REGENERATIVE MEDICINE & STEM CELL THERAPY

TWO-WEEK HEALTH TRANSFORMATION: REGENERATIVE MEDICINE & STEM CELL THERAPY AT DEMAREST CLINIC.

Regenerative medicine is the next stage of healthcare. Rather than simply helping you get well and regain a baseline level of health, its focus is on complete transformation and taking you beyond your standard state and into optimal functioning.

This is exactly what movie producer William D. Johnson discovered when, after being failed by conventional western medicine for a heart condition, he took his chances with a regenerative cell treatment. To his surprise and delight, William not only recovered from his condition, the results were phenomenal and he was immediately inspired to establish his own regenerative medicine clinic. 

Today, Demarest clinic in Phuket, Thailand offers highly personalized and evidence-based regenerative health programs, including reverse aging protocols, anti-aging treatments, intense detoxification, and stem cell therapies. Not only that, their programs are seamlessly combined with ultra-luxury travel experiences, state-of-the-art biotechnical apparatus, and a world-class team of renowned doctors and lifestyle coaches.

Niko Contardi, our CEO here at EliteLyfe, was invited to visit Phuket and immerse himself in regenerative therapies and anti-aging treatments for nearly three weeks. Below is an account of Niko's experience at Demarest clinic. His trip was nothing less than life-changing, and soon EliteLyfe clients will be able to access the same benefits with our new two-week and one-month regenerative medicine packages. Get in touch to find out more.

ARRIVING AT PHUKET AND THE FIRST WEEK OF TREATMENT 

After a three-day juice fast and a twenty-three-hour flight from America to Thailand, Niko arrived at Phuket, a dream travel destination with unbelievably fresh, organic food, extremely warm and welcoming people, and a range of luxury accommodation options. 

As with any treatment, the journey started with a consultation. However, this consultation was unlike that of a typical hospital or health center: It was comprehensive, conducted by incredibly accommodating and knowledgeable staff, and located in a beautiful, brand new luxury clinic. 

The consultation involved discussing any health issues, as well as asking specific questions on health history, family history, and food intolerance’s (what you feel like after you eat certain meals). From here, the doctors began to paint a picture of Niko's current state of health and create his personalized protocol. To paint the fullest picture possible, he was asked to fast for a minimum of twelve hours, complete full blood work, and undergo checks for everything from gut hormones to food intolerances.

One of Niko's first treatments was an IV of curcumin. The main active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to have a wide range of health effects, including reducing joint pain and preventing cancer growth. Suffering from a chronic shoulder injury, Niko also met with one of the world’s best spinal/body experts. It was necessary to do an MRI and Sonogram (extra cost) to determine the issue. This was performed by an incredibly friendly and accessible doctor at the Bangkok Hospital in Phuket, which is, as Niko describes, undoubtedly one of the most efficient hospitals in the world.

By day three and four, the blood work from fasting was in and several treatments were already well underway. One of these treatments was an IV laser light therapy. This completely painless procedure exposes the blood to different light colors and wavelengths, improving sleep, boosting the efficiency of oxygen use in tissues, strengthening the immune system, and reversing aging. 

DISCOVERING THE PINNACLE OF HEALTH & ULTRA-LUXURY TRAVEL

Niko received more rounds of treatments in preparation for stem cell therapy. The IV curcumin therapy would give the body more cellular energy to heal itself during his next fast. The laser treatment was to treat the blood again for any foreign viruses and to get it ready for stem cells.

As well as this, Niko received ozone treatment to make his blood oxygen-rich and make it hard for bacteria and viruses to harvest. Another treatment he received was NAD—a natural coenzyme of vitamin B3 (niacin) that’s present in every cell in your body—IV therapy to support DNA repair, reduce oxidative stress, and improve mood. Both of these treatments gave Niko an abundance of energy and made him feel amazing.

Despite having to do another sixty-hour fast, there was plenty to keep Niko's mind off food. The owner of the clinic, William (Bill) Johnson, possesses a luxurious 106ft falcon yacht named Demarest, the clinic is home to a world-class spa, and the nurses and staff are always on hand to attend to your every need and explain every single step and treatment to you. It also didn't hurt that an expert tailor came directly to Niko's villa at Como Point Yamu to measure him for a bespoke custom suit, an exclusive offer that is available for EliteLyfe clients who book a treatment.
 

OVERCOMING TWO YEARS OF CHRONIC SHOULDER PAIN 

After waiting for over two years, the day had finally come for Niko to receive stem cell therapy (30M stem cells) for his chronic shoulder pain. Not to mention, after this treatment he could break his fast and enjoy the incredible Thai food again.

The whole stem cell process was overlooked by Dr. Narote Treenarong (whom Niko consulted with earlier in the week and one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the world). He explained to Niko how the procedure would work, what he would feel, how long it would take, and, most importantly, ensured that he would be comfortable and safe. 

The process also involved more NAD IV therapy, ozone treatments, a vitamin D shot, and PRP (Platelet-rich plasma) therapy to separate plasma from his blood and use it to accelerate and support the stem cell therapy. All of these treatments felt very different and impactful after sixty hours of fasting.

Over the next few days, Niko continued to receive treatments to prepare for a second stem cell protocol and was already seeing improvements in his skin, energy levels, mood, and general health. The second stem cell protocol involved another fast (minimum of twenty-four hours) and would take two to four weeks for its effects to really be noticed. This stem cell protocol involved a total of 100 million cells to be added intravenously through an IV. 
 

RETURNING HOME YEARS YOUNGER & IN OPTIMAL HEALTH

The final leg of Niko's personalized regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy protocol included a range of therapies and rejuvenating, anti-aging treatments, including:

Folic Acid + NAC: Supports the delivery and proliferation of stem cells

Placenta shot: Promotes cell repair and tissue healing

Oxygen through nose: Enhances the stem cell’s ability to repair everything from liver, skin, muscle tissue, etc.

Vitamin B12: Provides more energy for the stem cells and body

Energy Drip + L Carnitine: Increases energy levels and revives the kidneys

Green tea: Boosts the metabolism to support the stem cell therapy

Plaque X: Clears plaque from artery walls, great for prevention of heart problems and strokes 

Glutathione: Helps to detoxify the liver and clear toxins from the body

Coq10: Great for skin and heart, much more potent as an injection

Myers cocktail IV: An infusion of multiple vitamins and minerals to balance the body and help you feel your best. 

While clearly a health-orientated trip that is overflowing with cutting-edge therapies, the experience with the Demarest clinic is world’s away from typical medical treatments. All aspects of health, comfort, and well-being are acknowledged, from the dedicated care of the clinic staff and yacht crew, to being able to disconnect from society on the owner’s private yacht, to only the freshest, highest quality organic produce cooked by an expert chef.

Several weeks since his time at Deramest clinic and arriving back in America, Niko feels like, in his own words, "a completely new human". He is bursting with vitality, his shoulder is completely pain-free, and he is only seeing more and more improvements as each day goes by.

A range of regenerative therapy and stem cell treatment packages at Demarest Clinic in Phuket is now available for EliteLyfe clients. Contact our luxury travel team to find out more and begin your own transformational health journey.

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE & STEM CELL THERAPY AT DEMAREST CLINIC

Regenerative medicine is the next stage of healthcare. Rather than simply helping you get well and regain a baseline level of health, its focus is on complete transformation and taking you beyond your standard state and into optimal functioning.

Source: https://elitelyfe.com/articles/regenerativ...

How To Book a Yacht Charter

How To Book a Yacht Charter The Right Way

Today, chartering a yacht is easier than it has ever been. You can book a yacht charter in a few minutes with an app, using a yacht rental website, or even by calling the owner via an ad on CraigsList.

These options mean more and more people are looking to yachting as a viable option for their vacations, events, and family celebrations. The fact is, whether you’re in the market for something glamorous, adventurous, wellness-focused, or just plain fun, there is a yacht charter for you.

However, although chartering a yacht is more accessible, it is not without its complications. Yacht charters involve more variables and added fees than a hotel room, and breaking down at sea without support or arriving at a port without knowledge about its specific tax system is a sure way to ruin any trip.

Managing your booking via a specialist yacht broker is a great way to help ensure the whole process and trip goes smoothly from start to finish. But whether you work with a yacht broker or not, there are several key steps to consider when booking your yacht charter.

WHAT ARE YOUR DESTINATION & DATES?

Yachts come equipped for every kind of trip and are based in different locations around the world throughout the year. And so, the first step in chartering your yacht is choosing where you would like to go and when. 

The most common migration is the Mediterranean in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter. But you can also find yachts cruising all year round in the waters of Central and South America, Australia and New Zealand, Northern Europe, Greece, Italy, and Antarctica.

The destination and date question heavily depends on the purpose of your trip. Are you looking for a relaxing snorkeling vacation in the Bahamas? Or a more adventurous island hopping holiday in the Adriatic Sea? Or maybe you need a venue for hosting a business meeting in the marina at St. Barts or Dubai or Monaco?

Defining the type of trip, its duration, the flexibility of your dates, and the activities you will be doing will make it much easier to book a yacht charter. For example, if you plan to explore coastal towns, the yacht’s speed, size, draft depth, and flag will determine how many stops you can make and where. Likewise, if your yacht cruises at 12 knots, you may only get to see a few ports as opposed to if it cruises at 24.

PARTY SIZE & NUMBER OF CREW

Once you know when and where you’re heading, the next step in booking a yacht charter is defining how many people will be traveling with you. Most charter yachts are certified to carry up to 12 guests plus crew. Any more than that and you need a PYC- or SOLAS-class yacht which is licensed for up to 36 passengers.

The number of guests will also determine the size of the crew and the type of service you need. The size of the crew ranges from around six to twenty and typically includes a captain, deckhands, engineers, stewards, housekeepers, and chefs. Other crew members include dive instructors, yoga instructors, spa therapists, babysitters, security guards, and beauticians. 

To book a yacht charter you also need to know who you are traveling with. Many yachts have cabins designed for children or teens bunking together, owner's decks, and separate quarters for staff such as personal assistants, babysitters, or other security guards. 

WHAT TYPE OF BOAT FITS YOUR NEEDS?

When it comes to what type of yacht you need, the main question is whether you want a sailing yacht or a motor yacht. In other words, do you want a classically romantic experience for the experienced sailor (sailing yacht) or more space, facilities, speed, and ease (motor yacht)?

Motor yachts make up the majority of yacht charters. No sail and more power mean room for facilities such as jacuzzis and water toys, as well as the ability to travel larger distances with little to no sailing experience. Motor yachts can also accommodate more guests and may include accessibility features such as stair-climbers for those with limited mobility.

If you have no particular boat preference, a yacht charter specialist will ask you several questions to help determine the best yacht type for your needs, group, and trip.

WHAT FACILITIES & AMENITIES WOULD YOU LIKE ON THE YACHT? 

Most modern motor yachts come with certain facilities and amenities, including wifi, sun pads, and basic gear for snorkeling. However, there are endless other features and services to choose from.

For instance, luxury superyachts often come with facilities such as a beach club, movie theatre, owner’s deck, gym, sauna, spa, scuba gear, inflatables, and water toys such as jet skis and personal submarines. A specialist yacht broker may also help you arrange anything you need for specific events and celebrations, including catering, decorations, and other highly personalized additions.

What’s Your Budget?

The overall cost of a yacht charter adds up to much more than solely the cost of the yacht rental. Once you have included the security deposit, tax, gratuity, and APA, you can reasonably expect to be paying an additional 30 to 50 percent of the charter rate of your trip. 

APA is the Advanced Provision Account that acts as a kind of open purse for your trip. This purse typically covers fuel consumption, all food and drink, activities and excursions, expenses for docking, tips for the crew, and other fees. The MYBA (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association) suggests a five to 15 percent gratuity as customary.

A specialist yacht broker will ensure an adequate APA is included in your budget, that all receipts are kept during the trip, and that any money left over is returned to you at the end of the trip. 

REVIEWING THE BROKER & CONTRACT TERMS 

Your yacht broker should adhere to global guidelines at the MYBA and that of the International Yacht Brokers Association. The contracts they use should also come from a trusted association such as MYBA and include a reliable cancellation policy in the event you can't go ahead with the trip due to personal reasons, COVID regulations, or other contingencies.

It can be tempting to book a yacht charter on your own to try and avoid unnecessary costs. However, this can leave you unprotected and open to risk. Almost all yacht charters involve some technical difficulty or challenge, and so working with a reputable yacht broker is paramount.

A specialist yacht broker can also help with planning the perfect itinerary for your trip. Their expertise includes industry knowledge of the best locations and best times of the year to visit as well as relations with the most respected crews, familiarity with port taxes, and insight into the constantly changing landscape of COVID regulations. 

BOOK YOUR YACHT CHARTER WITH A RESPECTED BROKER

Like any other vacation, booking a yacht charter over high-demand periods such as spring break or popular events such as the Monaco Grand Prix requires you to do so well in advance. This could be anything from six months to a year in advance. 

If you are flexible with both your dates and the type of yacht, most trusted yacht brokers will be able to find the perfect yacht for you. Once they send you the selection, make sure to do a review and check they fit your requirements. The yacht broker should then help you secure the deal and ensure smooth sailing from there on out. 

Your yacht charter vacation should be about relaxation, quality time with loved ones, and making memories—not being stressed by paperwork and technical problems. With many years of experience as a specialist yacht broker, we can help with everything from pre-trip itineraries to APA to choosing the right yacht so you can make the most out of every moment of your trip.

Source: https://elitelyfe.com/articles/how-to-book...

HOW TO BOOK A JET CHARTER

How To Book / Charter A Private Jet

Setting your departure and arrival times, rocking up just twenty minutes before the flight, and being the only passengers on board is something few people get to experience. But if you do, it can completely redefine your idea of air travel.

With more people recognizing such freedoms and safety benefits, the private jet charter market is experiencing a huge surge in bookings. Private air travel allows many people to keep their lives and businesses flowing in style, even during economic or public health crises. 

Many others turn to book a private jet for their privacy and confidentiality advantages. Some private jet brokers work with elite clients regularly and are used to making discretion an utmost priority. 

Chartering a private jet isn't a difficult process. But unlike renting a car, it's not something you want to do without careful consideration. There are more risks associated with private air travel, from hidden fees to unexpected technicalities to extended travel times, and it pays off tremendously to be prepared and manage the whole process with an experienced private jet broker.   

CHOOSING THE RIGHT AIRCRAFT

Finding the right private jet depends heavily on several key factors. The first is the number of passengers you are traveling with.

On average, private jets can accommodate from four to around 18 passengers, in jets ranging from turboprops, very light, and light jets to midsize, super-midsize, and heavy bizliner jets. The jet size you choose may also depend on the height of the passengers, the cabin layout you require, and the space requirement.

The second main factor is the amount of luggage. Some jets don't carry more than one or two pieces of carry-on luggage, while others can carry twenty pieces of stowed luggage. Make note of the number and size of the luggage you will carry and inform your private jet broker in the early stages of booking.

The third factor in chartering a private jet is flight distance. If you are traveling long distances and don't want to take a break for refueling, you need a large, efficient jet with a big fuel capacity. Large jets also often come with convertible sofa beds for taking a nap on longer flights.

Finally, airport restrictions can impact the type of private jet you choose. Traveling to remote areas or small airports may mean a shorter runway, which can rule out larger jets such as Gulfstreams and Falcons. The safety ratings of the jet, crew, operators, and brokers also have to meet the ARGUS industry safety standards.

SETTING THE DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP

Unlike commercial flights, private jet charter flights don't require you to conform to set times and arrive at the airport several hours before the scheduled take-off time. There is much flexibility in choosing your departure and arrival time, and as you leave from a private terminal, you can avoid delays and only need 20 minutes to board and get settled before leaving.

Once you have decided your take-off and landing time and accounted for the time differences, you will want to arrange transfers from the private terminal. Some private jet brokers also offer ground transfer services, including a private chauffeur service that can drop you off at the steps of your private jet and pick you up as soon as you arrive at your destination. It's also possible to arrange a luxury vehicle to be ready and waiting for you at a nearby pick-up point. 

GATHERING ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS 

Chartering a private jet still requires you to carry certain travel documents, including any visas that are necessary for entry into the country. However, you are treated on a priority basis with chartered flights and there are zero tickets, making the boarding process much swifter. 

Other crucial factors are to check your passport and National Identity card are valid and that you have completed any COVID paperwork required by the state/country you are flying into. Your private jet charter documents will include route details, booking references, and other essential information about your flight such as contact details of your crew, the time of departure, and the tail number of your aircraft. In private jet charters, the tail number is the reference, not the flight number.

REVISING THE COST OF THE JET 

As the demand for private jet charters has greatly increased in recent years, the market has become even more exclusive and costly than it once was. 

Depending on the time of the year, some jets may not be available for one-way pricing. Some brokers may also include an unauthorized tax for an international trip, when tax only applies for domestic flights. You will also want to consider the cost of the aircraft handling company or Fixed Based Operator (FBO), catering, landing fees, accommodation, and parking.

The best way to ensure you are being charged fairly and appropriately for your private jet charter is to work with a respected broker. Private jet brokers can increase the cost of chartering a private jet, but they know the industry inside out, offer around-the-clock support, and are there to ensure your trip goes exactly as planned.

SECURITY & TECHNICAL ISSUES

Technical and logistical issues are present in the majority of private jet charters. The problem isn't that they happen, but what measures are in place to reduce their disruption and keep things running smoothly when they do.

Safety is a number one priority in aviation, and when chartering a private jet, ensuring the broker is Wyvern Wingman or Argus Platinum safety-approved is a must. This ensures all aircraft meet rigorous safety standards and pilots and crew undergo strict, recurrent training in the aircraft they fly.

Argus and Wyvern safety ratings also ensure the aircraft performance is recorded for each flight, dramatically reducing the chances of a problem occurring. Chartering from a trusted broker also ensures that a replacement jet can be mobilized quickly and efficiently, should a mechanical fault or issue occur.

CHECKING OVER THE CONTRACT

If you work with a private jet broker, they will ask you to provide the required information and help you prepare the contract for your private jet rental. This is an undervalued benefit of working with a reliable broker who understands the small print of the industry and can help manage the whole process from start to finish.

Once you receive the contract, you want to be aware of the cancellation and payment terms. How much is the advance payment and is it refundable in the case of COVID travel restrictions? Will the payment be made via wire transfer or debit or credit card? 

Ironing out such details prior to the flight will greatly improve your private jet experience. Should any passengers have any special food preferences or require particular assistance with luggage, for instance, this is where you can make sure it is arranged. 

Chartering a private jet can save you time, increase safety and privacy, and overall ensure your trip is marked by sophistication and class. With many years of experience as a specialist private jet broker, we can help with everything from pre-trip itineraries to COVID restrictions to choosing the right jet, ensuring you make the most out of every moment of your trip.

The Private Caribbean Hideaway of Your Dreams: Necker Island

It's not often you escape for a week or two and get the chance to fully disconnect from daily life. A typical vacation can help you decompress and enjoy a few days in the sun, but mundane demands and responsibilities are never too far away.

To truly disengage, sometimes you have to leave your everyday world and step into a completely different one. This is exactly the feeling you get upon arriving at Necker Island, the 74-acre private Caribbean island paradise and home of Sir Richard Branson.

Located in The British Virgin Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Caribbean, Necker Island is home to some of the world's most pristine natural beauty, dive sites, and exotic and endangered wildlife. Branson bought the island in 1979 to create a private retreat for his family. After transforming Necker into an unparalleled luxury playground for both adults and children alike, it is now fully open for rent for discerning guests.

The tiny islet is surrounded by coral reefs and fringed with white sandy beaches. With a design that is in perfect harmony with its environment, the private island resort is the perfect place to step back from daily life and discover a fresh perspective. A hub of reflection and transformation, Branson has conceived many of his biggest ventures there, including Virgin Galactic and his carbon-reduction initiatives.

Niko Contardi, our CEO here at EliteLyfe, was lucky enough to be invited to stay at Necker Island. He vetted the island, including all its services, activities, and catering options, to see if it really does live up to the hype. Safe to say, Niko instantly felt at home there and it wasn't long before he forgot about daily life.

Especially suited for special occasions, life ceremonies, weddings, and family getaways, Necker Island is a travel experience like no other. Let's now take a look at exactly why the tiny island is the ultimate Caribbean hideaway of your dreams. 

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Awe-Inspiring Amenities & Activities 

As Richard Branson designed Necker Island to be his family’s holiday home, the luxury resort is a diverse playground for all ages. Whether you want to wind down in the Samudra spa treatment rooms or get your adrenaline pumping with water sports and the highly competitive beach Olympics, there is sure to be something you love on Necker Island. 

A huge fan of keeping fit and exploring the natural world, many of the activities at Necker involve physical exertion and stunning surroundings. For instance, the two floodlit Astroturf courts next to the Beach House are ideal for some tennis coaching by the resident pro as well as friendly tournaments. If tennis isn't your thing, there are several trails around the coast or over the island’s main ridge. One of the genuine staff will be more than happy to take you on a guided tour and point out facts about the island's flora and fauna.

Necker Island is home to some truly unique amenities and experiences. On your trip there, you can enjoy the following and more:

  • Kitesurfing

  • Water Skiing

  • Wakeboarding

  • 8-Person Paddle Boarding

  • Sailing races

  • Professional tennis courts and coach

  • Sub wing 

  • Snorkeling

  • Scuba Diving

  • Full or Half-Day excursions

  • Beach Olympics 

  • Exclusive spa treatments

  • Beach Parties & Themed Nights 

  • Freshwater infinity pools and a large hot tub on the beach

  • Fully-equipped gym

  • Pilates & Yoga classes

  • Children’s activities including treasure hunts & animal feeding

  • Life-sized chess

Niko recommends starting the day by exploring the coral reefs surrounding the island. You may then spend the afternoon wakeboarding or hanging out in the beach pool and enjoying the famous floating sushi bar. Later, you can end the day singing and dancing with the staff in one of the resort's many bars or festive-themed nights (Vegas rules apply).

Exotic & Endangered Wildlife

Necker Island is a utopia for wildlife lovers. Home to at least 140 different species, many of the animals were specially brought in by Branson due to being endangered in the region. 

Guests at Necker can expect to encounter many species they’ve never seen (or heard of) before. There's even the chance to get involved in the daily feeding of some of the endangered species—simply tell the staff which species you are interested in and they arrange the rest. 

On land, the wildlife you can expect to see at Necker Island includes:

  • 60 Ring-tailed lemurs 

  • Various types of lizard

  • Scarlet Ibis birds

  • Giant tortoise 

  • Over 200 Flamingos 

  • Macaws 

  • Rock iguanas

For those looking to discover life out at sea, Necker is a snorkeling and scuba diving hotspot. There are boats and specialists ready and waiting for both on-water and underwater excursions at the watersports pavilion or Turtle Beach.

A trip out to sea at Necker Island is sure to involve encountering some of the following sea life:

  • Loggerhead and Hawksbill turtles

  • Colorful reef fish including Sergeant Majors, Damselfish, angelfish, bright parrotfish, spotted butterflyfish, fairy basslet, porkfish, pufferfish, French grunts, tiny seahorses, needlefish, and boxfish produce 

  • Large conch shells and sea stars

  • Nudibranch and sea slugs

  • Stingrays and eagle rays

  • Translucent moon jellyfish

  • Soft reef corals

  • Octopus 

High-Class Catering & Cuisine

Despite the incredible natural beauty of the island and the infinite range of activities, fine food is often the highlight of the stay at Necker. No dining experience is the same as the last. During your stay, you will feast all over the island and experience a range of traditional and modern cuisine, from relaxed, informal lunches on Turtle Beach to formal, romantic dinners on the Great House roof terrace.

A delightful touch at Necker is the themed nights. The island has famously been home to some legendary parties, and those of which we can share include the Casino Night with Necker Island chips, the Moroccan Night with incredible fusion dishes, Discover Fever (fancy dress party), and the unforgettable Beach Party with a fully stocked bar and 30-person hot tub.

The dining experience at Necker Island is continually surprising and takes full advantage of the islands distinct natural beauty: 

  • The Great House. Dinner is usually served up on the roof terrace of the Great House. Meet at the bar for cocktails first before heading upstairs to have dinner in front of the sunset.

  • The Beach Pavillion. The upper level of the Beach Pavilion is home to a huge dining table for 40 guests and breathtaking views overlooking the tennis courts to one side and the ocean to the other.

  • Turtle Beach. The famous sailing race at Necker usually ends at Turtle Beach, where guests can enjoy a celebratory drink, a picnic-style lunch, or a BBQ dinner. 

  • The Pool Pavilion: The pool complex features the infinity pool with a swim-up bar and, of course, the island's renowned sushi boat. Within the pool complex is also the Crocodile Pavilion where guests can enjoy unforgettable banquets on the solid teak crocodile table.

Authentic & Luxury Accommodation

As Branson's main goal at Necker is to ensure the whole island feels like your home, you may not spend much time retreating to the resort’s luxury accommodation. But when you do, you can be guaranteed a restful night’s sleep amidst the backdrop of the majestic nocturnal sounds of the island's diverse fauna. 

The accommodation on Necker Island includes the main Great House and nine individual Bali Houses dotted around the island. In total, the private island resort can accommodate up to forty guests plus six children in the bunkroom.

  • The Great House. A Balinese-style villa that sits at the highest point of the island, The Great House comprises eleven bedrooms with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms, as well as a six-bed bunk room for kids. The master suite is on the upper level, complete with a private outdoor hot tub and outdoor bath with astounding panoramic views of the Caribbean.

  • The Bali Houses. The Bali Houses consist of six authentic villas specially built for couples. Bali Lo, Bali Buah, and Bali Kukila are in the middle of the island and boast stunning views and a large private pool. Bali Hi, Bali Cliff, and Bali Beach each have a private plunge pool and are built on a cliff to maximize views, sea breezes, and the sounds of the sea. 

  • Temple House. Situated in the middle of the island, the Temple Master Suite and Temple Sunrise room are built in the same Balinese style you find elsewhere on the island and feature beautiful ocean views. 

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Necker island is available to rent through EliteLyfe exclusively for up to forty guests. It is also possible to rent rooms for individuals, couples, or families. If you're lucky, you may even get to meet Sir Richard Branson himself when you stay. 

Contact our elite concierge team to ensure everything from pre-trip itineraries to luxury transfers are taken care of and you get the most out of every moment of your trip.

What it's Like to be Castaway On One Of The Most Luxurious Private Island on Earth

Being castaway on a tropical island brings to mind images of rustic shacks and basic services that are far away from the luxuries of the modern world. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience of returning to a more primitive way of living, but you wouldn’t necessarily want to stay there forever.

Calivigny Island turns this idea of the castaway experience on its head. An 80-acre private island with the amenities of a world-class resort, Calivigny rivals and even surpasses the palatial grandeur of the most royal, stately abodes. Every inch of the tiny secluded islet is designed to redefine the experience of being stranded on a deserted island.

The private island resort is located just seven minutes from the small volcanic island of Grenada in the eastern Caribbean. Known as the “Isle of Spice”, Grenada is widely heralded for its beautiful rolling landscapes, fertile valleys, rainforests, mountain lakes, and tropical climate. Not to mention its diverse spice plantations and capital of St. George—the yachting and charter-boat center of the eastern Caribbean.

Calivigny Island is worlds away from the bustling tourist towns of Grenada. And yet, there you will find nothing less than the height of luxury. Upon approaching the island, you may even feel as if you’re in a James Bond movie and are arriving at his lair, or more likely that of his arch-nemesis.

This impression isn't a coincidence. Its owner, French-Swiss billionaire Georges Cohen of France, bought the island in 2001 with the vision of transforming the land into an exquisite private island retreat for his family. Today, the architectural masterpiece and luxury playground is open to rent for guests who appreciate utter privacy combined with the finest things in life.

Our CEO Niko Contardi has personally stayed at Calivigny Island and tried and tested all that the magnificent resort has to offer. Join us as we dive into what he loves most about Calivigny and discover what it's like to be castaway on what is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious and exclusive private island resorts on the planet.

One-of-a-Kind Amenities & Activities

A stay at Calivigny private island resort can be as restful or exhilarating as you like. Even quiet moments such as an early morning run, massage, or yoga session in nature or a casual dinner at the secret harbor marina are infused with a sense of meaning that can only be felt when you are miles away from civilization.

With the capacity to entertain all ages, Calivigny boasts an endless array of unique experiences and activities onsite, on and underwater, and at destinations nearby that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the island. 

A several-day itinerary at Calivigny private island may consist of: 

  • Exploring on land via bike, guided ATV, or walking

  • Exploring at sea via jet ski, kayak, or paddleboard, or boats such as their catamaran Hobie cat 15

  • Hanging out in the humongous resort-style pool with swim-up bar and underwater bicycles

  • Snorkeling in the underwater museum

  • Playing sports such as soccer and tennis 

  • Trekking to one of the famous waterfalls – Annandale or Seven sisters

  • Chocolate tasting at the Belmont Estate Chocolate Factory

  • Traditional lunches at Belmont Estate

  • Visiting the local market

  • Visit a traditional Rum factory and testing

  • Secluded massages in nature

  • World-class cocktails at the pool bar

  • Beach and barbecue parties with a local Soca band

Our CEO Niko recommends a day of exploring the reefs and sunken shipwrecks along the coastline, followed by a deep-sea fishing expedition or relaxing champagne sunset cruise. The day would also not be complete without trying out the mojitos at the pool bar and dancing and singing along to the incredibly rhythmic and intoxicating local Soca music. 

Exquisite Catering & World-Class Hospitality  

The staff at Calivigny Island will make you believe you’re staying at a royal residence. Every need and desire is attended to, and yet, due to the size and layout of the island, it will still feel as if you are the only person for thousands of miles.

The highly experienced team of dedicated staff at Calivigny include:

  • Michelin Star chefs

  • 24-hour housekeeping service

  • 24-hour security

  • Team of expert trainers and wellness professionals

  • Activity, fishing, scuba diving, and watersport specialists

  • Bartenders and cocktail specialists

  • Drivers and pilots

  • Event planners

  • Villa and island managers

  • Childcare team

The culinary experience at Calivigny provides enough reason to visit the island. The owner Georges has successfully managed to combine simple, local pleasures with high-end cuisine. The full-time Michelin Star chefs go out every morning to choose fresh fish and lobsters that have just been caught by the local fishermen. Most of the produce is sourced locally or hand-picked from their organic farm, and guests have an array of dining options from beach barbecues to formal dinner parties. 

The Grenadian people are largely of African descent and are known for being some of the friendliest people in the Caribbean. At the end of his stay, Niko was moved to hug and thank all the staff with a genuine appreciation for making him feel so at home. 

Royalty-Worthy Accommodation 

The seclusion and opulence of Calivigny island mean it can accommodate all kinds of events or escapes, from show-stopping and elite corporate events to private family celebrations, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and life ceremonies.

The private island resort is home to two main, palatial residences and three romantic beach bungalows on the other side of the island. Over many years and thousands of hours of work, Georges partnered with artisans and craftspeople from around the world to meticulously design a hidden tropical paradise like no other. A children’s and adult’s paradise, the island is also home to a cutting-edge treehouse with games consoles and fine white sand that was shipped in specially from the Maldives.

Calivigny island accommodates up to 40 guests across three suite configurations:

  • The Beach House. Sitting on the far side of the island on Sunset Beach is an architectural masterpiece with ten luxury suites and room for up to ten adults. On a plot of 8,000 SqMt, the residence harmoniously blends French Colonial and Balinese style to create a luxury paradise. Each suite has its own private entrance, en-suite bathroom king-size bed, and is individually decorated and furnished with custom-designed furniture by Oscar de la Renta and Richard Frinier.

  • The Overhang. The nine-suite 3,000 SqMt Overhang villa is called as such due to its design that juts out to sea. Its interior spaces were designed by Christopher Guy and are filled with world-class contemporary art. With vast terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows, the villa boasts boundless sea views and a feeling of being completely immersed by the sight and sound of the calm waves of the ocean. 

  • The Calivigny Cottages. The Calivigny Cottages are located on the other side of the island close to Turtle Beach. Consisting of three two-bedroom beach villa cottages with six suites in total, they can accommodate up to twelve guests. Each beach cottage is incredibly private and has its own private jacuzzi. 

The quality of the accommodation at Calivigny has to be seen to be believed. Nowhere else on the planet can you feel so engulfed by nature while at the same time having access to a range of entertainment, dining, and living spaces that are fit for the most distinguished of guests and events. 

Calivigny private island resort is now available to rent through EliteLyfe exclusively for groups of up to 40 guests. Contact our elite concierge team and allow them to take care of everything, from pre-trip itineraries to luxury transfers, so you can get the most out of every moment of your trip.

My Trip To Islas Secas & What Makes This Private Island Shine

As CEO of EliteLyfe, I’ve had the good fortune to travel to many exotic and exclusive vacation destinations around the world. All for work, of course. It’s all part of our service. When dealing with the upper end of the luxury travel market, detail is everything, and we have to make sure that everything is perfect.

The fine details of a vacation experience cannot be grasped from photos and phone calls. It can only be experienced first-hand. You’ve got to get out there and breathe the air. I make the trip to get that all-important first-hand account of the location, the accommodations, the facilities, and the service so I know it’s right for our clients.

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I’ve been lucky enough to tour and inspect a few private island resorts around the world. In March 2021 I took a trip to Islas Secas in Panama to vet it for EliteLyfe’s portfolio. Everything is perfect and I could go into great detail about it all but here’s what, for me, makes Islas Secas shine in its uniqueness as a private island experience.

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All-Inclusive

The first thing you need to get out of your head when you’re looking at an all-inclusive private island vacation is any ideas about what “all-inclusive” means. I get it. In the past, all-inclusive has been a trap that binds tourists to set meals and restaurants and inhibits your freedom to explore beyond the hotel walls.

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When you’re talking about the peak of luxury travel like Islas Secas, all-inclusive doesn’t restrict you at all. If anything, it gives you the freedom to experience new things that perhaps you wouldn’t do if you had to pay for it, like kitesurfing or e-foiling (but more on that later).

Food

Literally, every meal I had at Islas Secas was excellent. The Executive Chef, Saul, was trained in San Sebastian in Spain by a Michelin Star chef. They do a truly fantastic job and every single meal I had, everything I ate, was of the highest quality and cooked to the highest standards.

Islas Secas works with an organic farm on the mainland to ensure all fruit and vegetables are grown naturally and served fresh. Fish, octopus, as you can imagine, are caught daily right off of the island. When all the ingredients are fresh and organic, everything tastes amazing. Even a casual beach barbecue or a breakfast sandwich was like eating a five-star meal. We had grilled octopus, a variety of fish, steak, chicken. All sublime.

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When you sit down for dinner at Islas Secas, Saul will often call over to the table to explain the creations they have made and to make sure everything is perfect. The pastry chef also comes to the table to present his artwork that he’s created to finish your dinner.

Wow, the pastry chef. He makes, bar none, some of the finest desserts and pastries I’ve had in my life. He’s very creative but he does traditional things perfectly too, like freshly made croissants for breakfast and mind-blowing dulce de leche.

In the evenings, he would get creative, and make exciting desserts with new and unusual combinations. One night, we had a miso chocolate mousse. Yes, miso. As in “miso soup”. Wild stuff but I love food, I think it should be fun, and it was absolutely phenomenal.

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Beverages

Islas Secas is a beautiful paradise island and gosh, who wouldn’t want a nice refreshing drink? The service team doesn’t have a waiter-turned-bartender. There’s a professional mixologist who’s ready to excite and delight.

The first thing he made for me was a watermelon mint mezcal margarita. It was fresh, refreshing, and not too sweet. Perfect for the climate. I could tell straight away that we were going to be friends. Whenever I went to lunch or dinner he would greet me and ask, Mr. Contardi, is there anything I can make you to drink? My answer was often, yes.

When I went to breakfast in the morning the staff would ask, Mr. Contardi, can I get you your two shots of espresso with ice water and a little almond milk? My answer to that was always yes. They quickly learned that I liked a nightcap after dinner too. In my case, an extranjero served neat. All my favorite drinks were always served just the way I like them.

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Staff & Service

The service staff at Islas Secas? What can I say, they are absolutely phenomenal. This is one of the things I love the most about luxury service that many don’t realize: the staff learns your habits, they get to know what you like at what times. They work for you and around you.

Luxury service is a fine art. You have to balance formal with personal and invisible with accessible. The staff ha to adapt according to how the customer sets the dynamic. I like warm and personal, so the team at Islas Secas got me straight away and always greeted me with pure smiles and family-like care and attention.

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One of my favorite guys, David, knew how to party. We did some salsa dancing. Now I’m a big guy, and he was trying to teach me how to move but what he didn’t know is that I bring the flavor to the salsa and I bring it hot! We had such a fun time. The staff, they’re not just there to serve you, it’s all part of the relaxation process. Let go. Have fun. Good times.

Activities

At Islas Secas there are no TVs in the bedrooms. There are tablets and laptops for the kids so don’t worry but the point of being on a private island is to get outside - to explore - and to discover new things. Islas Secas is a paradise that was made for explorers.

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Scuba Diving

My first activity was scuba diving. I went with a great professional instructor and saw eels, bat rays & pufferfish. Beautiful. I saw wildlife I’m not used to seeing which always creates a magical experience. It brought me into the moment. The busy life I left behind was instantly forgotten out here on the ocean.

At Islas Secas, the water is so clear, we were diving 40-50-60 feet under and visibility was perfect. There are very few boats in the area so the fish are not scared away. The islands are volcanic so the water is nice and warm due to rising thermal currents. It’s pleasant to swim at all hours of the day.

Fishing

The following day, I chose to go fishing. Now I’m no fisherman but Panama is well known for having some of the best fishing in the world. There are deep-sea fishing excursions for big tuna but I just chose a half-day trip just off of Islas Secas. We took a boat out with some great Spanish music and some beers. My kind of fishing trip.

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Our guides had been fishing these waters for generations and so they took us to the best spots. Would you believe it, I caught a 40-pound roosterfish! That’s a rock star catch if ever there was one. Apparently, they’re common in the region but wow, what luck! Some of the guys caught some tuna that we kept for meals and everything else we released.

E-Foil

Ever heard of e-foiling? No, me either. It’s a new thing. It kind of looks like a surfboard but has a hydrofoil fin with an electric engine. I gave it a go and, even though at first I called it “e-falling”, I really got into it. I’m not someone who usually enjoys themselves with activities like kitesurfing but here was something I found easily accessible.

The island’s activity specialist - Israel - came out with me on another board and trained me. Helped me place my feet correctly. It was really nice to have that one-on-one time and I learned quickly. On the third day, I got it. Amazing. I was singing “I believe I can fly” in my head. Haha. When you’re up on the board it’s just you, the ocean, the elements, the saltwater, and you’re there just floating on the air. Magical experience. I’m hooked! I’m an e-foiler!

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& Relax...

Finally, after all this activity, I wanted to relax, so I booked in to have a massage at the spa at Islas Secas. The spa is beautiful. It has a peaceful setting in the jungle and has an outdoor copper tub and shower. I had a deep-tissue massage with aromatherapy oils and sound bowls. Now I’m a tough piece of meat but boy did she get in deep. I like a strong massage and yes, the team at Islas Secas weren’t there to tickle and play games. Afterward, they gave me a refreshing drink, and pow, I was done.

Accommodations

Islas Secas has a maximum capacity of 24 guests. The main property - Casa Grande - has four bedroom suites. There are two separate two-bedroom villas with plunge pools and three one-bedroom tented casitas. I stayed in Casa Grande. It was perfect. Ocean views. Sunrise views. Truly magical.

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All of the accommodations at Islas Secas can be rented separately, allowing couples and small families access to the private island experience. More information on the villas at Islas Secas is available from the EliteLyfe website or give me or the team a call today to talk about it.

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