World’s Top Five Destinations to Mark Missed Milestones
As lockdown eases in the UK and the world begins to open up, we want to mark those special moments that were missed and go all out to make up for lost time with loved ones.
Here’s our pick of the best spots around the world to celebrate missed birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions and more.
A Family Reunion… on Tanzania’s Most Secluded Private Island
Nestled within Tanzania's Shungimbili Marine Reserve, Thanda Island is the world’s only exclusive use protected marine reserve. Ideal for large family gatherings, this entirely solar-powered and pet-friendly destination accommodates up to 18 guests in its five-suite villa - completed with pool, air-conditioned gym, dining patio and airy living room - and two rustic beach chalets. Meaning 'love' in the Zulu language, Thanda is a place where time slows and the connection between humans and nature is re-ignited. From island treasure hunts and educational coral reef diving to sunset cruises, helicopter island hopping and traditional family-style Swahili feasts, at Thanda Island, the sky is the limit.
A Big Birthday… on the Glamorous Turkish Riviera
A celebrity hotspot home to five private beaches, a private yacht and the internationally renowned Zuma restaurant, D-Maris Bay has the big birthday bash covered. Groups can spend afternoons island-hopping by private yacht or start the celebrations early at the ultra-stylish La Guérite beach club, serving zesty signature cocktails and flavoursome Mediterranean sharing platters, with live music from dusk till dawn.
Ideally positioned overlooking Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the resort’s five-person private villa is the perfect hideout for groups of friends, enjoying a 24-hour butler service, a private Hamman and sauna, a 450-sqm garden and patio complete with a swimming pool and an outdoor relaxation and al fresco dining area. Inside, the villa boasts a fully equipped Gaggenau kitchen, wine cooler and large living and dining area, and the two ensuite guest bedrooms are decorated in chic white Calacatta marble with walk-in closets and floor-to-ceiling windows.
An Engagement… on Ibiza’s Most Romantic Table
During the pandemic, engagement ring sales soared 40%* and with this in mind Amante Ibiza have created the perfect setting to mark the special occasion post-lockdown, with an evening for two at the most romantic table on the island.
Set on Sol Den Serra Bay, on its own slither of sugar white sand, couples will find a picture-perfect pergola complete with everything and more for an intimate evening under the stars. Indulge in a three-course dinner, featuring the freshest seafood, zesty salads and seasonal greens, while taking in the views of the glistening Mediterranean, sipping plenty of bubbles and toasting to the future together.
A Retirement…. on a Bucket-List Trip Around Bali
Although associated with backpackers and partygoers, Bali boasts oodles of culture, vibrant cuisine, tranquil retreats and laidback beachfront hideaways, ideal for newly retired couples in search of an adventure.
Starting in Canggu, the country’s premium surfing neighbourhood famed for its bohemian vibe, at COMO Uma Canggu, intrepid travellers can try their hand at surfing with a seasoned guide, while relaxation-seekers enjoy the hotel’s whitewashed wellness retreat, COMO Shambhala Retreat. Next, head to the heart of the jungle and COMO Uma Ubud. Flanked by lush rice paddies, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley and winding River Oos, the hotel offers unparalleled access to the region’s spellbinding landscapes, where retirees can reconnect and spend undisturbed time together. Embark on a Keliki Village and rice field walk for a true taste of local life, as farmers collect grass for livestock. Discover the beautiful flora and fauna of a native rainforest or the Kintamani temples and volcanoes, before learning to cook traditional Balinese dishes with an Uma cookery class.
An Anniversary … on the Maldives’ Most Romantic Private Island
The award-winning Emerald Maldives Resort & SPA is the ultimate tropical retreat for couples wishing to escape everyday life and treat themselves to a luxe anniversary trip in the Maldives. Boasting one of the lowest villa densities in the Indian Ocean, Emerald offers guests an intimate and undisturbed experience. Book the sumptuous Presidential Water Villa, located at the end of the water villa pier, surrounded by the sparkling sea, for that extra dose of indulgence.
Thanks to Emerald’s signature Deluxe All-Inclusive offering, couples can dine unlimited in the resort’s four gourmet restaurants, enjoy the tranquil Emerald Spa, indulge in a rose petal bubbly bath, and go on an idyllic sunset cruise at no extra cost. Upon request, the resort’s team can arrange a variety of romantic experiences: candlelight dinner on the beach, private cinema under the starts and chic picnics on the island’s pristine sandbanks.