Luxury Travel: Private Island Resorts

The ultimate great escape is renting an exotic private island resort. Fleeing the mobs of tourists, paparazzi and confines of the real world make it the number one option for A-listers in Hong Kong. Needless to say, what happens on these fantasy islands stays there. Asia Tatler rounds up Asia’s five most exclusive private islands where guests can shed their inhibitions and go wild, or rather into the wild.

The Rania Experience, Maldives

Just a 30-minute seaplane ride from Malé International Airport is the picturesque Faafu Atoll. Named The Rania Experience, the Maldivian bespoke residence comes with The Rania Yacht, a majestic 86-foot Gulf Craft luxury speed cruiser for island hopping, deep-sea fishing and moonlight escapades. Unlimited champagne, meals prepared by personal chefs and spa treatments are all-inclusive. Accommodating a maximum of 12 people, the stylish living quarters comprise an exclusive Rania suite plus three beach villas. The price of stranding yourself at this former sheikh-owned property is a cool US$66,500 per week.

Palau Joyo, Indonesia

Encircled by turquoise lagoons, pure white sands and covered with coconut palms, the island of Joyo has all the ingredients of a tropical paradise. The Pulau Joyo private island resort is hidden in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago, close to Singapore and Bintan. The organic-chic villas affectionately dubbed drift wood palaces are built from sustainable local wood. In fact, they are modeled on traditional Javanese-styled houses and furnished with ethnic wooden fittings. It’s five-star luxury meets Swiss Family Robinson. More wholesome adventures are to be had by chartering their 150-foot yacht to explore the neighbouring islands. Rates per day here are seasonal.

The Banyan Tree Madivaru, Maldives

Keeping guests close to nature, The Banyan Tree Madivaru has pitched six extravagant freestanding tented villas. The captivating private island, wrapped by house reefs, is nestled on the secluded North Ari Atoll. Their lavish desert island-inspired retreat interiors are divided into three adjoining tents: bathroom, living area, and bedroom. The bathrooms sport large decadent bathtubs where all spa treatments are performed. The freshest catch of the day is always prepared to gourmet perfection, and served inside the villas for an intimate dining experience. Dolphin safaris, manta sighting cruises and night fishing are a few of the many fascinating yacht excursions offered. An indulgent week here will set you back US$25,760 per week.

Island Buenavista Davao, Philippines

The Island Buenavista Davao is a four-hectare eco-sensitive private island resort tucked away in the southern part of the Philippines. Lush foliage and the Davao Gulf’s crystal clear waters replete with untouched coral reefs make it one of the country’s best-kept secrets. The protected marine area, home to the Hawksbill Turtle Reservoir is a haven for snorkellers and divers. Kayaking around the entire island is a great way to explore the plethora of ecological wonders without getting wet. The talented resident chef never fails to cook up a storm of local delicacies. The delicious meals are best enjoyed over a picnic on the stunning beach or as part of a romantic moonlit dinner.

Taprobane Island, Sri Lanka

Located on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Taprobane Island is the country’s only privately owned island. Although comparatively on the more affordable side, it makes the list because of its beauty and intrigue. At first glance, it appears quite magical like something straight out of a Hayao Miyazaki movie. Access to the quirky place is only via wading through water by foot, elephant or sedan chair. The two acres of surrounding tropical greenery is a veritable Garden of Eden that includes frangipanis, palms, hibiscus, bougainvilleas and orchids. Built in the 1920’s by the eccentric Count de Mauny-Talvande, the island’s sprawling octagonal house has five colonial styled en-suite bedrooms. Each room features high wooden ceilings, and opens out to its own private terrace with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.