In the News: Barrier Reef Makeover

Ever since the 1950s, Hayman Island has been one of the stalwarts of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Located in the Whitsunday archipelago, the 726-acre private island resort has long been considered comfortable and dependable, if a little impersonal. On July 1, however, the property reopened as One&Only Hayman Island. The number of accommodations has been reduced from 244 to 160 (with half now being suites, villas or penthouses); a new spa has been installed; and the restaurants have been redesigned. I am told that glitz has been abandoned in favor of a more natural environment, with marine biologists topping the list of new hires. A Harper trip to Australia could well be in the offing.