SeaSon Sizzler: SUMMER’ 20SHOTTEST Magazine.pdf · SeaSon Sizzler: SUMMER ... Sheraton Krabi is a multi-faceted beachside escape ... Resist the urge to stay in the hotel’s lavish

68 | TRAVELITE

Travel | cover STorYTravel | cover STorY

SeaSon Sizzler:

SUMMER’S

20Photo Courtesy of © Vamizi Island, Mozambique.

TRAVELITE | 69


ESCAPESHOTTEST

They say life’s a beach. And for beachcombers craving for endless lounging

and relaxation under the sun, these destinations are solid proof of just how

beautiful living can get. WORDS BY SJ ROXAS

When the temperature rises, there’s really no better way to embrace the

heat than by setting off to a seaside retreat and giving in to the glorious

rays of the summer sun. Imagine that moment of bliss when you dig your

toes into the sand, looking out to an endless scene of sea and sky, a freshly

concocted champagne mojito in hand – pure paradise, don’t you think? It’s a

good thing about three quarters of the earth is made up of water, providing

plenty of options for beach devotees of all persuasions. From castaway chic

to contemporary flair, the world is brimming with island destinations that

are nothing short of heavenly. Explore each with this selection of exceptional

escapades serving as your guide to the best spots under the sun.

1

70 | TRAVELITE

Travel | cover STorY

True to its name, Island Hideaway Spa Resort & Marina

is every inch the paradise any beach lover aspires. The ride alone to Dhonakulhi Island from the Maldivian capital, whether via seaplane or speedboat, is an exhilarating kaleidoscopic experience of an endless turquoise sea. With its immaculate beaches, fancy accommodations and outstanding service, Island Hideaway ticks every box in everyone’s summer checklist. The resort is even equipped with its own state-of-the-art marina (the first one in Maldives) to accommodate your yacht should you wish to cruise your way to and around the island.

Live in blissful seclusion Robinson Crusoe-style but with the added convenience of a 24-hour butler service at your beck and call. Your friendly butler will cater to your every need, whether on land or at sea and can even tour you around his own village located on a different island to show you the local way of life. Other activities such as fly-fishing and jet-skiing are available at your whim, but the fun extends beneath the water surface. Dhonakulhi is blessed with its own house reef only 10 to 30 m off the shore – a unique natural feature that affords you a front row seat to a private viewing of manta rays, dolphins, turtles and whale sharks.

MalDiVeS

Top to bottom:Aerial view of Island Hideaway;Boat sailing near the island;Jasmine Garden Villa Pool.

2

TRAVELITE | 71


Not a lot of tourists can lay claim over the experience of getting whisked off to the beach in a limousine, but it’s exactly the sort of barefoot luxury that awaits the discriminating guests of Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort. As a gateway to the breathtaking tropical utopia on the west coast of southern Thailand, you’ll be enamoured with top-notch creature comforts and magnificent natural attractions alike.

THailanD

Compared to its nearby counterparts, Krabi is relatively less popular, making it an equally enthralling destination without the throngs of tourists occupying so much shore real estate. The place is known for its towering limestone formations and postcard-perfect beaches, and there’s no better way to experience such wonders than by hopping from one island to another through a traditional long-tail boat. Let the resort’s excursion desk arrange your private tours to the Emerald Pool, Hong Island and Ao Nang Beach along with the thrilling activities to enjoy at the on-site Water Sports Centre. Equipped with a wide range of features such as outdoor pools, Turkish Hammams, game room, 24-hour fitness facility and an exclusive business area, Sheraton Krabi is a multi-faceted beachside escape that both kids and adults will find hard to leave.

Top to bottom:Studio Suite;Deluxe Club Room;Infinity Pool;Interior of Malati Restaurant.

3

72 | TRAVELITE


Thanks to numerous resorts that have developed commendable projects that underscore the welfare of the environment and the community, your indulgent escapades become a little less guilt-inducing. This kind of conscientious debauchery is especially evident on one of Cambodia’s enchanting islands where charity intertwines with luxury. Song Saa Private Island, a secluded retreat that spans two islands on the gentle waters of the Gulf of Thailand, redefines sustainability as it offers self-pampering alongside initiatives geared towards environmental conservation and community enrichment. Much more than a lovely island destination that offers over-water villas, sunbathing under oversized parasols and bespoke dining, it is really the ultimate sanctuary for devoted tree huggers and philanthropists who have a passion for both giving and fine living.

When preparing to visit Song Saa’s pristine beaches and virgin rainforests, use the extra space in your luggage to bring school supplies such as pencils and books for the young people of Prev Svay. ‘Pack for a Purpose’ is just one of the resort’s many projects, which allow guests to give back during their holidays. As Song Saa’s token of appreciation, guests are entitled to complimentary blessing ceremonies performed by local Buddhist monks and tailored trips to an authentic Cambodian village.

CaMBoDia

Background:Picnic by the beachfront.

Inset:Royal Villa.

4

TRAVELITE | 73


A mere 45-minute plane ride away from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Six Senses Con Dao is an accessible but serene haven in southern Vietnam. As the name suggests, any Six Senses offers a sensory feast – this one in particular will have your taste buds on overdrive.

Beach lovers who have a strong inclination for gastronomy are in for a treat with guided morning tours to Ben Dam fishing harbour and Con Son market, where the town’s freshest fish and produce are available. When you’re not lounging by the beach entranced by Con Dao’s coastal vistas, get busy with the resort’s cooking classes and learn how to prepare your favourite Vietnamese dishes. A more spirited experience can follow by having a wine tasting session with the resident connoisseur who, with every sip and in between bites of appetisers and breads, will take you from Bordeaux to Napa. Make your trip more memorable by joining the rest of the privileged few at the chef ’s table and mingle with the resort’s kitchen master himself, while indulging on the special spread he prepared. To complete your beachside epicurean interlude, set sail through the Con Son Marina while enjoying champagne and gourmet canapés as the sun slowly sinks into the horizon.

VieTnaM

Top to bottom:Ocean Front Villa Bedroom; By The Beach Restaurant;Beachfront pool.Photos Courtesy of Six Senses Con Dao.

5

6

74 | TRAVELITE


Enjoying a coveted location in the trendy district of Bali, W Retreat & Spa Bali is a vacation social hub surrounded by an alluring beach life made up of the island’s hottest restaurants, bars and shops. Luxuriate in all its urbane glory, starting with ICE, where you and friends can work on your tan over creatively mixed cocktails while looking out to the Indian Ocean. Your heady revelry resumes at the ultra hip WooBar. A favourite among tourists, it’s the perfect spot to mingle with other discerning jet-setters. Resist the urge to stay in the hotel’s lavish comforts and plunge into an in-depth Bali experience, taking your gang to the many boutiques, art galleries and temples around the area.

While others like to spend their holidays in a frenzy of activities, there are those who simply like to sit back and revel in the sweetness of doing nothing at all. If the latter is your kind of getaway, JapaMala Resort on Tioman Island is the destination of your hedonistic dreams. Clear your mind and sink into utter relaxation in this unmistakably Asian oasis, amidst a thick rainforest and a private beach. Lounge endlessly in the private dip pool of your luxurious sea view Sarang villa and get treated to a unique sunset turndown service featuring delectable local snacks and aromatherapy oils.

inDoneSia

MalaYSia

Clockwise:Tamarind Dining; Sea Cliffs Chalet;WooBar.

TRAVELITE | 75


7The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s biggest coral reef system, but it’s not just the underwater environment that thrives within this World Heritage Site. Lizard Island,

nestled on the northernmost portion of the reef, showcases the bounty of wildlife through elegant accommodations and thrilling activities like night diving, nature walks, and scenic helicopter tours. It’s the kind of place where your inner Steve Irwin will run loose as green sea turtles, humpback whales and countless other species of wildlife are likely to be spotted during a chartered fishing trip on-board the resort’s luxury boat, Fascination III.

Before indulging in a champagne sunset cruise, tour the Research Station and get better acquainted with the rich, natural environment of Lizard Island. The rest of your time may be spent at the Azure Spa, but only after enjoying a gourmet picnic on a private beach. Select your preferred dishes and beverages from the menu and the staff will take care of the rest, including the dinghy that will transport you to the venue of your private banquet of fresh seafood and baked confections amid heavenly views.

aUSTralia

Top to bottom:Aerial view of Lizard Island;

Sunbathing on the shore.

8

76 | TRAVELITE


Of all the 83 islands comprising the archipelago of Vanuatu, Ratua Private Island stands out by striking a great balance between rustic and indulgent. It’s exactly the kind of place that’s ideal for disconnecting from the trappings of a cosmopolitan way of life and trading skyscrapers and busy streets for lush gardens and pristine beaches. Unlike many luxurious resorts, Ratua evokes a rugged feel that’s never intimidating and always inviting. Its luxury lies in its authentic, rustic character that seems to be barely acquainted with modern civilization.

There are 15 accommodation options scattered across the three villages that occupy the island. It’s not surprising that the villas blend harmoniously with the wild surroundings, as these are, in fact, 200-year-old homes especially transported to Ratua. Made of teak and strategically situated on areas showcasing stunning beach views, each villa has that lived-in feel that makes lounging at your private deck during sunset memorably poignant.

VanUaTU

The best way to explore the island is on horseback, but remember to also enjoy the rich underwater scene by diving into the underground caverns that connect several swimming holes. On dry land, archery is a unique experience with the use of traditional bows and arrows.

The 100 per cent organic ingredients fresh from the island’s garden and ranch ensure a cuisine that’s healthy yet sumptuous. Pair each meal with wines exclusively imported from France for Ratua’s guests and you’ll wish you never have to leave this enchanting place.

Top to bottom:View from the shore;Snorkelling around the island.

10


With only 25 villas or bures standing by the sea or amidst verdant greens, Laucala Island allows its demanding clientele to luxuriate in privacy. This expansive Fijian playground has plenty of space and activity options that it hardly feels like you’re sharing the place with others. Choose from horseback riding, game fishing, diving and several water sports to keep yourself delightedly occupied. Golf buddies will have a grand time with Laucala’s scenic, 18-hole golf course designed by leading golf architect David McLay Kidd. If you are not likely to swing that way, there are five restaurants, 14 boats and numerous private beaches available for the kind of enjoyment you prefer.

9Like the sought after Tahitian vanilla, Le Taha’a Island

Resort & Spa is a precious wonder found in the well-preserved paradise that is French Polynesia. The resort is located on a beautiful motu islet hemmed by white-sand beaches with clear, turquoise waters – the perfect backdrop when exchanging sweet nothings may it be day or night. Request to have your own butler, so your only worry wether to go scuba diving first or play tennis at the resort’s flood-lid court. Either way, make sure to drop by the on-site jewellery shop for prized Tahitian pearls to remember your romantic interlude by.

FrenCH PolYneSia

FiJi

Top: Le Taha’a aerial view. View of the sea

while snorkelling.

Bottom: Deck at Seagrass Residences.

78 | TRAVELITE


11Aptly named, Petit St. Vincent is a small island that only a lucky few get to visit. But with nearly two mi of white sand beaches, it definitely has more than enough sunbathing spots for the limited number of guests it accommodates. It offers sweet seclusion as the cottages, while certainly luxurious, are free of phones, TV and Internet. Who needs those anyway, when you can pamper yourself at the hillside spa, do your yoga poses at the pavilion facing Conch Bay and enjoy beach barbecues at the West End beach? You can also explore the rest of the Grenadines by booking one of Petit St. Vincent’s cruise charters to sail away to nearby islands including the celebrity magnet Mustique and the uninhabited Tobago Cays.

ST. VinCenT & THe GrenaDineS

Living a reclusive lifestyle is even more tempting with the dining options on the island. At the main restaurant, fresh, locally grown or caught ingredients make every dish satisfying down to the last bite; while at the beach bar, cocktails are served with traditional Caribbean comfort food in a relaxed setting.

Needless to say, Petit St. Vincent has enough island delights to make you willingly abandon your online life for a while.

Top to bottom:Exterior of villa;

Beachfront lounge.

12


The captivating scenery alone is enough to get you in a romantic mood. Add to that a well-thought-out wedding package that takes care of everything, from the champagne wedding breakfast to the government fees, and you’re left with barely anything else to do but say ‘I do’. Hermitage Bay is what dream destination weddings are made of. Everyone, from kids to adults, will surely get mesmerised by this place, but it’s lovebirds tying the knot that will especially find it heavenly.

The wedding location becomes the honeymoon destination, as lovers cannot help but give in to the allure of this part of Antigua. Your extended stay is best spent luxuriating in the privacy of your Beachfront Cottage, only a few steps away from the shore; however, Hermitage Bay also presents a plethora of delightful experiences beyond its own domain. What is bound to be one of the highlights of your entire trip is the exhilaration felt while hovering above the awe-inspiring landscape of Montserrat during a romantic helicopter tour. But it doesn’t matter whether you’re indulging in a Siddhartha Couples Massage or simply lounging on a deserted beach; every moment on and around the island is worth treasuring forever.

anTiGUa

Background:Hill view of the beach.

Inset:Rocky Point Villa.

TRAVELITE | 79

13

14

80 | TRAVELITE


Named after the first governor of the Bahamas, The

Dunmore is a distinguished landmark sitting amidst the famous pink sand beaches of Harbour Island. Since 1963, this vibrant summer home has undergone necessary refurbishments, but was able to maintain a classic splendour, which discerning vacationers cannot get enough of. It’s an idyllic retreat for laid-back holidays spent visiting the historic spots around Harbour Town in the morning and frolicking by the shore the rest of the day. In the evening, celebrate the island life with a barbecue buffet dinner under the stars accompanied by a live musical performance.

The change of pace that anyone seeks out after constantly dealing with work pressures is found on a breathtaking private island in Turks and Caicos. Leave any thoughts of deadlines behind upon setting foot in Parrot Cay, a multi-awarded haven made of deserted sandy beaches, private plunge pools, signature butler service and four-poster beds with billowing white drapes. There are numerous leisurely activities on and around the island, but the most precious moments of self-indulgence are had at the COMO Shambhala Retreat. Here, you can restore your inner vigour with Asian-inspired treatments and commune with nature by doing your yoga poses against a picturesque backdrop of sand, sea and sky.

THe BaHaMaS

TUrKS & CaiCoS

Top to bottom:Beachfront of The Dunmore;Top floor bedroom of Ocean House; Beachfront picnic;Tamarind Villa.

15

TRAVELITE | 81


St. Barths has always had a reputation for being the haunt of well-heeled holidaymakers looking to evade the cold and attain a high-carat tan. One of the most coveted areas on the island is Grand Cul de Sac Beach, where a luxe Caribbean lifestyle reaches its peak with Le Sereno Beach

Hotel, an elegant hideout for the fashionable traveller. Evoking subtle luxury through the minimalist designs of French designer Christian Liaigre, Le Sereno is a vision of clean lines and neutral colours. The common spaces and guestrooms are rendered in such a way that it flawlessly blends with the relaxed atmosphere of St. Barth’s. Besides its stunning location, the resort also boasts a host of upscale facilities including a gourmet restaurant, a beach club, a boutique and a spa that uses deluxe Ligne St. Barth products.

ST. BarTHS

When you make your visit, stay in one of Le Sereno’s three well-appointed villas not only to have the best views of the turquoise lagoon, but also to get dibs on the Anya Hindmarch Bespoke Collection, an exclusive line of luxury travel items created in collaboration with the British accessories designer.

Top to bottom:Villa view of the beach;Main swimming pool. Photos Courtesy of Le Sereno.

82 | TRAVELITE


16Cayo Espanto is merely a dot on the azure Caribbean Sea, but its small size is exactly what makes this private island a great, intimate escape. Just a short, scenic helicopter ride away from central Belize, it offers peaceful seclusion as well as easy access to attractions. It’s a perfect destination for tourists who want to get away without completely shutting off the rest of the world – the same folks who will be delighted to know that wireless Internet access is available throughout the island.

Separated by palm trees and mangroves, the villas dot the edges of the island to make sure each faces the sea. No need to worry about other guests taking the best spot to marvel at the views; every single one of the seven villas is equipped with a private dock boasting a pair of twin beds where you are to bathe in the sun’s rays during the day and gaze upon a sky of stars at night. For more active immersions, try the guided bone fishing and bird watching tours. Better yet, as absurd as it may seem, leave the island only temporarily and take a day trip to mainland Belize and visit its magnificent Mayan ruins.

Belize

Top to bottom:Casa Ventanas;

On-water viewing deck.

TRAVELITE | 83


17If it’s good enough for royalty, then it must be worth a visit. Rising from the glistening aquamarine waters of Seychelles, North Island is the honeymoon destination of choice by affluent newly married couples including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The exotic paradise is a grand celebration of nature, what with the spectacular scenery it affords and the variety of wildlife it hosts. With only 11 guest villas available, you can enjoy privacy and freedom while frolicking on any of the four spectacular beaches. Intimate moments are best shared at Honeymoon Beach, which is slightly hidden hence the name. You decide whether to bask in tropical sunshine on a wide, open sandy shore or atop a large, granitic boulder several feet above the surf. For a slight change of scenery, you and your dearest can bike along trails that lead to the innards of the island, where Seychelles’ endangered flora and fauna are rehabilitated under an intensive conservation programme. Nightfall transforms the entire island into an alluring Eden, dimly illuminated by the last amber rays of the day. While admiring the sweeping views in the privacy of your villa is certainly irresistible, a sunset cruise is also not such a bad idea.

SeYCHelleS

Top to bottom:Aerial view of North Island;Relaxing beach picnic; Villa 11.Photo Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris.

84 | TRAVELITE


18There’s an endearing beach culture unique to the enchanting crescent land mass belonging to the Quirimbas Archipelago in Africa that anyone fortunate enough to experience will never forget. With a native community whose way of life is grounded on traditions, miles of white sand beaches and a surrounding underwater ecosystem that’s one of the most abundant in the world, Vamizi

Island is a secluded utopia carefully crafted by nature and further enriched by the warmth of its residents. The villas, especially the collection of new accommodations designed by award-winning South African architects, are certainly exquisite. However, staying at Vamizi feels more like visiting your family vacation home rather than checking in at a resort, thanks to the welcoming nature of the locals.

More than a regular holiday, Vamizi offers a more meaningful interlude. It’s a place you are bound to revisit to catch fish, which the chef later turns into the freshest sashimi, to check on the Vamizi turtles that the World Wildlife Fund has been conserving, to immerse the kids in a different culture and let them run freely on the shore and to simply kick your shoes off and let your toes dig deep into the sand.

MozaMBiQUe

Top to bottom:Main lodge view from the sea;Pool and deck on a sunny day. Photos Courtesy of © Vamizi Island, Mozambique.

TRAVELITE | 85


19

20

There’s that quintessential impression of Africa that conjures up images of a sprawling savannah and a watering hole satisfying a herd of wildebeests. But the lesser-known side of it is just as bewildering – a small, remote wonderland in the middle of a crisp blue ocean. Situated off the coast of northern Zanzibar, Mnemba Island Lodge proves that the marine community of Africa is just as rich as its safaris. Experience it for yourself through a personalised diving trip. Beginners need not worry as the resort has its own PADI dive school with knowledgeable instructors. Take the plunge and interact with dolphins as well as most of the 430 fish species in this part of the Indian Ocean.

Some people like to spend days lounging under the sun, savouring every moment of sweet idle hours while others prefer action-packed holidays filled with exciting activities. Le Touessrok, a magnificent resort standing by Trou d’Eau Douce Bay, caters to both types of vacationers. However, with the countless leisure options yours for the taking, you’ll find it impossible to resist the call of five-star fun. Warm up with aqua aerobics, golf and tennis and get more adrenalin rush with windsurfing and water-skiing. The whole family can join in on the fun as Le Touessrok has special clubs for kids and teens. At the end of an eventful day, ask your personal butler to book an appointment at the resort’s Givenchy Spa.

Tanzania

MaUriTiUS

Clockwise:Beach lounge;

Dinner by the bay;Photos Courtesy of andBeyond; Bridge

by the beach.

Documents

SeaSon Sizzler: SUMMER’ 20SHOTTEST Magazine.pdf · SeaSon Sizzler: SUMMER ... Sheraton Krabi is a multi-faceted beachside escape ... Resist the urge to stay in the hotel’s lavish