We Love Maldives - September'17

we love

maldives A collection of dreamy island hideaways

- 2017 -

embark on an

ADVENTUrE The action-packed Angsana Velavaru offers 101 ways to enjoy your stay

Q

uite unlike any other resort in the Indian Ocean, Angsana Velavaru promises thrilling experiences beyond the lure of a sun lounger, with no less than 101 unique activities to get to grips with, in one spectacular island location.

in, will fall in love with the InOcean Sanctuary Villas. The 287-squaremetre abodes each feature a stunning king-bed master bedroom, twin-bedded kids’ rooms, two bathrooms and an enormous living and dining area in which to unwind.

A ONE-OF-A-KIND ABODE

Your Maldivian adventure begins in luxurious comfort at one of 113 exclusive villas. The InOcean Villas, which are the first of their kind in the Maldives, have sunrise or sunset aspects, a hammock suspended over the ocean and a wooden poolside deck with a generously-sized master sunbed just steps away from an over-water infinity pool. There's also a sunken bathtub and rooftop pavilion that provides the perfect setting for spa treatments. Opt for a villa with its own sala bed, situated at the edge of your very own ocean-access boardwalk, and you’ll never want to leave.

Families seeking a premium location, along with ample space to spread out

ACTIVITIES ABOUND

You won't be short of activities to keep you occupied. Known for offering some of the most exciting activities and experiences available in the Maldives, Angsana Velavaru is a destination where guests of all ages are guaranteed to make lasting memories.

For thrillseekers, the sit-down hydrofoil (a variation on water skiing) is a fun way to skim the water. If it sounds a bit 'new wave' for you, however, there is an extensive menu of watersports to try besides. Dedicated anglers in search of an elusive marlin can head to deeper waters for a day of big game fishing, while confident swimmers can pilot an

underwater scooter and meet colourful fish while on a snorkelling safari.

Those with children in tow will be pleased to learn that there is plenty to keep the little ones entertained. The bubble maker course is a great way to introduce younger children to scuba diving in calm lagoon waters. For an upclose encounter with friendly dolphins, a catamaran and speedboat awaits.

Alternatively, sign up for an educational session thanks to the Angsana conservation programme.

At the end of the day, come together for an extra special family meal with a castaway theme on nearby Maagaa Island, or learn new skills with a Maldivian cooking lesson at Funa. Save some time toward the end of your trip to take to the water in a glass-bottomed canoe before enjoying a delicious barbecue under the stars.

To find out more, call +960 676 0028 or visit the website at angsana.com

3 Contents

CONTENTS the resorts

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PER aQUUM NiyaMa MaLdiVES BaROS MaLdiVES

THE ST. REgiS VOMMULi RESORT

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ja MaNafaRU CONSTaNCE MOOfUSHi

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aNgSaNa VELaVaRU BaNyaN TREE VaBBiNfaRU

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SONEVa jaNi ViVaNTa By Taj, CORaL REEf

THE SUN SiyaM iRU fUSHi VELaSSaRU MaLdiVES fURaVERi iSLaNd RESORT aNd SPa VELaa PRiVaTE iSLaNd CENTaRa gRaNd iSLaNd RESORT & SPa Taj EXOTiCa RESORT & SPa

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KOMaNdOO iSLaNd RESORT & SPa MEERU iSLaNd RESORT & SPa

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26 27

COCO BOdU HiTHi

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HURaWaLHi iSLaNd RESORT fOUR SEaSONS aT KUda HURaa

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OUTRiggER KONOTTa RESORT MiRiHi iSLaNd RESORT

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giLi LaNKaNfUSHi LUX* SOUTH aRi aTOLL

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SHaNgRi-La’S ViLLiNgiLi RESORT & SPa, MaLdiVES

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jUMEiRaH ViTTaVELi

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MiLaidHOO iSLaNd MaLdiVES dHigaLi MaLdiVES

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SiMPLy THE BEST

4 Welcome

Welcome to Maldives About this guide EDITORIAL Editorial Director John Thatcher Managing Editor Faye Bartle Contributors Lyndsey Steven Claire Malcolm ART Art Director Kerri Bennett Designer Jamie Pudsey COMMERCIAL Managing Director Victoria Thatcher Group Commercial Director David Wade Commercial Director Rawan Chehab Sales Manager Mia Cachero PRODUCTION Production Manager Muthu Kumar

It’s true that the world is full of stunning, luxurious holiday destinations.

But nowhere does island escapism quite like the Maldives. The crystalclear turquoise waters, soft white sand and vibrant flora and fauna that adorn the archipelago combine to create a tropical paradise that lures travellers from around the globe.

The scattering of 1,192 coral islands provide an enviable destination for a luxurious break away, during which you can unwind with pampering spa treatments, dine on gourmet fare and try your hand at a veritable bucket-list of activities. From exploring the vibrant underwater world to chartering a yacht – you can make it all happen here.

Those who haven’t visited before will be pleased to learn that it’s just as beautiful as it looks in the photographs while, if you’re planning to return, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the country through a fresh perspective. It’s all just waiting for you to come and explore.

With more than 100 resorts to choose from, the only problem is knowing which will be the best fit for you. This is why we have put together this little book – a curated guide to Maldives and a selection of its most coveted resorts.

Whether you are looking for tranquillity and privacy, a romantic honeymoon, a fun-packed family break for guests of all ages, or anything in between, we guarantee you will find something in these pages that feels just right. Your journey to the Maldives starts here, so turn the page and dive right in…

essentiAls All You Need To Know

getting there

Maldives is served by a number of GCC-based airlines, incuding Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai. Flights arrive into Malé International Airport, then the journey to your desired resort depends solely on how far away the property is. Some resorts are close enough to zip to on a speedboat or yacht, while others organise a seaplane for seamless connection to your destination; many have a dedicated lounge in which to relax while waiting for that short flight, but be sure to ask in advance how long your wait will likely be. Aside from rare instances, such transfers are additional extras – but what a spectacularly scenic introduction to a blissful vacation. Less than one percent of the Maldives is land, and the thousand or so islands that this figure encompasses appear like tears dropped into the ocean when viewed from above.

WeAther

The equatorial climate features two main seasons, with sunshine assured in both. From November to April the weather is fairly dry, whereas May to October brings with it the occasional brief rain shower, after which the sun will reappear to dry things up. Daytime temperatures hover around 30°C and dip to the mid-20s at night. In short: the seas are warm, and the daylight hours plentiful.

To book your dream trip, contact dnata on +971 4 316 6666 or visit dnatatravel.com

5 We Love: Resorts

wonderful

ResoRts we love Whether you’re seeking serene solitude, a romantic escape or you want to make memories as a family, you’ll find a Maldivian paradise to suit inside these pages

6 We Love Maldives Previous page: The St. Regis Vommuli Resort This page, from top to bottom : PER AQUUM Niyama Maldives; Baros Maldives

“Find a secluded spot on the beach, pull up a sun lounger and settle into your own private oasis”

PeR AQUUM Niyama Maldives

For a starry-eyed getaway for two, the overwater villas at Niyama are both intimate and sophisticated. All rooms lead onto an expansive tiled terrace sporting an infinity pool suspended above the translucent sea. For maximum privacy, bag yourself a villa on the resort’s crest.

When travelling with children, the beach villas with their secret outdoor shower and seating area in a mini tropical jungle are a savvier option.

Find a secluded spot on the beach, pull up a sun lounger and settle into your own private oasis, rounded off with iced drinks, cold towels and spicy cassava crisps to snack on.

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A tall, white house forms the nucleus of Niyama: here you’ll find all-daydining restaurant Epicure (it does a great breakfast), as well as rooftop bar Fahrenheit and beach bar Dune.

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Aspiring conservationists can swim out with an instructor to pick out a piece of coral to name, and tag their very own adopted ocean baby. minorhotels.com

Baros Maldives

Fringed by a sun-kissed beach, the small coral island is easy to get to, situated just 25 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport.

The thatch-roofed sandstone and timber villas have a wonderful castaway feel, but don’t let the rustic façade fool you: the 45 beachside and 30 water villas, which all have direct access to the lovely lagoon, are light, bright and incredibly luxurious.

Only the third resort to open in the Maldives, back in 1973 (today, there are more than 105), it’s safe to say Baros knows a thing or two about hospitality. You’ll be treated as part

of the family here, known to staff by name, not by villa number.

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The house reef is just a few swimming strokes from the beach.

There, a vibrant squad of exotic fish, rays and turtles await.

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A swashbuckling adventure on ‘Nooma’, the resort’s handcrafted 19-metre-long sailing dhoni can be chartered for sunset sailing, romantic dinner cruises and snorkelling and diving around Black Coral Reef. baros.com

Still or Sparkling?

Our private villas in the Maldives spoil you for choice.

What will it be: your private pool, the sparkling ocean or the soothing renewal of the Jiva Spa? To reserve, call (+960) 6642200 | Email: exotica.maldives@tajhotels.com | www.tajhotels.com/maldives

8 We Love Maldives

Wild At

HeArt

Prepare to be wowed by the natural charms of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

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he seaplane that whisks you to the virgin sands of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru delivers some stunning views as it flies over atolls, but the sight that greets you on arrival will truly take the breath away. A natural 44-acre wilderness with a twokilometre-long lagoon in the far-flung Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, this is paradise found.

At one with nature Here you can stay in an expansive abode on the beach, over a pristine lagoon, or hidden away down a path lined with thick jungle. Thatch-roof beach bungalows and villas, with plunge or lap pools in wonderfully secluded gardens, come with special touches: a traditional Maldivian swing in the garden of the Beach Bungalow; a sea-gazing loft at the top of a spiral staircase in the Beach Villa. Water

Vilas (with or without pools) are on stilts above the lagoon, their outdoor living areas offering the perfect vantage point from which to drinkin endless ocean views. Catering to larger families are the Two-Bedroom Beach Bungalows, Water Suites, and Land and Ocean Suites (the landbased element of the suite housing a kitchenette, living/dining pavilion and library, while the ocean-based side – the two are linked by a huge wooden walkway which encompasses a pool – features two ensuite bedrooms and alfresco showers). Then there’s The Royal Beach Villa, which has a ‘floating’ dining table in its garden, alongside a 20-metre lap pool, and the huge Three-Bedroom Landaa Estate – the ultimate beachside residence.

Spread over two storeys, it comes with a private 80-metre beach, two pools, and a lounge made just for stargazing.

9 We Love: Promotion

Get immersed in spectacular surrounds

Perfect for little and large

A diver’s dream, the resort’s exceptional location puts it close to virgin dive sites and unspoiled coral reefs, while a short boat ride takes divers to an area renowned for feeding manta rays and whale sharks from June to December.

Fledgling divers need not miss out on underwater exploration – the full range of fully certified PADI courses are offered to guests aged eight and up.

With daily activities at the Kids’ Club, for four- to eight-year-olds, and challenges for eight- to 12-year-olds (such as Mission: Landaa Giraavaru, where kids get to head behind the scenes of the resort), this is a resort for all ages. Teens can grab their mates and embark on a boat party during which they can try wake surfing on the Maldives' only Mastercraft.

Healing hands

Dine in style

The resort’s multi-award-winning Spa and Ayurvedic Retreat juts out into the lagoon, where some of the ten treatment rooms are on stilts.

The holistic nature of the retreat sees complimentary Ayurvedic consultations offered to all guests to ensure treatments are personalised.

Yogis can really indulge here - the retreat boasts AntiGravity® Yoga, a suspended ‘ flying’ practice, and the Yoga Energy Trail. It comprises 15 stations – positioned at the resort’s most visually arresting spots – at which to strike designated poses.

Flavours from across the globe run through the menus at the restaurants here. An aside-the-sea shisha bar and twin rooftop terraces open to the stars beckon diners to enjoy the Lebanese grills and Moroccan mezzes at Al Barakat, while the lagoon-facing Blu Restaurant serves up Italian fare and Café Landaa pitches perfectly prepared Asian and Indian staples. Aligned to the resort’s dedication to wellbeing, all restaurants also offer Ayurvedic options.

Clockwise from top: Two Bedroom Water Suite; Beach at Landaa Giraavaru; manta rays.

To find out more, visit fourseasons.com/maldiveslg

EVERYTHING. CLOSER.

With a traditional Maldivian welcome and more activities to fill your days with than you can dream of, Jumeirah Vittaveli is the perfect place for all the family to speed things up or slow things down. Enjoy the privacy and vast spaces of the Royal Residence, go underwater in the resort’s semi-submarine to marvel at the colourful marine life, and then embark on a journey through the rich heritage of Indian cuisine at the exclusive Swarna Restaurant.

Shape your own unique Maldives experience here.

For more information, please visit jumeirah.com/jumeirahvittaveli or call +960 664 2020

11 We Love: Resorts This page, from top to bottom: Velassaru Maldives; The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Velassaru Maldives

the sun siyam Iru Fushi

Easily the most well-known local-owned resort in the country, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers five-star luxury grounded in traditional Maldivian culture. There are 221 rooms available on the 52-acre island, in a mixture of over-water and beach villas. At the former, ladders guide you into the cerulean sea while the latter benefit from spacious gardens with a small cottage featuring a swing, open air shower and Jacuzzi. Children will be in their element at the kids’ club where activities range from mask making to gecko hunting.

A fleet of crisp white-uniformed staff line up along the jetty to greet you along with inquisitive lobsters and tropical reef fish – Velassaru’s very own version of a red carpet welcome.

The fanfare continues as you leave the grand entrance and make your way by buggy to your villa past oriental garden lizards looking on.

Featuring dark varnished finishes, regal reds and exposed wood, the elegant villas have a feel of the Far East. But it’s the outdoor bathroom with its king-sized bath, and separate rain shower bordered by colourful vegetation, that will blow you away.

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An adventure playground for thrill seekers all ages, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi of fers awesome activities including scuba diving, wakeboarding and flyboarding.

For a calmer experience, test your balance with stand up paddleboarding.

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With a resident Ayurvedic doctor, Spa by Thalgo France was voted the best resort spa in the Maldives at the 2016 World Spa Awards. What are you waiting for? sunsiyam.com

There are five restaurants and bars, including Teppanyaki over the lagoon and Asian flavours at Turquoise, but the standout offering is Sand Restaurant for its lip-smackingly fresh seafood and the feel of soft white sand between your toes.

Departing at 5pm, the sunset cruise treats you to a dramatic overhead transformation, with splashes of orange and pink bestowing the island with a magical glow. velassaru.com

12 We Love Maldives

An islAnd for

everyone

Whether you're planning a romantic break, are seeking an action-packed itinerary, or are in need of some soul-searching quiet time, Furaveri Island Resort and Spa is designed with you in mind

I

f you haven’t been to the Maldives yet, there are a couple of things you need to know: Yes, it really is as beautiful as it looks in the pictures (if not more so in real life). Yes, you can bring children (and they will have a fantastic time).

And, no, it’s not just for loved-up couples on honeymoon. Furaveri Island Resort and Spa, with its picturesque, traditional fishing village vibe, is a case in point. It takes around 30-40 minutes on a seaplane from Malé to reach this remote and charming resort. Once there, you can soak up a quintessential Maldivian experience, complete with a PADI diving centre, watersports, spa, kids’ club and lots more…

For culture fans

Join an excursion to a nearby island and meet the local community and an opportunity to experience Maldivian culture first-hand. Visit the school, mosque, local city hall and other cornerstones of island life to gain an authentic insight into this traditional society and its culture.

Finish off your excursion with a stop at an uninhabited island for a truly Castaway-style feeling of contented isolation and peacefulness.

13 We Love: Promotion

For spa lovers

Housing eight luxurious treatment rooms (including four double rooms), open-air pavilions, a steam bath, sauna and a Jacuzzi, all within a lush, tropical garden setting, Furaveri Spa is the ultimate spot for pampering. The 90-minute Furaveri Signature Massage combines four different massage styles, for a top-to-toe healing and soothing experience. Manicures and pedicures are also available – choose a tropical shade of varnish and you'll fit right in.

For little explorers

Daily schedules for children aged four to 11, with activities such as kite making, coconut bowling, discos, cooking classes, nature walks and lots more, may mean your children will be less interested in spending time with you and more occupied by what’s going on at the kids’ club.

For active types

For those who can’t lie still for longer than ten minutes, there is a plethora of exciting things to do. Whether you are yet to explore the underwater world, or are an experienced diver, Furaveri’s dive centre offers trips, courses and qualifications to keep you busy. If you prefer adventures that are above the surface, catamarans, jet-skis, banana boats, paddle-boarding, snorkelling, wind-surfing and kayaking will keep you entertained.

For sailing enthusiasts

Take your pick of sunrise and sunset fishing excursions where you can catch grouper, yellow-fin tuna or wahoo fish for your next meal, and even try your hand at the traditional Maldivian way of fishing with a hand line and raw fish bait. If this all sounds like too much hard work, why not embark on a sunset sail or a dolphin-spotting cruise. It's a great way to get out on the water and take in the scenery. All you need to do is relax and take stock of your fabulous and memorable stay in the Maldives.

To find out more, visit furaveri.com

14 We Love Maldives

Furaveri Island Resort & spa

It opened less than a year ago, but Furaveri is already earning an impressive reputation as a resort that delivers it all – from romantic getaways to wedding days, fun family holidays and high times with old friends. Livelier than most Maldivian resorts (it even has karaoke), the bars and dance floor ensure you can stay up as late as you like.

There are three different meal plans to choose from but opting for the allinclusive option provides great value.

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Furaveri Island is renowned for its alluring array of stingrays, so be sure to take advantage of snorkelling and diving opportunities. The whole watersports department, in fact, excels itself with catamaran, jet skiing, banana boats, windsurfing and kayaking just some of the activities on the menu.

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Mingle with the management at the weekly, complimentary cocktail party – they’re keen to hear your feedback. furaveri.com

Velaa Private Island

Velaa, which translates as ‘turtle island’, is named after the generations of sea turtles that flock here to nest and hatch. Comprised of a mere 47 private houses and exclusive residences, 18 of these are built over the water. The Romantic Pool Residence, meanwhile, can only be reached by boat.

Aside from the amazing sea life you expect to see in the Maldives, the all-encompassing resort also offers tennis, squash, a golf academy and a climbing wall. Setting a trend as the go-to destination for hi-tech water toys, the resort has just introduced the Tandem Jetovator – an aquatic experience with a top speed of 25 miles per hour.

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Guests arriving by seaplane will note – usually with child-like delight – that the water villas resemble a turtle’s head, while the island forms the body.

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The chefs at Velaa take fine dining to new heights. With its carefully curated menu; over-water restaurant Aragu is world-class. velaaprivateisland.com This page, from top to bottom: Furaveri Island Resort & Spa; Velaa Private Island

15 We Love: Promotion

HideaWay BeacH ResoRt & sPa 2017’s World Luxury Spa Awards ranked Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa as the Best Luxury Beauty Spa in the Indian Ocean. It’s just one of many reasons to head here…

a Haven of tRanquiLity

If you long to get away, to be cocooned in your own tropical paradise, where the only sound to volunteer disturbance is that of the waves, gently rising to surf in the distance, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is your perfect hideaway.

Befitting its name, the resort’s wonderfully private villas come in one of ten styles and are among the largest in the Maldives – catering perfectly to families. You can choose to stay on a stretch of cotton-soft sand in a Deluxe Sunset Beach Villa with Pool, which gives you the opportunity to watch the sun slip into the ocean while you take a dip in your private pool. Or perhaps you’d prefer to have the ocean as your pool, in which case you should opt for the quintessentially Maldivian abode – the over-water villa, from which you can

step directly into the iridescent waters.

The Family Villa with Pool is designed to offer the comfort of a family home (albeit a very luxurious family home). Here you’ll love gathering the brood together on the villa’s rooftop terrace at night to gaze in wonder at the blanket of stars above you.

But the star of the show is the Hideaway Palace, where three rooms designed around a huge pool which buffets a superb stretch of beach and the lapping ocean beyond, can accommodate large families or groups of guests.

time to PLay

Once suitably relaxed, it’s time to explore your tropical surrounds. In addition to the must-take opportunity to dive or snorkel (Dhonakulhi reef resides mere meters from the shore, and manta rays, dolphins and turtles are regular

visitors), you can partake in any number of watersports, from catamaran sailing through to kiteboarding. You can also start each morning at a complimentary sunrise yoga class, and end it with sunset meditation. Kids, meanwhile, can enjoy a raft of activities like treasure hunts and cooking classes, at the wonderful Tender Hearts Kids’ Club.

dinneR foR tWo

If you’re here on your honeymoon, nowhere can match the romance of a dinner for two enjoyed in one of only two over-water private dining pavilions at Matheefaru. Feast on pillow-soft lobster while your meal is soundtracked by the gentle waves.

To find out more, call +960 650 1515 or visit hideawaybeachmaldives.com

16 We Love Maldives This page, from top to bottom : Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa; Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Opposite page, from top to bottom: Komandoo Island Resort & Spa; Meeru Island Resort & Spa

Centara Grand Island Resort & spa

Laid-back luxury at its best, enhanced by timber boards, bleached furniture and a chic white colour palette, make this recently refurbished property a sleek yet cosy choice.

Unlike at many Maldivian resorts, youngsters are also permitted to stay in the reassuringly child-proofed over-water villas. If you opt for a beach villa, however, the mezzanine-styled layout makes it feel like a two-storey townhouse on the sand.

For a carefree holiday, the Ultimate All-Inclusive packages make it even easier to ensconce you into island life, with the daily rate covering everything from dining and drinks at Coral bar to a daily spa treatment, watersports, tours and even the in-villa refreshments. All this means more cash for you to splash at the island's designer boutique.

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Evening feeding sessions mean you’ll spy rays and black-and-white-tipped sharks without even having to set foot in the water.

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An upgrade to the Club category gives you access to the Club Lounge, a fine dining restaurant, plus dedicated pool and beach access. centarahotelsresorts.com

taj exotica Resort & spa

With the airport located a mere 15-minute boat ride from the ivory shores of Emboodhu Finolhu Island, the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa is ideal for those looking to cut down on travel time. Check into one of the lagoon villas, which feature wraparound sundecks affording stunning sea views. Alternatively, beachfront rooms boast plunge pools and private courtyards. If you opt for the exclusive Ocean Suite, you’ll be treated to your

“Youngsters are also permitted to stay in the reassuringly child-proofed over-water villas”

own freshwater plunge pool plus a private, sand-filled deck.

On the dining front, there are four excellent restaurants including 24 Degrees that takes you on a culinary journey from east to west. Did someone say chocolate pancakes for breakfast?

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Reserve the ocean pavilion for unimpeded, 360-degree views of the Indian Ocean and a romantic dinner that literally blows other moments out of the water.

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The signature two-hour Alepa treatment at Jiva Spa is inspired by traditional Indian bathing rituals and includes a soothing, smoothing therapeutic mud wrap. tajhotels.com

17 We Love: Resorts

Meeru Island Resort & spa

Komandoo Island Resort & spa

You won’t find any organised entertainment at this compact, chilled, fuss-free resort, but you’ll relish the mellow vibe. Constructed entirely in Finnish pine, with simple matte black and dark brown furniture, the bright rooms have a minimalist yet cosy Scandinavian feel to them.

If you opt to stay seaside in the newer water villas – highly recommended – you’ll also be able to enjoy spellbinding stargazing from the comfort of your own private Jacuzzi. How's that for a room with a view?

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While guests tend to stick to themselves at more exclusive resorts, new friendships are likely to be formed here. The gregarious manager and the head chef act as hosts, ensuring an atmosphere of bonhomie at dinnertime.

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The beach extends almost all the way around the entire island and the snorkelling is exceptional – one German marine biologist counted no less than 265 species. There are also snorkelling trips out to the nearby wrecks, underwater islands known as thilas, and caves. komandoo.com

One of the largest resorts in the Maldives, Meeru Island Resort & Spa is the only resort on Meerufenfushi island. Stretching three-quarters of a mile long it is split into three distinct zones, each based around a reception, lounge and restaurant or café. Families stay on the south side, while lovebirds are tucked away in the more secluded north. The rooms, which all come with a porch or patio, enjoy a touch of the tropics with brightly coloured cushions and throws.

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Impressively, for a resort of this size (286 rooms in total), the standard of dining is exemplary. You won’t find a limp lettuce buffet here, instead live cooking stations, Maldivian theme nights and à la carte restaurants in the shape of Asian Wok, Hot Rock and the 24-hour Dhoni Bar and Café Meeru.

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The Kakuni Bar, open till midnight, is a convivial spot where you can get to know your neighbours with table tennis, billiards, darts and big screen sports action. meeru.com

18 We Love Maldives

By royal

appoIntMent Fit for a king and queen, take your pick of Crown and Champa Resorts’ six regal retreats

Hurawalhi Island Resort

Exclusivity defines the Hurawalhi experience, with just 90 adults-only villas occupying this pristine private island. Revel in barefoot bliss and follow your own path to complete relaxation, from unwinding on the deck of your villa, to exploring an underwater world of colourful marine life, and enjoying a romantic meal in 5.8 Undersea Restaurant - the world's largest, allglass undersea restaurant.

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa

Encircled by a turquoise lagoon and with long stretches of white sand beach designed for leisurely sunset walks, you can be as active or as laid-back as you like at this fun, family-friendly resort. Play a round of golf, snorkel at the coral reefs and de-stress at Duniye Spa. Or, you can simply retreat to your favourite beach spot and get lost in a good book in the shade of a gently swaying palm tree.

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa

One of Asia’s most romantic resorts, the stage is set for the perfect love story at this stunning adults-only island retreat. Spend your days in intimate seclusion, from enjoying a romantic Jacuzzi bath in the privacy of your villa to having a candlelit dinner on the beach along with a dedicated photoshoot. For the ultimate experience, why not make Komandoo your honeymoon destination?

19 We Love: promotion Clockwise from far left: Hurawalhi Island Resort; Komandoo Island Resort & Spa; Veligandu Island Resort & Spa; Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa; Meeru Island Resort & Spa; and Kuredu Island Resort & Spa

Meeru Island Resort & Spa

An escapist idyll, this gem of a resort has the island all to itself. Take a break from the 'real' world by soaking up the views with a cocktail in hand. Or, dive headfirst into Meeru’s awesome roster of activities, such as karaoke, movie nights, pitch ‘n’ putt, cultural dance shows and the popular island disco parties. Too strenuous? Embark on a Robinson Crusoe sand bank excursion for a romantic getaway just for two.

Veligandu Island Resort & Spa

Step into another world where tropicsinspired luxury blends seamlessly with a relaxed island vibe. Lazy days by the infinity pool melt into lingering candlelit dinners showcasing fresh seafood alongside delicious Maldivian delights.

Your atoll sanctuary may be hard to leave, but with deep-sea fishing, house reef snorkelling and the signature spa mere steps away, you can pack in plenty of nurturing while you're there.

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

Plump for the quiet confines of a garden villa or the surrealist appeal of an overwater Jacuzzi villa and be lulled into paradisiacal bliss with the sound of the sea as background music to your stay.

Relaxation isn’t the only route to take, however, with windsurfing, kayaking and snorkelling adventures on your doorstep.

To find out more, visit crownandchamparesorts.com

20 We Love Maldives

the st. Regis Vommuli Resort

Far from the madding crowd, the resort’s remote location in the southern Dhaalu Atoll means that all the action takes place underwater with the largely undeveloped atoll bursting at the seams with marine life.

Taking its cue from the glorious lagoon, the award-winning design incorporates oceanic influences in the chicest of ways. There’s the conch-

shell-shaped boutique, the crab-like Iridium spa building, a library that spirals like a seashell, the manta ray silhouette of the over-water villas and decorative splashes of blue in the exact shades of the surrounding water throughout. Villa options include garden, beach and overwater, along with two-bedroomed family pool villas. For those with an entourage in tow, the bi-level Caroline Astor and John Jacob Astor estates each sleep six.

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The famed St. Regis Butler Service remains the signature of the St. Regis experience and is alive and well in the Indian Ocean.

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Diving experiences in this secluded atoll are out of this world with coral-encased underwater walls, imposing overhangs and majestic sea caves. starwoodhotels.com

21 We Love: Resorts

JA Manafaru

The 90-minute seaplane hop to the tiny island of Manafaru is an adventure on its own. With the extraordinary marine life that abounds around the Haa Alif atoll, this is the first of many exploits you’ll enjoy courtesy of JA Manafuru. Early risers will benefit from the sunrise villas, while night owls are better off staying in the sunset versions. The beach villas (many of which are two-storied), are charmingly decorated with striking artworks, while the graceful overwater villas stick to a more neutral colour scheme of dark wood teamed with cream accents.

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There are no less than seven restaurants – that's one for every night of the week – but a clear favourite is Kakuni for its fresh-out-the-sea fish and indulgent coconut-based Maldivian dishes.

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The five-star PADI and SSI certified dive team offers courses in nine different languages, so if you’ve yet to take the plunge, there is no better time to jump in. jaresortshotels.com

Constance Moofushi

The easy, breezy vibe at Constance Moofushi on the tip of the South Ari Atoll is rendered even more insouciant thanks to its all-inclusive policy.

Enjoy a Moofushi nasta lemonade at Totem bar or enjoy a barefoot dining experience at buffet restaurant Manta.

Kids demanding ice-cream? There are homemade scoops at hand, with flavours changing daily.

The thatch-roofed villas with elegant pastel accents continue the laidback vibe with their au naturel wooden furnishings, woven blinds and giant travel chests in lieu of wardrobes. If downtime is needed, grab a book, head to the terrace and hop into the hammock.

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If cutting a few shapes under a disco ball appeals, then you’ll fit right into this fun, friendly and delightfully frivolous environment.

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For a more authentic local experience, friendly well-informed staff lead tours around the local community on the neighbouring island where many of them grew up. constancehotels.com

“Marine life abounds around the Haa Alif atoll" Opposite page: The St. Regis Vommuli Resort This page, from top to bottom: JA Manafaru; Constance Moofushi

22 We Love Maldives

NaTuraL SpLeNdour Welcome to Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, a slice of preserved paradise Four Seasons is a name synonymous with sophisticated style and impeccable service. A place where unique is the norm, and where lasting memories are made. In the Maldives, these attributes add up to the trip of a lifetime. The tropical paradise of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa welcomes guests from their brief 25-minute trip from the airport onto an intimate, flowerstrewn island fringed by postcardperfect waters, where natural beauty abounds.

Traditional charm

Villas here are designed to marry traditional Maldivian architecture (thatch and timber to the fore) to understated style. If your want is for a villa set on its own stretch of gloriously soft sand, take your pick from beach pavillions and beach bungalows, both with spacious gardens and plunge pools. The larger Family Beach Bungalow with Pool boasts an adjoining study room with a single bed and pull-out underbed – great for larger families, as is the Two-Bedroom Royal

Beach Villa, which houses a wonderful infinity-edged pool in its secluded garden, green-fringed garden.

Making the most of their stunning ocean-side setting are the Two– and Three-Bedroom Water Suites with Pool, and a Family Water Villa with Pool that is out on its own (in more ways than one) at the far end of a jetty.

Just try and prise your kids from the suite’s incredible sunken children’s room, with its wall of windows framing the turquoise lagoon and its multihued inhabitants.

23 We Love: promotion Clockwise from far left: Water Villa with Pool; Serenity Pool at sunset; dolphin cruise; the Island Spa; Kuda Huraa gardens

Water wonders

This is paradise for budding surfers.

On-site surf pros offer classes for guests aged six and above, either in the resort’s lagoon or just a short distance out, where six quality breaks beckon. For the more advanced and adventurous, a private Seaplane Safari can be booked, during which the pros will take you to the Maldives’ most spectacular swells. The daring will also love performing over-the-ocean acrobatics with X-Jetpacks and Jetblades.

Family adventures

Catering to four to 12 year-olds with a complimentary daily programme of exciting events and activities (snorkelling with a marine biologist, cooking classes with the resort’s chefs), Kuda Mas Kids’ Club is where your little ones will want to spend their days. Team up again to enjoy a sunset cruise, accompanied by leaping dolphins, before a family dinner at Reef Club. You'll enjoy fine-dining Italian dishes while the kids tuck into homemade pizzas and pastas.

one-of-a-kind Spa

The Island Spa is unique – the only spa in the Maldives located on its own island, accessible only by boat.

On arrival you’ll disembark into lush gardens which reveal seven over-water treatment pavilions. Come 10pm, The Island Spa closes to give way to The Night Spa, open to just one person or couple to indulge in a beneath-thestars spa ritual. Memorable.

To find out more, visit fourseasons.com/maldiveskh

24 We Love Maldives

“there’s a green turtle conservation programme and a Marine Lab to monitor the coral reef and sharks” This page, from top to bottom: Angsana Velavaru; Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Banyan tree Vabbinfaru

Angsana Velavaru

Angsana Velavaru takes Maldivian lagoon life to a whole new level.

Over-water villas have become synonymous with the Maldives, but then there’s the ‘InOcean’ water villas you’ll discover here.

Stand-alone structures located a kilometre out from the main island, they’re only accessible by boat. With vast swimming pools, terraces, day beds and hammocks suspended over the sea, you’ll probably want to stay put – so it’s just as well that, aside from the resort’s three restaurants, they also offer in-villa dining.

Those who prefer terra firma will love the bright splashes of tangerine

in the natural stone beach villas, many of which are equipped with a jet or plunge pool.

WoW FACtoR The treatment rooms at Angsana Spa Velavaru are situated outdoors, with the gentle sea breeze coaxing you into even deeper levels of relaxation.

The signature massage works on key pressure points to strengthen inner ‘qi’.

MUst-Do There are daily complimentary snorkelling trips to other islands and catamaran expeditions to witness dolphins cutting through the waves.

angsana.com

It’s hard to believe that a true deserted island experience awaits a mere 20-minute boat ride from Malé. With its focus on romance, escapism and eco tourism, this green, serene resort is a haven for honeymooners.

With a garland of reef surrounding Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, the sea teems with kaleidoscopic fish. There’s a green turtle conservation programme and a Marine Lab to monitor the coral reef and sharks.

With only 48 villas set among coconut trees and indigenous blooms, each is uniquely designed to reflect a seashell spiral. Inside, the Banyan Tree signature four-poster bed presides in all its glory and a selection of fragrant oils help you to relax.

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Round off your day with a private barbecue on your terrace and savour expertly grilled seafood and meat as you marvel at the ever-changing sky.

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Bodu Beru night is where you’ll find yourself unconsciously swaying to the local beat as the hum of the island rhythm compels you to move. banyantree.com

25 We Love: Promotion

Tailor-made

escaPism Discover meaningful luxury at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

T

he term ‘barefoot luxury’ isn’t given mere lip service at the exclusive Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. Instead it shapes the resort’s philosophy – and the guest experience – from arrival through to departure.

LimiTeD eDiTiON LiFesTYLe

Attention to detail and detailed attention are the hallmarks of this ultra-exclusive 48-villa resort. Guests shuck off their footwear as soon as they set foot on Kaafu Atoll as symbolic liberation from the stresses of everyday life. Fittingly, the resort has plenty of new experiences to inspire jaded minds. The barefoot luxury experience is evident in the seashell spiral-shaped private villas that connect effortlessly with the natural environment to ‘bring the outdoors in’. A suite of modern luxuries is integrated into each residence with a private pool and jetpool nestled amid tropical greenery, and villa interiors that feature plush décor and a calming colour palette.

The luxury of waking up each morning to a cerulean ocean fringed with lush tropical palms, pristine coral beaches and house reef bursting with marine life is a defining moment for guests seeking romance and seclusion.

Add to the itinerary a menu of carefully planned and perfectly executed onwater and in-resort activities, and luxury suddenly has new meaning.

HaNDs-ON ReLaXaTiON

The natural beauty of the Maldives and Mother Nature’s own gifts are the foundation for the wide-ranging menu of treatments at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa Vabbinfaru. This isn’t the place for a quick fix. There, you can embark on a journey to spiritual, mental and physical wellness with a collection of time-honoured Oriental rituals delivered by expert therapists attuned to the needs and nuances of body and mind. Aromatic essential oils, pure botanicals and locally-grown coconut balm are used to enhance the

healing properties of traditional Asian philosophies, with treatments enjoyed in a private, open-air setting as the breeze wafts in from the ocean beyond.

seRVice aBOVe aND BeYOND

Discrete, personalised and above all, genuine, the team at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is passionate about what they do, as well as fiercely proud of their island and Maldivian culture. A sincere desire to share knowledge and engage in meaningful cultural exchange can be experienced on a catamaran excursion, during a nighttime stargazing session, or at the Marine Conservation Lab, which offers a fascinating insight into the resort’s conservation programme.

From the villa butlers for whom no request is too small, to especially prepared dishes from the resort’s innovative chefs, every day there’s something new to discover.

To find out more, call +960 664 3147 or visit banyantree.com

26 We Love Maldives

soneva Jani

An over-water villa with a waterslide into the sea? You can’t be serious. But Soneva Jani, the newer, sleeker sister of the legendary Soneva Fushi, takes fun very seriously indeed.

Made up of five little islets in the Noonu Atoll, 24 quite frankly ginormous over-water villas (the largest of which can sleep 10), bring the outdoors quite literally to your doorstep. The lagoon can be accessed from every room, with the open-plan, open-air living featuring pitched roofs, princess turrets, ladders leading to decks and, of course, an epic slide.

Flop into bed and push the button for the retractable ceiling to unveil the dazzling starry night above you.

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All villas have private butler service, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy.

A private stargazing session can be organised at the resort's spectacular over-water observatory.

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Cycle across the island to the open-air, floating cinema, where you’ll be handed a pair of Bluetooth headphones to avoid any sound effects disturbing the turtles. soneva.com

Vivanta by taj, Coral Reef

The sister resort to the super luxurious Taj Exotica, this warm and welcoming resort offers a streamlined, sophisticated take on beach-styled accommodation. The heart-shaped resort has 62 rooms including 32 water villas with large terraces and direct access to snorkelling in the lagoon. There are also the outside showers that have become de rigueur in the Maldives, although private plunge pools are reserved for the top categories, such as the Two Bedroom Nirvana Presidential Suite With Pool

(a top choice for honeymooners).

Make use of the concierge service to organise a special adventure.

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Pan-Asian restaurant Latitude forms the core of the island and specialises in both Maldivian and Indian curries, served with steaming hot pillowy naan – a nod to the brand’s Indian roots.

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The manta rays that turn up everyday at 5pm for a feed are so reliable that visitors from nearby resorts often pop over to witness the spectacle. vivanta.tajhotels.com

27 We Love: Resorts Opposite page from top to bottom: Vivanta by Taj, Coral Reef; Soneva Jani This page: Coco Bodu Hithi

Coco Bodu Hithi

The winner of Most Romantic Resort at the 2016 South Asia Travel awards, we recommend ditching the kids for your visit to this unique little piece of utopia.

All 100 villas are surrounded by the lagoon, have their own swimming pools and are designed to fit two guests perfectly. Chic and sleek, the rooms are imbued with warm amber tones. Make the most of your private deck to enjoy a longer af ternoon – you’re on Coco time and the sun only sets at 7pm.

Those who opt to stay in one of the 24 residences enjoy the benefit

of an extra restaurant, Stars, where freshly caught fish is the main attraction.

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The resort prides itself on its stellar cuisine and regularly brings in chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants to create one-of f experiences.

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Coco spa is a something of a sanctuary for the soul; therapists here use Paris label Thémaé infused with the healing properties of tea to restore your skin’s natural glow. cococollection.com

28 We Love Maldives

Trip of a

LifetiMe Inspiring journeys for the soul, One&Only Reethi Rah begs discovery

W

ave goodbye to the stresses of everyday life, let your imagination run free and open your mind to new experiences in a destination designed to refresh and rejuvenate body and mind.

A jewel in the Maldives, covering 109 acres of lush private island territory, One&Only Reethi Rai is a true Indian Ocean oasis located on one of the largest islands in North MalÊ Atoll. The stunning six-kilometre-long coastline is graced by no less than a dozen soft white coral sand beaches that form a protective halo around the resort’s 122 villa residences, ensuring complete privacy for guests.

An abundance of space and freedom to roam epitomises the experience – a sentiment that lures all types of holidaymakers from around the globe.

Honeymooners will find romance under the stars, families will create lasting memories through shared activities, and those seeking a dream-like escape from the outside world are guaranteed peace and quiet.

29 We Love: Promotion Journey to…

Journey to…

Journey to…

Luxurious hideaways

Curated itineraries

Culinary delights

Journey to…

Journey to…

Journey to…

Island life promises just as much fun for the younger members of the family thanks to two kids’ clubs. The signature KidsOnly and One Tribe programmes offer tailor-made activities like chocolate making classes and snorkelling for fourto 11-year-olds while ClubOne is a trendy beach club with activities for all ages, including an art studio and climbing wall and golf simulator.

Factor in some time to visit the One&Only Spa. Individual thatchedroof treatment villas open up onto spectacular ocean views, but guarantee absolute privacy, so you can relax and enjoy being pampered. The holistic offering includes a WatSu pool, Chi meditation pavilion, crystal steam rooms, ice fountains and spa courtyard with steam, sauna and vitality pool.

The idyllic setting of One& Only Reethi Rai celebrates love from arrival to departure. Wander hand-in-hand along the sand, indulge in a couples' spa treatment, and dine à deux on the most exquisite dishes prepared by a private chef. You'll fall in love all over again.

Cocooned amid lush tropical greenery and suspended above crystalline waters, the resort’s Beach and Water Villas are incredibly spacious. Retreat to a detached beachfront residence where breathtaking ocean views and private beach sands compete for your attention, or settle into an over-water villa, complete with its signature hammock and split-level veranda. For the ultimate escape, choose one of two, three-bedroomed Grand Sunset Residences offering 2,000-squaremetres of secluded luxury.

Little adventures

Six kilometres of private coastline, 12 beaches and three swimming pools – not to mention private pools in each of the 37 villas – create a lush setting for action and adventure. Stay on dry land and start the day with an al fresco yoga session, before discovering your inner Picasso with a painting class at the resident artist studio and raising the pulse with a game of tennis. Next, a menu of exhilarating watersports beckons, including heading below the surface to discover more than 2,000 species of fish.

Bespoke wellness

Seven exceptional dining experiences will satisfy even the most welltravelled palate, with Botanica’s organic garden-to-fork cuisine and a globetrotting selection of Asian, Italian and modern Japanese cuisine among the highlights. For a taste of home, head to Fanditha – an enchanting, beachfront spot where you can sample mezze from Syria, Lebanon, Morocco and beyond. Plus, you can dine under a swaying banyan tree or on Arabian carpets in the sand for a feast for all the senses.

romantic bliss

To find out more, call +960 664 8800 or visit oneandonlyresorts.com

30 We Love Maldives

“5.8 is the world’s largest, all-glass underwater restaurant ”

This page: Hurawalhi Island Resort Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa; Mirihi Island Resort; Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort; Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

Hurawalhi Island Resort

This strictly adults-only resort is an exercise in sleek, modern, minimalist design. The work of New York-based Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, the 90 villas, whether beach or water based, with or without pool, are identical. Rooms have clean lines and calming, earthy colour schemes.

Noteworthy are the overhead solar panels on the jetty at Aquarium restaurant; renewable energy takes care of around 30 percent of the resorts energy needs – a figure that’s consistently on the rise.

Guests with their own energy to burn will appreciate the range of watersports available, as well as the gym, tennis court, five-a-side football pitch and a stylish, crescent-shaped infinity pool.

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The superstar here is, without a doubt 5.8 – the world’s largest, all-glass underwater restaurant situated (you guessed it) 5.8 metres under. The intimate venue accommodates no more than 10 couples.

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Up your Instagram ante with a professional photography session courtesy of Pix Maldives. hurawalhi.com

Four seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

Constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques, the resort design is tasteful and tempered. Flora fans will find their nirvana in beach villas with lush gardens, thick with vegetation, for total

privacy. Water babies, on the other hand, will feel right at home at the one and two-bedroomed over-water villas, which feature hammocks and an infinity pool for optimal sunbathing, along with an eye-catching glasswalled pool. For guests aged four to 12, Kuda Mas, a fantastic kids' club, offers a full day programme of activities, crafts and outdoor pursuits.

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Unspoiled shores and surrounding breakers make this the best place in the country to catch a wave. Follow in the footsteps of the world’s surfing greats by setting off on escorted sessions and clinics with Kuda Huraa’s expert Tropicsurf coaches.

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Evening boat excursions come with a virtual guarantee that you’ll spot

31 We Love: Resorts

spinner dolphins leaping out of the water and twirling through the air as the sun dips below the horizon. fourseasons.com

outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort

Loctated in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, 30 minutes from Kaadedhdhoo Airport, Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort is a quiet oasis offering the perfect antidote to chaotic city life.

The signature over-water villas with their infinity pools, gazebos wrapped in gauzy white sheers and pendulating hammocks are definitely the way forward, especially considering the resort’s enviable location. Stationed just 50 kilometres from the equator, keep your camera at the ready to capture the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

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At Nala Rah, the sushi masters wow with their rolling and grilling skills. For a culinary adventure through the Land of the Rolling Sun, opt for Kaiseki Ryori chef’s creative course menu.

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Navasana Spa's 90-minute signature massage combined Hawaiian and Thai massage techniques. Allow yourself time for a pre- or post-treatment plunge in the hydrotherapy pool. outrigger.com

Mirihi Island Resort

Another resort embracing the barefoot luxury ideology, guests are encouraged to slip off their shoes and kick back from the moment they arrive. sWith so many hotels opting for style over substance, the key to Mirihi Island’s style is simplicity.

But it's simplicity that is executed beautifully. There are only six bijou beach bungalows, making them more difficult to procure. However, as is often the case in Maldives, the stilted water villas outshine their land-based ones.

Check out the fabulous bathrooms with slide-away doors that open up to views of a vast expanse of Indian Ocean.

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For hopeless romantics, the curved decked terrace of Muraka is where to share platters of lobster as you gaze into each other’s eyes.

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At just 350 metres long and 50 metres wide, this is one of the smallest islands in the Maldives, yet an extensive house reef, accessible mere metres from the shore, brims with sea life. mirihi.com

32 We Love Maldives

Gili Lankanfushi

With it’s ‘no news, no shoes,’ rule, book yourself in for a pre-holiday pedi and start preparing for a deliciously tranquil break where feeling the sand between your toes is compulsory.

It’s hard to believe that the villa suites at Gili Lankanfushi are entrylevel category; spanning 210 square metres, apart from the bedroom they’re open-air and include an expansive living room, over-water deck, plus an upstairs sundeck. If not occupied, ask for a sneak peak, or book yourself into the 1,700-squaremetre Private Reserve, reputed to be the world’s largest over-water villa.

LUX* south Ari Atoll

Gleaming modern luxury meets Maldivian rustic chic in a resort that screams fun. This is the closest you’ll get to an Ibiza atmosphere in an Indian Ocean locale, but it’s more Café del Mar than pumping Pacha. Villas are sleek, chic and mostly white, bar the odd splash of powder, or aqua, blue furnishings and striking spiral statues.

Activities here are exhaustive with twice-daily beach yoga, guided jogging sessions, fly boarding and jet skiing. Off-site excursions include swimming with whale sharks and sunrise dolphin spotting cruises.

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A secret dining experience, which entails being picked up by a buggy, blindfolded and taken to an unknown location for dinner (where you are encouraged to keep the blindfold on during your meal) is nothing short of surreal.

For a dinner with drama, head to Umami restaurant. The dining hotspot flaunts a wood-smoky robata grill and a live action teppanyaki table, among other highlights. Perch at the cobaltblue sushi bar and watch the masters crafting just-caught seafood into world-class sashimi, nigiri and maki.

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Meera Spa has six over-water treatment rooms and a yoga or Tai Chi area. The bamboo massage utilises aromatic oils and rods of various sizes for a sensory experience. gili-lankanfushi.com

Use the free-of-charge phone box to call home and join in the fun by keeping your eyes peeled for the 'message in a bottle' prizes dotted around the site. luxresorts.com

33 We Love: Resorts

shangri-La's Villingili Resort & spa, Maldives

What is it about the Maldives that makes the beaches powder white and the ocean the most icy shade of turquoise?

Nowhere is this more noticeable than at Shangri-La Villingili. Perhaps it’s the contrast of the dark wood villas against the relentless tropical blue skies and sea, or maybe it’s the intensity of the lush green jungle that makes the colours pop.

Operating in its own time zone, this is the place to come in order to sever your ties with reality – even if it’s only for a few days.

Seven different villa styles range from jungle retreats and beachfront hideaways, to water villas and raised ocean-view tree houses.

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Home to 'secret' locations for dining, book yourself a torch-lit dinner under the banyan trees of the resort’s jungle, or enjoy a spa dinner in a meditation pavilion overlooking the ocean.

DoN’t MIss

Hop on a bike and freewheel to Chi The Spa for a tension-banishing massage before playing a round at the nine-hole golf course. shangri-la.com Opposite page: Gili Lankanfushi This page (main pic): LUX* South Ari Atoll Inset: Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives

34 We Love Maldives

Jumeirah Vittaveli

A sliver of manicured perfection, this beautiful island lies just 20 minutes from MalĂŠ, a journey you'll make onboard a motorised catemaran.

Once your feet have sunk into the island's powder-soft sand, it's time to revel in your stunning surrounds. All 89 villas and suites here boast their own pool and access to either the lagoon or beach, while a raft of first class

facilities include a spa what is one of the largest kids' club in the Maldives.

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That's easy here - the quite spectacular Royal Residence (pictured). Set alone, this ulimate family hideaway features five bedroons in all (one master in The Sanctuary, one each in individual Guest Villas and a further two in the double-storey

Guest House), plus its own gym, spa, pool, beach and, wait for it, private Teppanyaki restaurant. This is as incredible a dwelling as it gets.

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Whether you're a certified diver or just love to snorkel, the house reef here is one of the best in the Maldives. It almost begs you to dive in. jumeirah.com

35 We Love: Resorts

“take a trip to neighbouring island Maduvvari to see the vividlyhued harbour and traditional fish market” Opposite page: Jumeirah Vittaveli This page, from top: Dhigali Maldives; Milaidhoo Island Maldives

Dhigali Maldives

Milaidhoo Island Maldives

If picture-postcard views, peace and privacy are what your heart desires, then welcome to Milaidhoo. The rustic design means that not only do you feel miles away from the rat race but, at times, it seems as if you have the entire island to yourself.

It’snot normally a tough choice: over-water or beach? But with the vast thatched-roof villas completely open on one side, giving a whole new spin to the term ‘open plan’, at Milaidhoo we’d steer you toward the sands.

Dive enthusiasts are in for a treat; a coral bank creates a tasselled border around the island and the dive centre offers fluoro night dives to those who aren’t scared of the dark.

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Hop into a hanging egg-chair with an expertly mixed drink at Compass Pool Bar and feel the waves gently lapping at your feet.

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The couples’ spa retreat includes a coconut scrub with bubble bath. milaidhoo.com

Bag yourself extra bragging rights by whisking your family off to a resort that few have had the privilege to set foot inside. Dhigali Maldives only opened in April 2017, but is already carving a name for itself as a deluxe hideaway with a distinctive design.

The cutting-edge architecture sees ship-shape square structures following a curvilinear form through the lagoon. The fresh-faced villas are modern and minimal; they’re also incredibly comfortable with bathrooms featuring oversized oval tubs and supersonic rain showers.

All five of the resort’s top-notch restaurants are included in the allinclusive Dine Around option – music to the ears of parents with fussy children in tow.

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Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Haali, a thatched tree house restaurant sporting trapdoors, ropes, ladders and swings, will capture the imagination.

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Drop the little ones off at the kids' club and check into one of the 12 treatment rooms at Dhigali Spa. If time permits, take a trip to neighbouring island Maduvvari to see the vividly-hued harbour and traditional fish market. dhigali.com

36 We Love Maldives

simply

the Best

Maldivian resorts with that extraspecial something to savour Best for… saying ‘i Do’

Grand yet intimate, lavish yet understated – a wedding ceremony at One&Only Reethi Rah assures an elegant and romantic moment designed to perfection. The Legendary Sunset Wedding package lives up to its lofty reputation with prevow pampering and a personalised ceremony for the happy couple.

Best for… kiD-frienDLy fun

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi caters to those tiniest, most discerning of travellers: every villa accommodates up to two children (aged under 12), there are children’s menus at every restaurant, a kids' club, pool and activity area, plus plentiful amenities for little ones upon request.

Best for… aDuLts onLy

Komandoo Island Resort & Spa is a grown-ups-only haven for couples looking to write their own Maldivian love story. Candlelit dinners on the sand, cosy Beach Villa abodes and – above else – peace and quiet.

A Crown & Champa Resorts gem, this is a getaway made solely for two.

Best for... epicurean aDVentures

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa is a culinary tour de force. Pan Asian delights at 24 Degrees and an over-ocean seafood opera at Deep-End are highlights, while there is also unrivalled personalised dining experiences, such as a meal for two upon a secluded Ocean Pavilion, reachable only by boat.

Best for… spa serenity

The award-winning wellness offering at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru will lull you back to harmony, one treatment at a time. Our favourite among the signature treatments is a spot of Royal Banyan Thai acupressure, but you are promised a blissful balance of body, mind and soul whichever therapy you opt for.

Best for… Making a spLash

Impeccable service is assured at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, but this hotel excels out on the water, too. An underwater universe awaits scuba divers at the reef, while the waves are gnarly enough for the International Surfing Champions Trophy, and the hotel's own 128ft luxury yacht makes for a pleasant day unwinding on a sun-drenched cruise.

WWW.COCOCOLLECTION.COM

For bookings:+960 664 1122 | info@cocoboduhithi.com