Luxurious Getaways

–the top 6 places to visit–

By Hend Seif El Din

Tantalizing Tagomago

Less than one kilometer away from the coast of Ibiza lies the stunning Tagomago island, surrounded by deep blue waters, rocky cliffs and sky-high pines. Privately owned by real estate entrepreneur, Mathias Kühn, this island truly epitomizes tranquility and natural beauty. When it comes to accommodation, you will find a modern and sleek five-bedroom villa awaiting your arrival. With large windows, a Jacuzzi, a separate staff house and a private helipad, the villa boasts five luxurious suits each with its own living room dining room, kitchen and bathroom. While there, feel free to indulge in some extra luxury by order a private chef, a private yoga instructor and/or a personal trainer to keep you in shape. If you get bored, why not take a trip to Majorca, which lies 80 miles to Tagomago’s northeast? In the mood to party? Then go on a very short boat ride to Ibiza. Last but not least, do check out the Formentera beaches, which are also only a few miles away from the island.

Mesmerizing Musha Cay

The 150-acre island in the Bahamas is owned by the one and only David Copperfield, and truly oozes luxury and elegance, as well as fun. To ensure privacy and peace of mind, the island only accepts one group of guests at a time, with a maximum number of 24 individuals.

Before you get there, make sure to choose from one of the five magnificently decorated villas, laced with art pieces from Copperfield’s personal collection. Each villa also comes with its own private beach. Perched atop the highest hill on Musha Cay is the largest villa of them all, namely the Highview villa. With its Asian flair, no wonder it is usually the first one to go. Pierhouse is brightly colored, with adorable, yet modernized, shabby-chic décor. The Blue Point Cottage is smaller than the latter, but nevertheless, absolutely magnificent. For couples, the Beach House is definitely the top recommendation. The most romantic of the five, this one-bedroom, open-air cottage will surely entice you with its rustic charm. As for families, the Palm Terrace villa is the optimum choice, and will surely cater to every member’s needs.

When it is time for a meal, stop by the main dock, the Sandbar for a private picnic, or the Balinese Pavilion for a scrumptious buffet. To ensure your entertainment, the island hosts treasure hunts, spy adventures, gold fish races, Olympic games and many more.

Fabulous Fiji

Located in the South Pacific ocean, Fiji is made up of 332 islands, of which 110 are inhabited. Due to its magnificent location, common activities around the islands include diving, snorkeling, hiking and bird watching. Nevertheless, if you’re there to enjoy some r&r and bathe in luxury, you should check into some of its most glamorous resorts.

First stop, Likuliku Lagoon Resort on Malolo island. Renowned for its subtle luxury, the resort is the one with over-water bungalows. A winner of numerous awards for being the best oversees resort, Likuliku’s charm comes from its Fijan-style village-like architecture. Its 45 bungalows or “bures” are all built using natural and local elements.

The Emaho Sekawa Retreat lies on the Vanua Levu island, the second largest one in the islnd nation, and caters to small groups or one couple at a time. If you do choose this retreat, you will definitely enjoy Villa Emaho, merging between Balinese and Fijian architecture, along with its very own infinity pool.

Next on the list is the Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji islands Resort. Also located on Vanua Levu island, this eco-friendly resort is known for its mouthwatering cuisine. Located on a previous coconut plantation, surrounded by soft corals it is ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. Its 25 “bures” come with garden and ocean views depending on your preference.

Last but not least is the Royal Davui Island. Located in the Bega lagoon, this island caters exclusively to adults, ensuring peace and quit. Its 16 villas are surrounding by enchanting tropical greenery, and come equipped with private plunge pools and in-room spa treatments.

Magnificent Mustique

Part of the Grenadines in the West Indies, this private island boats 74 villas, nine sandy beaches, the Cotton House Boutique Hotel, the Firefly guesthouse, Basil’s Beach Bar–built over water–as well as a spa and equestrian center. If you’re into socializing, then Macaroni beach is the place for you; dubbed the “hotspot,” it’s ideal for mingling. For romantic strolls, head towards Pasture beach, and for ultimate privacy check out Simplicity beach, which is semi-concealed by an offshore reef. For exciting water sports, enjoy Endeavour beach, and for a picturesque scenery of coconut palms head down to L’Ansecoy beach. If you’re on your way to Basil’s Beach Bar, you’re bound to come across Britannia beach’s goldensands, and for a private picnic you’ll love the Lagoon beach. If, however, you’re more into snorkeling, then the Gelliceaux beach is the ultimate snorkeling site on Mustique.

To add more luxury to your stay, each villa comes with its own private staff, which includes a maid, a cook and a gardener. Furthermore, each one has its own means of transportation, one pool at the least, and some even have their own spas, golf courses and tennis courts. There are, of course, different kinds of villas, depending on your taste and mood. Choose from four main types, namely the classic Caribbean houses, the hilltop villas, the beach villas and the contemporary ones.

The one and only boutique hotel on the island is the Cotton House Hotel, which is built in 18^th century stone walls. The islands social spot, it has 17 rooms and suits, 11 of which have their own plunge pools. And that’s not all! For a unique dining experience head to the open air verandah for breakfast or a romantic evening, or relax at the more casual beach café.

Nice Nikoi

Owned by a small group of expatriates, this private island–located off the east coasts of Indonesia–opened to the public in 2007. A small garden of Eden on its own, Nikoi island is surrounded by reefs and white, sandy beaches and is also home to an exotic rainforest. Its beach houses all have sea views, and bring to life a beautiful blend of Indonesian and contemporary architecture. Both of its cozy dining rooms–one exclusively for couples and the other for families–come with fixed menus as a general rule, yet chefs are willing to provide tailored dishes according to your preferences.

Colorful Costa Rica

Known for its incredible array of flora and fauna, as well as its water sports, dense forests, ecotourism and volcanoes, Costa Rica is definitely more than what meets the eye. The Punta Islita Hotel is San Jose provides its guest with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Located on a mountaintop, spectacular sights are everywhere to see. Their handcrafted beds, as well as their artistic choice of décor, adds subtle charm to the rooms. Each beach cottage, or “casita,” comes with its own plunge pool and tropical garden.

If you’re looking for a more contemporary style of luxury residences, then the Reserva Conchal in Guanacaste is the place for you. Enjoy the exuberating views of the Robert Trent Jones II golf course. Choose among four different residential projects; the bougainvillea’s 62 luxury units with a view of the golf course, the villas del mar, or the 27 condos with ocean views as well as the 6 über-luxurious villas with private pools, the Carao’s 30 condos and 12 villas, and finally the Melina units for complete privacy. While you’re there, stop by the Reserva Conchal Club and Spa, designed by acclaimed Costa Rican architect Antonio Cardona for some “you” time.

Situated on a hilltop in the center of a vibrant tropical jungle, lies the Villa Caletas boutique hotel in Guancaste. Dominated by Victorian architecture with a dash of Neo-classicism, the Villa is renowned for its luxurious amenities and beaches.

Lastly, do check out the Gaia Hotel and Reserve in Manuel Antonio. This adults-only boutique hotel has been dubbed Costa Rica’s leading boutique hotel numerous times, by the world travel awards. Surrounded by a beautiful forest, its terraced villas and suites bring together the sleekness and elegance of Bauhaus architecture, and rustic elements, creating a unique blend of modernism and charm.