For those that think they have, “been there and done that”, there is still one untouched paradise island where you can escape in unsurpassed luxury – North Island, Seychelles. We chatted to Maira Koutoudakis, the face behind the retreat’s award-winning design
Every few years, Maira and her design team head from South Africa to the Seychelles to “up the notch on luxury” at this exclusive retreat. North Island is where British Royals William and Kate spent their honeymoon, Angelina and Brad Pitt frolicked with their brood and where the Beckhams chose to spend their 10th wedding anniversary. They are just a handful of celebrities from all over the world who have escaped to North Island for the ultimate luxury holiday.
North Island is just 15 minutes via private chopper from Mahe Island, making this sumptuous retreat easily accessible to those who pay for the privilege of its privacy, exquisitely opulent accommodations and sumptuous facilities. Maira and her team have created a lifestyle on the island that is quite extraordinary, not only in its beauty, but also in the variety of offerings.
North Island is where you are pampered with everything your heart desires, from a superb health spa and gymnasium to library, dive center, sunset bar and restaurant. An untouched paradise just waiting to be explored. This is a sanctuary for the privileged few who can afford to escape here.
In June, Team Life, as Maira calls her design team, headed back to North Island to refurbish and uplift what is already one of the most sublime holiday experiences in the world. They worked in this paradise setting for five full weeks, ensuring that this ultimate Seychelles retreat remains the cream of the crop.
Maira has been involved in creating North Island’s magic since its inception 14 years ago. Based in South Africa, this Greek beauty has won every possible accolade for her designs of magnificent escapes around the world, including luxurious bush lodges in Kenya, Botswana, Namibia and Uganda, as well as various locations around Europe including the UK and Greece. Of course, North Island has won more than its fair share, thanks to Maira’s creativity. The ones she’s most proud of include her contributions to eco tourism.
Whilst working on North Island, eco tourism played a major part in the refurbishment, and the team was involved in introducing new bird species to the island, as well as rehabilitating the island itself from invasive flora and fauna. “We are involved in every aspect of the island, not just its design,” she explains. Creating the North Island way of life is intrinsic to Maira’s success. Esteemed travel tomes like Conde Nast Traveller offer her accolades every time they mention North Island, and Tatler awarding North Island various titles including “Consistently brilliant hotel”.
Maira Koutsoudakis creates magic. Why not escape to North Island and experience some of it?
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for notification on news and exclusive offers.