is known for fishing, you can have an out-of-this-world snorkeling trip, and even shop around cute boutiques. It's in the Florida Keys and is about 2 hours and ten minutes south of the city.

Website

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

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7 Adventurous Day Trips From Miami That Will Get You Out Of The City & Are About 3 Hours - Narcity Canada

One of Thailand's last untouched islands, Koh Yao Yai is located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay halfway between Phuket and Krabi.

Bangkok, Thailand - Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, is expanding its Thailand footprint with the addition of Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort slated to open in December 2022.

One of Thailand's last untouched islands, Koh Yao Yai is located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay halfway between Phuket and Krabi. On the quiet but characterful Koh Yao Yai island, where the pace of life is slow and relaxed, guests can enjoy traditional Thai culture, southern culinary delights and beaches lined with coconut and palm trees.

In addition to island-hopping, snorkelling and diving in waters rich in coral and marine life, guests can observe the native hornbill birds, enjoy a short boat trip to Birds Nest Island or enjoy a tuk-tuk tour of the coconut and rubber plantations, and local fishing villages the backbone of the islands economy.

Occupying a tranquil space on the waters edge, the 148-key Anantara Koh Yao Yai offers a pristine island getaway. The resorts one kilometre of white sandy beach is set against a backdrop of the towering limestone formations that rise out of the waters of Phang Nga Bay, with one- and two-bedroom beachfront pool villas sitting right on the beach. Spacious suites housed in four low-rise buildings, all with ocean views, overlook a freeform swimming pool, start at 90 square metres, with signature Deluxe Seaview Suites promising deep relaxation with a colour palette of soft indigo, muted ultramarine and sandy tones. Eight 366 square-metre Seaview Pool Penthouses offer two floors of ultimate luxury with one also housing a stunning glass bottom swimming pool. Each penthouse has a large outdoor entertainment area perfect for dining or private gatherings of family or friends all with stunning views of the surrounding islands.

In the bright and airy Grand Seaview Family Suites, the youngest guests will find a thrilling playground inside the room with their very own slide and play area, as well as two-tiered bunk beds. Meanwhile, nestled amid blooming gardens are 170-square-metre Lagoon Pool Villas that come with a private plunge pool, wooden sundeck, outdoor dining area and a host of luxury amenities.

Dining options will include an ocean-facing dining restaurant serving produce-driven Thai/Asian dishes, an all-day lobby restaurant and bar with an international menu that will evolve with the seasons and a pool bar. For families, a vibrant space with popsicles, sodas and pizza, and a sophisticated spot to while away the hours with a chilled sundowner for adults. An organic farm onsite provides the restaurants with daily fresh fruit, vegetables and spices.

When completed, Anantara Koh Yao Yais recreational facilities will include a family pool with a kids-only splash area and a large indoor-outdoor kids club, intimate meeting spaces, a state of the art fitness centre and a water sports centre. In addition to extensive wet facilities such as a hydro pool and hammam.

The announcement of this latest addition to our Thailand collection of resorts, developed in partnership with Soraya Development, sends a clear signal about our commitment to the industry, said Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels. With travel and hospitality sectors in Thailand and elsewhere set for a rebound, destinations like Koh Yao Yai that combine seclusion, easy access to pristine nature and authentic local experiences, are destined to benefit from a surge in demand with global travellers.

We are extremely excited to partner with Minor Hotels and to launch the first Anantara in the Phang Nga Bay area, commented Mr. Sornkom Kitprasan, President, Soraya Development Company Limited. This project was created with passion. I have given consideration to each detail of each workpiece since its inception. There was overwhelming interest from experienced operators vying to acquire the right to manage this unique project, but we chose Anantara Hotels and Resorts due to its stellar reputation and experience as a five-star luxury global hospitality brand."

Phuket International Airport is the closest aviation hub to Anantara Koh Yao Yai and can be reached by a combination of speedboat and car rides. The resort will also have its own private jetty allowing easy access for guests transfers from Phuket or Krabi airport.

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Anantara Hotels and Resorts announces stunning new-build on Thailand's untouched island paradise of Koh Yao Yai - TravelDailyNews Asia-Pacific

With the summer, and hopefully, the warmer weather approaching, it's time to start planning the ultimate trip.

With thousands heading to the Highlands and islands, it could get a little crowded, while travelling abroad might still feel a little unsafe.

Thankfully, you don't have to go far from the central belt to find the perfect place to stay.

Lying just an hour's drive from Glasgow, in the picturesque village of Wemyss Bay (pronounced weems) recently named one of the most romantic in the country you'll find an incredible Manor House.

Not only does this unique stay offer incredible sea views, it even comes with its own private outdoor swimming pool.

Northcliff Manor boasts space for eight guests, a hot tub, sweeping sea views out to Bute - and most importantly, a sizeable outdoor pool transporting guests away from gloomy Scotland to the warmer climes of the continent.

But it's not just about the outside, the period property is filled with character on the inside too.

The striking property has been a huge hit with guests, garnering rave reviews and a stellar 4.88 rating.

Perhaps understandably, given the inconsistencies of Scottish weather, the pool is only in use on seasonal basis, from June to September, with all those dates for 2022 fully booked up.

However, according to the calendar, if you wanted to plan in advance, you could land yourself a poolside spot for next year.

When we checked on Airbnb, we found a week's stay in this fabulous Weymss Bay property costs 500 a night.

To see the listing in full and for more photos of this Scottish west coast beauty, click here.

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The stunning Scots Airbnb with private outdoor pool, hot tub and sea views - Daily Record

The prime minister has been asked to explain why a private jet was allowed to leave the UK for Russia after a flight ban had been imposed.

Boris Johnson was quizzed during Prime Minister's Questions about a private chartered flight from Inverness Airport to Moscow, which took place a day after the Russian flight ban came into force.

SNP MP Richard Thomson said in the Commons: "Air traffic control transcripts published this week have revealed that despite being informed of the intended flight, no attempt was made by the UK government, or its agencies, to prevent the plane from taking off.

"Will the prime minister commit to informing the house at the earliest opportunity: who was travelling on that flight; why, despite being informed in advance of the flight, was no attempt made by the UK government to keep the plane on the ground; and what will the prime minister personally do to try and prevent any similar breaches of sanctions from happening in the future?"

The Learjet 60, operated by the company Panaviatic, flew from Inverness on 26 February to Moscow's Vnukovo Airport.

Exactly who was on board the flight remains a mystery.

Questions to the prime minister follow a letter from SNP MPs to the UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps demanding an explanation into who authorised the flight, despite a Notice of Air Missions (NOTAM) aimed at preventing flights of its kind.

Drew Hendry, the SNP MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, highlighted reports in the Press and Journal newspaper of a memo confirming UK government approval of the flight and the apparent conflict with the transport secretary accusing Inverness Airport of "failing to comply" with the NOTAM regulations.

Mr Hendry said: "The UK transport secretary must first apologise for scapegoating Inverness Airport and set the record straight that it was his department that authorised the flight.

"He must then answer the pressing questions over why this flight was allowed to take off and who and what was on it.

"These are important questions following a raft of reports showing how much Russian money is swilling about Tory coffers."

Read more: Transport secretary in bizarre promotional video by government for 'Great British Rail Sale'

Highland and Islands Airports Ltd, the operator of Inverness Airport, said it had acted in accordance with the regulations.

It said: "We carried out the instructions received from the authorities at the time, to the letter. Our actions were correct and appropriate, and this has been borne out by an examination of the record."

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "It is entirely incorrect to claim the transport secretary authorised this specific flight. Inverness Airport did not contact the Department for Transport before the flight left.

"A NOTAM was issued on 25 February by the NATS on behalf of the UK government informing all aviation stakeholders. It is the responsibility of all operators, including Inverness airport, to ensure they are monitoring NOTAMs and complying with the restrictions."

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SNP calls for Boris Johnson to explain why private jet was allowed to leave UK for Russia despite flight ban - Sky News

The pine-shaded island is criss-crossed with nature trails, and while it doesnt have beaches per se, there are secretive rocky coves aplenty. The real fun, however, is to be had at sea; water and jet skiing, paddle boarding, canoeing, fishing and more.

In high summer the islands sheltered west coast is a coveted spot for in-the-know yachties who seek out the limpid, fish-filled waters to drop anchor and enjoy a lazy lunch onboard. The pretty Ibiza cove of Pou des Lleo is five minutes by Highfield tender, or head the other way for to Ibizas laidback sister island of Formentera, where the beaches are peppered with bohemian fish shacks.

By Maya Boyd

The details: From 124,826 a week, sleeping 10 (020 3411 3675; dynamiclives.com). Includes chef, two house staff and boat captain. Fly to Ibiza where the boat will collect you from the beach at Pou des Llo.

Rising from the turquoise Adriatic in Dalmatia, from afar this tiny pine-clad islet appears totally unassuming. Its only as you approach the rocky shoreline, and hear a steady beat and dreamy uplifting melodies drifting across the bay, that you realise youve arrived somewhere rather extraordinary.

Owned by Sibenik City Council, this 136-acre islet is on a 43-year lease to Obonjan Riviera and now owned by local eljko Perekovic, who relaunched it as a family-friendly glamping retreat in 2022. Here, a mix of couples and young families can spend carefree sunny days indulging in yoga and Thai massage below the pines, splashing across the sparkling sea aboard kayaks and SUPs, lounging on waterside sunbeds in the shade of straw parasols, or snoozing on four-posters by the hilltop pool. Come sundown, its cocktails and chill-out music, followed by suppers of grilled fresh fish and Mediterranean salads, or cheerful pizza with chilled lagers, bathed in balmy twilight.

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You don't need to go to the Caribbean for a private island Europe has them too - The Telegraph

An alarm sounds and I wake up in a box room no bigger than an aeroplane toilet. I rise to my feet, twist my body towards a narrow dressing table, and pick up a black wire mask emblazoned with the white outline of a circle. Given its vast catalogue of crossovers, an official Fortnite meets Squid Game mash-up isn't beyond the realms of possibility. But, in this instance, I'm playing in a player-made Squid Game Fortnite roleplay server, wherein I'm filling the shoes of a guard-in-training.

The creative scene in Fortnite has grown exponentially over the last 12 months, with players crafting themed roleplay servers mirroring everything from Home Alone to Cyberpunk 2077, Tomb Raider, Metal Gear Solid, Resident Evil, Prison Break and The Walking Dead among many other real-world properties and fan-driven ideas. From the sublime to the ridiculous, the standard of servers varies pretty widely, but there really is something for everyone, for anyone willing to dig for it. In my current Squid Game adventure, I've now just finished roll call and have received a shopping list of duties. My first order of the day? To oversee the infamous Green Light/Red Light game, and make sure nobody cheats while running the gauntlet. My second? To gather the half-dozen dead bodies inside the pit of the Tug-O-War arena, pack them into coffins, carry them to the morgue and incinerate them on-site. It's a dirty job, but someone's gotta do it. I guess.

"Later, I'm pegging it from zombies in an incredible iteration of Resident Evil's Spencer Mansion, within a roleplay server that so accurately reflects its source material it might be just as fun."

Launched at the tail-end of 2018, Fortnite Creative is a sandbox game mode that runs independently of Fornite Battle Royale. In something more akin to the likes of Garry's Mod, Team Fortress 2 or even Half-Life 2: Deathmatch, players can craft their own 16-player private islands, each with their own quirks and customisable rules; each gated by a unique 'Island Code'. In its earliest stages, Fortnite Creative served as a place for players to join their mates away from the chaos of BR, to host crude variations of classic games such as Frogger and Temple Run, or to adapt endearing multiplayer game modes such as Capture the Flag and Flame Tag.

In 2022, however, Fortnite Creative has now grown into a catalogue of sophisticated maps and modes, performance subculture hubs and roleplay servers. To the latter end, having spoken to the creators of some of my own favourite maps, the Fortnite roleplay scene has grown exponentially over the last six to 12 months, with just about every popular trend, TV show, video game and film adapted and/or shoehorned into Epic's ever-popular universe. From snowboarding to Land Sharks and Samurais, the best Fortnite creative codes offer an insight into the boundless, complementary and readily available creative realms on display. The server count is now so busy that if you think an idea might have its own Fortnite roleplay angle, it almost certainly will.

And so I've now burned enough corpses to justify a promotion to Squid Game guard supervisor. Once shy around the workplace, I'm now loud-mouthed and assured, institutionalised and ordering lesser-qualified staff to sweep the floors of the fallen, and serve surviving contestants with bottled water and a single boiled egg once per day. It's not the most glamorous of jobs, but I'm good at it. Which makes me feel a wee bit uncomfortable in real life. What makes me laugh, on the other hand, is playing a Fortnite-meets-Home Alone take on hide-and-seek in a server inspired by the 1990 hit film. In something that sort-of resembles Spy vs Spy, I find myself being chased around a recreation of the McCallister family home by two hapless player-controlled bandits, laying traps all over the place and doing everything I can to avoid capture. Later, I find myself solving lazer puzzles by jetpack in a Cyberpunk 2077-aping server. And later again, I'm pegging it from zombies in an incredible iteration of Resident Evil's Spencer Mansion, within a roleplay server that so accurately reflects its source material it might be just as fun.

"I find myself cycling through potential ideas worth searching in my downtime, and then can't wait to get back in front of my PC to check if someone, somewhere has created it. "

Through all of this, I've become hooked on the weird and wonderful world of Fortnite roleplay, housed within Fortnite Creative. I find myself cycling through potential ideas worth searching in my downtime, and then can't wait to get back in front of my PC to check if someone, somewhere has created something based on the obscure film or book or television show that's just crossed my mind. And, more often than not, someone, somewhere has.

As mentioned above, the standard of some servers is higher than others, but what makes it all so enjoyable is the creativity of its creators. I've spent a number of years frolicking in and around the GTA 5 roleplay community, and one thing I adore about the general concept of the scene is the fact something so imaginative and inventive exists within a game that's otherwise designed for another purpose. In the case of Grand Theft Auto, it's in the name: this is a game about committing virtual crime, stealing cars and engaging in various other nefarious activities. But within its player-made roleplay scene, a different world exists, with different rules, customs and expectations. In the case of Fortnite, some servers might occupy my time for 10 minutes, while others such as the aforementioned Resident Evil project (keep your eyes peeled for more on this soon) will grip me for several hours in one sitting.

Given the fact Fortnite Battle Royale was born as an evolution of another idea, Fortnite Save the World, the huge strides Fortnite Creative is now making and, indeed, its myriad roleplay servers seems fitting. Having now taken my Squid Game guard simulation as far as I can, I can't wait to take on another outlandish occupation. The question is: which direction should I go in? Whatever you're thinking, I bet there's already something out there that fits the description!

Need some help surviving on the Island? Our Fortnite guide has you covered.

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From Squid Game to Cyberpunk 2077 and Home Alone I'm hooked on weird Fortnite roleplay servers - Gamesradar