In honor of Valentine’s Day, the Esplanade Travel team would like to share one of the most exclusive, upscale, romantic destinations that we offer clients – North Island in the Seychelles.

The Seychelles are a group of 115 islands off the coast of East Africa, renowned worldwide for their epic white sand beaches, clear water, and overall beauty. While many are familiar with the destination, very few get the chance to actually travel to this unique paradise.

Getting to the Seychelles has gotten easier as of late, with connections from Johannesburg on South African Airways, via Dubai on Emirates, or from airports in East Africa. But even if it’s a bit of a challenge to get out to North Island, the payoff is more than worth it.

North Island is essentially a private island in the Seychelles, and with only 11 villas on the property, that intimate feeling is on every corner of the island. You’ll never feel rushed, cramped, hurried, or overwhelmed, and the staff ensure that every day is a perfect one for you. If you desire to not see another human being while on vacation (other than your significant other, of course!) then this may be the perfect place for you.

From the unimaginably luxe villas, to vast, untouched beaches, to lush tropical vegetation and dramatic granite peaks, North Island has something to offer for everyone. Beyond the physical beauty of the location, the private island offers more than any other beach resort.

Guests can choose from an incredibly long list of activities, and they are included with the rate – no hidden costs here! Even unlimited scuba diving is included with every stay – a boon for any diver, novice or expert. Also available is snorkeling, cycling, guided walks, fishing, excursions on the water or on land, kayaking, stand up paddling, yoga, picnicking, and sunset cruises.

If the above isn’t enough to convince you, perhaps this bit of trivia will: Prince William and Kate Middleton, now the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, honeymooned on North Island after their wedding in 2011. This island is truly fit for a king and queen!

Esplanade has a special relationship with North Island, and welcomes the chance to send you and your special someone to this true barefoot-luxury escape.