North Island

We think it’s fair to say that there’s nowhere quite like North Island and its hotel. Especially when you consider the amount of effort they have put into not only making sure they provide guests with a lucury escape, but also protecting the environment and its varied wildlife.

The picture is predictable but the experience is not. Firstly, the hotel owns this Eden-like island all to itself with its flaying green palms and flour-sifted sands lapped at by the warm, tie-dye turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. There’s also a lovely Robinson Crusoe feel to the place, with your days filled with the sounds and sights of its birds, vibrant coral life to dive, fishing and kayaking trips, not to mention its own small population of giant tortoises. North Island is well renowned for is ecologically-sustainable efforts and admirable drive to conserve and reintroduce many of its species.

However, you definitely know you haven’t been shipwrecked when you see the sumptuous ethnic style of its eleven private, palapa-style villas, elegant beach piazza, wine cellar, library, boutique, not to mention trying the delectable cuisine and meeting their impeccable staff.