This month we headed off on another amazing adventure to shoot at a private island off Singapore called Palau Joyo.
About Palau Joyo
The island is owned by Luis Antonio Martin who only 4 years ago made his private family island open to the public. The palace style accommodation with it’s high roofs to catch the island breeze is completely constructed by salvaged driftwood. Each palace is completely private and only a short walk to the white beaches that surround the island. Reef surrounds the whole island which makes it ideal for snorkelling. The island sleeps approximately 30 guests per night.
Getting to Palau Joyo
Located in Rianu Islands of Indonesia, we flew to Singapore where we caught a one hour ferry to Bintan Island. There, we were greeted by our very friendly host from Joyo Island who drove us across the island in a spacious van to a private jetty. We boarded our private boat for a 20 minute scenic ride past fishing villages and other uninhabited islands to arrive and be greeted by lovely smiling faces and a welcome cocktail.
The layout of Palau Joyo
In the centre of the island is a large 25m eye shaped designed pool surrounded by the original fig trees which are perfectly placed to give you shade all day. There is also a large beautiful piece of driftwood which has been perfectly angled at the end of the pool to create a diving board which we all had to have a turn of.
Beside the pool is the main pavilion and bar which is 2 stories. For those wishing to mingle with friends upstairs on the lounges, play card games, or read this area has great air flow. Below is the self serve honesty bar where guests can help themselves to any alcoholic drinks, soft drinks or tea and coffee.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner were served at a different location each time which made for many memorable meals. The staff were very thoughtful as to where they set up dinner each night, this meant the 3 nights were spent dining in different beach locations. The food is Indonesian style and ranged from local seafoods, steak and chicken accompanied by lovely vegetables and fresh salads. The meals were always so plentiful that we were rarely able to finish. They also made delicious deserts and even packed freshly baked donuts for our trip home on the last morning.
There is a volleyball court, and a beach club which had kayaks, stand up paddle boards, a hobby cat and all the snorkelling gear needed to keep the big kids happy. The little kids would love trying to catch crabs on the beach, collecting shells, building sand castles and swimming. There is also the option for the staff to take you out fishing if you’re feeling a little adventurous.
If you are lucky enough to live off Singapore then this a great weekend escape. For those of us who have to travel a bit further it is worth the effort. This is such a special place with fabulous accommodation and food and the staff were always happy to be there whenever we needed them. This island is perfect for families but would also be an amazing wedding venue.
