Looking for some privacy? An escape in nature? You might want to consider this hideaway in the heart of Belize’s barrier reef, which gives a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘private island’.
Staying on an tropical island with only a dozen or so other lucky people is something on most of our bucket lists. But ask yourself this: Why settle for just an island resort with a private beach when you can have the whole island? This is the question begged by Gladden Private Island – a luxury island villa meant for just one couple and probably the most private island in the world.
Located 30 kilometres northeast of Placencia, Belize, in the most vibrant, picturesque part of the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef, Gladden Private Island is a white dot among a swirl of turquoise and aquamarine lagoons in Gladden Caye. An island jewel and private sanctuary, the casually elegant accommodation has been designed for just one or two couples and yet offers the full service of a luxury resort. The island’s staff resides unseen on the smaller island behind Gladden Caye, ready to answer guests’ calls at a moment’s notice, without ever intruding on their privacy. A personal chef and concierge are a two-minute boat ride away when signalled, and a “privacy meter” specially installed indicates if guests are alone or if a member of staff is visiting the island for any reason.
Gladden Private Island blends the perfect fusion of privacy and full service, by taking the label “all-inclusive” to a new level. Meals are prepared by a rotating group of visiting chefs from renowned restaurants and accompanied by a sommelier-curated wine collection. The on-site concierge will arrange everything from spa treatments to snorkelling and scuba diving, including scuba certification and trips to see the whale sharks that congregate in the area, a protected marine reserve. Adding to this unmatched level of luxury, guests arrive at the island via helicopter flight from Belize City, introducing each lucky couple to amazing aerial views of the barrier reef.
And the best bit? A stay at Gladden Private Island costs a lot less than you would think – really. You and your other half can have the whole island to yourselves for USD $2,950 per night, with a minimum four night stay, and reservations are available now for stays beginning September 1.