Category Archives: Private Islands

(CNS): The decision by the Cayman Brac and Little Cayman Development Control Board (DCB) to hear and grant an application dealing with only part of a controversial resort project in Little Cayman flies in the face of environmental, social and economic responsibility, local activists have said.

Amplify Cayman, a group of concerned citizens, described the decision as salami slicing because the development has a contentious over-water bungalow component that is still to be decided.

The Little Cayman District Committee of the National Trust for the Cayman Islands is also urging people to contact their MPs. Posting on social media, it said the Marine Park belongs to all of Cayman, not just one developer.

Since Cabinet has not yet heard that coastal works application, there is a window of opportunity for people to lobby their representatives about this unprecedented and unsustainable proposal, the committee said.

If you do not wish for Cabinet to give away or sell part of a National Marine Park that belongs to all of the people of the Cayman Islands for the enrichment of a private developer, make your feelings known to your MP, minister, or member of Cabinet, the LC branch of the Trust stated.

While the DCB had no problem approving the land component of the project, the Department of Environment has raised multiple concerns about it, including the decision to hear just one part of the project. DoE experts have already urged the government to refuse the necessary coastal works licence, describing the idea of over-water bungalows in a marine park as fundamentally unacceptable.

In an open letter sent to MPs, the media and posted across social media, Amplify Cayman raised a number of issues about the decision of the Sister Islands board to hear this application, as well as the catalogue of issues presented by the proposed development.

The developers have stated that the economic viability of the project depends on the overwater bungalows. Therefore, Amplify said, they had great difficulty understanding why this segment of the application was heard by the board in isolation given the obvious interdependence.

In its technical report, the DoE has laid out all of the reasons why the coastal works licence should be refused. This is the first application in Cayman seeking permission from the government, from a single developer for a one-off fee, to profit from the crown, namely publicly-owned seabed in a marine protected zone, an issue that has never been discussed.

In addition to that obvious and extremely contentious issue, there are an array of environmental problems with the project in relation to building hotel rooms over the water.

The DoE advice to refuse the project and develop a policy on over-water development was passed to Cabinet several months ago, but no decision has yet been made. CNS contacted the premier regarding the project and how the application is being handled, but his office explained he was unable to comment as the costal works application has not yet been before the Cabinet.

Nevertheless, the decision to approve the landside of the project appears to be yet another decision in a line of many over the last few months under the planning ministry that directly conflict with the stated PACT policies and Pantons Ministry of Sustainability and Climate Resiliency, which has responsibility for the Department of Environment.

In its open letter, Amplify Cayman sets out the continued and growing concerns across the Cayman community that, despite claims by the authorities that they are concerned about over-development, climate change and environmental conservation, there is little evidence of any action to address it.

One of the first steps in addressing climate action is to preserve nature. Considering such a project in 2022 in such a zone seems completely out of touch with the reality of climate change, the activists stated, noting their concerns about the failure to consult the public on this significant proposed project.

Not only has public input been restricted as interested parties on the land-based aspect of the project, but the DoEs expert advice on the matter is blatantly being disregarded, they wrote.

Referring to the Cayman Islands Environmental Charter and the Bill of Rights, Amplify said the decision shreds the spirit of the Constitution, and called for a review and update of planning policies and for MPs to bring the general question of over-water Marine Reserve development to Parliament for debate.

The dismissal of expert advice and public concern, the obvious disregard for negative environmental and socio-economic impacts, and the apparent direct conflict with the 2001 Environment Charter, our Constitutional Bill of Rights, the UNs Sustainable Development Goals and internationally recognized best practice for Climate Action, make this project and the DPB decision unjustifiable, the activists said, as they urged the community to make their feelings known.

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Activists urge voters to lobby MPs over LC resort - Cayman Islands Headline News - Cayman News Service

A Tudor house that sits on a lake with its own island has gone up for sale in Berkshire and, back in the Tudor age, Anne of Cleves was said to live near the property

A whimsical-looking Tudor house with six-bedrooms is currently on the market in Berkshire.

The Islands sits in Cookham Dean, Maidenhead, and is on the market for a guide price of 4.95 million.

The house is described as being "a truly idyllic riverside retreat" and it sits at the upstream end of an ancient royal fishery that dates back to the Tudor era.

READ MORE: The Reading bakery turned 5-bedroom property that's currently on the market

The property comes with a library, swimming pool, pool house, cottage, greenhouse, and even a boathouse and it sits on five acres of land and has its own private island, perfect for anyone who loves their privacy.

The house lies in Cookham Dean which is south of the river from Marlow and just north of Maidenhead.

The interior of the property is just as whimsical as its exterior.

For example, the reception is oak-panelled and features an open fireplace, a stained glass window, and panelled ceiling, which makes it look like a Scottish Hunting Lodge.

Another interesting historical note is the fact that Kenneth Grahame lived in the area when he wrote his famous book 'The Wind in the Willows.'

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Maidenhead whimsical lakeside Tudor house where Henry VIII's wife used to live near is on the market - Berkshire Live

Theres something to be said for solitude. A bit of quiet does wonders for the soul. When youre ready to take a break from riding that merry-go-round or rollercoaster that is your life, a vacay on a private island is the perfect respite.

Just getting there is often an adventure. It could mean you catch a flight and then continue via a water taxi, ferry, commuter plane, or even better, a seaplane. The world feels smaller already, and youre happy about that, especially if you call a big city like New York or Los Angeles home.

Private islands are having a moment, becoming especially popular since the pandemic as people want to travel but have concerns about safety and crowds. Choose to stay in a villa or cottage with your inner circle instead of a mega hotel. You mix with others as little or as much as you like.

After the last couple of years of maybe little or no travel, its time to treat yourself. Start planning your private island getaway to paradise.

My journey to Kamalame Cay in Andros included a flight, commuter flight, cab ride to the dock, and a water taxi to the island. The minute the water taxi docked on the island, its like I clicked my heels twice and I was there all the machinations of getting there went out of my head. I was in another world. All that mattered was the beauty surrounding me, lush greenery, beautiful white sand beach. Where was Mr. Rourke to welcome me to Fantasy Island?

Truth is, I didnt need him. I had concierge Keith and his assistant, who were on the water taxi to greet me. They immediately made me feel like royalty, fussing over me with big smiles, offering a cool, refreshing towel, water. Were here for you Miss Sheryl. What can I do for you Miss Sheryl? was what I heard a lot throughout my three-night stay. I loved every minute. High touch indeed. At Kamalame Cay they get A-listers who relish the privacy. But even if youre just you, while youre there, youre a star, too.

You might think youre in a movie. The resort is located just off the worlds third-largest Great Barrier reef on 97 acres with coconut palm groves, bougainvilleas, an array of stunning vegetation that competes with the sparkling bluest of blue sea for what deserves the most oohs and ahhs. The bungalows, villas, cottages, and beach houses are spread out for miles, and you dont have to worry about traffic when youll wheeling around in your golf cart along the white sand roads. It mostly feels like you and Mother Nature. Even when its mealtime, or you hang out on the beach or freshwater pool, there are just enough people to have a lively atmosphere.

You can do a lot, be it bone and deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, playing tennis, biking, picnicking, or chill watching a movie at the alfresco cinema, at the pool, sipping a cocktail at the Monkey Bar, or in a hammock along the beach. If youre in a really quiet mood, simply go from your back patio/deck and walk the few steps to your cabana, curl up with a book, glass of wine on the table, and marvel at the sea in front of you.

A spa visit is a must-do. Kamalame boasts the Bahamas only overwater spa. This was the highlight of my trip. Spa maven that I am, this was my first overwater experience. Ill never forget the wind blowing, the sea splashing, and the big thrill, a stingray swimming past during my Swedish massage. The full-service spa offers everything from facials, exfoliation, and wraps to custom treatments.

When it comes to cuisine, the resort impresses, too. For breakfast go for lionfish and grits with a sunny-side-up organic egg, smoke salmon board with Atlantic smoked salmon, capers, diced red onion, cream cheese, and flame-grilled baguette. Lunch? How about snapper and avocado mini burgers on sweet Bahamian buns. As for dinner, for apps conch fritters are mandatory for your bellys content, entrees, the Asian barbecue spareribs, Kamalame surf and turf, and the coconut green vegetable curry are crowd-pleasers. Do order Sampsons Special, a secret concoction that you probably should only have one of.

Kamalame gets that its the little things. Every morning theres a continental breakfast basket delivered to your room in case you dont want to come to the Great House. Every afternoon freshly baked cookies arrive at your room. The staff is warm and genuine, and youll likely have many conversations and maybe even make a friend. Kamalame is decidedly different. There are no room keys. Why lock the door? When I forgot to plug in my electric cart overnight, when I went in the morning, someone had come by and plugged it in. I met a couple who had last visited in May, and they were there in December for another week. I would consider myself lucky if I could do the same.

This one is for the adventurous. Lemalas Wildwater Lodge is on the Nile River in a

rainforest reserve on 16 protected acres. Youll work to get there. Its accessible only by boat and helicopter. The suites offer views of the Nile River and forest. The resort had a major renovation last year, and now it features locally handmade furniture, stylish bathrooms with rain showers, secluded wooden decks with daybeds and freestanding baths, and a new pool. The menu has been updated to healthier and lighter fare that showcases local produce and dishes. Nearby Jinja offers white-water rafting, bungee jumping, horseback riding, and fishing. Wildwater is ideal for birdwatching, too.

Location is everything. The Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina is tucked into a rugged cliff overlooking the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and other islands. Take your pick of guest rooms, suites, and villas from two-six bedrooms. Water adventure includes two private beaches, diving historic shipwrecks, snorkeling, sailing, paddle boarding, deep-sea and fly fishing, and more. If youre a newbie, you can learn to sail and kayak. If youre more of a land lover, explore the islands 230-acre volcanic island on foot. Experience elevations or more than 400 feet, panoramic views, and indigenous plant life like the ixora flower and a variety of cacti. When you need a respite from all the excitement, theres Ixora Spa. Exhale.

On Hawkins Island, you get 25 acres of woodland reserve with a private beach in the Great Sound of Bermuda. This is ideal for those who want to vacation under the radar. You can have private arrival arrangements at the airport as well as private transfers by boat. Hit the walking and running trails while taking in the views of the Great Sound and lush flora and fauna. Swim on your private beach and enjoy the lunch prepared by your private villa chef.

The treasure youll find off the Florida Keys coastline is Little Palm Island Resort & Spa. You arrive by seaplane or boat. Forget crowds. Here there are never more than 60 guests at this adults-only getaway. Youll like the set-up: thatched-roof bungalows with outdoor soaking tubs and showers. This sets the tone for R&R. Unplug. There are no in-room telephones, TVs, or alarm clocks. Instead, amuse yourself admiring the birds, manatees, and dolphins. Kayak and paddleboard. Get up with the to fish or at sunset, meditate while doing your downward dog. Come supper time, take your pick of dinner at one of the islands sandbars. To keep the good vibe going, SpaTerre offers Balinese treatments and Thai body rituals.

Theres a lot of buzz about Belize, but go where the crowds arent. Cayo Espanto is a private island resort with just seven villas three miles off the coast of Belize. Youll have your own butler, private dock area, and your meals customized and prepared by a top chef. Your experience is tailored by you. Say you want to learn fishing, there will be lessons on a private deck. Maybe you want to watch a movie al fresco. Just make your desires known. Enjoy bird watching tours, trips to the mainland to see Maya ruins, scuba diving charters, snorkeling, and fly fishing.

Sea Island is home to five miles of private beach, a beach club, tennis, yacht club, and Camp Cloisters for the young folks. Theres horseback riding and falconry. Golfers take note: There are three championship courses. Choose from accommodations like The Cloister at Sea Island, with its myriad of activities, from bowling, hunting, and shooting to boating, biking, and fishing. Another option is The Lodge at Sea Island. Its beloved for its oceanside pool, 24-hour butler service, golf cottages, and more.

To give you something to dream about, consider Calivigny Island. Its on 80 lush acres, has two beaches and to-die-for views of the Atlantic and Caribbean Oceans. Its one of the most exclusive private islands in the world. It is said to have been rented recently for $132,000 a night by Melinda Gates.

Interest piqued? Check out our picks for 7 Incredibly Affordable Private Islands That You Can Rent In The U.S. or read up on luxury resorts and how to make luxury travel more affordable here.

Read the rest here:

8 Amazing Private Islands To Escape To In 2022 - TravelAwaits

(Courtesy of The Nightfall Group)

Presented byThe Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

Beverly Hills-based The Nightfall Group is a bespoke luxury travel and concierge service that provides the most exquisite villas, islands, cars, yachts, and private jets to high-net worth individuals looking for high-end services in destinations like Los Angeles, Miami, Dubai, Ibiza, Monaco, Saint Barthlemy, and now, Belize.

Consisting of the most amazing sights and sounds, a mysterious jungle holds the secrets of the Mayan civilization for you to explore, while being surrounded by a beautiful, crystal clear ocean thats home to exotic sea life.

Picturesque views by day and a tranquil atmosphere by night, Belize is one of the most beautiful oceanic countries to visit, with an influx of tourists trending during the pandemic.

Mokhtar Jabli, founder and CEO of The Nightfall Group, saw this opportunity as a way to create the highest level of service for the elite who desire to take this experience to the next level.

The Nightfall Group only delivers the extraordinaryall clients are provided with highly professional, full hospitality services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with year-round attention.

From the moment you book your travels with them, they are with you the whole way through. You are welcomed at the airport with the car of your choice, and taken to your new stay. The homes are fully stocked and prepared for an easy, smooth check-in process. On top of that, guests are assigned a vacation concierge that will be on-call at all times of the day for anything desired.

Exotic car rentals, island rentals, airport transfers, private jet charters, chauffeur services, private security, yacht charters, villa rentals, chef services, butler service, maid and spa services, event management, personal training, and lifestyle management are the services offered by The Nightfall Group.

And all at the highest level of quality and attention to detail available. The promise is to produce the best, most luxurious experience possible that the most discerning individuals look to find.

While being very successful within these mediums of expertise, The Nightfall Group saw and took on the opportunity to start renting out private islands. The first stop is Cayo Espanto Private Island in Belize. The concept of enjoying a vacation with high-quality is only heightened by a private island experience with outstanding services, transforming the experience into something truly exceptional.

With many activities to do and plenty of Island to explore, you can scuba dive, relax on the soft white sands while enjoying the finest cuisines by the master chefs on the island. Fully serviced staff will await any need you desire, be it moments of privacy or full-time assistance. The Nightfall Group always brings clients the best experience possible.

Go to http://www.nightfallgroup.com to book your next vacation, or follow them on Instagram @thenightfallgroup.

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Plan A Private Island Getaway in Belize With Luxury Travel Service The Nightfall Group - Maxim - Maxim

As Valentines Day approaches, its the perfect time for couples to plan an unforgettable romantic getaway to the Turks and Caicos Islands. This luxury five-star vacation destination, home to the Worlds Best Beach, provides a secluded getaway whether youre looking to kick back and relax or explore and adventure, the Turks and Caicos Islands have something for every couple to enjoy this Valentines Day and beyond.

WHAT TO DO:

WHERE TO STAY:

Crystalline turquoise waters and white sand beaches are trademarks to the over forty islands and cays that make up the Beautiful by Nature TCI. Considered the Worlds best kept secret, the TCI are an easy escape with an ease of connectivity from Miami, New York, Toronto or London. Each island and cay in the archipelago is a destination on to its own. We welcome visitors to enjoy our pristine and inviting beaches, experience our luxurious accommodations, indulge in our world class spas, treat yourself to delectable dining in paradise and revel in our culture and local traditions. Over 80% of the local adult population is vaccinated and all visitors 16 and older are required to be vaccinated to enter. https://turksandcaicostourism.com/

Image credit: Private Dining on the Beach at COMO Parrot Cay

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Romantic Things To Do in Turks and Caicos Islands - Luxury Travel Magazine

2022 SWFL Wine & Food Fest auction

SWFL Wine & Food Fest's live auction was held Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022 at Florida SouthWestern State College in Fort Myers.

Charles Runnells, Wochit

The 2022 SWFL Wine & Food Fest liveauction returnedto an in-person format today in Suncoast Credit Union Arena at Florida SouthWestern State Collegein south Fort Myers. Last year's festival held a virtualauction due to the pandemic.

Below are 11of the top live auction lots out of 28total.

More: 2022 SWFL Wine & Food Fest celebrates $25 million milestone

Four-night stay on private island in Belize available to one guest party with three villas, for total of five suites (up to 10 people); includes full staff featuring island chef, concierge, housekeeping and licensed boat captain; all meals and local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; unlimited use of WaveRunner, kayaks, snorkeling gear; boat transfers upon arrival and departure; on-site concierge to create custom, detailed experiences; eight 750-milliliter bottles of Patz and Hall wines.

Sold for: $75,000

Four, first-level seats to Willie Nelson and George Strait concert April 30 at Moody Center AXT in Austin, Texas; includes two nights in two rooms with deluxe accommodations at Fairmont Austin from April 29-May 1; dinner at Garrison in downtown Austin for four; airfare and transportation voucher; four 750-milliliter bottles of Von Strasser Cabernet Sauvignon 2013-2016.

Sold for: $27,500

Six-day, five-night stay for two in upgraded rooms at Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel in Reykjavik, Iceland. Includes Jeep excursion for two to exclusive spots to view the Northern Lights; Reykjavik City Walk tour; Blue Lagoon geothermal spa with massage by waterfalls and mud mask; Golden Circle tour to visit active Strokkur geyser, Gullfoss waterfalls and geology at Thingvellir; and four 750-millilter bottles of Reynolds Family Reserve Cabernet.

Sold for: $50,000

A five-night, four-day stay on the Turks and Caicos Islands in beachfront villa with three bedrooms and three bathrooms for two couples. Includes private round-trip HondaJet transportation from Southwest Florida, food and beverage provisions of up to $500, eight 750 milliliter bottles of Reynolds Family Winery.

Sold for: $37,500

Three-night stay for two at Bellagio Las Vegas in a Fountain View room overlooking eight-acre lake with dancing water fountains. Includes two dinners; two 100-level tickets to Las Vegas Raiders game of winners choice; two drivers get 10 laps driving around Las Vegas Speedway; domestic airfare voucher and black car service; and four wine bottles from Andretti Winery Napa Valley.

Sold for: $20,000

Five-night, six-day all-inclusive stay for two at one of three Miraval wellness resorts in Tuscon, Austin or Lennox, Massachusetts. Includes unlimited participation in daily yoga, fitness, meditation and wellness lectures, outback hiking, fitness and photography classes, challenge activities and climbing wall; all healthful meals and snacks; shuttle transfers and domestic airfare voucher for two people; and two 750-millilter bottles of 2009 Songbook Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sold for: $25,000

Three couples will enjoy a three-night stay at Lerner Projects Diamond Mountain estate, Armstrong Ranch in Calistoga, California. The lot includes a three-night stay for three couples in a three-bedroom, two-bath home on the estate; private dinner and wine pairing on the Sky Deck with Lerner Project; domestic airfare voucher for four people; car service voucher; and 12 bottles of 750-milliliter RMS Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Sold for: $57,500

Four Lexus Club seats at FLA Live Arena in Sunrise for John Mayer concert April 22 with unlimited gourmet dinner buffet and complimentary bar; two rooms for two night at the AC Marriott; dinner for four at Council Oaks Steak & Seafood; brunch at Grand Lux Caf; and two bottles each of Charles Heidseck Champagne Brut Reserve and Vgs Chateau Potelle Winery.

Sold for: $15,000

Three nights, four days in luxury three-bed, 3.5-bath condo on Upper East Side for four guests from July 14-17. Also includes four tickets in Legends section for New York Yankees game; two hair makeovers with cut, color, style by celebrity hair stylist Oscar Blandi at his NYC salon; dinner with wine at Raos Restaurant and lunch at celebrity hotspot Tao; four Broadway tickets to show of winners choice; and four 750-milliliter bottles of La Jota Vineyards Howell Mountain Estate.

Sold for: $35,000

Five-night, six-day stay for two in oceanfront room at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in Lahaina, Hawaii; Regency Club access for two includes beverages, snacks, daily breakfast, light hors doeuvres and desserts; airfare, spa and dining credit; andToKalonTwelve winein signature keepsake box.

Sold for: $25,000

Two orchestra tickets to Adele Live in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on an undetermined date (it was to be April 2 until Adele recently postponed her shows); two nights at Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino from April 1-3; dinner for two with $300 American Express card to use at celebrity restaurants such as Bobby Flay, Lago by Julian, Serrano, Spago by Wolfgang Puck and more; airfare and transportation voucher; and two 750-milliliter bottles of 2016Vrit La Joie.

Sold for: $32,500

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SWFL Wine & Food Fest: How much did these 11 top auction lots go for? - News-Press

Listing of the Day

Location: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Price: $29.5 million

Sitting right in the heart of Oil Nut Bay, an exclusive resort community located on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, this turnkey home has a secluded tropical setting and was built for the developer of the resort itself.

Called Nonam, the beachfront villa was originally owned by developer David V. Johnson before changing hands to the current homeowners, who completely redesigned the interior with bespoke furnishings.

Nonam has always been private, said listing agent Scarlett Steer of Oil Nut Bay. However, she noted the current owners have really furnished it and fitted it out as their own private oasis. There is not a tiny little scrap of it that is commercial or done for the rental market.

More: An Architectural Gem on a Private Peninsula in the Virgin Islands

This attention to detail can be seen in the interior, where subtle textures and natural materials reinforce the homes clean and airy design. Thus, the soaring vaulted ceilings and cream walls of the family room are grounded by grey flooring and neutral furniture that highlight the rooms impressive vertical space. Elsewhere, smooth pebbles line an outdoor shower, vertical wood-grained cabinetry complements wood floors, and oversized windows frame the white sands and ocean.

Outside, the property includes an expansive covered patio, a hot tub, and a heated swimming pool with a waterfall. Despite being centrally located in the resort, the property is shielded by towering palm trees and bushy foliage.

The way [the property] has been landscaped makes it its own little resort. You are surrounded by this lush landscaping, Ms. Steer said.

Stats

Situated on a half of an acre, the 5,981-square-foot residence features six bedrooms, six full bathrooms and two half bathrooms.

Amenities

The residence includes a heated infinity pool with a waterfall, a hot tub, a 30-foot private boat slip, an expansive patio, a private chefs kitchen with Subzero appliances, a laundry room, double walk-in closets in every room, a full laundry room and a full media room. Solar panels located on the roof offer a source of renewable energy for the home.

Neighborhood Notes

Oil Nut Bay on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands includes a wellness studio, yoga classes, spa services, personal training, tennis and pickleball courts, snorkeling, paddle boarding, a rescue barn, several high-end restaurants, a coffee shop serving artisanal beverages, a market, a kids clubhouse, and a beach club offering poolside dining.

More: Bold Design Defines This Bright, Geometric House in the British Virgin Islands

A marina, meanwhile, offers docking space, ferry access and a helipad.

Agent: Scarlett Steer, Oil Nut Bay

View the original listing.

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This Solar-Powered Villa in the British Virgin Islands Is Its Own Little Resort - Mansion Global

Meat Loaf, the rock star and actor who died on Thursday at 74, said in 2003 he was once almost pushed into a moat by Prince Andrew over the "attention" of Sarah Ferguson.

The singer and actor, whose real name was Marvin Lee Aday, participated in the 1987 televised charity tournament "It's a Royal Knockout," which was filmed at Alton Towers.

Members of the royal family competed in teams alongside celebrities like John Travolta, Sheena Easton, Cliff Richard, and John Cleese in a bid to raise money for charity.

In a 2003 interview with The Guardian, Meat Loaf said, "It was great fun. I had a great time." He also joked, "The Queen hates me."

He said he caught the attention of Sarah Ferguson, Andrew's wife at the time.

"Fergie wasn't exactly flirting with me, but she was paying attention to me," he said.

"And I think Andrew got a little I could be wrong, I'm just reading into this I think he got a little jealous. ... Anyway, he tried to push me in the water. He tried to push me in the moat," he added.

"So I turned around, and I grabbed him and he goes, 'You can't touch me. I'm royal.' I said, 'Well, you try to push me in the moat, Jack, I don't give a shit who you are you're goin' in the moat,'" he said.

Meat Loaf's death on Thursday was announced in a statement released on the star's Facebook page.

"Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side," it said.

Tributes from the entertainment world poured in. Cher, who recorded "Dead Ringer for Love" with Meat Loaf, honored the star, tweeting: "Had So Much Fun With Meatloaf When We Did 'Dead Ringer'. Am Very Sorry For His Family,Friends,& Fans. Am I imagining It, or Are Amazing Ppl In The Arts Dying every other Day?!"

Andrew is facing a sexual-assault lawsuit that was filed in August by Virginia Giuffre, who alleged Jeffrey Epstein forced her to have sex with Andrew in Epstein's New York mansion, in London, and on Epstein's private island in the US Virgin Islands.

Buckingham Palace announced last week that Andrew would face the lawsuit as a private citizen and that his military titles and royal patronages would be removed.

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Meat Loaf said Prince Andrew once tried to push him into a moat - Insider

A video shows Prince William dodging a reporter's questions about whether he supports Prince Andrew amid his sexual-assault civil case on a visit to London's Foundling Museum on Wednesday.

Buckingham Palace announced on January 13 that Andrew had been stripped of his honorary military titles and patronages, and would face a sexual-assault lawsuit as a private citizen. Andrew has always denied the claims.

The 18-second clip of William was shared on Twitter by ITV's royal editor Chris Ship on Wednesday, and shows him and Kate Middleton putting on their coats in preparation to leave when a reporter asks: "Your Royal Highness, can I just ask, do you support Prince Andrew?"

The Duke of Cambridge, 39, appears not to have heard the question in the first instance and responds, "Sorry, I can't hear you." The reporter repeats the question and follows up with a second one, asking whether he has spoken to his uncle recently.

Upon hearing the question, William doesn't respond and promptly exits the building alongside the Duchess of Cambridge. Kensington Palace and ITV representatives did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

He's isn't the only royal who has been asked about his relationship with Prince Andrew recently.

A day after Buckingham Palace made the announcement, a video showed Prince Charles being asked by James Matthews, the Scotland bureau chief for Sky News, to share his view about the decision to strip Andrew of his titles and royal patronages while on a walk in Aberdeenshire.

The prince didn't respond to the question, opting to continue on his walk and greet a group of people.

Both Charles and William were "instrumental" in the initial palace discussions about the Duke of York's removal from royal status, according to a report from the Daily Mail.

The decision from Buckingham Palace came after Andrew's legal team's motion to dismiss the sexual-assault civil case, filed by Virginia Giuffre, was dismissed by US District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan on January 12, The Independent reported.

Giuffre filed the lawsuit in August, which accuses Prince Andrew of sexual assault. She claims Jeffrey Epstein forced her to have sex with Andrew in his New York mansion, in London, and on Epstein's private island in the US Virgin Islands in 2001, when she was 17.

Read more:

Prince William ignores question about whether he supports Prince Andrew - Insider

The UAE capital is home to gleaming skyscrapers, ultramodern shopping plazas, spectacular beaches, vast deserts, rugged mountains and a rich history. With a wide array of recreational and leisure experiences, Abu Dhabi can easily be called a global favourite among holidaymakers. Think artsy evenings at Louvre Abu Dhabi, action-packed family fun at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, incredible sunsets on white-sand beaches and adrenaline-fuelled off-road desert driving. The city never fails to amaze couples, families or solo travellers who come from all over the world to experience its charm.

You can live it up in the extraordinary Emirate this year. Add these amazing experiences to your Abu Dhabi itinerary and enjoy the city in its most diverse form

If youre looking for romance

While the scale and splendour of Abu Dhabi gives the city a celebratory and joyful vibe, it also packs in an endless list of quiet romantic options for couples and lovebirds. There are many serene and ultra-luxurious resorts located along the citys sprawling shoreline and some on exclusive private islands. Book at one of these resorts to set the mood.

Rahal Ranch

The ideal family destination is one that keeps everyone entertained from the moment you land until the moment you leave. This city of giant skyscrapers, uber-luxe shopping malls and world-class museums is certainly one such place. Abu Dhabi is that pretty and dreamy holiday hotspot that every family should visit. Try these top family destinations.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

White water rafting at Wadi Adventure

Off-road desert driving across six routes

If youre looking for wildlife

Would you believe us if we told you that in the modern metropolis of Abu Dhabi youll also find lions, antelope, turtles, falcons, flamingos, lush mangroves, extraordinary fossils and more? Apart from winning us over with its contemporary charm, this beautiful place is also a nature lovers paradise. Here are the top wildlife picks for you.

Spot endangered Hawksbill turtles at Saadiyat Beach and Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve

Bu Tinah Island

With all this and plenty more, there is no doubt that Abu Dhabi is one of the finest travel destinations in the world that packs in an abundance of adventures for every kind of traveller. What are you waiting for? Book your tickets already!

To find out more about these stunning destinations, click here.

Disclaimer: this article has been produced on behalf of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi by Times Internets Spotlight team.

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Abu Dhabi offers the world in one place its time to tick it off your bucket list! - Happytrips