By Harper’s Bazaar Singapore Team - published
FIJI
Laucala
Red Bull creator Dietrich Mateschitz snapped up this 3,000-acre island and has turned it into a tropical playground. Not only is there a championship golf course and an equestrian centre, there’s also a flotilla of watercraft moored at the jetty. There’s no doubt that the staff are ready to cater to your every whim—and with 350 members of staff on the island, you can afford to have a lot of whims.
GO THERE: The whole island is $187,195 per night, minimum five nights, (This does not include the Hilltop Villa, which can be requested for an additional fee.), www.laucala.com
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Necker
Many a celebrity has fallen in love with Sir Richard Branson’s summer retreat and there’s no doubt that you would do too. Yes, you can forget about living a Robinson Crusoe-style existence, this is an A-list hideaway after all. Spend the morning exploring the reefs in the world’s first three-person aero submarine, enjoy a massage in your private spa in the afternoon, then wind down the day in your 26-seat dining room where your Michelin-
starred chef will serve you a host of mouthwatering dishes.
GO THERE: Priced from $482,185 per week, www.neckerisland.virgin.com
PHILIPPINES
Ariara Island
It’s more fun in the Philippines apparently. And with this private island, just off the coast of Palawan, who can disagree? This
125-acre island that features jungle and beach villas, comes with 25 staff, including a private chef, masseuse, manicurist and PADI Divemasters. If you can tear yourself away from your hammock you can also enjoy a cruise on the 100ft trimaran that’s at your disposal.
GO THERE: From $2,785 for three nights in a luxury villa including return airport transfers for two people, www.lightfoottravel.com/property/ariara-island
BAHAMAS
Musha Cay
This 150-acre island comes with a 10,000sqft manor house, a twin-engine aircraft and a staff of 30… Sounds like magic? Well, the owner is David Copperfield. If you like the sound of strolling along a two-mile sandbar, taking one of your five boats out for an excursion or watching your favourite flick in your own drive-in movie theatre, then this is the place for you.
GO THERE: Priced from $341,240 a week, www.mushacay.com
INDONESIA
Pangkil
Driftwood palaces, jungle trails and cooling sea breezes can all be found on this little island that’s just about 80kms from Singapore. This relaxing tropical island makes the perfect respite from the Lion City. Spend the day kayaking, sailing or snorkelling, and at night you can either kick back and watch a movie outdoors at Cinema Paradiso or treat yourself to a muscle-soothing massage.
GO THERE: Priced from $2,800 per night for one to 10 people (minimum stay two nights), including meals, www.pangkil.com