The End Of Year is synonymous with parties, glittery heels and snazzy holiday attire, fireworks, and champagne toasts. But what if you’re in the mood for something more chill, peaceful even? Figuring out where to go can be daunting. There are innumerable under-the-radar places that make for the perfect (peaceful) End-Of-Year escape.

To help you narrow down options, we asked our travel experts to pick three of their favorite island destinations, havens of remoteness and intimacy. Find out more!

North Island:

“North” (as the lucky few habitués call it) an uber luxurious private retreat, is part of the constellation of islets that make up the Seychelles. The island, discovered by sailors centuries ago, had been decimated and depleted of its resources. A major conservation project was carried out by the owners whose mission is to rehabilitate the native fauna and flora while catering to a rising demand for extreme luxury. Here, nature is all its beauty, abounds. The staff-to-guest ratio is six-to-one. Schedules disappeared long ago (Yes, you may order champagne at 3 a.m.). North, which epitomizes luxury, is on the bucket list of even the super-privileged (we can see why).

Who it’s for:

“North", which appeals to travellers of all ages, is the perfect place to enjoy quiet strolls on the beach under a starry sky or intimate dinners. The island, with its 11 opulent villas overlooking acres of verdant jungle and sugar white beaches, can be privately booked,” suggests Ronan, one of our Seychelles island experts.

Denis Island:

Somewhat more rustic than North, Denis Island incarnates the Crusoe fantasy. Here you will have to put your survival skills to test (at least surviving without WiFi.) The pristine lagoon surrounded this earthly Eden is protected, which means you’re going to want to slip on fins and a mask to explore the impressive aquatic life. The island is criss-crossed with trails that lead to secret coves and there’s even a farm with chicken and dairy cows. 

Who it’s for:

Without a doubt, Denis Island is for mindful travellers who care about sustainability and conservation and want to live out the ultimate Crusoe fantasy, ideal for complete reconnection”, quotes Emmanuelle who, just like Ronan, knows these Seychelles islands inside out.

Six Senses Laamu:

The trendy hotel chain has achieved the perfect balance between privileged seclusion, understated luxury and a down-to-earth vibe. What happens to be the only resort in Laamu atoll, located at the far end of the Maldives, lies near the impressive Yin Yang surf break - a surfer’s fantasy. The unpretentious hotel offers a dizzying array of thrilling experiences – aerial yoga, barbecues on a sandbank, a swim with whale sharks, a visit of a local village, not to mention fabulous food.

Who it’s for:

Yoga and surf junkies, health food freaks, lavender mojito-lovers, adventurers, and discerning travellers seeking a laid-back, culturally-enriching escape this summer. To give you an idea of what’s awaiting you, take a look at some of these names: Zen (the rooftop deck,) Chill Bar, Ice & Chocolate Studio, and Sip Sip, the sunken pool bar...” hints Patrice who knows the real specials of all our Maldives resorts!