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The Bahamas

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Belize

4 private islands you simply must visit

Travelling to a private island sounds like the epitome of luxury travel. What could be more relaxing than exploring an unspoilt tropical island, snorkelling in the sea and looking for shells along the powdery white beach? Whilst many people assume that the dream of private island travel is out of reach, some private island resorts are surprisingly affordable. In reality, there’s a private island for everyone, with many catering to families and groups of friends as well as affluent couples. Here are some of the best…

1. Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

Accessed by a seven-seater private plane or helicopter, Tatiaroa is a string of 12 islands a located 30 miles north of Tahiti. On one of these islands, you’ll find The Brando – a luxury resort made up of 35 beachfront villas. The rest of the atoll is untouched.

Tetiaroa was purchased by actor Marlon Brando in 1966 after he visited Tahiti to film Mutiny on the Bounty. Today’s resort, which opened in 2014, seeks to continue his vision that this dream atoll remains unspoilt. The resort is exquisitely Polynesian and has beautiful white-sand beaches where you can spot sea turtles, manta rays and exotic birds.

Each guest is provided with their own bicycle to explore the island, and families are welcome to stay too.

2. Cayo Espanto, Belize

Cayo Espanto is a private island resort located just off the coast of Belize which features just seven villas. It’s accessed via a seven-minute boat ride from San Pedro, Belize’s second largest island. Just four acres in size, the island has the feel of a castaway dessert island, but with more than a hint of luxury.Each bohemian beach shack on the island features a large veranda where you can enjoy an evening meal, a modern outdoor shower and a private heated infinity pool.

Staff are summoned via a walkie talkie and arrange everything you could need, from arranging excursions via a helicopter to a babysitter for the night.

3. Beachcomber Island, Fiji

If the thought of a private island sounds a little dull, then you’ve never heard of Fiji’s Beachcomber island.Every night the music is pumping, the bar is open late and the dancefloor is packed until the small hours. In addition to a great party, you can also relax and enjoy the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that Fiji is famed for.

Perfect for couples, families and groups of friends alike, Beachcomber island has accommodation to suit all. Budget travellers and backpackers can stay in the 42-bed Grand Dorm, whilst families can enjoy a private lodge. For something special, opt to stay in an oceanfront bure just steps away from the beach.

Parents can enjoy two hours of free babysitting each evening and there are lots of activities for families to enjoy too such as mini golf, beach volleyball and dance competitions.

4. Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

A handful of private islands are owned by cruise lines and are only accessible to cruise passengers. One such island is Royal Caribbean’s 140-acre island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. The island recently underwent a $200 million refurbishment which saw the addition of some incredible features including the tallest water slide in North America, a 1,600-foot zip line and the largest freshwater swimming pool in the Bahamas.

The island is only equipped for day visitors currently, with cruise ships docking at the island’s pier in the morning and departing in the evening. However, the cruise line is considering making the island available for overnight stays in the future.

This private island has something for everyone, with private luxury cabanas available to hire, a huge kids’ splash park with slides, water cannons and tipping buckets, and lots of beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Where would you choose?

Whether you have a Champagne lifestyle or a lemonade budget, there’s a private island for you. If you want total isolation, a non-stop party atmosphere, or something in between, a private island can provide everything you dream of for your next getaway. Which one would you choose?

This guest post was provided by Simon Hansen from Family Travel Planet.

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Australia

6 Luxury Islands To Get Married On

Most of us spend our lives dressing up dolls in dresses, writing diary entries describing what our groomsmen or bridesmaids will wear, and dreaming up the most lavish of locations in which to say our “I do’s”. And, luckily, the globe is littered with paradisiacal islands that weave into any dream wedding stereotype, from white sand beaches on Fiji’s Turtle Island, to fantastical flora and fauna pouring out of Italy’s Borromean Islands. If you’ve always dreamt of a luxury wedding atop an island straight out of a glossy magazine, then here are some to cast your eye over…

Borromean Islands, Italy

Italy is famed for more than just its divine pizza and pasta past, but weddings galore too. If you’re craving a Clooney-esque extravaganza then why not head to the pretty Borromean Islands? Once described by Gustav Flaubert as ‘heaven on earth,’ the tiny islands reside on the Western side of Lago Maggiore and are speckled with palm trees, flora and fauna and lemon groves, making them utterly idyllic for the exchange of vows. Albeit optional, a championed place to say I do is the Stresa town hall, a former ancient fisherman house. Then, flee to the surrounding alcoves and expansive gardens – Flaubert wasn’t far wrong in his commendation.

Little Palm Island, Florida

Elegantly positioned just at the end of U.S. Highway 1 in the Lower Keys, Little Palm Island, Florida, ticks all the “when I grow up, I want to get married in…” boxes! The oasis oozes romance, with lagoon-style pools, deck side hot tubs, private beaches, and other paradisiacal elements to boot. The resort allows for guests 16 and above, so Flora the flower girl might have to stay at home or, alternatively, you can rent out the entire property for 41 to 60 guests. Either way, key lime pie is absolutely essential, as is snapping a photo by a palm tree for the Gram!

Cayo Espanto, Belize

The circumference of Cayo Espanto is peacefully littered with fishing boats and pontoons that stretch elegantly into the ocean. Located below Mexico, bear to Guatemala, this Caribbean spot in Central America captures sunrises and sunsets that are enough to blissfully distract any visitor. The luxury island makes for a perfect spot for those who want to stir away from tradition, with piers to put a ring on it on, and snorkelling on the second largest barrier reef in the world on offer. A fish supper will delight the taste buds for the post-ceremony meal as fresh catches are reeled in from fisher men bobbing up and down on the water.

Turtle Island, Fiji

There’s something oh, so alluring about Fiji. The name itself excites the wanderlust inside us as we dream of those wooden docks and blue seas. All in all, it’s a divine place for love birds to begin the creation of their nest, especially Turtle Island, an utterly dreamy South Seas island. And, it seems, the Fijians know a thing or two about holding an epic wedding ceremony. The bride arrives by raft and is carried in by two warriors to the sound of thundering drumbeats – no, we’re not kidding!

At the on-island resort, a maximum of 14 guests can stay, making it an idyllic destination for those who want an intimate, yet luxurious gathering. However, we must say we’re already cringing at the drama of whittling down the family and friends list! Further highlights, bar the highly Instagrammable destination itself, include canopied king beds, jacuzzis, and verandas that offer coveted South Pacific views.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

With a name like Paradise Island, you know you’re likely signing up for something pretty amazing, especially as this luxury oasis sits snug in the Bahamas. The Bahamas sells itself with turquoise waters and white sand beaches galore. The Atlantis is the ‘place to be seen’ wedding destination once there, oozing elegance across its 20 contrasting wedding and reception venues. Pad barefoot down to the beach, equipped with family, friends and Champers and enjoy a vow exchange on a secluded white sand beach, with tropical settings engulfing the surrounding areas. Simply dreamy!

The Isle of Mull, Scotland

Travel to The Isle of Mull and get married in the spellbinding Duart Castle. Home to sea, scrag and ancient structures, this island will see you lose your Wi-Fi but gain some epic images set against moody and creative backdrops. The Scottish island immerses you in all things nature, and the castle can be seen as you approach by sea. There are two gorgeous spaces for small ceremonies, The Sea and Drawing Room, or marry inside the beautiful Banqueting Hall that presents the Clan Maclean regalia. It’s a Game of Thrones-esque place to wed, and one that will inevitably take the breath away.

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Australia

9 Dubai hotels to help you explore every neighbourhood

There’s so little time and so much to do in the emirate… But if you need an excuse to branch out and explore different neighbourhoods, consider these Dubai hotels when it comes to picking where to dine, soak up the city views and rest your head.

1. Caesars Palace – Bluewaters Island

This Las Vegas favourite has now landed in the United Arab Emirates so if you can’t live out your The Hangover fantasies in Nevada itself, there’s always the desert of Dubai. Just like in Sin City you can indulge in treatments at Qua Spa. Instead of glimpsing the High Roller in Vegas you can take in the sights of the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai, which is also situated on this manmade island.

There are 12 dining spots to enjoy at the resort including Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen – another Vegas hotspot – and pools for days to really give true meaning to the name Bluewaters Island.

www.caesars.com/dubai

2. The Address – Dubai Marina

Attached to Dubai Marina Mall, this one’s a great choice for retail therapy lovers who want to be right next to the biggest brands from across the world, all under one roof. Think of all your favorite European and American brands, sprinkle it with some local flavor and you get the idea. The hotel is just one of many of the same name dotted around the emirate. The one in the Marina neighborhood is the home of Shades, a serene pool lounge popular for sundowners, and the international restaurant, Ruth’s Chris Steak House which is loved by the Kardashians. Stay here and the cherry on top is gorgeous views of the water. Just dropping by is easy too as the Marina Mall tram stops right outside the hotel.

www.addresshotels.com/en/hotels/address-dubai-marina/

3. Atlantis, The Palm – Palm Jumeirah

Located at the centre of the crescent of The Palm – a manmade island shaped like a palm tree – this ocean-themed resort is noticeable from all around Dubai. The site features a variety of marine and entertainment attractions, as well as Aquaventure Waterpark. It’s home to one of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, with over 65,000 animals in lagoons at the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Once you’ve worked up an appetite swimming with dolphins and gazing at sea lions, book a meal at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar or Nobu. In fact, with so many tourists lining outside to get pictures of the magnificent structure, a dining booking is one of your best bets for getting up close.

www.atlantisthepalm.com

4. TRYP by Wyndham – Barsha Heights

While Barsha Heights isn’t in a particularly touristy area, the residential neighbourhood is where you’ll find this city of expats winds down with a spot fo karaoke at Lucky Voice or continues the party in casual style post-brunch. For that reason, the area is a bit of a secret spot for when it comes to booking more affordable hotel stays. TRYP by Wyndham’s claim to fame has to Barbary Deli + Cocktail Club, a dark and sultry restaurant and bar, that attracts celebrity guests. With it going against the grain in the conservative city and playing sexy movies on-screen, it’s no wonder people are flocking to experience it. For a more family-friendly experience take to the terrace when the weather allows.

www.trypwyndhamdubai.com

5. Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai – DIFC

Another global brand in Dubai, this hotel puts you in the heart of the Financial District as its appeal is heightened by the offering at ikandy ultralounge. For unobstructed views of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, head to the stunning rooftop poolside terrace accessible from the Sheikh Zayed Road, which runs through Dubai to Abu Dhabi. It’s Vietnamese restaurant Hoi An is also regarded as one of the nest South East Asian spots in Dubai.

www.shangri-la.com/dubai/shangrila

6. La Ville Hotel & Suites – City Walk Dubai

The contemporary 5-star hotel is right on City Walk, an outdoor stretch of shops that are popular with the locals. The area is especially pretty when lit up at night and it makes for a much cooler stroll down the shiny pavements lined with eateries such as Sugar Factory when the sun goes down. Staying at La Ville also means good proximity to Green Planet, and indoor jungle filled with birds, spiders (in cases of course) and even cute sloths.

That’s if you can bear to leave the hotel which creates a chilled out vibe with its live music offering in the courtyard, and poolside brunch.

www.livelaville.com

7. Palazzo Versace Dubai – Culture Village

Reminiscent of a 16th century Italian Palace, there’s no mistaking you’re at Palazzo Versace Dubai with a striking entrance that features the designer brand’s logo on the lobby floor. They take Italian furnishings to the extreme with an entire restaurant that will remind you THAT Jennifer Lopez Grammys dress. Yes, the walls and chairs at Giardino are botanical print and every piece of furniture and fabric in the 215 hotel rooms and suites are designed and tailor-made by Versace exclusively for the hotel.

Less than 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport and located along the shores of the historic Dubai Creek, it’s also the setting of Quincy Jones’ first jazz club and a restaurant named Enigma which changes its concept seasonally.

www.palazzoversace.ae

8. QE2 – Mina Rashid

Ever wanted to go on a cruise but not sure you could commit with being stuck on the water? This is a happy medium with the Queen Elizabeth ship named the QE2 finding a home in Dubai. The QE2 completed 1,400 voyages, sailed 6 million nautical miles and hosted almost 2.5 million passengers. After completing 25 tours around the world in 39 years, now Dubai visitors can sleep in a cabin but don’t worry, it’s not going anywhere. So you can pretend to be Jack and Rose on the Titanic without any feelings of dread.

www.qe2.com

9. Lapita – Jebel Ali

Theme park fans only need to consider one place to stay when in Dubai. Lapita is located right by Dubai Parks and Resorts which is collectively the world’s largest theme park. Comprised of Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark, Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks and linked together by Riverland, you only need to walk or hop on a buggy between your bed and all the rides. The Polynesian-themed accommodation is catered for kids to have a great time but adults are well taken care of in the various restaurants, bars and in the spa.

www.dubaiparksandresorts.com/en/lapita

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Egypt

Exotic Travel to Famous James Bond Filming Locations

Following in The Footsteps of James Bond to Famous 007 Filming Locations

There’s no denying that throughout half a century of James Bond films, when it comes to breathtaking and exotic locales nobody does it better. From the world’s highest peaks in Switzerland to the majestic pyramids at Giza and the deepest parts of the Pacific Ocean, Bond has seen it all. Watching the films, one gets a feeling of wanderlust, dreaming of what it would be like to be the famous spy at those exotic locations. Well, dream no more. Let us take you on a journey to some of the famous locations that you can visit anytime.

Let’s start off in the Swiss Alps with Goldfinger, the film that first introduced the ubiquitous Aston Martin DB5, which Bond drives on the scenic Furka Pass. Today, you can rent a car and drive the winding road yourself. However, be cautioned as it sits at an elevation of 2,431m and is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world. Still climbing, you will arrive at Piz Gloria in the Swiss Alps, featured in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, where Blofeld’s “allergy clinic” is located, according to Travel Pulse. It sits majestically atop the Schilthorn Mountain peak. Today, it is the famous Restaurant Piz Gloria where you can enjoy a hefty James Bond breakfast buffet.

From snowy peaks to desert dunes, the iconic filming locations of the Pyramids at Giza, Luxor, and the Temple Complex of Karnak were featured in 007’s adventures in Egypt as seen in the The Spy Who Loved Me. Now, you can take a train from Cairo to Giza and Luxor to visit these now iconic Bond locations, and learn more about Egyptian culture.

The James Bond films in the 60s and 70s were some of the first to inspire the post-war generation to travel. Nowadays, the allure of travel that Bond presented has be copied and amplified by modern media for the following generations. Many different platforms have also capitalised on the business of providing travel inspiration, and the locations shown in Bond have gone on to become bucket list destinations because of this. bwin Casino features games based on Egyptian locations and lore such as Pyramid the Quest of Immortality, Ancient Egypt and Crown of Egypt. Like the The Spy Who Loved Me, these games highlight the mystic symbolism of the pyramids and Egyptian culture. Despite the differences in the delivery, the same themes and images are still portrayed, showing how Egypt’s allure never changes.

The sands of Egypt give way to the brilliant waters of Phang Nga Bay at Phuket, Thailand where Scaramanga’s island hideout, the 66-foot-tall islet of Ko Tapu from The Man with The Golden Gun is situated. You can make the trek by bus from Phuket Town and brave the boat trip, but be warned, unlike 44 years ago when the film was made, today the island is overrun with tourists hungry to see “James Bond Island.” Still at sea level, the majestic Lake Palace at Udaipur in India was the scene of Octopussy’s lair in Octopussy. You can visit the site and indulge in some Bond luxury as it has now been transformed into a five-star hotel. It provides visitors the same royal treatment that the Maharaja of Udaipur received back when the palace was built.

We’ll end underwater in Nassau and Paradise Island in the Bahamas. This is where Bond and Domino’s underwater tryst and underwater battle from Thunderball were filmed. Nassau was also featured in Casino Royale where Daniel Craig famously followed in the footsteps of Sean Connery. He stayed at the One&Only Ocean Club, where there’s a three-to-one staff to guest ratio. You can do the same and visit the luxurious island, which is home to expensive hotels, resorts and fine dining. So, get out there. Remember, “you only live twice Mr. Bond!”

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