Posts Tagged ‘Island Destinations’

By Dian Hasan | October 2, 2009

Ever since the infinity pool started to appear in hotels, it was declared as a “must have” accessory for any hotel to be taken seriously. And its clear that upscale hotels and resorts seem the more likely place to find them. They have definitely found their home in small boutique properties.

So while at most of the world’s fine hotels you’d find one or two, at this luxe resort in St. Lucia in sunny Caribbean, the infinity pool is the focal point. They’ve placed one in each room. I beg your pardon, make that luxury villa! Jade Mountain, St. Lucia.

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By Dian Hasan | October 1, 2009

A tree house hotel on an island called Mafia must be the epitome of exotica! Here’s a look at a tree house eco-lodge in Tanzania that’s been practicing Responsible Tourism long before it was considered “in”. Off the tourist trail on a stunningly beautiful island within Tanzania’s Mafia Archipelago, Chole Mjini Lodge was an eco-lodge way before the term had been coined.

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By Dian Hasan | September 29, 2009

Kiwayu Safari Village’s 18 breezy bandas are strung like pearls along a secluded stretch of beach on Kenya’s northern coast, a stone’s throw from Kiwayu Island and just 20 minutes from the Somali border. Far from civilization—but distinctly civilized—Safari Village is a favorite for the royals and rock stars like Mick Jagger who come to relax in its upmarket anonymity.

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By Dian Hasan | September 29, 2009

The best island to dispel the myth that Africa is only about Safaris is Manda Island, one of a string of tropical isles that form Kenya’s Lamu Archipelago. Manda Bay is a stylish boutique beach hideaway, with 16 spacious Swahili cottages is designed to maximise the views and catch the cool sea breezes.

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By Dian Hasan | September 26, 2009

A private holiday island lodge off Madagascar

As a travel destination Africa offers safaris, wildlife, stunning landscapes, native tribes with their rich traditions, deserts, savannas, snow-capped volcanoes, and a string of beautiful tropical islands. Tropical islands?

Yes, tropical is not the Pacific Ocean’s monopoly, the African Continent touches both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and while you may not immediately associate it with the idyllic setting of tropical isles, the following may change the way you see Africa.

Here’s a quick glance to see what’s in store. Stunning indeed. Hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Or perhaps best left undisturbed, and continue playing host to a select few travelers and limit the environmental impact.

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You are always in pursuit of a balance of mind and body that’s relaxing, invigorating, and refreshing. What better place to “recharge” yourself, than a Spa. When planning your spa retreat, why not opt for the ultimate spa holiday at an exceptional luxury resort at one of the world’s most unforgettable islands. Aquum Spa at Huvafen Fushi invites you to discover paradise for a true spa getaway.

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Just in time to console those lamenting the end of summertime sea sports, Huvafen Fushi Maldives announces a new line of water sport activities guaranteed to satisfy the ocean-based desires normally put on hold during the winter months. Under its brand new series of water-based entertainment entitled FLOAT, Huvafen Fushi offers guests unprecedented access to the treasure trove of aquatic beauty surrounding every inch of the resort.

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By Dian Hasan | September 25, 2009

One bright star in the world of eco resorts is making soon make its mark in the Bahamas. STAR Island, the name of the development, stands for Sustainable Terrain And Resources. It will incorporate everything from environmentally friendly features to organic coffee served at local restaurants. Energy will be generated by solar, wind and hydropower…Solar energy will power the island’s water treatment facility, which processes ocean water into drinking water. To avoid wastefulness, all rainwater will be collected in cisterns and reused. All trash will be recycled and converted into power.

STAR Island will feature water-front property comprising 46 private residences, a hotel, 20 private bungalows and 2 condominium developments each with 10 units.

WHAT MAKES IT GREEN: The building is architecturally green and they use LED lighting and geothermal HVAC. Water is also provided by the rainwater harvesting system.

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By Dian Hasan | September 24, 2009

Azura Resort, Benguerra Island, Mozambique. Photo: Vengoo.com

The coast of Mozambique that spills into the Indian Ocean is home to a stunning collection of tropical bliss – The Bazaruto Archipelago. Such aesthetic surroundings have clearly inspired a hotelier to to conceive an eco-friendly resort. Azura, is the result, and what a delight at that.

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By Dian Hasan | September 24, 2009

Kipungani Explorer Eco Resort. A place of fresh air and perfect peace
Located on the ancient Arabian island-paradise of Lamu, Kipungani is one of Africa’s most remote, relaxing, and richly romantic coastal hideaways.

Overlooking the tranquil waters of the sheltered Kipungani Channel, on the remote southwestern tip of Kenya’s Lamu Island, Kipungani is a dream destination for those seeking a true away-from-it-all desert island holiday. After a 90-minute flight from Nairobi, you will be met at Manda Island and transported by boat to the lodge, which is located two degrees south of the Equator, on the edge of a near-deserted 12-kilometer beach.

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