3. LAUCALA ISLAND, FIJI

A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. It epitomizes the seclusion and graceful hospitality for which the Fijian archipelago is famed. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle.

Room rates start at 5500 USD per night for the cheapest room category (up to more than 10 000 USD per night for the most luxurious villa type), inclusive of food & beverages.

2. NORTH ISLAND, SEYCHELLES

Located in the Seychelles, an island nation in the Indian Ocean blessed with the most beautiful beaches in the world, it should come as no surprise that North Island is one the world’s most exclusive island hideaways. The island has only 11 opulent hand-crafted villas overlooking the pristine, powder-white sands and turquoise waters. The island’s lounge and dining areas, scenically located health spa and gym, library and dive centre, and a rim-flow swimming pool are all built into a granitic outcrop. The resort was the decor for honeymoon of Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge in 2011.

Room rates start at 2765 euro per night per person for the lowest room category (presidential villa type), inclusive of food & beverages.