3rd February 2016
Ranked number 2 in the top 10 list of local travel destinations for Aussies in 2016, Hayman Island is among Australia's top trending destinations, with flight bookings up 46 per cent compared to last year. After the introduction of services from Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef Airport as well as an $80 million upgrade, One&Only Hayman Island is now one of the most exclusive island resorts in Australia.
Setting the benchmark for luxury travel, Hayman Island is ideally positioned in the Whitsundays and, after undergoing an $80 million revamp has relaunched itself as a 5 star resort under new management from the One&Only brand - its first Australian endeavour. Along with its new name comes an overhaul of accommodation with the aim of being one of the most sought-after escapes in the world.
Despite its top end facilities, One&Only Hayman Island has paired its luxe accommodation with sharp pricing to allow Australian travellers the opportunity to rub shoulders with the rich and famous. Behind the rebirth of the high profile island is Kerzner International Holdings, an international casino and resort mogul no stranger to up-market resorts, with properties around the world including the Maldives, Bahamas and the Dubai landmark Atlantis The Palm Resort.
If these other resorts are any indication of Hayman's new era, the property is set to give Hamilton Island's six star resort Qualia a run for its money. Part of enhancing the luxury experience of One&Only Hayman was reducing the number of rooms from 209 to 160, creating more spacious accommodation. From weddings to business dealings, the island is aimed at attracting a broad demographic despite its high end price.
As a private island in the Great Barrier Reef, One&Only Hayman Island is a welcome addition to Australia's deluxe travel market. An obvious choice for couples, the experience also appeals to families, including multigenerational families who travel together.
