MADAGASCAR, Miavana
For eco-luxury seekers wishing to experience marine biodiversity and an unsurpassable conservation program, Miavana will launch just off Madagascar’s northern shore this summer, where a private island archipelago will offer aquamarine bays, pearl-white sandy beaches, silent lagoons and channels.
The aim? To protect and conserve Nosy Ankao’s vulnerable natural resources, to provide employment for people from the local communities and offer world-class land and marine activities for its discerning guests, who seek more than the traditional Indian Ocean luxury offering.
SRI LANKA, Owl and the Pussycat
With its launch date imminent, and hot on the heels of a number of other high calibre luxury openings, this boutique hotel will offer guests a pared-back, authentic experience just a short tuk-tuk journey from historic Galle Fort in Sri Lanka’s popular and accessible south.
A focus on sustainability will see furniture, artwork and textiles created especially for the hotel by both local and international craftsmen. Just sixteen beautifully designed rooms and suites will offer each guest a sanctuary from the region’s hussle and bussle.
SOUTH CHINA SEA, Bawah Private Island
A mere two-hour boat and private seaplane journey from the lively centre of Singapore, but a zillion miles away from humanity, a hotly-anticipated ultra-luxe paradise island retreat is beginning to evolve. Bawah Private Island is located in the South China Sea and, once opened, in 2016, will showcase a group of islands that for centuries have gone unnoticed, and which will offer a dramatic land and seascape.
Part of a completely untouched archipelago, the islands offer an abundance of flora and fauna, including manta rays, birds, butterflies and (eek) sharks. A scattering of pared-back, beautifully appointed private cabins are being constructed using local, indigenous materials. Bawah looks set to be next year’s hot desert island getaway.
COSTA RICA, Kura Design Villas
UK based luxury seekers will be thrilled to hear that British Airways is launching a direct service from London Gatwick to San Jose from April this year. In a little over 10 hours, travellers can be exploring the extraordinary lush rainforests, scouting for scarlet macaw or humpback whales, or simply comparing which beach has the silkiest pearl-white sand.
Approximately two hours due south of the capital San Jose, Kura Design Villas boast arguably the sleekest infinity pool in the country and a scattering of spacious, elegantly decorated private villas. Gastronomes will adore the restaurant which serves Costa Rican fusion cuisine, 100% sustainable and responsibly caught fish and vegetables and herbs grown in the resort's greenhouse.
PHILIPPINES, Amanpulo
Charmingly remote but accessible - via Manila, Pamalican Island, far away in the uncharted Philippines, offers the ultimate private island getaway. Thrill-seekers will love the pearl-white sand, azure waters, world-class diving and endless watersports.
Those seeking a barefoot luxury experience might never leave the beautifully hand-crafted pavilion spa, made from native wood with seashell-lined ceilings, and set on a lush hillside overlooking the mesmerisingly clear waters of the Sulu Sea.
NINE’s members are invited to contact their dedicated manager for travel inspiration and to discuss their next tailored adventure.