Got A Few Extra Million? You Can Buyout Velaa Private Island In The Maldives.

Yes, you got that right. You can buyout a five-star gorgeous private island in the Maldives, and all their 47 accommodations, at a cost of $1 million US Dollars for four nights (minimum), to experience the pinnacle of bespoke luxury. Velaa Private Island includes private residences, villas, and houses, for up to 134 people. The property averages about two buyouts per year and has done about 22 since the property opened in 2013. The island is owned by Jiri Smejc, a Czech billionaire, and this was a passion project for him. Weddings here are very common, as are buyouts for family reunions and celebrations.

Lisa Jakobsson, Director of PR, Marketing and Events, Velaa Private Island, told me, in an exclusive interview for Forbes.com: "Buyout guests are typically ultra-high-net-worth individuals, from royalty to self-made billionaires, seeking an iconic destination to celebrate significant occasions with family and friends. Velaa has hosted everything from lavish birthdays to elaborate weddings and intimate family gatherings, all tailored for those who desire to celebrate in complete privacy and paradise."

If you want the island for 2025, now is the time to book, as it is scheduled out very far in advance.

The buyout takes luxury to a whole new level. It's probably one of the best-kept world's travel secrets.

What you will find here is quite exceptional – starting with the uber-private Romantic Residence — a beautiful, sexy bungalow that's built right over the lagoon – it's an island in itself. In my humble opinion, staying in an overwater bungalow (as I've done three times in Bora Bora) is one of the world's most thrilling experiences. To me, an overwater bungalow is beyond the best and the Rolls-Royce of relaxation. A posh playground for Hollywood A-listers, and the world's most sophisticated travelers, a romantic overwater bungalow in a tropical location is a gorgeous, glitzy, and overwhelmingly glamorous getaway. And this one is certainly one of the world's greatest.

Just a bit more about the Velaa property: It is a Serandipians member (a high-end travel agency representing exclusive world-class resorts for high-net-worth individuals), a 5-Star Forbes Travel Guide property, and a Virtuoso member. It was awarded the title of "Indian Ocean's Leading Private Island Resort" by the World Travel Awards five years running, including 2023.

The island's newly remodeled overwater Romantic Residence is accessible only by boat. This secluded sanctuary is a world unto itself. This ultra-private one-bedroom villa is suspended above the lagoon and perfect for honeymooners or a romantic getaway. Offering uninterrupted oceanic views and utmost privacy, this romantic retreat has its own personal gym, fully equipped kitchen, personal butler and optional private chef. Meals are served over the water in a secluded dining gazebo, and sunsets are enjoyed from luxurious daybeds on a sprawling terrace. Other features include an outdoor jacuzzi, infinity pool, secluded sundeck and sunken bath.

So, where exactly is Velaa Private Island? It's situated on Noonu Atoll and it is one of the less developed and less visited atolls in the Maldives, which means it retains much of its natural beauty and tranquility. Ms. Jakobsson, told me that the atoll's relative seclusion makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more private and off-the-beaten-path experience. "The waters around Noonu Atoll are teeming with marine life, including manta rays, dolphins, and a variety of colorful coral reefs. The atoll is particularly known for its healthy coral reefs and abundant fish species. Dive sites like Orimas Thila and Christmas Tree Rock are popular for their vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine species, including reef sharks and rays."

Velaa has its own in-house marine biologist team, which has spearheaded the Velaa Coral Restoration Project.

The resort offers oceans of upscale amenities including four restaurants with chefs representing 14 different nationalities; three bars and the most exclusive wine cellar in the Maldives with the most extensive wine collection in Southeast Asia (including the collectible wines of Domaine Romanee Cont i, where some bottles of burgundy cost $52,000); a golf academy by Jose Olazabal; the largest fleet of watersport toys and towable toys in the Maldives; plus a covered tennis court, two paddle courts, badminton, table tennis, climbing wall, basketball, soccer field and volleyball court. One of the most decadent things you can do here is to have a private lesson with one of the world's best visiting golf or tennis pros.

At the spa, the most sybaritic treatment is probably the $1,265 Maldivian Royal Rose (for couples), an opulent, 150-minute treatment inspired by the Maldivian Pink Rose that starts with a body wrap.

Just remember to bring your American Express Black Card, as the buyout only includes accommodations while all meals, beverages, and other activities are an extra cost.

I think Kim Kardashian and her clan should take note!