Courtesy of Black Tomato
Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato, which delivers luxe experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more with BAZAAR.com.
While there are more island getaways and resorts than can be counted, having a private island at your disposal is (naturally) one of the most decadent and undeniably exclusive experiences in existence. Remote, uncharted, unfettered and in many instances, inaccessible, these natural wonders can be the ultimate way to reset in style. Going off the grid has great implications for mental and physical well-being; and whether you’re seeking a villa or suite–or an entire island all to yourself–these are the very best private islands on which to unwind, rejuvenate and explore.
Take a note from Proust, who notably said, "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." On your very own retreat, you are bound to see dazzling flora and fauna (much of which is unique to these islands' isolated ecosystems) and taste and feel vibrant community cultures. Here, the top ten private islands on Earth–and where to find them.
Courtesy of Black Tomato
Madagascar is off the grid and home to an unbelievable 80% of extraordinary endemic greenery and plant-life found nowhere else on Earth. A stay at the heavenly Miavana, set to the dramatic backdrop of the Nosy Ankao archipelago, means experiencing truly unchartered territory. Miavana is an ideal private island escape that’s set in over 37,000 acres of protected marine territory. Only 14 private villas comprise the island’s accommodations, and a stay at this luxurious eco-lodge is right out of a Robinson Crusoe reverie.
Miavana is wild and isolated. A stay here will ignite the explorer in you, with days spent delving into lush tropical rainforests teeming with lemurs and watching turtles nest on pristine white beaches. So remote it’s only accessible by helicopter, this stunning lodge is the perfect starting point to explore the wealth of azure blue bays, beaches and hidden lagoons. The magic comes to life with activities like scuba diving, snorkelling from your villa and whale and dolphin watching excursions. If you want to unwind, there’s no finer place to do it than at their world-class spa. Accommodations are unparalleled here, and you don’t sacrifice luxury for off the grid exploration. Miavana oozes elegance with award-winning architecture that seamlessly integrates barefoot luxury with European renaissance. Every secluded villa boasts private pools, ocean views and direct private access to the beach.
Rates from $2,500 per night, all inclusive. Book here.
