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.

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.

Do you love having adventures?  Are you ready to explore a new culture, a new forest, a new coral reef under the water?  If so, Fiji is definitely the destination for you.  All 330 islands are not open to the public; in fact only 100 are inhabited.  A few of the untouched islands are open for tourists, though, allowing the perfect opportunity for unrivalled exploration and natural beauty.

If you book through a luxury holiday travel agent, you’ll be greeted on arrival by flower leis and Fijians singing, the perfect start to your experience in a completely new country.  You can spend your holiday in the northern islands, the southern islands, or split your time between them.

For the true adventurer, the northern islands are ideal.  With so few people, the island is really your paradise.  You can pretend to be a modern day Robinson Crusoe and spend your time exploring your temporary home, enjoying the ultimate seclusion.  There are a wide range of activities to choose from.  You could rent a 4WD vehicle to explore along more established paths or take out a mountain bike.  If you head out on foot, watch out for stunning waterfalls and beautiful flora.  It might be best to take a planned journey with a tour guide the first day and use that as a starting off point so you don’t get lost.

If water exploration is more your style, there is still plenty for you to do.  Fiji boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal clear water and soft white sandy beaches.  The underwater atmosphere follows accordingly and as a result snorkelling and diving are hugely popular holiday activities.  Swimming around discovering beautiful reefs and fish with your new husband or wife is a great experience.  You can also go kayaking through the rivers and over white water rapids in the centre of the islands.

With Fiji’s fantastic and unique culture, you can truly feel like you’re experiencing a new and exciting world.  Many of Fiji’s villages remain small and authentic, and your travel provider can make sure you’re a part of the ceremonies that happen on a regular basis.  You’ll be greeted by smiling village chiefs and welcomed as a part of their village, no matter how brief your stay.  Some resorts offer cooking classes, so you can bring your new knowledge of traditional cuisine back home as a valuable memento of your wonderful Fijian holiday.

You’ll have plenty of options for your stay.  Fiji’s resorts are all about luxury.  Since you’re an adventurous person and you like things a little out of the ordinary, you might choose to stay in a treetop hotel.  You’ll have your own tree house – guaranteeing fantastic views and true novelty while providing all the luxury you could ever want for your honeymoon.  You could also choose an eco-retreat like Moody’s Namena, the ideal choice for an adventurer.  You’ll still have a king-size bed, gorgeous views, and full board (albeit communal) but in a haven separate from the modern world.  Moody’s has just 6 bures and has no electricity.  It’s lit by gas and all power is provided through a wind turbine.  The bures are all built from local materials, making it the perfect choice for the couple who love nature.

If you head to Fiji, don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure.