Photos of the exclusive Caribbean resort where the Obamas are vacationing right now

Sophie-Claire Hoeller
Thursday 26 January 2017 17:17 GMT
Comments
(Facebook/Necker Island)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Barack Obama famously promised his wife Michelle a special vacation post White House.

Well, he certainly made good on his promise, considering they're currently on Necker Island — Richard Branson's private island, and one of the most exclusive Caribbean resorts in the world. While they undoubtedly deserve a break, we can't help but feel a twinge of jealousy.

Keep scrolling for a peek at the decadent digs.

After eight years of being the leaders of the free world, Michelle and Barack Obama have jetted off for some well-deserved R&R.

Barack had promised Michelle a “special” trip post White House. He certainly made good on that promise. It doesn't get much more special, or exclusive, than Necker Island.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

Necker Island is Sir Richard Branson's private island. Located in the British Virgin Islands, it's only 74 acres small, and accommodates a maximum of 34 guests.

Yes, the water is really this blue.

(Flickr/Kansas Photo
(Flickr/Kansas Photo (Flickr/Kansas Photo)

The tropical paradise was named after 17th-century Dutch squadron commander Johannes de Neckere. It was uninhabited until the late 20th century, and purchased by Branson (who was 28 at the time) for a modest $180,000 in 1978. Branson spent three years turning the island into a private retreat, and spent $10 million building the lodgings, which include a 10-bedroom Balinese-style villa.

The resort is stunning.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

Made with local stone and Brazilian hardwood, it features an eclectic mix of Asian antiques, Indian rugs, and Balinese bamboo furniture.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

Each room has 360-degree views...

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

...as well as tons of windows that allow for a cool breeze from any direction.

Individual rooms can be rented starting at $4,280 a night, for a week minimum, and only during certain windows of time. Generally, the island is rented as a whole for $78,000 a day.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

Many celebrities have vacationed here, from Princess Di to Mariah Carey, and even Nelson Mandela. Kate Moss had her 40th birthday party on Necker, and Google co-founder Larry Page had his wedding there.

There are two “private” beaches (though it's a private island, all beaches up to the high-water mark are open to the public, under British Virgin Islands law), two infinity pools, a swim-up bar, a hot tub that fits 30, a personal chef, and around 100 employees.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

While Barack is known to be more of a golf guy, he can practice his tennis game on one of two courts.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

The Necker Cup, a tennis tournament, is held on the island every year.

The former president could also try his hand at kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, paddle boarding, pilates, and yoga.

He could also enjoy one of the many spa treatments available....

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

Or just do nothing for a change. There's no shortage of epic spots to relax in.

These views don't get old.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

There are lounging decks everywhere.

The famously affectionate couple could indulge in some romantic alone time....

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

...maybe have a beach-side picnic.

(Facebook/Necker Island
(Facebook/Necker Island (Facebook/Necker Island)

Can't say the Obamas don't deserve it.

(Insider)

Read more:

• Here's what it's like to fly first class on Qatar Airways, the airline voted the best in the world
• Animals are much smarter than people realise, scientist says
• 12 subtle signs that your coworkers hate you

Read the original article on Business Insider UK. © 2016. Follow Business Insider UK on Twitter.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in