Palawan's Ariara named one of world's top private islands

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Philippines – After the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River made it to the list of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, an island called Ariara in the Calamian group of islands in this province was named as one of the “World’s Top 10 Private Islands” by a British publication.

Ariara Island, located in Linapacan town in northern Palawan, was chosen by London’s The Sunday Times as one of the top private islands around the world.

In the newspaper’s travel feature article entitled “Who needs neighbors?” and written by British journalist Susan D’Arcy, Ariara Island was described as “a stylish retreat for people who don’t do hotels.”

Already a private property, the 125-acre Ariara boasts of fully equipped beach cottages and jungle villas designed by renowned Filipino architect Jorge Yulo. 

It also boasts of breathtaking beaches, an infinity pool, dining facilities, numerous social areas, and stretches of unspoiled natural resources.

The island, bought and developed by British couple Charles and Carrie McCulloch, is open to tourists who seek the “sun, sea and sand experience” with privacy and luxury.

Aside from Ariara, also in The Sunday Times list are Lankayan in (Borneo) Malaysia, Philipkutty’s Farm in India, Taprobane in Sri Lanka, Sovalye in Turkey, Quilalea in Mozambique, Jicaro in Nicaragua, Boca Brava in Panama, Henriksholm in Sweden, and EileanShona in Scotland.