When you are understandably disenchanted with thoughts of travelling with the masses in five star properties and commercial jet liners, exclusive private islands and chartered flights is the way to go. I wouldn’t blame you – who wouldn’t opt for an army of 100 catering to the whims of a select few. No matter which tropical island you choose, be ready for countless hours of deep tissue massages, exotic candle-lit dinners on your private beach and the melody of waves. We have scoured the seven seas and handpicked nine of the most exclusive private islands in the world. Granted there are one too many islands floating in the world – but our list is based on exclusivity and of course, location.
Here’s our curated list..
Cost – $6,500 per night
A 125-acre private island in the Palawan region, Ariara Island is one of the most stunning resorts in the Philippines. Unlike most resorts, only one booking is undertaken at a time accommodating up to 22 guests. Designed by a renowned Filipino architect Jorge Yulo, the buildings are contemporary in style and have been designed and built with sensitivity to the environment. Laze away the days in one of the hammocks, bask under the golden sun on the 600m stretch of unspoiled white sand or retire to the sun-shelter at the end of Ariara’s 120m long pier. The 30m air-conditioned tri-maran is perfect for island-hopping, providing you with the perfect base for a SCUBA diving adventure or a memorable Philippines voyage of discovery, taking in rugged rocks, incredible natural springs, a 17thcentury Spanish port and the unforgettable Bucuit Bay.
Cost – $14000 a night
Three miles out to sea from the Belizean coastal city of San Pedro, Cayo Espanto offers the kind of peace and quiet you only find in the most exclusive island hideaway – which is precisely what this hyper-luxurious boutique resort is. Seven brightly, tastefully decorated wooden villas are dotted among the tiny island’s palm trees, with private pools to plunge in, hammocks to snooze in, and a dedicated ‘houseman’ on hand to ensure that you’re treated to whatever you want, whenever you want it. From the ingredients in the kitchen to the music playing on the in-room iPod, everything is designed as you like it.
