Inside the World’s Most Luxurious Island for VIPs in the Philippines

The Philippines is home to hundreds of “undiscovered” tourist gems. With its more than 7,000 islands, the archipelago boasts of a great number of paradise islands that are just waiting to be seen and experienced — but by the wealthy elite.

Amanpulo on Pamalican Island is one such haven. Located in the Sulu sea within the cluster of islands between Palawan and Panay, Amanpulo is fast becoming the preferred destination among the extremely wealthy. According to the Daily Mail, Brad Pitt and Beyonce were among the A-listers who have spent their holidays on the resort.

The island can only be reached by a private plane, and while many celebrities choose to use their own jets, flights with room for 12 guests at a time can also be arranged by hotel staff. Return fares from Manila cost $495 per person.

With the resort’s luxurious airport lounge and its courteous employees, guests should immediately feel welcomed upon landing. The well-maintained clear waters, white sands and refreshing palm trees surrounding the beaches are then introduced to first time visitors.

A ton of activities awaiting island adventurers include windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking and paddle-boarding. For those who are longing for a more relaxing stay, the island offers its own signature massage, along with several other spa offerings.

The breathtaking island is filled with several fully-furnished mini-homes called “casitas,” lining up the luxurious amenities including a huge clubhouse, spa, beach bar and a separate lagoon bar. Price per casita can range around $1,600 per night.

Each casita is assigned with a “guest assistant” to attend to the needs of its occupants. Each having an outdoor shower, hammock and deck, the mini-homes are designed to accommodate every paradise necessity. With huge beds and tubs for two, the homes provide enough space for those seeking a cozy spot in between island adventures.

Of course, staying in the casita is an experience to be enjoyed in itself. Casitas on the beach, for instance, have sinking sunbeds where guests can just spend hours basking in the sun while enjoying the pristine view.

Treetop Casita occupants are given amazing views on the island. They also have immediate access to the gigantic clubhouse swimming pool.

Private villas, which come with special private beach access, are also available for sale for the extremely rich. One four-bedroom villa is reportedly priced at $6.2 million.

Prospective guests should also prepare for a higher range of prices for everything else on the island. A bottle of wine, for instance, can fetch at least $49, while the cheapest bottle of champagne available is Veuve Cliquot, which is priced at $185.