Just 275 kilometres northeast of central Singapore, the new Bawah Private Island resort (www.bawahisland.com) will be the latest great escape for elite holidaymakers in Southeast Asia, seaplaning in via Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The barely touched string of six islands is an all-new destination and a veritable jungle playground, covering 300 hectares with three crystal blue lagoons, 13 beaches and a plethora of hiking routes through the lush surrounds. With a “less means more” philosophy, the island destination will have a maximum allowance of 70 guests at any one time, staying at the 35 Safari Tented Villas, composed of three Garden Villas, 21 Beach Villas and 11 Water Villas. As an eco-resort, Bawah Private Island also aims to provide holistic environmental protection with a zero-waste concept. The sustainable destination will also hire a farming specialist to find suitable plants to grow, meanwhile protecting the marine life, while fishing around the island will be prohibited.