Out & About January 2018

Have you ever dreamed of jetting off to your own private island and living the high life? Well, it’s not a totally impossible dream – for that very special occasion, here are some recommended island retreats If all you want is utter seclusion and perfect peace, in a location off-limits to everyone but the staff and maybe a few other guests, then a private island is the only place to go

BAWAH ISLAND, INDONESIA The antidote to the polished properties of nearby Bali, Bawah sits in the little- known anambas archipelago of Indonesia – a short ferry and seaplane away from Singapore. Comprising a cluster of five isles nestled among three untouched lagoons, these Crusoe-inspired islands have been left as nature intended. Empty beaches and wild jungle remain as blissfully unspoiled as before, yet chic eco-designed villas, made of sustainable materials such as bamboo and recycled teak, offer the utmost comfort. Glorious sunset views can be enjoyed from your room, while bespoke evening cocktails are served up in no less than three uniquely-themed bars situated at different locations on Bawah, but each with

those all-encompassing sea vistas. With 13 beaches to explore, you will feel like you have discovered a new deserted island every day. Snorkel, dive or kayak through lagoons to explore the surrounding islands. Personalised yoga is also on offer, as is top notch Asian fusion cuisine at the Tree Top Restaurant, where much of the fresh produce comes from Bawah’s own garden. If a quiet, private escape is what you’re seeking, the fact that only 70 guests are allowed on the island, might provide the major draw card. This means that hundreds of acres of breathtakingly beautiful beaches, ocean and lush greenery are practically your very own playground. Stay seven nights from £6,300 per person, half board excluding flights & transfers.

CALALA ISLAND, NICARAGUA When you awake to the sound of chattering parrots, you know you must be somewhere exotic. Tucked away along the idyllic Pearl Cays, just off the coast of Nicaragua, Calala island offers primitive serenity – a step back into the Caribbean of yesteryear. This is, without doubt, the Caribbean’s most authentic retreat. Best taken exclusively, 10 guests can experience 10 acres of blissful paradise, with 25 staff attending to your every whim. Exuding barefoot-luxe style, there are just four spacious villas. Furnished with the finest handcrafted Nicaraguan furniture, doors open out onto the beach, meaning you can literally dive right in to warm turquoise waters. Getting to the island is half the adventure. After a short domestic flight from Nicaragua’s main airport, you board a traditional boat for a scenic 90-minute journey through lagoons and mangroves, out to sea and Calala’s private dock. There is also the option of taking a helicopter if you can’t get there quick enough. Seriously good food belies the simplistic atmosphere and a Michelin-quality chef pushes the boundaries, using locally-sourced produce to create wonderful tasting menus. To burn off delicious feasts you can swim, snorkel, fish, kayak or be pampered with a massage in the spa cabana and enjoy local rum cocktails at the end of the day as the orange light of dusk sets. For a chance to unplug, relax and recharge with family or a group of friends, Calala delivers the dream in bundles – the hardest decision being who you would like to be marooned with. Stay three nights from £2,950 per person in a Junior Suite or from £21,500 for exclusive use of the island, fully inclusive including transfers, but excluding international flights.

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