Cerulean sky and turquoise sea merge at Amanpulo, a whisper-quiet private island retreat in the Philippines. Part of the Cuyo Archipelago, northeast of Palawan Island, guests arrive by private plane to the island’s own airstri.

Amanpulo’s powdery white-sand beach stretches the full 6.5-kilometre perimeter of the island, enclosing an unspoilt tropical wilderness. A pristine coral reef awaits exploration just offshore.

Each twin-roofed Casita offers a seamless transition between indoors and out embellished with the country's rich natural resources: coconut-shell tables, pebble-washed walls, Cebu marble bathtubs and beds with rattan headboards.

The calm, clear seas in front of the Beach Club are ideal for novice divers; a gentle drop-off suits those who are more advanced. Boats are available and windsurfing is world-class. It is equally wonderful to do nothing at all