Sir Richard Branson’s Caribbean Island Paradise reopens

After burning to the ground in a spectacular fire two years ago, Sir Richard Branson’s luxury Caribbean Necker Island hideaway has reopened for business. It was a headline-grabbing event in 2011, when the main house was set ablaze by a suspected lightning strike forcing guests, including actress Kate Winslet, to flee. The actress was also lauded as a hero for hauling Branson’s 90-year-old mother Eve to safety.

But the main Great House resort on Necker Island, Branson’s private island hideaway in the British Virgin Islands, has been restored after a two-year renovation. Inspired by Balinese designs, each of the eight guest rooms features a balcony, king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms.

Necker Island — its Great House and six individual Bali cabins —  can accommodate up to 30 guests plus six children. The price tag for renting out the island paradise? A round US$60,000 a night.