Elite Traveler January-February 2018

Soneva Fushi KUNFUNADHOO ISLAND, MALDIVES

Nestled amid thick foliage on a private island, Soneva Fushi is within the Baa Atoll, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, and has access to some of the best dive spots in the world. One of the first resorts to champion a ‘no shoes, no news’ policy, guests’ shoes are actually taken away when they arrive on the island — the very definition of barefoot luxury. The endless list of activities on offer will suit couples, solo travelers and families — we particularly love the planetarium, and a visit to the chocolate room is an absolute must. Private Reserve from $14,807 per night. Contact Abdullah Rasheed, guest-relations manager, reservations@soneva.com, +960 660 0305, soneva.com/soneva-fushi

North Island SEYCHELLES

Distinguished by an interior of lush rainforest and granite peaks, fringed with white-sand shores and the Indian Ocean, North Island flourishes with flora and fauna. This is largely owing to the resort’s extensive rehabilitation project Noah’s Ark, which saw a complete rejuvenation of the island and reintroduction of endemic species, including a now- thriving population of Aldabra giant tortoises. This extraordinary environment is the setting for a sensitively designed, ultra-luxurious resort. Just 10 Presidential Villas and the palatial Villa North Island are tucked into the foliage facing out over the ocean. Each guest’s stay is personalized entirely, from the food stocked in each villa’s pantry to the gift given on departure. Here you can dine on fresh seafood at the Piazza andWest Beach Bar, unwind with a treatment in the spa and set out on excursions on water and land. A number of celebrities have been drawn to the island; the Clooneys famously honeymooned here. Villa North Island from $11,233 per night. Contact Jonathan Lithgow, general manager, enquiry@wilderness-safaris.com, north-island.com