Have your every need tended to at Bawah Reserve, an all-inclusive private island where you can indulge in an undisturbed natural sanctuary.
Imagine yourself on an exclusive private island, surrounded by pristine, crystal-clear waters that extend to the horizon. As the sun sets behind your luxurious chalet, the distractions of everyday life in Singapore fade away. No, you’re not in the Maldives; you’re experiencing the unparalleled opulence of Bawah Reserve.
Nestled among a cluster of islands far removed from the ordinary, Bawah Reserve is not just another resort in Batam; it is a haven for those seeking an authentic escape from city life. Embrace the allure of hidden beauty, where the night sky dazzles with a canopy of stars, and three enchanting lagoons and thirteen pristine beaches await exploration.
Indulge in unrivaled luxury and exclusivity
Image: Bawah Reserve
For those ready to indulge in the epitome of luxury, the island offers an all-encompassing experience starting at an exclusive rate of USD 1,780 per night (S$2,424) with a minimum stay requirement of three nights. Ensuring an intimate atmosphere, the resort welcomes children aged five and above, enhancing privacy and comfort.
Choose between a suite with beach or garden views, an overwater bungalow that overlooks the reserve’s coral reefs, and two to four bedroom villas for even more space. Comfort is key as each abode blends well with the island. Think bamboo finishings, thatched roofs, and outdoor rain showers.
The Grouper Bar Image: Bawah Reserve
Your discerning palate will be treated to culinary delights at two exquisite restaurants and two sophisticated bars. Choose between the intimate Tree Tops restaurant, overlooking the lagoon, or The Boat House, which hosts weekly barbecue and movie-screening nights. From The Grouper‘s casual ambience to Jules Verne‘s elevated cocktails featuring local ingredients, an array of international and Indonesian cuisine beckons.
Complementing your stay are daily spa treatments for two at the Aura Spa, coupled with access to rejuvenating yoga, pilates, and meditation sessions. The resort’s air-conditioned gym, infinity swimming pool, and a plethora of land and water activities promise moments of leisure and adventure.
Untouched islands that are yours for exploring
Image: Bawah Reserve
Beyond exclusivity, the private island setting invites you to connect with nature. Embark on snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding adventures amidst coral reefs and pristine waters. Lace up your trekking shoes for hikes along four trails spanning two islands. For a touch of adrenaline, partake in boat excursions, and catamaran sailing.
Image: Bawah Reserve
Marine enthusiasts can get acquainted with the resort’s resident reef creatures through scuba diving excursions that can be booked at an additional cost, with courses catering to both adults and children.
Seamless door-to-door transfers
Image: Bawah Reserve
Elevate your arrival with a truly extravagant touch. For an additional USD 950 (S$1,295), relish in door-to-door pick-up service encompassing a 4.5-hour journey each way.
A private car whisks you from your doorstep to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, where expedited immigration clearance awaits. Transition seamlessly to Hang Nadim Airport for an 80-minute seaplane flight to Bawah Reserve. Your return to Singapore is equally seamlessly orchestrated.
Alternatively, if you are traveling from Batam, opt for Bawah Reserve’s transport service at USD 800 per person (S$1,090). However, for the epitome of luxury, we recommend the exclusive seaplane experience from Singapore.
Exclusivity at its best at Bawah Reserve
It’s undeniable that Bawah Reserve epitomises exclusivity. It is a coveted destination for those seeking an opulent escape, whether for momentous occasions like honeymoons, anniversaries, or even weddings. From gourmet dining to curated activities, this private island promises an extraordinary retreat, ensuring your journey begins right at your doorstep and ends in an luxurious island paradise.
Iconic, sensible, and timeless. These 5 luxury watches are perfect for beginner collectors who want to ensure they’re getting the best value and quality.
Starting a collection of luxury watches can be a formidable task for beginners, especially since there are thousands of options to choose from. There are simple timepieces that are valued for their precise craftsmanship, while some are decidedly avant-garde pieces that make artistic statements on the wrist rather than tell the time.
For those who want to delve deeper into the horological world, here are the must-haves for any budding timepiece enthusiasts. These collectibles aren’t just iconic in their own right, but they’re also worthy investments that’ll last for years to come.
1. Rolex Submariner
Image: @timepieceswede via Instagram
Think luxury watches and Rolex is a brand that immediately comes to mind. So it’ll come as no surprise that getting one of their most recognisable timepieces is a must for a starter collection.
The Rolex Submariner was first introduced in 1953 as a watch for diving, but it has since adorned the wrists of non-divers aplenty. Most notably, it was the watch of choice for actors playing James Bond in the eponymous films from 1962-1987.
Key features of the Submariner include its hardy steel body, oversized crown, unilateral rotating bezel, and waterproof casing of up to 300m. These hallmarks were first conceptualised for divers to easily read and handle the watch while underwater. Now, they’re not just what make this watch iconic, but a rugged piece that can be passed down to future generations.
For watch collectors who prize craftsmanship and precision over all else, it’s got to be Omega – bar none. After all, they’ve been the official timekeeper for the Olympics since 1932, where split seconds distinguish silver from gold.
That isn’t to say Omega watches are any less stunning. The Seamaster and Speedmaster are proof of that. The Seamaster was introduced first in 1948, while the Speedmaster was released in 1957.
Speedmaster. Image: Omega
If you follow horology history closely, you’d know that the Speedmaster has been worn on every lunar expedition led by NASA. That’s because it was the only watch that could withstand the space administration’s rigorous testing. The chronograph, AKA the Moonwatch, made its first galaxy debut on the wrist of Buzz Aldrin, one of the astronauts of the first moon landing in 1969.
Seamaster. Image credit: Omega
The Seamaster’s legacy is equally legendary. From its name, it’s easy to think that the timepiece was made for diving, but the watch was made to withstand high changes in pressure – whether hundreds of metres in the deep blue or thousands of miles in the sky. It’s more famous, however, as the choice of accessory by Agent 007 in the James Bond films since 1995.
As to which one to get – it all boils down to preference. Speedy fans often enjoy the tactile features of the chronograph, which has subdials you can fiddle with. For beginner watch collectors, the Seamaster would be more ideal since it has automatic and quartz movements, which don’t require manual winding. We say, it’s worth completing your collection with both.
Price: From $3,400 (Seamaster) | From $5,300 (Speedmaster)
Collectible timepieces have come a long way from just being able to tell time. One of the earliest auxiliary features of watches was the chronograph, and synonymous with that technology is Swiss brand Tag Heuer. They were one of the first watchmakers to popularise the chronograph, making it wearable on wrists since the early 1910s.
Most Tag Heuer watches now come with a chronograph, but for a standout piece for a collection, then the Carrera would be your best bet. The watch is named after the Carrera Panamericana, a gruelling motor race in Mexico that lasted for only five years.
Jack Heuer, great-grandson of founder Edouard Heuer, was the one to conceptualise the watch, which combined the chronograph with a tachymeter, which calculates speed. He saw the Tag Heuer Carrera as the ultimate watch to wear from the racing track to the after party. Now in its 60th year of production, the Carrera continues to adorn racing drivers, such as Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
If the Carrera name sounds familiar, it’s because Porsche also took a liking to the name and named their 911 model after the race. A fitting car to match your new Tag Heuer, perhaps?
Necessity births invention, and sometimes an icon, which is the story of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. The watch with the reversible case was the solution for polo players who often scratched their watch dials during intensive matches. It only requires a simple push, twist, and lock manoeuvre without having to remove the watch from the wrist to keep the dial protected.
Off the field, the watch then gained a cult following once watchmakers saw the potential of the plain casebacks as canvases for personalisation – think engravings of initials and even enamels of paintings and family crests.
The Reverso even offers a second watch dial on the caseback in models like the Duetto and Duoface. The Duetto has light and dark faces, so the watch can be worn from day to night. As for the Duoface, the second dial can be set to a different time zone for frequent travellers. This iconic marriage of form and function is what makes the Reverso a popular watch for beginner watch collectors.
You may know Cartier as a jewellery brand, but the French design maison has been making watches since 1904. Their first watch was the Cartier Santos, which is still highly sought after today. But it’s the brand’s second watch – the Cartier Tank – that is the sine qua non of watch collectors everywhere.
Its elongated, rectangular body was inspired by Renault military tanks, and it is this slim shape that popularised wearing wristwatches as an accessory across genders. Fashion icons like Jackie Kennedy, Yves Saint Laurent, and Andy Warhol sported the Cartier Tank on red carpets, which only catapulted the watch’s popularity as a staple in any jewellery box.
The Cartier Tank has been in production since 1917 – a testament to its timelessness as a fashion accessory. Over the years, slight modulations have been introduced to suit various aesthetics. This includes a larger case for the Tank MC and a crocodile leather offering on the Tank Louis Cartier.
There you have it – some of the more classic pieces for novice watch collectors to get to start a lifelong hobby of collecting timepieces.
But before starting a watch collection, it’s important to note what you want your selection to say about you as a collector. Are you in it for the workmanship, the aesthetics, or the technology The ones we’ve chosen cover a good selection of all three, but it’s up to you to see where you want to take your collection.
Cover image: Omega, @timepieceswede & @thetimespellers via Instagram
When it comes to fuss-free travel, nothing beats a cruise around the world. Now elevate it with these cruises with exclusive club access.
Picture an indulgent retreat and luxury cruises would effortlessly fulfil your every need. With everything from daily meals, activities, and entertainment sorted, all you need to do is show up for a hassle-free getaway. However, the discerning few who seek an even more exclusive voyage need to look no further.
Explore our thoughtfully curated selection of the finest luxury cruises in Singapore. Revel in generously appointed, sophisticated suites and indulge in private spaces reserved exclusively for esteemed guests. From the dedicated services of a personal butler to priority privileges and access to exclusive clubs, these luxury cruises redefine opulence for your next holiday.
1. Celebrity Cruises – The Retreat
Celebrity Cruises’ suites come stocked with thoughtful touches, such as 2 complimentary bottles of premium spirits and VIP canapés just to name a few. If anything’s amiss, your personal butler’s just a ring away. Image: Celebrity Cruises
For those looking to get a taste of that old money lifestyle, then Celebrity Cruises’ The Retreat will be your oceanic sanctuary. The suites here are plenty extravagant; choose the lofty 2-storey Edge Villa when you’re travelling with the whole crew, or the Iconic Suite that wows with expansive, floor-to-ceiling views that rival that of the captain’s.
Catch some sun at The Retreat Sundeck, a private space specially for The Retreat guests. Image: Celebrity Cruises
The Retreat experience comes with every suite-class stateroom, so do find the time to crawl out of your king-sized cashmere mattresses to drop by some of the cloistered haunts on board. For starters, hit the Retreat Lounge for daily afternoon tea, and don’t forget to mingle with fellow guests as you sip on a pre-dinner cocktail.
Luminae Restaurant, only available to The Retreat guests. Image: Celebrity Cruises
Afterwards, march into the Retreat-exclusive Luminae for a sumptuous dinner. Once you’re ushered to your seats by your maître d’, have a gander at the exquisite menu. The restaurant’s signature dishes were created by the Michelin Starred Daniel Boulud, so dig into a hearty Grilled Filet Mignon or the tender Pistachio-dusted Lamb Loin.
Exclusive perks and privileges for The Retreat guests:
Access to The Retreat Sundeck, The Retreat Lounge, and Luminae
Dedicated team of attendants, concierges, and butlers
Pre-cruise and onboard access to The Retreat Concierge
Priority check-in, departure, and port tendering/boarding
Reserved theatre seating on Evening Chic nights and preferred seating in specialty restaurants
Complimentary 24-hour in-suite dining including full breakfast, lunch & dinner
Upcoming sail dates:
27th November 2024: 12 nights, one way from Singapore to Thailand, Vietnam, and China – from USD4,688 (S$6,368)
21st December 2024: 12 nights, one way from Singapore to Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia including Bali – from USD8,529 (S$11,585)
The famed fleet of Royal Caribbean Cruises needs no introduction. From iFLY freefall simulators to a full-fledged water park, the entertainment onboard knows no bounds. If you’d like to truly live like kings and queens while sailing the seven seas, then consider elevating your holiday with their Royal Suite Class.
Image: Royal Caribbean Cruises
The Royal Suite Class experience is only available for those who sail in either the Sea, Sky or Star Class suites, and these staterooms – if you can even call them that – pull no punches. For picture-perfect IG fodder, the Solarium Suite gives panoramic views of the ocean, while the kids can go wild on the Ultimate Family Suite’s built-in slide.
Image: Royal Caribbean Cruises
Passengers who stay in these high-end suites will enjoy benefits like complimentary dining at any specialty dining restaurants on board, as well as going on exclusive signature activities like a tour of the ship’s bridge. Additionally, you’ll be assigned your very own Royal Genie. Think of them as a butler, but better.
Apparently, the Royal Genies are allergic to the word “no”, and they’ll try their best to fulfil any request you might have, within legal means of course. These include planning cocktail parties, to magically procuring seats to a fully-booked restaurant on the ship. The Genies will even contact you 6 weeks prior to your trip in order to better personalise your stay.
Exclusive perks and privileges for Royal Suite Class guests:
Access to Royal Genie Service, Suite Lounge/Concierge Club, and Suite Sun Deck/The Balcony
Complimentary backstage tours of the ship’s bridge, galley, or theatre
Reserved seating for onboard entertainment
Priority bookings for spa appointments and speciality dining reservations onboard
Priority boarding, departure, and entrance to onboard activities
Upcoming sail dates:
25th November 2024: 3 nights round trip from Singapore to Penang – from S$3,567
21st November 2024: 4 nights round trip from Singapore to Penang and Phuket – from S$4,410
5th December 2024: 5 nights round trip from Singapore to Penang and Phuket – from S$4,927
From the same folks who brought you Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove, Resort World Cruises is looking to spruce up your seafaring sojourn with The Palace. It’s a private enclave aboard their ships, and only those who opt for the Palace Suites can be privy to these select areas.
The Palace experience begins before you even step foot on the cruise, as you get to check in away from the crowds at a VIP lounge. In-fact, you’ll find a lack of lines wherever you go as Palace suite passengers will relish fast-tracked security clearances, and priority check-in for yourself and your luggage.
The Palace also houses a private pool and jacuzzi, as well as a poolside cafe. Image: Resorts World Cruises
Other amenities available at your fingertips include the Palace Restaurant that whips up both Chinese and Western delicacies alike. Once you’ve had your fill, you can head right on to the Palace Spa, Gym and Fitness studio to to stave off the extra calories with fitness classes led by a professional trainer.
Exclusive perks and privileges for The Palace guests:
Access to VIP lounge at cruise terminal
Access to the Palace restaurant, spa, gym, fitness studio, and private pool
24-hour butler concierge service
Priority check-in with butler assistance, and luggage check-in and check out with express delivery
Priority access to live production shows onboard
Upcoming sail dates:
9th June 2024: 5 nights, round trip from Singapore to Bangkok, Ko Samui and Pulau Redang – from S$7,998
25th June 2024: 3 nights, round trip from Singapore to Phuket – from S$5,678
The Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven is aptly nestled at the top of their cruise ships, and within it resides their most posh and spacious accommodations on deck. The suites here can get big; the sprawling 3-Bedroom Garden Villa measures a whopping 6,694 square feet, and even comes complete with a grand piano and outdoor jacuzzi.
Image: Norwegian Cruise Line
When you decide to leave your decadent cabins, there are a couple of Haven-only venues which are only accessible to suite passengers through the tap of a distinctive metallic keycard.
These include the Haven Courtyard and Sundeck, where you’ll be able to kick back atop loungers while vigilant attendants make sure towels and cold fruit skewers are never in short supply.
You’ll also find the concierge desk at the Haven Courtyard. Direct any requests to them and they’ll be more than happy to oblige. Image: Norwegian Cruise Line
The peckish can visit the Haven Restaurant to feast on fine dining favourites like Foie Gras and Grilled Atlantic Cod. You can even book private dining rooms here should you wish to host events behind closed doors; even celebrities have done so. If you must know, Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom held a birthday celebration for their daughter right here.
Exclusive perks and privileges for The Haven guests:
Access to The Haven lounge, restaurant, courtyard, and sundeck
Distinctive Haven Keycard
Personal escort on and off the ship at pier and ports of call
Dedicated concierge and 24-hour butler services
Priority check-in, disembarkation, and reservations for onboard restaurants and entertainment
Upcoming sail dates:
21st January 2025: 4 nights, one way trip from Singapore to Taiwan – from USD1,749 (S$2,377)
8th February 2025: 13 nights, one way trip from Singapore to Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Philippines and Taiwan – from USD7,329 (S$9,959)
5. Holland America Line – Neptune Lounge & Club Orange
The Greenhouse Spa on the Noordam ship Image: My Cruises
The Neptune Lounge is the place to be for those aboard any one of Holland America Line’s upscale vessels. It’s essentially a regal living room which serves as the perfect backdrop as you start your day with a cuppa joe paired with dainty cookies and pastries, or to sink hours into a good book.
Holland America Line has its roots in the shipping and cargo industry way back in 1873; the Neptune Lounge classy ambience gives credence to the cruise line’s rich nautical history. Image: Cruise Mummy
Here’s the catch: it’s only accessible to travellers who’ve booked a stay at either a Neptune or Pinnacle Suite, two of the cruise’s most lavish accommodation options. These suites aren’t anything to scoff at; you’ll get a private veranda with each suite, whose ever-changing scenery will warrant multiple peeks as you traverse from country to country.
The Pinnacle Suite. Image: Cruiseable
Another benefit of choosing a Neptune or Pinnacle Suite is the complimentary inclusion of an Orange Club membership. It opens a whole new world of convenience, with perks like priority check-in and disembarkation. Also, expect invitations to special events onboard handpicked by the ship’s captain, like a private greenhouse spa and salon consultation.
Exclusive perks and privileges for Neptune and Pinnacle Suite guests:
Access to Neptune Lounge and Club Orange private dining venue
Personal concierge service
Priority check-in, disembarkation, and boarding
Priority line at Guest Service and Shore Excursions desk
Priority dining and seating reservations
Invitation to a cocktail party with Neptune Lounge Concierge and special onboard events chosen by ship captain
Upcoming sail dates:
8th December 2024: 14 nights, round trip from Singapore to Indonesia – from USD4,159 (S$5,517.89)
22nd December 2024: 13 nights, round trip from Singapore to Thailand and Vietnam – from USD4,719 (S$6,260.86)
Pamper yourself with these luxury cruises in Singapore
A true getaway is only really achieved if you barely needed to lift a finger to fully kick into relaxation mode. A stay at any one of these luxury cruises in Singapore with private club access will serve as a salve for weary bones; especially when you have every need taken care of by a mystical genie.
Looking for an undisturbed getaway? These private islands in Southeast Asia offer unrivalled exclusivity for discerning jetsetters.
A sojourn at an exclusive beach resort offers an incomparable reset for the mind, body, and soul. You’ve got a cocktail in hand, a good book to devour in another, a gentle breeze against your skin, and the sound of waves softly crashing onto the sandy beach. The last thing you want is your tranquility pierced by the clamour of tourists. For those in search of such sanctuary, private islands offer an elevated experience in luxury.
Think lavish villas, world-class dining, unparalleled experiences amidst nature, and bespoke services to help you disappear into serenity. After all, it is the intimate experiences and quality time with our loved ones that define a vacation well spent.
Here, we present our handpicked selection of five private islands in Southeast Asia, each a haven in its own right.
1. Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
Door-to-door transport service with seaplane
Image: Bawah Reserve
Bawah Reserve is so exclusive that guests can only reach it via the resort’s private seaplane. This small cluster of mostly untouched private islands sits far out at sea in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago, and is accessible from Batam. Rest assured that your journey over will be a smooth one with Bawah Reserve’s door-to-door transport package that whisks you away to the island right from your doorstep in Singapore.
Bespoke dining and wellness experiences can be arranged at the resort. Image: Bawah Reserve
Once you reach the island, you can continue to kick back and relax. Nearly everything from your meals to daily activities is included in your stay. Feast on carefully crafted Indonesian and Mediterranean dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced locally at one of the four dining options at the resort.
Image: Bawah Reserve
During the day, you’ll be pampered to the nines with complimentary daily spa treatments and wellness activities. Clear your mind and soul by exploring the islands and lagoons of the reserve. You can go trekking through the jungle, snorkel or dive to admire the island’s untouched reefs, or explore the clear blue waters on a catamaran.
Image: Bawah Reserve
After a day spent amid nature, wind down in a villa that’s modelled after a rustic hut but doesn’t sacrifice modern comfort and luxury. For the full “Maldives” experience, you can choose to stay in an overwater villa that gives you direct access to the sea below.
How to get to Bawah Reserve: A seaplane from Batam with door-to-door pickup service from Singapore costs USD950 (~S$1,295). The journey takes about 4.5 hours each way and includes expedited immigration clearance.
Rates: From USD1,780/night (S$2,424), with a minimum stay of 3 nights.
Nestled on a private island behind Pangkor Island in Perak, Malaysia, Pangkor Laut Resort is a hidden tropical enclave that doesn’t sacrifice exclusivity despite its reasonable price point. Each suite and villa embodies traditional Malaysian architecture blended with modern luxury.
The Estates at Pangkor Laut. Image: Pangkor Laut Resort
You can also opt for a private bungalow at The Estates at Pangkor Laut that comes with its own swimming pool and butler services for an even more undisturbed experience.
Image: Pangkor Laut Resort
Roll out of bed and you’ll be greeted with glorious views of the sea and the neighbouring Pangkor Island giving you a stunning backdrop of rolling hills. You’ll also be able to wine and dine your days away with six restaurants to choose from, offering an array of cuisines – including Malay, Nyonya, and Western favourites – to tantalise your tastebuds. Should you have a special occasion to celebrate, private dining experiences by the beach are available.
The Spa Village at Pangkor Laut Resort. Image: Pangkor Laut Resort.
For those in need of some rejuvenation, take solace in the resort’s PURE offerings. Engage the resort for private jungle trekking sessions through an untouched rainforest, catch the morning sea breeze with a yoga session, or indulge in your adventurous side by booking an island excursion.
How to get to Pangkor Laut Resort: The most convenient way to get to the resort is to take a flight to Ipoh, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Marina Island Pangkor. The resort is then a 15-minute boat ride away. Transfers to Pangkor Laut Resort can be arranged with the resort from RM400 (S$116). Helicopter transfers can also be arranged.
A stay at a beach resort usually entails days spent chasing the sun. After all, getting that glowing tan and soaking up the calm ocean vibes is what fuels many of us. Well, at Song Saa Private Island, it doesn’t have to end once the sun goes down. Once it’s dark out, you won’t just get to gaze at the blanket of stars above you, but you’ll also be able to witness the magnificent glow of bioluminescent plankton in the resort’s waters.
Image: Song Saa Private Island
This rare phenomenon isn’t the only reason why you should bookmark this private island in Cambodia for your next retreat. Sustainability is a theme that rings true throughout the island, where villas and resort areas have been built to blend in with its natural surroundings. The resort also organises tours where you can show your support to the local community in the conservation of neighbouring islands.
The outdoor spa. Image: Song Saa Private Island
It’s no surprise then, that the mostly untouched natural beauty of Song Saa Private Island is unrivalled. Explore the waters surrounding the island and marvel at colourful corals that have been rehabilitated by the resort. Or, let your troubles melt away with a massage at the outdoor spa, take up a morning yoga session by the beach, or engage a wellbeing therapist for a private meditation session.
Image: Song Saa Private Island
For those who just want to hide away in their villas, you’ll be basking in plush comfort. Each villa is generous with space, offering magnificent views of the sea. Every choice comes with a private plunge pool and sundeck, as well as an outdoor shower where you can be one with nature.
How to get to Song Saa: From Phnom Penh International Airport, take a 40-minute flight to Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) or drive 2.5 hours to Sihanoukville Port. The port is a 30-minute drive from KOS. The island is a 45-minute speedboat ride from the port. Helicopter transfers can be arranged.
Rates: From S$1,993.86/night, inclusive of breakfast and speedboat transfers. All-inclusive options are available from S$2,871.21.
Quick getaways are essential for a reset amidst your busy schedule. That said, it’s entirely possible to be able to escape to a private island for a weekend with options such as Cempedak Island just two and a half hours away from Singapore.
Image: Cempedak Island
Privacy is key when you book a stay here. Not only does the resort only allow guests aged above 16, but you’ll also be able to check into a spacious handcrafted bamboo villa that’s nestled amongst the island’s lush greenery. Each abode is generously spaced out, ensuring an undisturbed experience, with a view of the brilliant blue ocean right in front of you.
Complimentary catamaran rentals are available at the resort. Image: Cempedak
If you can find it in your heart to peel yourself away from your villa, there’s plenty to keep you occupied on the island. Stroll through jungles and mangroves and see if you can spot wildlife such as hornbills and sea otters. Or, take to the waters on a kayak or sailboat. Snorkelling and diving can be arranged at the resort, too. After that, soak away your troubles at the Rock SPa which overlooks the ocean.
Image: Cempedak Island
You won’t have to worry about planning your meals, either. With the resort’s daily board packages, you can wine and dine on meals crafted by the freshest of ingredienced, sourced from the resort’s farm in Bintan. Expect to indulge in delicious local fare and hearty barbecued seafood.
For those with kids who don’t want to miss out on the private island experience, head to Cempedak Island’s sister island, Nikoi Island. Room rates here start from S$390, with similar activities. Nikoi Island also has a house reef that’s more suitable for beginners and children.
How to get to Cempedak Island: From Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, take a 1-hour ferry to Bintan. You’ll then take a 1-hour car ride to another port, followed by a 30-minute boat ride to Cempedak Island. The resort can arrange a round-trip transfer for S$95++ per adult.
Rates: From S$475/night, with a minimum stay of 2 nights. The daily board charge of S$95/adult per day includes 3 meals and most activities at the resort.
There’s a golf course and tennis court on the island too. Image: Banwa Private Island
With only six villas on Banwa Private Island in the Philippines, it doesn’t get more exclusive than this. Expect to have your own little enclave by the beach, with the villas spread out across the island. So, rest assured that you’ll have a space all to yourself, without noisy neighbours interrupting your quiet time of soaking up the sun on your private sundeck.
Image: Banwa Private Island
Featuring no less than one bedroom, each abode comes with a private pool and beach shower, with some including a jacuzzi deck. Unlike a typical beach resort, the villas here take on a modern spin, reminiscent of a Mediterranean getaway. Expect a calming theme of white dotted with blue, accentuated by comfortable furnishings that make it a home away from home.
Image: Banwa Private Island
You can expect to experience relaxation to the fullest, especially with your stay being inclusive of daily spa treatments and meals. Expect to have an array of international and local cuisine that’s constantly updated each day. A private Chef can be engaged to whip up a feast in your room, at an additional fee.
Image: Banwa Private Island
Adventurous folks will ease right into the plethora of offerings the resort has. Included in your stay are select activities and excursions that bring you to the likes of river mouths and neighbouring islands. This also includes scuba diving, where you’ll get to explore a shipwreck and reef wall and spot all sorts of exotic marine creatures from sharks to colourful tropical fish.
Be sure to stay hydrated with Banwater, fresh spring water derived from Banwa Island’s very own Artesian Well.
How to get to Banwa Private Island: From Manila, you can take a private plane or helicopter to the island. The journey will take 50 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on which mode you choose. You can also fly from Manila to San Vicente or Puerto Princesa, then travel by land to Roxas Pier or Tumarbong Beach, followed by a 40-minute boat ride to Banwa Private Island.
Rates: From USD2,650/night (~S$3,542) for 2 guests.
Luxury private islands in Southeast Asia for an exclusive holiday
An exclusive getaway is within your reach with these luxury private islands in Southeast Asia. With these resorts being accessible only to those staying on these private islands, rest assured that you’ll have an undisturbed and unforgettable holiday amidst the sun, sand, and sea.
