Alana's Dream Vacation

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Necker Island is a breathtaking island located in the British Virgin Islands. The island has several different accommodation options, including the Temple House & Love Temple, Bali Houses, and Beach Pavilions. If I were to visit Necker Island, I would choose to stay in Bali Lo, one of the Bali Houses. Bali Lo is a private villa located in the middle of the island and boasts a large infinity pool and breathtaking views. I love the idea of a plunge pool and being able to take swims as I please.While on vacation, I value private time with my family and loved ones, and therefore would love such a relaxing vacation in complete seclusion.

Necker Island would truly be the most luxurious vacation! With 60 staff members, I know I the service would be exceptional. Sleeping to close to the ocean would truly be a dream come true. I love nothing more than falling asleep to the sounds of ocean waves. I would be extremely happy swimming in the ocean every day and relaxing on the beach, The food at Necker Island is exceptional, and their trained chefs can prepare dishes for all tastes. Meals can be served indoors, outdoors, beachside or poolside! Necker Island truly is the place where you have full control over your vacation experience.

While at Necker Island, I would definitely indulge at the Bali Leha spa. I would treat myself to the "Ultimate AA Experience", that "releases tension held in every part of the body, leaving you feeling deeply relaxed and recharged" (http://www.neckerisland.virgin.com/resources/pdfs/necker_island/things_to_do/leha_spa/BaliLehaBeautyTreatments2012.pdf).

However, my dream vacation is only a dream due to the extremely high prices of staying at Necker Island! With rates starting at $1,946 a person per night, Necker Island is definitely not within a student budget! For a one week summer vacation in the Bali Lo Villa, from July 12-19th, my vacation, including taxes, would cost approximately $27,000 (source: http://www.businessinsider.com/necker-island-accommodations-2012-9?op=1). Please note that this villa can fit up to 16 people.

Necker Island; paradise!

The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands are comprised of 60 tropical Caribbean islands, surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Necker Island, a tropical oasis in the BVI's, has been described as somewhere that can't be imitated, only appreciated! As a private island, Necker is truly a place like no other. Guests can rent out villas exclusively, or during "Celebration Weeks" when couples or singles can book individual rooms and share the island "house party" style.

The weather in the British Virgin Islands is spectacular year-round. Average temperatures range from 28 degrees Celsius in January, to around 35 degrees Celsius in July. In other words, if you crave hot weather, Necker Island is the perfect place to visit any time of year!

Travellers can get to Necker Island either by plane or by boat. The closest international airport is on Virgin Tortorola (Beef Island), which is a 30 minute flight fro San Juan and an 80 minute flight from Antigua. However, it is possible to fly to the British Virgin Islands from many parts of the Caribbean.

Necker Island is a 30 minute boat ride from Tortorola Island, and 10 minutes from Virgin Gorda. Anchoring yachts is also a popular option for guests who are sailing in the area.

The Many Activities at Necker Island

On the days where I can convince myself to to something other than lay on the beach, here are some of the amazing amenities and activities offered at Necker Island:

1. Water Activities

Necker Island boasts state-of-the-art water equipment for its guests, designed for activities including kite-surfing, sailing, wind surfing, water skiing, kayaking, power boating and snorkelling.

2. The Tennis Pavilion

There are two tennis courts available as well as a viewing deck. Equipment is provided, but guests are also welcome to bring their own. A tennis coach is available for guests who wish to perfect their skills.

3. The Bali Neha Spa

Leha Leha is the Balinese term for peace, and the spa at Necker Island truly is the best place to achieve peace and relaxation. The Bali Leha spa is build on a cliff overlooking the water, providing incredible views and sounds of the ocean waves. Everything from massages to body treatments and facials are available for all guests.

4. The Necker Nymph

Possibly the most unique aspect of the island is the Necker Nymph, a 3-person aero submarine that is designed to take underwater exploration to the next level. Unique to Necker Island, the Necker Nymph allows guests to discover new aspects of the British Virgin Islands that otherwise would not be able to be seen. Guests sit on either side of a trained pilot, and have front row views of spectacular marine life!

Why Necker Island?

Necker Island is a 74 acre island in the British Virgin Islands just north of Virgin Gorda. The island is owned and was built by Sir Richard Branson, who is famous for the Virgin brand. The island is occupied by 60 staff members, 200 flamingos, and is entirely surrounded by coral reef.

I initially saw Necker Island on TV, as Richard Branson has been known to rent it out to celebrities. Google co-counder Larry Page was married there in 2007. After further research, I could see why this is such a sought-after vacation destination. As you can see from the images below, the island is a picturesque oasis that is both private and luxurious. With beautiful beaches, infinity pools, and spa amenities, there is truly no other place I would rather spend time.

If I were to visit Necker Island, this is what my daily schedule would resemble:

10am: Wake up (I am a late riser!)
10:30am: Breakfast overlooking the ocean
11am: Hit the beach!
2pm: Quick lunch
2:30-6pm More beach time or water activities such as waterskiing, kayaking, and kite surfing
7pm: Dinner

Repeat the next day!

I am an extremely lazy tourist, and most enjoy vacations that involve tons of relaxation time. I love the heat and am a true water lover, so the idea of spending all day at the beach is heaven!