We TheMaldives 2015 / 2016
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO PARADISE WITH THE HELP OF THIS GUIDE
There are some moments that pass in a second, but last for a lifetime. It’s these experiences that Â˘Â˜ÂžČ‚Â•Â•Čą ę—Â?Čą Â?˜ĴŽÂ?Čą ÂŠÂŒÂ›Â˜ÂœÂœČą Â?‘Žȹ Š•Â?Â’Â&#x;’Š—ȹ Čą ’œ•Š—Â?Čą paradise of Coco Bodu Hithi; surprising and authentic touches that make your stay a truly Â?Â’Â–ÂŽÂ•ÂŽÂœÂœČąÂŠÂ?Â&#x;Ž—Â?ž›Žǯ Â˜ÂŒÂ˜Čą ˜Â?žȹ Â’Â?Â‘Â’ČąÂ’ÂœČąÂ’Â—ČąÂŠÂ—ČąÂŽÂ—ÂŒÂ‘ÂŠÂ—Â?’—Â?ČąÂœÂŽÄ´Â’Â—Â?ǰȹ ‘Ž›Žȹ contemporary creature comforts blend stylishly  ’Â?‘ȹ Š•Â?Â’Â&#x;’Š—ȹÂ?Â‘ÂŽÂ–ÂŽÂœČąÂ?Â˜ČąÂ˜Ä›ÂŽÂ›ČąÂŠÂ—ČąÂŽÂ—Â&#x;’›˜—–Ž—Â?  ‘Ž›Žȹ Â?žŽœÂ?ÂœČą ÂŒÂŠÂ—Čą ›ŽÂ?Â›ÂŽÂœÂ‘Čą Â?‘Ž’›ȹ ÂœÂŽÂ—ÂœÂŽÂœÇ°Čą ›Ž”’—Â?•Ž Â?Â‘ÂŽÂ’Â›ČąÂ•Â˜Â&#x;ÂŽČąÂ˜Â?ČąÂ?›ŠÂ&#x;Ž•ǰȹŠ—Â?ČąÂ›ÂŽÂŒÂ˜Â—Â—ÂŽÂŒÂ?ȹ ’Â?‘ȹÂ?Â‘ÂŽČąÂ Â˜Â›Â•Â? around them.
Visit www.cocoboduhithi.com or email info@cocoboduhithi.com for more information
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
the
welcome to
CONTENTS
THE MALDIVES
8
Iridescent white sands line crystal-clear turquoise waters at the extraordinary Maldives- no wonder why it’s described as heaven on earth. One of the world’s premier luxury holiday destinations, the islands offer a wide variety of resorts and hotels, each unique in their own way- use our guide to help find the perfect escape for you and your family.
THE ESSENTIALS All you need to know about flying into and getting around the Maldives.
11 HOTELS There’s no shortage of places to stay in the Maldives - you’ll need to pick your resort carefully to get the most from your trip.
ABOUT THIS GUIDE Our writers have combed every inch of the Maldives to bring you our carefully curated picks, so you can enjoy the best there is on offer in this gorgeous destination.
MANAGING DIRECTOR
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
SENIOR DESIGNER
ILLUSTRATOR
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Victoria Thatcher
David Wade
Andy Knappett
Andrew Thorpe
Teresa Francis
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
EDITOR
DESIGNER
PRODUCTION MANAGER
WRITER
John Thatcher
Richard Jenkins
Emi Dixon
Chalitha Fernando
Hazel Plush 3
2015 / 2016
PROMOTION
Five exquisite experiences
IN THE MALDIVES Crown and Champa Resorts have one thing in common – luxury
C
rown and Champa Resorts operates five locations in the Republic of Maldives, each with its own unique personality. You’ll find your perfect vacation at one of them, whether you’re looking for an idyllic romantic escape or somewhere to relax with the whole family, these Maldivian offerings have you covered. 6
KOMANDOO ISLAND RESORT & SPA The purest expression of an idyllic private island retreat, Komandoo is a haven of charm and elegance, just 100 metres wide and 500 metres long. Exclusively for adults, this romantic and secluded luxury resort fuses five-star service with total privacy. komandoo.com
KUREDU ISLAND RESORT & SPA One of the top-rated island resorts in the Maldives, Kuredu is the answer for those looking to reconnect and engage with families and loved ones. The island is a large one, which gives kids plenty of activities and room to roam, and the diving is truly worldclass. kuredu.com
MEERU ISLAND RESORT & SPA Meeru is surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and long stretches of white, sandy beach. It’s perfect for families or honeymooners, with excellent dive sites and excursions, plus it boasts the Maldives’ first nine-hole Pitch & Putt course and a snorkelling school. meeru.com
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
VELIGANDU ISLAND RESORT & SPA Designed for honeymooners, Veligandu is a dream island. With the soothing sound of gently lapping waves in your ears, the spa at this peaceful resort will calm your mind and inspire your soul, as will the lush green vegetation and wonderful sand bank. veligandu.com
VILAMENDHOO ISLAND RESORT & SPA The ideal retreat for families or honeymooners, Vilamendhoo is just a 25 minute seaplane flight from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. It also has an amazing house reef for snorkelling, with excursions to see whale sharks, manta rays and turtles. vilamendhooisland.com 7
2015 / 2016
ESSENTIALS
the
ESSENTIALS All you need to know
Getting
Getting
THERE
AROUND
International flights to the Maldives enter through its capital at the Malé International Airport. Most airlines from the GCC have flights there, but for those who prefer a straightforward journey, operators such as Qatar Airways, Fly Dubai, and Emirates are ideal for nonstop flights. To book, contact dnata (+971 316 6666, dnatatravel.com)
Your resort will usually be small enough to walk around, but it’s just the beginning of your adventure - once you’ve arrived, you may want to explore the different islands. The easiest way to do this is hiring a boat or seaplane - transfers from the airport are usually handled by your resort’s concierge, but it’s always safe to ask.
The
Your
WEATHER
VISAS
The Maldives enjoys practically perfect weather all year round, so there’s never really a bad time to visit. Temperatures are at their hottest from March to April, when it can average 31°C. The remainder of the year experiences temperatures ranging from 23-29°C, with months May to November more likely to experience bursts of rainfall. The best time to visit is from December to February, with blue skies and low humidity making it perfect for exploring and unwinding.
Straightforward paperwork that is filed on arrival is all that’s required to get a tourist visa that allows up to 30 days of stay. A standard valid passport and a confirmation of reservation at your resort are all you’ll need. Visit immigration.gov.mv for more information.
The
LANGUAGE The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, but most locals and staff are well versed in English as well. Most signs and documents are bilingual.
Learning the
LINGO
8
Hello Assalaa mu Alaikum
Thank you Shukuriyaa
How much does that cost? Agu kihaavareh?
Please Adhes kohfa
How are you? Haalu kihineh?
How do I get to ? Kehene aharen ah dhanee?
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
the best of the
THE MALDIVES
Need a quick tip on a spot to visit? These experiences will help
Visit for…
Visit for…
FAMILY FROLICS
EXTREME EXPERIENCES
The Four Seasons at Landaa Giraavaru has beautiful Family Beach Bungalows and Villas and offers an impressing array of activities for the whole familyfrom Coral Reef Building to Dolphin Cruises and Sunset Fishing. There’s also a fully staffed kid’s club and a young adult’s centre with plenty of outdoor and indoor activities on offer.
The Conrad Rangali houses the awe-inspiring Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, the world’s first all glass undersea restaurant. Serving contemporary European cuisine, four course lunches and six course dinners, dine while shoals of colourful fish and sharks swim beside you for a truly unforgettable Maldivian experience.
Visit for…
Visit for…
RAVISHING ROMANCE
GOURMET GASTRONOMY
The Gili Lankanfushi goes to extraordinary lengths to keep their guests completely satisfied. Their ‘No News No Shoes’ policy demands utmost relaxation. Villas come with rooftop terraces and romantic private dining areas, and there’s a fully equipped spa, water-sport activities, and a butler service that ensures an incredibly calm and intimate stay for you and your partner.
At Per Aquum Niyama, diners are spoilt for choice with ten different and equally exquisite restaurants. The resort is home to the famous Nest, where contemporary and seasonal Asian cuisine is served in an innovative multi-level treehouse, as well as Edge, a floating restaurant that serves delectably fresh seafood and modern cuisine, using the finest in local ingredients.
Visit for…
Visit for…
DELIGHTFUL DIVING
CELEB SPOTTING
Experience the incredible diversity the Indian Ocean has to offer at Kuramathi Island Resort, where there’s a dive school offering courses for every skill level, from beginner to expert. With an onsite Medical Centre and the largest Hyperbaric chamber in the Maldives, the diving team are multilingual and friendly, ensuring all your needs will be met to the highest standard.
Conveniently located near the airport, with 79 private pool villas, incredible snorkelling facilities, and an underwater restaurant, it’s no wonder that the Anantara Kihavah has become such a favourite amongst celebrities. Most recently seen celebrities include R&B musician John Legend and supermodel Chrissy Teigen, tennis star Roger Federer and British model Jenny Frost.
9
2015 / 2016
T
his season, relax and rejuvenate on a private island surrounded by blue pristine beaches and natural coral reefs rich in marine life. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, miles away from the closest landmass, Baros Maldives is the ideal paradise sanctuary. The hotel’s 15 Water Pool Villas are among the most exclusive, luxurious and most favoured Villas that provide the ultimate seclusion. Guests 10
PROMOTION
Beautiful
BAROS Pristine Island Living and Opulent Luxury at Baros Maldives
can sunbathe and swim in their own swimming pool poised above the serene waters of a translucent lagoon set into a timbered veranda deck, with loungers to relax and enjoy
a view that stretches to the horizon, all in the privacy of the Villa. The Baros experience is just as much about luxury and pure indulgence as about its
tranquil surroundings. Enjoy an intimate holiday this season at this Maldivian haven of crafted elegance and beauty complete with authentic island charm and personalized service. Rates start from USD 950 per night for a water villa (excluding tax and service charge), inclusive of breakfast for two. For more information visit baros.com or contact reservations@baros.com
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
RESORT S we love Whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner or a whole flock of family members, you’ll find your paradise here
1.
11
2015 / 2016
PROMOTION
Universal Maafushivaru
RESORTS There’s something for everyone at one of Universal Resorts’ luxurious, fun-filled destinations in the Maldives
Kandolhu
Kurumba
BEST FOR COUPLES
BEST FOR ALL INCLUSIVE
Maafushivaru
Kandolhu
palm trees. Reached by a scenic seaplane Your holiday on Maafushivaru flight with views out to the will not be complete without striking Maldivian archipelago, at least one visit to Lonubo. Maafushivaru is an exclusive Take in some sun or snorkel romantic retreat that is during daily visits. Come coupled with its own desert evening, book a private dinner island, Lonubo. Both islands or an overnight getaway just charm you with dazzling for the two of you – and own turquoise lagoons, an expanse an island for a night. of white beaches and swaying maafushivaru.com 12
Ringed by an impeccable coral garden, Kandolhu Island is key for a quintessential Maldivian experience. This 30 villa resort provides a perfectly seamless holiday with its Ultimate Inclusions meal plan. Delight in delicious cuisine at four gourmet à la carte restaurants and
savour tropical blends of fruits and smoothies. Engage in vivid snorkelling adventures and discover the amazing marine life. Treat yourself to therapeutic healing of the mind, body and soul at Varu Spa and emanate wellbeing at exclusive prices. kandolhu.com
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
BEST FOR ENTERTAINMENT
Kurumba Kurumba is the Maldives’ very first resort. A cosmopolitan Maldivian island ideal for couples and families who seek hallmark features: relaxation, white sandy beaches, a crystal clear lagoon and a lively house reef combined with never ending choices of fun activities and social events. A dining wonderland where you get to choose a delicious array of cuisines and nightly entertainment to celebrate your evenings. Located in North Male Atoll just 10 minutes by speedboat from the International airport, Kurumba is the Maldives in full colour. kurumba.com
BEST FOR FAMILIES AND ACTIVE TRAVELLERS giving the adults time to A tropical island, blessed with unwind in the meantime. 10 towering trees and verdant restaurants including 7 that flora, furnishing a range of offer à la carte cuisine, 6 bars, splendid villas both on land adrenaline filled water sports, and over water, Kuramathi thriving house reef suitable is a 1.8 km long island ideal for snorkelers of all levels for families travelling with and value added all-inclusive kids and active travellers. packages further enhance Bageecha Kids Club offers your holiday experience. many activities for kids, kuramathi.com
Velassaru
BEST FOR ROMANCE
Velassaru Located in the South Male Atoll, a 25-minute boat ride from Male International Airport, Velassaru Maldives sits on a private 21-acre island boasting powdery white-sand beaches, panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and an expansive turquoise lagoon. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group, the resort houses 129 spacious yet intimate villas and bungalows, in eight different categories, featuring contemporary
design with a botanical twist. The private setting, coupled with cinematic views makes Velassaru Maldives a haven for honeymooners. Relax in The Spa’s hydropool or enjoy a couple’s massage in one of 10 overwater treatment rooms. The resort also offers five dining restaurants, each with different culinary concept to choose from, including Japanese, International, Mediterranean, Asian and Continental cuisines, and two innovative bars. velassaru.com
Kuramathi
Kuramathi
13
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa It’s little wonder that Vilamendhoo Island is popular with newlyweds and wedding parties: with its palm-fringed beaches, secluded swimming pools and exclusive array of tucked-away villas, romance is certainly in the air. Arrive by sea plane to your own deserted hideaway, and indulge in a bit of ‘us’ time – with private sandbank dining, sunset dhoni cruises and couples’ spa treatments galore.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE At night, there’s always something happening in the resort – from live DJ sets under the stars, to traditional bodu beru drumming on the beach. 2.
Komandoo Island Resort & Spa This romantic retreat is operated by Crown and Champa Resorts, and is the ideal spot for couples to get away – as it’s strictly for adults only, making it sleek, chic and packed with beautiful people. At just 100 metres wide and 500 metres long, Komandoo Maldives is easily explored, so your best bet is to pick up a novel – or your loved one – and settle back for some serious relaxing time.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE The a-la-carte restaurant Aqua is simply spectacular, one of the most contemporary restaurants in the Maldives. Resting on stilts over the Komandoo lagoon, the glass floor reveals the ocean life beneath your feet.
3.
14
MALD I V ES
2015 / 2016
Veligandu Island Island Resort & Spa The perfect place if you’re lucky enough to be planning your once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon, Veligandu Island is full of lush green forest, and has the spectacular Duniye Spa, which aims to nurture your body, calm your mind and inspire your soul. ‘Duniye’ means ‘Universe,’ and the staff honour a universal, holistic approach to health and wellbeing that is guaranteed to melt away stress, if an extended trip to paradise with your new spouse wasn’t relaxing enough.
HOTELS
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE If you are on your honeymoon, you’ve made the right choice. Veligandu honours honeymooners with a room decorated in flowers and fruit on arrival, and the staff will go out of their way to make sure your happy memories last a lifetime.
4.
Maafushivaru Thatch-roofed villas inspired by local architecture set the tone for this uniquely Maldivian resort, which is perfect for couples on the hunt for a romantic getaway. In fact, such has been the ease with which couples are swept up by the romance of the setting that the resort now proves very popular as a wedding or renewal-of-vows venue.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Come here with friends and you can book the Pool Villas, which combine two seperate but identical villas. Families share the beautiful private pool which splits them, and can dine al-fresco on the expansive sundeck.
5.
16
PROMOTION
World Traveller | We The Maldives
MIRIHI As Unique as You
I
magine the Maldives 100 years ago – pristine islands, untouched by human footprints, with all of its natural beauty waiting to be explored. This dream can be found at Mirihi Island Resort, an emerald gem that’s just 350 metres long and 50 metres wide, surrounded by immaculate coral reef. Couples will have the choice of one of just
37 newly renovated villas, conveniently spread over the island to offer complete privacy. Due to the island’s small size, staff are on hand at all times to give truly personalised service. Add in the resort’s stunning culinary concept, and at Mirihi Island you’ll find a traditional Maldivian experience with 21st century luxury. mirihi.com
17
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
1. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island 2. Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa 3. Komandoo Island Resort & Spa 4. Veligandu Island Resort & Spa 5. Maafushivaru 6. Lily Beach 7. Baros 8. Kurumathi 9. Kurumathi
7.
6.
Lily Beach The Maldives isn’t just for couples – there’s plenty on offer for the whole family, particularly at Lily Beach. The kids will be in great hands at the Turtle Club, an activity-packed centre that will keep them entertained all day with crafts, crab races and watersports. Want to 18
explore the island together? Try a treasure hunt around the tropical garden, or a dhoni cruise to a far-flung archipelago. The villas are designed for family fun too – with plenty of space, multiple bedrooms, and a home theatre system that comes loaded with entertainment.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Some of the area’s best diving is found on the South Ari Atoll – and happily, it’s just a stone’s throw from the island. Strap on a snorkel and a pair of goggles and get close to an alien world.
9.
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
Baros Maldives It takes the utmost care and attention to operate a five-star resort – and real skill to ensure that it’s environmentally friendly too. Happily, Baros does exactly that – indeed, it has pioneered the concept for the last 40 years. This is a slick, very wellrun resort, which has been at the forefront of Maldives luxury since 1973 (when it was one of only three hotels on the islands). Today, everything on the island is cutting edge – and the eye for luxury is second to none.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
7.8.
The Maldives is full of superlative suites, but few are finer than Baros Residence, a private dwelling with its own swimming pool, indoor and outdoor bathrooms, direct beach access and a personal butler on call 24/7.
Kuramathi This slither of an island packs in all you need for a holiday to remember, with activities aplenty and enough restaurants (ten in all) to sate the fussiest of eaters. But it’s the natural charms we really love about this place. The resort lays on organized walks around the island, allowing you to take in tropical Maldivian forest and resident hermit crabs.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE The over-water villas here are some of the finest in the Maldives, particularly as they come with a Jacuzzi which you can soak in beneath a starstudded sky. 19
2015 / 2016
Dusit Thani Maldives Completely surrounded by a living reef, this resort occupies one of the Maldives’ most privileged spots. It is part of the Ba Atoll, a world-class diving area, but underwater wow-factor is just one of its charms. You’ll also find one of the archipelago’s biggest infinity pools, exquisite restaurants and dining experiences, and a breathtaking treehouse spa. Desert island playgrounds don’t get much better than this.
HOTELS
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Free Diving is like scuba, but with only a mask and fins: by using expert breathing techniques, you can explore the ocean just like a fish – it’s quiet, utterly thrilling, and the Dusit Thani’s dive school will teach you how to do it.
10.
Huvafen Fushi The ocean forms a vital part of life in the Maldives: it provides not only beauty, but also food and livelihoods too. That’s why marine conservation is at the heart of Huvafen Fushi – it celebrates and protects the lifeblood of the archipelago, and you can get involved in everything from manta ray tracking to coral creation. The island itself is a dazzling white crescent, surrounded by shallow reef – with spacious beach bungalows and fabulous restaurants galore.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
11.
20
Lime Spa is home to the world’s first underwater treatment rooms – a tranquil space which offers a window on a colourful marine world. With the slow rhythmic flow of the water, it’s impossible not to unwind.
PROMOTION
World Traveller | We The Maldives
A Family
HOME The Maldives is for everyone, as you’ll find out at Amilla Fushi
E
veryone can find a magical experience that they’ll remember forever when they vacation in the Maldives. Here’s what luxurious Amilla Fushi offers for travellers of all ages.
FOR YOUNG ONES Fully qualified childcare is provided at Amilla Fushi, so whatever age your little ones are, you know they’ll be well looked after. Plus, The Kids Club FUN has a designated kids’ play pool, play and activity area to entertain younger visitors.
FOR BIGGER KIDS As Amilla Fush is located in the pristine, UNESCO Biosphere reserve that is the Baa Atoll, it has its own house reef and marine biologist on hand to educate and inspire kids. If they’re a little older, they can suit up and dive the renowned “Blue Hole.”
FOR THE PARENTS Amilla Fushi has flexible accommodation from 1-8 bedrooms, and a relaxed, unstuffy approach to dining. While the kids play, grownups can unwind at the Javvu Spa, or enjoy non-motorised watersports for no extra cost. amilla.mv; stay@amilla.mv 21
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
10. Dusit Thani Maldives 11. Huvafen Fushi 12. Soneva Fushi 13. Soneva Fushi 14. Kuredu Island & Spa Resort
Meeru Island Resort & Spa Meeru Island Resort & Spa Great for both families and honeymooners alike, Meeru Island is a real jack-ofall-trades. Kids will adore karaoke night and the weekly slide shows about animal conservation, while adults will be enraptured with romantic candle-lit dinners and a Robinson Crusoe style ‘sandbank excursion,’ where they can forget any worries and just enjoy each other’s company.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Itching to swing some clubs? Meeru Island proudly boasts the Maldives’ first nine-hole pitch and putt course, as well as a driving range and putting green. so even on holiday there’s no excuse to let your handicap drop. 22
12.
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
Soneva Fushi
13.
“No news, no shoes” is the motto that this resort lives by – and believe us, you’ll want to embrace it. You can do as little or as much as you like here: whether that’s simply lazing on the impeccable beach, or trying your hand at every sport, activity and excursion the resort has to offer. If it’s the latter, you’re in for a busy time: perhaps you’ll cycle around the island, go snorkelling with a marine biologist, peer at Saturn’s rings from the on-site
observatory, or watch movies under the stars at Cinema Paradiso. The choice is yours.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE The Maldives is rich in culture and customs, and we can’t think of a better place to explore them than Soneva Fushi. Experience an Ancestral Dinner, learn local cooking techniques, or even try your hand at traditional fishing.
14.
Kuredu Island Resort & Spa If you’re looking to get away with your family and friends, Kuredo is a great option. It’s small enough to be able to see it all over the course of your stay, but large enough to keep surprising adventurous
explorers, whether on land or in the water, where the diving is second to none, with sharks and rays cruising the channels of corals, and turtles taking a break on the outreefs. You’ll feel complete relaxation here, a world away.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE The ‘Dream Island’ can become your own personal paradise if you want to take control of the private sandbank for a full or half day excursion. 23
2015 / 2016
PROMOTION
SHANGRI-LA’S VILLINGILI RESORT & SPA Your private hideaway in the Maldives
24
2015 / 2016
We The World Traveller | WE THE MALDIVES Maldives
I
n a world of its own, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is luxury found, where all experiences are bespoke and tailored to suit your passions. Retreat in style in one of our private villas perched atop the emerald green jungle, or strung along the turquoise shoreline. The luxury of space makes them a perfect haven for couples and families alike. Memorable experiences await in the heart of extraordinary physical beauty. Indulge in tranquility at CHI, The Spa, explore the luscious tropical forest, treat yourself to sumptuous gastronomic experiences, or embark on an ocean adventure with multiple water sport activities. Treat yourself to paradise, at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa. shangri-la.com/male
SPECIAL HONEYMOON OFFER Enjoy room rate discount of 50% on a minimum 5 night stay* Includes: A bottle of sparkling grape on arrival; romantic room decoration; 60-minute CHI Spa massage. Applicable Accommodation: Ocean View Villa, Water Villa, Tree House Villa, Beach Villa, Two-Bedroom Beach Villa. Validity: Now until December 18, 2016. *T&Cs apply. For bookings call +960 689 7888 or email reservations. slmd@shangri-la.com Alternatively, please visit your nearest dnata outlet or call +971 4 316 6666.
25
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
Bandos Maldives The circular island of Bandos is dotted with secluded suites and villas, a handful of pools, and five secluded restaurants – but mostly it’s just covered in lush tropical forest and more pearl-white beach than you could wish for. Every day brings a new unforgettable experience, whether that’s diving with manta rays, perfecting your yoga poses on the beach, or tucking into just-caught lobster with sunset views. Holiday memories don’t get much better than that.
15.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Want a lasting reminder of your time on the island? A professional photographer is on hand to capture your holiday and transform it into gorgeous glossy prints or a photobook.
16.
Kandolhu With just 30 gorgeous villas, Kandolhu is perfect for an easy, stress-free holiday. Its Ultimate Inclusions meal plan is great for families who don’t want to think about paying for each meal individually. Each villa has its own relaxing plunge pool, terrific for lounging next to after an afternoon of exciting watersports or snorkelling. Kandolhu is known as ‘The best kept secret in the Maldives’ for a reason – although we may have just let the secret out…
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE A visit to the Vary Spa, situated in the heart of the island, seems to revitalise you with energy drawn from the lush earth itself. 26
18.
17.
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
JA Manafaru You’ll know JA resorts from their landmark Dubai hotel, and you’ll be delighted to know that the same impeccable levels of service offered there translate without a hitch to the Maldives. Here both young and old will revel in a paradise-like setting, whether diving the iridescent waters, hitting the spa, or feasting on seafood plucked fresh from the ocean while sat under the stars. Bliss.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Leave your shoes at home – you don’t need them here. Tread barefoot through the spa, gardens, and even the restaurants of this laid-back resort: relaxation is top of the agenda.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa If you just can’t wait to reach your slice of Maldives paradise, this glorious resort is for you: it’s only 30 minutes by speedboat from Male. The hotel is the perfect example of barefoot luxury, with chic wooden beach bungalows, private plunge pool rooms and stunning speciality suites – all constructed by local craftsmen using traditional techniques and materials.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
19.
Don’t miss Seaplane Surfing – you won’t find it anywhere else in the Maldives. You’ll spend the day with expert guides – great fun, whatever your level of surfing ability. 27
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
15. JA Manafaru 16. JA Manafaru 17. JA Manafaru 18. Kandolhu 19. Reethi Beach Resort 20. Dusit Thani Maldives 21. Huaven Fushi 22. Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island 23. Vivanta By Taj
Vivanta By Taj – Coral Reef, Maldives Spread out over a crystalline lagoon, this peaceful resort is totally in harmony with its Indian Ocean surroundings. From sea-inspired spa treatments to freshlycaught fish on the menu, everything runs to the gentle rhythm of the ocean – and you just have to go with the flow. Unsurprisingly, diving and watersports are top of the agenda, and there is a real emphasis on marine conservation too. If that floats your boat, you can explore in the company of a marine biologist, or make a lasting contribution by taking part in the coral regeneration programme.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Divers should head straight for the shipwreck which lies just off the island – it’s a haven for marine life, and offers spectacular diving within easy reach of the resort. 28
21.
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
22.
23.
Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island
cater to your every whim, and an expert dive master to show There is just one main dwelling you the outstanding reef. on Coco Privé Island: the Robinson Crusoe, eat your Palm Residence, nestled heart out. right on the beach amongst landscaped tropical gardens. WHAT YOU’LL LOVE In your personal spa, It’s the perfect spot for a party of two, with a vast a team of beauty master bedroom and floating therapists is on-hand sun deck which juts out over to massage, scrub, the ocean. Got friends or steam and stretch you family in tow? There are five into relaxation. Choose other residences on the island, as many treatments as each with their own charms. you like, whenever you There are butlers on hand to like. 29
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
24. Velassaru Maldives 25. The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi 26. The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi 27. The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi 28. Velassaru Maldives
24.
Velassaru Maldives Sunset dhoni cruises, night snorkelling, big game fishing, dolphin spotting… The list of seafaring activities at Velassaru is almost as magical as the resort’s setting. Better yet, each excursion can be booked 30
privately – so you and your family will have the expertise of a local guide all to yourself. Back on dry land, unwind in your plunge pool, kick back on the beach, or head to the spa for treatments and yoga classes.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Fancy a private dining experience on your very own patch of idyllic island? Whether you’re hungry for a secluded lagoon breakfast or a lavish
beach barbecue dinner, just select your spot and the resort’s chefs will do the rest. Live out all of your Robinson Crusoe fantasies, exploring untouched terrain - until it’s time to head home.
2015 / 2016
World Traveller | We The Maldives
26.
27.
25.
28.
The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Koamas Kidz Paradise certainly lives up to its name: everything at this fabulous kids’ club is designed to keep your little ones entertained. With climbing walls, a supervised swimming pool, arts and crafts, and an endless
array of activities, children aged three to twelve will be in their element. Meanwhile, you can spend time in the resort’s stunning spa, recline in your private plunge pool, or venture out to experience world-class diving. At the
end of the day, everyone will many charitable have their own exciting stories efforts. From pencils to tell. and crayons to soccer
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE If you’ve got space in your suitcase, you could help the resort’s
balls, the schools on neighbouring islands benefit from guests’ generous gifts, so ask the resort how you can help. 31
2015 / 2016
HOTELS
Mirihi Island Resort
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
Teeny tiny Mihiri has just a handful of suites and villas – and each one is utterly luxurious. Think designer furnishings, Nespresso machines, iPod-connective sound systems, free WiFi, and irresistible king-size beds. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips, and plenty of private sundrenched outdoor space too: choose from a tropical garden that leads down to the beach, or a private jetty with steps down into the ocean. Bliss.
This is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Maldives, at just 350 metres long and 50 metres wide. A real desert island experience, where you’ll feel totally cut off from the world.
Kurumba Maldives This luxurious resort is as stylish and slick as you’d expect, with five-star accommodation and flawless amenities – but there’s more to Kurumba Maldives than meets the eye. It champions conservation and charity work, with education initiatives in a nearby orphanage and a fantastic outreach programme that benefits the local community. Everything is recycled, the energy is sustainably-sourced, and there’s an annual music festival to raise money for charity. An all-round excellent, eco-friendly resort.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE Lie back on Raalhu Spa’s al fresco massage bed, at the end of a sandy jetty surrounded by turquoise waters. Take your pick from natural oils for a fullbody massage, with a sea breeze in your hair and dappled sunlight on your toes. 29. 32
Mirihi Island Resort
L OFFER E I D SPECIA
15% DISCOUNT on our best available rates for stays until 23rd December 2015. Promo Code: Eid Special Offer
Enjoy a memorable stay in one of our Sunset Water Suites, and indulge yourself in its exclusive amenities: 24/7 butler service, complimentary room service, private cruise, premium minibar, unlimited fine dining & Hermes toiletries among many other benefits.
Lily Be a c h Re sort & S p a Huvahendhoo, South Ari Atoll, Maldives Tel: +960 668 00 13 | Fax: +960 668 06 46 Email: sales@lilybeachmaldives.com | Website: lilybeach m aldives . co m