the Whitsundays (the beauty in peace )

Located amidst the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays lies Peppers Palm Bay, an intimate and secluded tropical retreat. With only 21 waterfront bures, cabins and bungalows, here you can enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays in peace. From the hammock of your private balcony, look out across the water at uninterrupted views of other Whitsunday Isles. Pack a gourmet picnic lunch and speed off in your own boat to discover the secluded beaches of Long Island’s National Park. Grab a snorkel and explore the underwater world of the reef. If you want to experience the charms of the Whitsundays without the crowds, then Peppers Palm Bay is for you. accommodation

Nestled amongst swaying palms fringing a private beach and lapped by the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays, lies Peppers Palm Bay, a private, intimate and secluded hideaway. Guest accommodation is housed in 21 freestanding, elegantly appointed bungalows, bures and cabins, all leading directly onto the sandy beach. From the hammock on your private balcony, you’ll have uninterrupted views across the water to other distant Whitsunday isles. Peppers Palm Bay’s difference is distinguished by the things it lacks; there are no televisions or telephones in any of the guestrooms. Cabin: standard rooms with private balcony and an ensuite bathroom. Queen bed. Room capacity 2.

Bures: deluxe rooms with private balcony, lounge and a ensuite bathroom. Queen bed. Room capacity 2. Bungalows: The Bungalows are suites. Each bungalow contains a queen bed, a day bed, a large bathroom and separate living area.

Room facilities include: private balconies with their own hammock,pitched roof with ceiling fans bathrooms,mini bar,ironing facilities,hairdryers,air conditioning,coffee and tea making facilities
Dining

The ever-changing menu offers contemporary Australian dishes and features the freshest ingredients and some of the best cuisine you’ll find in the Whitsundays.
Dinner is served on the terrace of the signature restaurant ‘La Riviera’ or you can arrange an intimate candlelit dinner on your private balcony.
Breakfast: Continental style breakfast served in La Rivera or on guests’ private balcony
Lunch: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Afternoon Tea: 2.00pm – 5.00pm (served poolside)
Dinner: 6:30pm – 9:30pm
facilities

Swimming pool,heated spa,use of canoes and paddle skis floodlit,tennis court,entertainment room with theatre style,seating and surround sound endota,day spa

Activities
There is no better place to relax and unwind than sitting in the beach hut watching yet another magical sunset or in the Pandanus bar for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap. Laze by the stunning swimming pool or in the heated spa, sipping on a refreshing cocktail, listening to the tropical breeze play with the waterfall. The lure of indulging in the fine art of doing nothing at all is difficult to resist, but if the mood is slightly more adventurous you have many options.
explore Long Island,golf at Laguna Whitsundays,scenic flight,great barrier reef tour,visit neighbouring islands
getting there
Fly into Hamilton Island Airport and transfer by helicopter or boat launch to Shute Harbour, then by direct ferry to Peppers Palm Bay on Long Island.
Alternatively you can fly into Proserpine Airport on the Mainland and transfer by helicopter or seaplane direct to Palm Bay or by bus, taxi, or private car limousine to Shute Harbour and then direct by ferry to Peppers Palm Bay.
additional information

Rates: are per room per night, in Australian Dollars and include GST
Rates include: continental breakfast daily and use of non motorised watercraft
Children: Peppers Palm Bay does not actively encourage children. All children are charged at the applicable full adult rate
Serviced: daily
Check in: 2.00pm. Check out: 10.00am.
Reception hours: 7.00am – 6.00pm
Address: Long Island, Whitsundays, Queensland Islands, Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island (A place of timeless natural beauty rich in history and spirit)

This boutique Island resort is ‘one of one’ with a stylish and relaxed charm that is set to captivate and delight.

Dining is one of Lizard’s many pleasures… Share the panoramic coastal views while dining seated on the broad sweeping verandah, or enjoy an intimate dinner beachside in a private marquee. The menu is fresh, creative and contemporary – appealing in every respect.The Pavillion at Lizard Island holds ancient secrets and embraces a total harmony between health, beauty and nature. Allow yourself to be captivated by the pavillions earthy ambience… Indulge in the serenity of the spa and delight in total relaxation or enjoy the gym for active workouts.
Imagine beaches so pristine, so untouched, that yours are the only footsteps in the sand…. You’ll discover the beaches of your dreams on Lizard Island and delight in exploring them on foot or by motorised dinghy. Take a gourmet picnic lunch and find a private beach to enjoy. White sands meet crystal clear waters and below the surface a myriad of colour and life awaits discovery. Snokellers are rewarded for little effort, coral gardens, brightly coloured tropical fish and giant clams are a few of Lizard Island’s magical underwater sights.

Discover the variety of diving and snorkelling attractions that have made Lizard Island an international favourite. From coral gardens to the dramatic channel drop-offs and the famous ‘Cod Hole’ with its friendly residents, the Great Barrier Reef offers beauty beyond belief.

Hotel Amenities
-Overview
This premier resort off the coast of North Queensland is also a national park that features an idyllic lagoon and numerous vanilla sand beaches. Asian-influenced accommodations bespeak serene coastal chic
- stylish villas, suites and guestrooms all offer a private deck, balcony or veranda and superb sea views. Here you’ll be treated to full-spectrum hospitality as you enjoy a true reef encounter. The ocean calls with snorkeling in a garden of giant clams and renowned scuba diving at the world famous Cod Hole, where you’ll come face to face with a massive potato cod that swims right up to inspect you. Learn the true meaning of “seclusion” with a picnic lunch on a private beach. Set out on a magnificent walk and glimpse a monitor, the lizard after which the island was named. Explore the surrounding waters in a catamaran, then be touched by a massage at the Azure Spa.

-Restaurants and Amenities
-Osprey’s Restaurant, breakfast, lunch, dinner, local seafood, tropical fruits, menu changes daily, picnic hampers available
-Bar, lounge, Austrailian wines, liqueurs, spirits
-Beach, , water sports, surfing, glass bottom boat trips, catamarans, motorized dinghies, deepwater diving, snorkeling available
-Guided nature walks
-Freshwater pool
-Book, games room
- Azure Spa, range of treatments, massages, gymnasium
-Tennis court, night/day
-Island boutique
-Guest departure lounge, television, Internet access
- Meeting rooms
-Concierge, laundry service, safe deposit boxes, fax, currency exchange, postal service, first aid clinic
-Child Policy
Children 13 and older are allowed
Location
- Lizard Island is the northernmost Great Barrier Reef resort, 27 km off the Queensland coast, 240 km, north of Cairns
- Regular flights are available from all Australian capital cities to Lizard Island (LZR) daily via Cairns, CNS
Room Amenities
-Room Descriptions
Anchor Bay Room: Located in a tropical garden setting with easy access to Anchor Bay and the beach, Anchor Bay Rooms have a private balcony with hammock. Interiors are compact but comfortable. Family Rooms offer two separate sleeping areas.

Anchor Bay Suite: Set in a broad sweeping arc along Anchor Bay, with easy access to the main Lodge, Anchor Bay Suites offer captivating sea views and each has a pathway leading directly to the beach. Seamlessly blending indoors and out in an elegant and spacious open plan design, a large verandah with daybed is one of the many designer comforts.
Sunset Point Villa: Sunset Point Villas are set high on Sunset Ridge amongst native eucalyptus bushland. Providing filtered sea views over Anchor Bay or Sunset Beach, these Villas offer privacy and easy access to a string of secluded beaches. Each Villa has a private deck with comfortable Australian timber squatter chairs and a hammock. Inside, the mix of colors and textures creates a calm retreat with the surrounding coastal bushland the inspiration for the understated and elegant design.

Perched high above the Coral Sea and set on the point of Sunset Ridge, The Pavilion combines complete privacy with a spectacular 270 degree panorama of Anchor Bay, Osprey Island and Sunset Beach. Extensively refurbished mid 2003, a new expansive decking area incorporates a private plunge pool, sun lounges and a daybed area, inviting guests to relax and take in the stunning views. Leaving the balcony to stroll down a private path, guests will discover another secluded area where chairs and a table have been perfectly positioned to make the most of sea breezes and gorgeous views. Inside, the Pavilion offers every comfort. Bollinger champagne and a deluxe fruit bowl greet guests on arrival. A laptop computer for downloading and sending emails and high powered binoculars are among some of the special features.

Includes
-All meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
-Motorized dinghies, paddle skis, sailboards
-Glass bottom boat trips and many island activities
-Packages and Promotions
-5-night minimum stay required, Sunset Point Villa
-4-night minimum stay required in Apr 2007-Mar 2008, Anchor Bay Room or Suite, Sunset Point Villa, or Pavilion
-All meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Mortorized dinghies, paddle skis, sailboards

Bedarra Island (an indulgent tropical private haven)

When you simply don’t wish to be found, when you need to escape, unwind and experience the finer things in life, there is no better place to disappear to than Bedarra Island. This is Australia’s most exclusive resort, an indulgent tropical private haven lying off the coast of Cairns.

 At Bedarra, guests can do as they wish when they wish. Here, a maximum of just 32 guests are accommodated in 16 secluded Villas, each hidden in the rainforest, only minutes from the beach. Superbly appointed, each have a separate living area, spacious bathroom and king size bed. On the balcony, guests can relax in a hammock and contemplate the beauty and calm of this elegant retreat.
The cuisine is exquisite, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and fine quality tropical produce with a change of menu daily. A popular lunch option is a beach picnic with a gourmet hamper. Children under 16 years of age are not catered for.
While the emphasis on Bedarra Island is on peace and relaxation, there are also a number of activities available, such as catamaran sailing, paddle-skiing, fishing, Great Barrier Reef snorkelling and diving day trips as well as motorised dinghies for exploring the island’s picturesque, private beaches. Feel like more indulgence? Enjoy a relaxing therapeutic massage on the beach or in the privacy of your Villa.
Bedarra is not just a place one visits, it is a very personal pleasure to be savoured.
the pavilions

The ultimate indulgence. Removed from the main resort area, the two Pavilions are set in exclusive, private locations with stunning views over Wedgerock Bay. An open plan layout, featuring extensive use of timber and glass, is designed to take full advantage of the spectacular views and create an inviting indoor/outdoor ambience. Interior details are of a superior quality including an surround sound system.
The spacious sleeping area features a custom designed ‘floating’ bed with a separate oversized bathroom with shower and deep bath, overlooking the rainforest as well as a walk-in robe. An expansive and beautifully appointed living area with a bar stocked to your choice, offers contemporary banquette seating, a large screen TV, video and work desk with phone and computer. The large outdoor area and deck incorporates a private plunge pool, large sun lounges, a daybed and a dining setting. King Bed Room Capacity 2.
Accessed by walking a private rainforest path, The Point is located in a superb elevated beachside position. The floor plan and room inclusions are similar to those of the Split Level Villa with design features maximising the panoramic views. The large outdoor deck, perfectly positioned to ensure complete privacy, features a luxurious daybed, sun lounges and a private plunge pool. King Bed Room Capacity 2.
Features: Air Conditioning ,Ceiling Fans ,TV and video ,Satellite TV Channels ,Complimentary minibar ,Tea & Coffee Making Facilities ,Iron & ironing board ,CD Player ,Hair Dryer ,Evening Turndown Service ,Beach Towels ,Aromatherapy Oil Burner ,Bath and Bath Oils ,Private Balcony ,Direct Dial STD/ISD Telephone ,Bathrobes ,Deskvillas

Designed to blend in with the beauty of their natural surroundings, each spacious villa is nestled into lush tropical rainforest, providing total privacy. Interiors are contemporary and comfortable with polished timber floors and furnishings in neutral colours with subtle marine accents. Bathrooms, including deep bath, are oversized and well stocked with signature Bedarra bath treats. A hammock is one of many special details villa accommodation offers, perfect for lazing the day away whilst enjoying sweeping views of Hernandia Bay and neighbouring islands.
Double Storey Villa

Double Storey Villas are situated close to the beachfront and central resort facilities. Set amongst the rainforest and offering tree-filtered water views, the double storey layout provides sleeping area and bathroom at ground level and the upper level featuring a living area with comfortable banquette seating, entertainment facilities/mini bar and a second toilet. Double Storey Villas offer private balconies on each level. King Bed Room Capacity 2.
Split Level Villa

  Located on the hillside, offering stunning views over Bedarra Bay, the layout is split level with the sleeping area located on the upper level and a living area, with comfortable sofa and armchairs, entertainment facilities (TV, Video, CD) and a fully stocked mini-bar on the lower level. A private balcony offers enticing beach and bay views. King Bed (twin beds available on request) with rollaway. Room Capacity 3.
Features: Air Conditioning ,Ceiling Fans ‘TV and video ,Satellite TV Channels ,Complimentary minibar ,Tea & Coffee Making Facilities ,Iron & ironing board ,CD Player ,Hair Dryer ,Evening Turndown Service ,Beach Towels ,Aromatherapy Oil Burner ,Bath and Bath Oils ,Private Balcony ,Direct Dial STD/ISD Telephone ,Bathrobes
restaurant: An open terrace restaurant overlooks the cascading pool in an intimate setting for a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu is varied and changes daily. Breakfast is available from 8.00am, lunch from 1.00pm and dinner from 7.00pm. Gourmet picnic hampers for beachside outings are available on request daily. Please advise of any special dietary needs in advance.
bar and lounge: The resort’s relaxed lounge features a comprehensively stocked bar with Australian and imported beers, along with champagne, a quality selection of Australian wines, spirits and liqueurs.
massage

A massage therapist is available 5 days per week, prebooking is recommended
recreation & activities

  While the emphasis on Bedarra Island is on peace and relaxation, there are a number of activities available including catamaran sailing, fishing, paddle skiing, motorised dinghies for exploring the island’s picturesque beaches or enjoy a relaxing therapeutic massage on the beach or in the privacy of your Villa.
Some of the complimentary activities included in your nightly tariff are: Catamarans, sailboards and paddle skis ,Fishing ,Snorkelling , Motorised dinghies to explore beaches and neighbouring islands ,Guest video, book, games & CD library ,Gourmet picnic hampers for beachside lunches ,Self-guided island walks and nature trails ,Tennis – day & night ,Salt water swimming pool & spa
Other Activities available on the island where charges apply include: Scheduled snorkelling and scuba diving trips to the Great Barrier Reef (via Dunk Island) ,Therapeutic Massage and limited body treatments in the dedicated massage room ,Private reef fishing and sailing charter
location
Covering 100 Hectares, Bedarra Island is part of the Family Group of Islands, located off the tropical North Queensland coast, midway between Townsville and Cairns, to neighbouring Dunk Island.
climate

Tropical climate, average year-round temperature of approximately 29 degrees Celsius (85 degrees Fahrenheit).

Bonaire island (the right place for the amazing vacation)

Bon Bini on Bonaire!
If you want to practice a lot of diffrent sports from scuba diving to windsurfing or just relaxing at the beaches, you`ve just found the right place for the amazing vacation.
One of the most extra ordinary thing to do in Bonaire is to see the wildlife. Iguanas meditatively toast themselves atop the desert rock formations of Washington Slagbaai, while vast orange-pink clouds of flamingoes drift across bone-white salt flats. There are only four places in the world where flamingo colonies breed-Bonaire is one of them. In fact, more flamingoes live on the island than humans. This chariness seems to be unnatural: if nature ever dressed a diva, the flamingo is it. The pink cotton candy feathers, the graceful, wavy neck, and the long sinewy legs all seems to cry “look at beautiful me“.In fact, the birds are so sensitive to noise and intrusion that the slightest disturbance will cause them to quickly flee. They will never come close to people, and on Bonaire, you must go to them. There are two places to see Bonaire’s flamingoes. One is at the Pekelmeer Sanctuary to the south, where the birds flock around the salt ponds; the other at Lake Gotomeer, in Washington Slagbaai National Park in the north.

St. Barts (the dream destination, a good choice)

  St. Bart- otherwise known as St. Bart, St. Barth, St. Barths, or St. Barthelemy.
You are looking for quiet, nice place just for relaxing under the gigantics palm trees. Well, St. Barts is one of the most magnificient places in the world with lots of these trees. It has beautiful beaches, so take off your shoes, take a walk on the beach and find your palm tree.
One thing is for sure – You’ll never have an experience as pleasant and romantic as what you’ll find on this miraculous French-owned Island.

Out of a crashing, volcanic explosion, came St-Barts, the pearle of the Caribbean. 25 square kilometers of land, 22 beautiful beaches, many luxurious boutiques, hundreds of traditional Creole houses and secret gardens for your dreams of avoidance. Nonchalance, happiness, calm, luxurious, warm – St. Barts has it for you. Your stay will leave you with the elegant souvenir of balmy tropical evenings swayed by the local biguine music, flavored with vanilla and peppered with Caribbean spices. Lazy days, sporty days, the sea is the king, the excellent restaurants, the refinement of the hotels…everything you need to spend a good vacation.

Vieques Beaches, Puerto Rico (one of the most scenic, quiet, and secluded beaches)

Content provided by Luisa Cupeles from Vieques Travel Guide.comIn Vieques you will find some of the most scenic, quiet, and secluded beaches on the Caribbean. Puerto Rico has been a very popular destination on the Caribbean for it’s hundreds of beaches among the immense variety of attractions for travelers. The beaches in Vieques (an off-shore island just a short 20 minute flight or a ferry ride away from the main island) stands out for it’s unspoiled and tranquil environment that makes you want to lay on the sand and let your mind free to dream.

  Vieques Beaches includes:

 
Blue Beach / Bahia de la Chiva
Secluded beach perfect for those seeking for a feeling of peache and solitude. What you will find in this beach; beauty, perfectly blue beauty. As soon as you step foot on Blue beach, it will make sense why they named it blue beach. The waters have perfectly coordinating shades of blue with clear waters and soft crisp white waves. Blue beach is like a gigantic artistic masterpiece.
Black Sand Beach – Playa Negrita
Even some locals do not know that there is black sand in Vieques. When I found out, as soon as I went to Vieques I began my search for this island treasure. Truly worth the visit, great beach for a romantic walk and for those with the desire to hunt for treasures like the Pirates of the Caribbean.
Cofi Beach / Playa Cofi
Yet another beautiful beach in Vieques and very different from the rest on the island. Bold colors of blue, reddish-brown rocks and bubbly white foam from the waves. Great views of colorful Isabel Segunda from a distance.
Esperanza Beach / Playa Esperanza
Esperanza Beach, fun beautiful beach with crystal clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Take a walk along the Strip, watch the sunset shining on colorful fisherman’s boat on the blue waters of Esperanza. During the day you will enjoy laying on the sand, getting that perfect tan and watching the fisherman come back with their catch of the day. The translation for Esperanza is “Hope”. So when you come to Esperanza take some time to look out on the waters, think of dreams and hope, they may just come true while in Vieques.
Green Beach
Green beach is located on the northern side of Vieques Island. A great name of this beach with lots of green flora along the coast just naturally growing wild and free. Popular for snorkeling and family friendly waters. On this beach you can appreciate the magnificent wildlife of this island. There were pelicans just ”chilling” on rocks above the water. The drive there was very spectacular, you have to pass the Kiani Lagoon, (mangroves), and the flora around you is lush and very green. I highly recommend a jeep to get there.

 Mosquito Pier
The Mosquito Pier is a popular spot for divers and it is located on the north east side of Vieques Island. I found a couple of locals fishing with their kids, and they told me that fishing at night is great. The future plan is to create a “short route” to the town of Ceiba, Puerto Rico. The view from the pier is stunning. You can see the beautiful coast and really appreciate just how marvelous the vegetation in this island really is, the view is simply breathtaking. Get ready to take great pictures along the pier, great site to watch birds, I found many pelicans and birds along the coast. There are great beaches along the area that are great for bathing.
Playa Grande
Playa Grande is probably the most unique beach on the island located on the south east end of Vieques. The scenery is quite stunning, great big rocks along the coast, perfect to sit down and enjoy the view holding hands with your loved one. This beach is not to be missed, (but then, they all are).
Red Beach / Bahia Corcho – Playa Caracas
This Beach is becoming one of the favorites among the locals and travelers. Red Beach / Playa Caracas is located on the southern side of Vieques. Stunning view of mountains around you, rocks at the far left end, and lots of soft sand to lounge and get the perfect tan. Pretty shades of blue water, and getting there was half the fun (if you like dirt roads). US Fish and Wildlife Services built several gazebos along the beach, so it is very family friendly.
Sun Bay Beach / Balneario Sun Bay
Sun Bay Beach, top favorite among the locals and travelers. It has family friendly facilities such as picnic tables, restrooms, and a camp ground. It is also one of the most beautiful beaches in Vieques (this is a tricky statement, since they all are). Sun Bay Beach is a picture perfect beach.

 If you want to get there you must fly into Puerto Rico before catching a 20-minute flight to Vieques Island. These flights are available from San Juan International Airport and Isla Grande Airport in San Juan. Travelers can book a charter flight on Cape Air (www.flycapeair.com), Vieques Air Link (www.viequesairlink.com) or MN Aviation (www.mnaviation.com). Puerto Rico Port Authority (800-981-2005) runs ferries from Fajardo in Puerto Rico to Isabel Segunda on Vieques Island. The ride on a passenger ferry is about one hour and 15 minutes, while the car ferry can take up to two hours.
The tourist office in Vieques is located across from the Plaza Isabel Segunda in the Casa Alcaldia, or town hall. They are open to assist visitors Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you’re planning on shopping during the afternoon, keep in mind that many business owners close for a lunchtime siesta during the middle of the day.

Taal Volcano and Lake ()ManilaOne of the most visited tourist spots in the Philippines

One of the most visited tourist spots in the Philippines, is a geological phenomenon a volcano within a lake within a volcano. Taal is the world’s smallest volcano, but do not let appearances deceive you, it can be quite deadly when it erupts. A 45-minute ride on a banca (wooden boat) will take you to the volcano, a 15-minute trek will take you to the top of the crater. An older and larger volcano is an hour away, which requires the assistance of an experienced guide.

  The volcano has erupted violently several times, causing loss of life in the populated areas surrounding the lake. Due to its eruptive history and location close to population centres, the volcano has been designated a Decade Volcano worthy of close study to prevent future natural disasters.Taal Volcano is part of a chain of volcanoes along the western side of the island of Luzon, all formed by the subduction of the Eurasian Plate underneath the Philippine Plate. Taal Lake lies within a 25–30 km caldera formed in four giant explosive eruptions between 500,000 and 100,000 years ago. Each of these eruptions created extensive ignimbrite deposits, reaching as far away as where Manila stands today. So if you are goind to the Taal Volcano i may advise you to wear jeans or rough clothes cause it is very dusty. You should also wear a hat which can be purchased as you get off boat. It is indeed a nice souvenier. Great day/value you can haggle price from P2500 down to P1500.
Google Earth Placemark

Atauro Island (is a wonderful spiritual place)

Atauro Island is a wonderful spiritual place situated almost at the end of the world, to be more specific it lies on the extinct Wetar segment, 25km north of Dili, East Timor. Its lush mountain interior hemmed by uninterrupted beach and coral reef. This is pure escapism: you’re free to do a lot or a little, with excellent walking trails and snorkelling opportunities (off the pier at Beloi and in front of Tua Koin), and seemingly endless beaches to prop on and watch passing outriggers.

Atauro’s isolation made it a natural prison, and it’s been used by both the Portuguese and Indonesian governments as a place of exile. The community today comprises around 8000 people, mostly subsistence fishers and farmers, living in a few villages spread across the island. The main centres are along the east coast: Makili (a carving centre), Vila (with leafy lanes and a few colonial vestiges) and Beloi (where the public ferry docks), with Macadade in the mountains. However, you truly adventure will begin of you take take the 90 minute trip via Water taxi from Dili Harbour to Atauro across the 30 km Wetar Straight. You may see dolphins in the water taxi as you head to Atauro. Upon arrival at Atauro, you will be greeted by joyful Timorese smiles of the locals. The boat will drop you off right at your accommodation, in most cases situated right on the beach.

Relax on the beach or in a hammock and soak-up the glorious views of the crystal clear water. As I mentioned in the upper lines snorkelling is a must, so find those superb coral reefs that extend along most of the northern stretch of the west coast of the island and dive into the water with grace!

If you wish, stroll through the villages sitting on the coast around the island, including Vila, the biggest village with an underground prison that was built by the Portuguese. On Fridays, you will find a local market where the locals gather to buy and sell their wares. To the south, you will find the village of Makili, where local people create wooden statues and handmade baskets that can be purchased. Not far from your accommodation is Ekmonu, where you will find a mountain spring and if there is enough water you can take a dip. For the energetic, you can climb Mt. Manucoco (995m) which is approximately a three hour trek from Vila. Vila is 6km from Barry’s Place and a local truck transport costs 3 USD each way.

A sophisticated oasis in the midst of the Indian Ocean (a piece of paradise on earth )

Niyama is an exciting five-star resort located on the sun-kissed shores of Dhaalu Atoll, considered as one of the most exotic destinations in the Maldives. Situated a 35-40 minute seaplane journey from Male, this is a piece of paradise on earth and it welcomes its guests with amazing, panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The deep blue of the sea and sky, the golden sand and the rich verdant green of the swaying palms and tropical plants glisten in the warm sun.

The Niyama Resort offers a range of studios and pavilions with different locations and views and guests can choose the environment they prefer. This luxurious retreat welcomes guests with an impeccable and exquisite selection of 86 over-water or on-land studios and pavilions decorated with modern furniture, minimalist details and soothing colors. All Beach Villas boast amazing direct views of the beach and the ocean and all are wonderfully equipped with luxury amenities and deluxe touches including: 42″ Plasma TV, BOSE Surround System, Luxury Bath Amenities, Private Garden, Large Outdoor Deck. Most of them all feature private pools.

Surrounded by pristine white sandy beaches and lush vegetation, Niyama offers a wide variety of activities and facilities including: relaxing spa, 24-hour Fitness Centre, Island-wide Wi-Fi Internet Acess, Dhonis – traditional Maldivian boats for hire, and a restaurant with live cooking on grills, woks and open fires and where the cuisine ranges from Africa and Asia to the Middle East and South America. If the endless Indian Ocean views don’t take your breath away, the speedboating excursions, Educational Snorkelling and scuba diving, traditional sailing Dhoni or sunset cruises will. The waters surrounding the atoll attract divers from around the world with an abundance of marine life including a large number of turtles. This atoll has only been open for tourism for 10 years and remains almost untouched.
Important information: seaplanes only operate during daylight hours. Guests arriving on international flights landing after 3:30 PM will be required to overnight on or near Male’ and will be transferred to Niyama the following morning.

Resort Constance Halaveli (the perfect spot for your luxury vacation)

Nestled on its own secluded island in the North Ari Atoll, with powder white beaches and turquoise seas, Resort Constance Halaveli is the perfect spot for your luxury Indian Ocean vacation. Located a 35-minute seaplane ride and a 75-minute ride from Male, the resort offers its guests total escape and relaxation. A trip to Halaveli is more than a holiday, it’s a place where time seems to have stopped and dreams become reality.

Constance Halaveli Resort features 86 spacious villas with private plunge pools. Featuring hardwood flooring and well-crafted furnishings, open-concept villas feature views of surrounding greenery or the lagoon. Located on the beach or over the water, each air-conditioned villa has also a furnished terrace featuring beach, ocean, or sea views.The villa’s amenities include: 42-inch LCD TVs, iPod docking stations, DVD players, free Wi-Fi, safes, coffee/tea makers and mini  bars.

This Halaveli resort has a private beach and the watersports such as fishing and diving are available. Providing comprehensive spa that both the body and mind are well cared for and diving facilities, the Constance has three restaurants serve fresh seafood, Asian food and international dishes, tennis courts. Recreational amenities include an outdoor pool, sauna, well-equipped fitness facility, and a steam room.

Constance Moofushi Resort( one of the best diving spots in the world)

Situated on the South Ari Atoll, Maldives, Constance Moofushi Resort is an exclusive five-star resort surrounded by sandy white shores and crystal-clear lagoons. Located only a 25-minute seaplane ride from Male International Airport the resort is a member of prestigious hotel chain Constance and offers the highest standards of services and excellent atmosphere. Featuring uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, Constance Moofushi Resort is considered as one of the best diving spots in the world.

Here you can choose to stay at on of the elegant 110 land and water villas and enjoy luxury beachfront relaxation. All Beach and Water Villas at Constance Moofushi Resort are air-conditioned and feature designer furniture and private sun decks. Villa’s facilities include: and complimentary Wi-Fi connection, an iPod dock, LCD TV, CD & DVD, mini bar, safe, and tea/coffee making facilities.

This Constance resort features a beautiful infinity pool, pampering spa boasting relaxing body massage and a yoga pavilion, two international restaurants and three bars serving refreshing cocktails accompanied by fresh ocean breeze. Sports activities include: beach volleyball, pedal boats, windsurfing, kayak and snorkelling excursion, sunset cruise with a traditional Dhoni, dolphin search, traditional night fishing, and of course – diving (PADI).