By Dian Hasan | November 15, 2009

Good things come in small packages. If the Robinson Crusoe in you beckons to a getaway on a remote tropical isle, secluded yet close to modern civilization, Nikoi Island is just for you.

A private island with only 6 beach villas, off Bintan Island in the Riau Archipelago, eco-friendly luxury on a serene private island in Indonesia just 2 hours from urban Singapore.

Giving roughing it a new meaning, without sacrificing the luxury in this eco-friendly island resort encircled in white sandy beaches, azure blue waters and coral reefs. A setting made perfect with a rainforest teeming with birds and little critters that provide all the background music you need.

Located just off Bintan Island in the Riau Archipelago, one degree North of the equator, about 53 miles (85 km) southeast of Singapore. Nikoi Island’s 37 acres (15 hectares) of rainforest setting is so untouched, you’ll feel like you have the entire private island to yourself.

Far from pretentious, the resort has 2 pools sculpted among granite boulders, affable staff and eco-friendly principles (solar powered hot water, sustainable buildings. Nikoi attracts honeymooners, young couples or families, with activities that include nature trails, snorkeling, island hopping, fishing, sailing, rock-climbing, wildlife spotting – or just reclining on a daybed on the beach, cocktail in hand.

The 6 two-story thatched beach-front beach villas (nine more are due to open in mid-2009) were built using driftwood. Double-vaulted roofs draw hot air up, so there’s no need for air-conditioners. Guests will have to forego TVs, but there are iPod speakers, stone-floored open bathrooms, a pavilion for massages and direct access to the beach. Meals are served on a dining-room table carved from a 30-ft. (9 m) slab of driftwood.

The development on Nikoi island has deliberately been limited to a small area to minimize impact on the environment and maintain a high level of seclusion and privacy for guests. The design of the private villas on Nikoi Island reflects both traditional Indonesian architecture and contemporary form. The airy layout welcomes warm ocean breezes and natural ventilation.

Source: Unique Travel Destinations