Island Insider: India Hicks Shares Her Harbour Island Favorites

India Hicks, the London-born daughter of an acclaimed interior decorator and a British aristocrat, has made a name for herself as a fashion model-turned-entrepreneur. She founded her eponymous lifestyle brand in 2015, drawing inspiration from her British roots and current home on Harbour Island to craft original accessories, jewelry, home décor and beauty products. Here, Hicks shares her top picks on the tiny Bahamian island known for its pink sand beach, bougainvillea-draped cottages and easygoing pace.

You have a home on Harbour Island. What originally drew you to the island? A man, and the idea of living life a little differently. I don’t know how suited I would have been for a traditional life in England.

What are you favorite shops and restaurants on Harbour Island? My favorite shop is the Sugar Mill, a treasure trove of goodies from around the world, which I co-own. Visitors should also be sure to try an açai bowl from Cocoa Coffee House. You can linger here and work (and feed the chickens that hang around). Some mornings, this is my office.

Is there anything new on Harbour Island that you're excited about? Yes. I have always been keen to support local endeavors that aren’t necessarily splashy or obvious. Harry O’s, a restaurant located down by the bay, is hidden amongst the grittier side of Brilander life ("Briland" is the nickname for Harbour Island). The jewelry store Shine and its sister home store are true gems and are owned by locals. The new kid on the block is a breathtaking property, aptly called The Other Side, which hosts tented rooms and an infinity pool (and limited internet connection), all of which add up to a serious island getaway.

Related: First Look: Bahama House, Harbour Island

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="620"] The Other Side[/caption]

Where do you always take visitors to eat? For the last 15 years, I have been very spoilt by Claire, our Top Banana, marshalling order in our own kitchen. She is an excellent cook, so there is little need to go out. We try to keep meals very English, and a Shepherd’s pie normally delights any invited guest (or my own tribe of children).

How would you sum up Harbour Island in three words? Pink, tropical, home.

Related: India Hicks on Her Favorite Cities and Travel Tips