The Jalakara, Andaman Islands, India - Explore & Book
"Havelock may not be the easiest place in the world to get to, but boy, it's worth the effort. A coral-ringed island with some of the most spectacular beaches on earth and an abundance of nature's other pleasures awaits: mangrove creeks teeming with birdlife and crystal-clear seas filled with a dazzling array of aquatic life. And now there’s another reason to go: this stunning retreat carved into the virgin rainforest with 6 stylish suites, a private villa and a 16m ozone infinity pool. It was an overgrown banana plantation until British chef and entrepreneur Mark Hill enlisted a crack team of architects, artisan builders and crafters to clear the land and blend traditional Indian materials and techniques with fluid lines, modern minimalism and imagination. The result is a sublime hideaway with a laid-back vibe and luxe finishes. Rooms are arranged over staggered levels, leading down to an expansive decked platform and the glittering infinity pool. There’s an open-air massage suite, yoga classes, even a badminton lawn. Book island hopping excursions, private beachside picnics and jungle foraging walks then return here for a sundowner and some of the best views on the island. Highs The back-to-nature vibe with the spoiling benefits of a top hotel Cool and clean suites with dreamy bathrooms and bags of indoor and outside space Delicious food, with a seafood focus and tropical breakfasts The fun, sociable open-air bar and lounge; there’s a great cocktail menu and even a film projector for movies under the stars A perfect place to relax and rejuvenate - surrounded by virgin rainforest and no phones or TVs to distract you Lows We were the very first guests so we didn’t see some of the finishing touches, but we’re assured it’s firing on all cylinders now The hotel does not currently have a licence to sell alcohol on site - but you're free to BYO from duty free No WiFi in the rooms, but that's half the point (if you need to connect, there's WiFi in the bar/lounge) It's a remote island so getting here is an adventure, and things can be unreliable when you arrive - expect occasional power cuts (though there are now back up generators) or a shortage of produce from the mainland" - Sarah de Vere-Drummond
