With my latest post I thought I would have a little bit of fun with the layout whilst introducing some of the world’s alternative luxury holiday destinations. Following the initialism of LUXURY, the word that defines the ethos of this blog, here are six more of the most exclusive holiday properties.

Lizard Island, Australia- Lizard Island is enviably sandwiched between the rugged coast of northern Queensland and the world renowned Great Barrier Reef. Australia’s most northerly private island resort hit the headlines recently when it was mooted as the ‘would be’ honeymoon destination of the newlywed Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (William and Kate). Regardless of whether or not the couple decide to travel here, Lizard Island remains one of the most exclusive resorts in Oceania. Along with its luxury accommodation the island boasts 24 of its own private beaches ensuring an unrivalled level of intimacy and seclusion. Combining stunning nature, great food, an inexhaustible list of activities and opulent accommodation this is an excellent luxury holiday destination.

Ubud Hanging Gardens, Bali- Bali is a vibrant and beautiful region and despite its relatively diminutive stature offers incredible diversity. A culture renowned the world over for their wisdom, warmth and creativity for a unique insight into Asia, Bali is unrivalled. Ubud hanging gardens is an all villa luxury property hidden away in the depths of the Balinese jungle yet only fifteen minutes away by complimentary shuttle from the vibrant centre of Ubud. Overlooking the Ayang River and the dense vegetation beyond the accommodation blends effortlessly into the hillside designed in true Balinese style with local dark woods and thatched roofs. The hotel boasts its own funicular (inclined) railway which transports guests to and from their villa, the two restaurants and the exclusive Ayang Spa.

eXcellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico- An all inclusive, adults only resort this flagship member of the Excellence hotels portfolio was recently voted as Tripadvisor.com’s most luxurious romantic resort. Located just south of Cancun, one of the world’s best loved holiday destinations, Playa Mujeres is the newest jewel in Mexico’s crown enjoying privacy and seclusion this virgin oasis promises the ideal symphony of convenience, peace, luxury and activity. Built around a private white sandy beach and boasting seven beautifully sculpted swimming pools forming an inland marina the Excellence matches its quality of service with the beauty of its execution. With an extensive fitness and activities centre, spa, Greg Norman designed golf course and an unbelievable choice of 9 different dining experiences you will never need to leave the comfort of the resort.

U Zlate Studne Golden Wall, Czech Republic-  The Czech Republic is quickly asserting a reputation as a new rising star of tourism in Europe. Combing history and culture with the warmth and beauty of its people and the stunning vistas across Bohemia more and more people are discovering this beguiling land. Prague itself is a vibrant and modern city but with a traditional core and this symmetry is certainly reflected in the design of the boutique hotel the Golden Well at U Zlate Studne. Modern luxury meets old age opulence in a milieu of rich woods and fabrics matched with all the amenities one would expect from a five star property. One of the best features of the Golden Well is its dining and a choice of cuisine served in the intimate 26 seated main dining room or (I would recommend) the roof top terrace which offers spectacular views over Prague.

Royal Malewane, South Africa- One of South Africa’s preeminent safari lodges, Royal Malewane has been catering for a discerning clientele since its inception in 2000. A member of the exclusive ‘Royal’ portfolio the property occupies a superb location nestling between the wilds of the famous Kruger National Park and dramatic Drakensburg Mountains. Extravagant décor extends throughout the all suite lodge with colonial style Victorian baths, grand fireplaces and canopied king size beds. One of the major attractions is of course the wild life and Malewane’s private game guides will accompany through the 13,000 acre private reserve set within the larger Kruger Park where you can hope to observe Africa’s ‘big five’; lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos.

Yasawa Island, Fiji- Synonymous with remote luxury and romance the Fiji archipelago is the ultimate island destination. At only 22km long and 1km wide despite Yasawa’s size it offers all of the glamour and grandeur associated with a Fijian island resort and at only a short 35 minute flight from Nadi’s International airport promises convenience too. There are no other hotels on the island other than the 18 ‘bures’ (traditional thatched bungalows) that make up the exclusive Yasawa Island resort. Beautifully understated and elegant all the while this is a place that softly whispers class; there are no overblown gestures just a thoughtfully designed property that harnesses the natural beauty of the surroundings. With a private spa and renowned dining experience the emphasis here is to do as much or as little as you like; from beach picnics to catamaran sailing, snorkelling or strolling through the undergrowth the choice is yours.

In the fast paced and competitive global community that we find ourselves living in today it can be extremely difficult to truly relax and unwind. The stresses of work, of relationships and family as well as the general vicissitudes of life can all contribute towards and manifest feelings of anxiety, tension and frustration.

Sometimes stress management techniques and a few simple pleasures are enough to ease the burden but there are always those occasions when you just want to get away from it all. With this in mind I have taken a closer look at some of the best and most exclusive spa retreats in the world, institutions that offer much needed and genuinely thoughtful, attentive and rejuvenating experiences to relieve and revitalise mind, body and soul. If you feel like you are in of a luxury holiday, a stay at one of these renowned properties might be just what you need.

Four seasons resort, Bora Bora- The distant and secluded island of Bora Bora is place long associated with intimacy and privacy, so much so it has almost become a cliché. Nestled in the Indian Ocean amongst the French Polynesian Islands, Bora Bora is a haven of relaxation and respite. The award winning spa at the Four Seasons Resort harnesses the power of this incredible ecosystem, utilising local ingredients, organic products and the healing powers of the crystal clear Indian Ocean. The spa boasts a range of exclusive treatments including kahaia body scrubs with black pearl and vanilla, deep sea skin treatments and a soothing ‘sun salutation’ ritual engineered to restore moisture and vitality to the skin. The centre also provides a range of holistic body works, facial treatments and yoga. Complimentary facilities include steam room, vitality pool and a sensory and drench shower.

Pezula Resort and Spa, South Africa- Hidden away just outside the fashionable township of Knysna along South Africa’s stunning garden route, the Pezula is considered as one of Africa’s first truly luxury resorts. The award winning Pezula Spa enjoys an incredible array of facilities including a state of the art gymnasium, 12 metre heated indoor pool, outside Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, juice bar, rainforest shower, sunbeds, hair studio, nail bar and nine specified treatment rooms not to mention a post treatment room with heated massage water beds. Specialised treatments range from scrubs, wraps and massages to steam baths, milk baths and hydrotherapy.

One and Only Reethi Rah, The Maldives- Situated within 109 acres of private estate on the North Malé Atoll, this isolated island represents one of the last remaining remote paradises in the world. The spa itself was conceived by the renowned ESPA company, experts in spa design and management. Offering a fantastic array of therapies and treatments complimentary services also include fruits, delicious sorbet, ice tea, a steam room, vitality pool. The resort also maintains an itinerary of exclusive programs which include Hatha and Asthanga yoga, thai chi and cyclic meditation, thai boxing and a post workout regime.

The Sebel Reef House and Spa, Australia- Sebel Reef House is renowned across Australia as an award winning and pioneering boutique property and day spa. Nestled along the palm fringed beaches of the Northern Queensland peninsula the resort is setting new standards for holistic and innovative treatment and is already regarded as one of the leading establishments in Australasia and the South Pacific. The two story spa building is beautifully crafted to reflect the rugged rainforest environment of its locale. The intimate space offers 3 state of the art treatment rooms and a further two dual suites upstairs all equipped with the latest technologies for advanced therapies. The treatments themselves combine the ancient spirituality of the local aboriginal tribes with contemporary aromatherapy and herbalist practices.

Vanuatu is one of the rarest island holiday destinations, but that doesn’t make it less desirable.  In fact, it may become more so because you’re far less likely to become besieged by other tourists and lovey-dovey honeymooners who overflow with too many physical displays of affection.  If instead you’re interested in rambling through lush green lands, spiked with tall volcanoes and edged with white sandy beaches, with a village here and there, then Vanuatu is a holiday destination well worth considering.

An archipelago made up of 83 different islands strung out over 800 kilometres of the South Pacific, Vanuatu has been an independent country since 1980.  Previously, it was known as the New Hebrides, after the Scottish islands, and ruled jointly by France and England.  These days, the people still speak French and English, as well as a blend of the two with local words known as Bislama.

The main island of Vanuatu is Efate, and is also likely where you’ll spend most of your time on the island because it’s here where most of the luxury hotels are located.  The capital, Port Vila, is small yet charming.  It’s set in a lovely harbour, with an amazing stretch of restaurants and interesting shops.  The food is an exotic blend of Melanesian, English, French, and Chinese cuisine, unlike what you’ll eat anywhere else; if you’re a picky eater, you’ll be able to stick with your old English standbys along with some occasional experimentation.  In the centre of Port Vila is a local market, open 6 days a week and 24 hours a day.  The market sells not only local handcrafted items but deliciously, freshly prepared local food, flowers, and vegetables.

Each island offers a different and exciting cultural experience for you to enjoy.  Most of Vanuatu is uninhabited and feels untouched by human hands; you could swim in a pool created by cascading waterfalls, climb up the sides of volcanoes and feel them trembling beneath your feet, or go scuba diving amidst the splendour of the corals and brightly coloured flitting tropical fish.

Tanna, an island an hours’ flight south of Efate, has a deeply traditional culture and an amazing background.  Here is where you’ll climb a surprisingly accessible active volcano, visit local villages, and even watch a group of wild horses run by you if you’re lucky.  If you’re more interested in rainforests, then Santo, the largest of the archipelago, is a wonderful destination for you.  Its lush foliage alternately hides and exposes huge varieties of colourful butterflies, tropical birds, and exotic sensual orchids.  Santo also has its fair share of wrecks for scuba divers to swim through beneath its deceptively calm crystal blue waters.

Using Efate as your base and taking day trips out to the other islands is the best idea, as you’ll then have access to luxury and amenities as and when you desire it.  Iririki Island Resort, located on a private island in Port Vila’s harbour, was formerly the home of the British High Commissioner of the New Hebrides, but has been redesigned for the twenty-first century holidayer. The newer parts of the resort in particular are thoroughly modern and contemporary and this half welcomes children; the older half of the resort is child-free.  The resort is closely connected to the Port Vila with a 24 hour ferry that runs whenever you need it and takes only 3 minutes to get from the island to the city.  All the intimacy of a resort out in the country with the convenience of the capital city right nearby is almost all you could ask from a luxury holiday standpoint.

Vanuatu is as yet undiscovered by many looking for a luxury holiday; don’t miss out on your chance to explore these gorgeous and awe-inspiring islands.

Have you ever dreamed of spending lazy days by the deep blue ocean, bright sun shining down, stretched out on the softest white sand you can imagine?  If so, Fiji is certainly a top island destination for your luxury holiday.  The nation actually consists of 330 islands, spread out in a glorious chain of indulgence through the South Pacific.  Only 100 of Fiji’s islands are inhabited.  The few uninhabited islands that also contain luxury resorts can help you make all of your dreams for your holiday come to life.

Fiji’s beautiful scenery is the picture perfect stereotype of a deserted island.  Palm trees wave invitingly in the warm ocean breeze atop a soft, white sandy shore.  The islands’ interiors are full of lush jungles, with hidden waterfalls, big bright flowers, and undiscovered clearings.  The rainforests are not to be overlooked; you might kayak through white water rapids or visit a local village to watch and participate in ceremonies hundreds of years old. Both are experiences well worth seizing while you have the opportunity.

Groups of islands vary in temperature and scenery depending on their location, with different shades of lagoons, rugged and smooth coastlines, and fascinating varieties of flora and fauna.  Northern Fiji boasts pristine coral reefs, making it the perfect destination for the adventurous scuba diver.  It’s also slightly damper, leading to a more humid climate and slightly more frequent rainfalls throughout the year.  Southern Fiji is hotter but drier, which lessens much of the impact of the heat and provides perfect weather for lounging by the beach.

Luxury resorts in Fiji generally consist of a group of bures, like Viwa Island Resort does.  Bures look traditional, constructed of wood with thatched roofs, but have all the conveniences you’ll want from your holiday, with large balconies, ocean views, outdoor showers, air conditioning, and king size beds.  They’re all located right near the white sandy beach, where you might choose to relax in a hammock or play beach volleyball or boules.  You’ll also have the chance to learn an eclectic variety of cultural activities, like weaving and coconut husking, and you might want to head to a nearby village to greet the chief and watch traditional greeting ceremonies.

For the truly wealthy, the island paradise of Wadigi is available for your exclusive use.  This tiny 3 acre island is uninhabited aside from you and your island staff.  There are 3 suites for a maximum of 6 people on the island at once, but you can easily ensure that it is yours alone if you’re looking for the ultimate romantic paradise.  Each suite offers an uninterrupted view of the ocean and an extensive sundeck for relaxation.  The main living room boasts plenty to keep you occupied, with DVDs, CDs, magazines, a television, and a choice of board games.  You’ll have your own butler, cooks, and masseuse to attend to your every need.

The island is truly your paradise; you can cover all of its three acres in any way that you wish.  Hiking, waterskiing, windersurfing, glass bottom kayaking, snorkelling, or fishing; any way you want to spend your days is completely open to you.  Your gourmet meals will be cooked to your preferences and specifications by the chefs and enhanced by carefully chosen fine wines from the island’s extensive wine cellar.  If you’d like anything else during the day, your hosts are prepared to serve you drinks and snacks whenever you would like, so you won’t have to lift a finger throughout your holiday unless you really want to.

If you’ve ever imagined yourself on a deserted island, Lost style, then a holiday in Fiji is surely the choice for you.

Last week, we featured the glorious destination of Bali as a perfect place for a luxury holiday in the summer.  This week, we’re heading to the beautiful South Pacific to visit the exclusive rare jewel of Samoa.

This gorgeous little country is made up of two large islands and eight small islands.  It’s relatively new to tourism, which virtually guarantees you won’t be swamped by tourists with the same intentions as you – taking advantage of the summer to holiday somewhere beautiful.

Since Samoa is relatively free of tourists, it only boasts a few luxury hotels to cater to them.  The country has a growing interest in tourism, though, so if you’re looking to head out in 2011 or even 2012, it’s highly likely you’ll find a wider selection.  For now, though, Samoa’s offerings are enough to satisfy even the most demanding of travellers.

Visitors after luxury are most often housed in a fale, Samoa’s traditional villa-style house updated to match contemporary standards.  Fales are traditionally open to the world during the day, but yours will be modified to let in the sea air without disrupting your privacy.  At Sinalei Reef Resort and Spa, for example, your fale can open out onto the beach, two woven doors open to let in bright sunshine and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore.

You’ll also be able to visit native villages and view this traditional architecture in its natural setting.   Marvel at the smiling faces and welcoming culture of the native Samoans as they generously make a space for you in their ceremonies and even homes.

Samoa’s islands are truly beautiful.  You could easily spend your time there just soaking in all the sights, lounging by the beach with a glass of wine in hand.  For many who rush around all year living the corporate lifestyle, such a reprieve sounds like the perfect summer paradise.  Relax under a palm tree in a private hammock, watching seagulls play in the air or reading that book you’ve always meant to get to.  Sounds just like where we’d like to spend our holiday time this summer.

Samoa has plenty to offer for the more active citizens of the world, of course.  The main island, Upolu, houses the biggest city, Apia.  Most resorts and sights are located right here, with Apia’s markets clamouring for attention with the Robert Louis Stevenson museum.  These islands are so stunning that such a master of prose chose to use them as settings for his novels.  If you’re interested in history or literature, you’ll love visiting his mansion and viewing the little things he left behind.  Stevenson was a critic of colonialism in Samoa and lent his voice to arguing on behalf of the natives.  His grave is also located on the island and undoubtedly will become a popular spot for those who enjoy literature as tourism grows in Samoa.

All the usual watersports are available for swimmers, such as scuba diving and snorkelling.  You can play tennis on the beach or enjoy a massage at one of the spas.  Heading out for exploration is encouraged, indeed, required, especially on Savai’i, Samoa’s largest island and just an hour’s ferry away from Upolu.  Savai’i’s rugged island beauty will astonish you with rainforest, volcanic peaks, and lava fields.  You will truly feel that you’ve stepped onto a film set, but the best part is that you’ll be experiencing it all for yourself.  If you’re okay with rougher accommodation, you can stay overnight and imagine yourselves explorers in an unknown and unfamiliar land.

Samoa is an island nation full of mysteries, delights, and sunshine; perfect for your summer holidays.  Book now to get in on the fun for summer 2010.