CHIC SHORES
Paradise isle
We’re swapping busy agendas for blissful, beachy getaways as the Maldives makes its way to the top of our 2020 wanderlust list. Elysia Fryer finds peace in a place where time stands still
The Maldives is a magnet for honeymooners and those looking for the most romantic of holidays, but there’s plenty on offer for families and those looking for adventure-fuelled fun, too. Think beautiful views, swishy palm trees, turquoise waters and magical memories to last a lifetime. All of the above comes hand in hand with an escape to the Maldives. And what an escape it is. There’s no simple way to get to your island hideaway - you’ll jump from plane to plane, speedboat to speedboat - but that’s all part of the fun, right? What’s a paradise isle without a little adventure?
The day brings white sand beaches and exploring the rainbow reef, while the evening opens up opportunities for twilight tipples as the sun sinks into the crystal-clear horizon and the stars dance in the sky. As you can imagine, it is oh-so romantic. Perfect for a bit of post-wedding downtime. And that is what we’re here for… Our home for the week is Amari’s Havodda island hotel, where we are quite literally plunged into paradise as soon as we step foot off our flight. From our chauffer service at Male airport, to our internal flight and speedboat ride to the island, the service is as good as it gets. We’re greeted by people with paradise written all over their faces and
it is evident in everything they do. The staff are genuinely happy to be here, and they’re honoured to be a part of your journey as the island adventure unfolds. Arriving in style by speedboat, it’s dark but we can see the palm trees gently swaying in the breeze as we approach the pier. Smiling faces await our arrival and a buggy whisks us away to our ocean villa, sitting on stilts above the blistering blue Indian Ocean. Amari Havodda boasts a sumptuous series of high-spec suites; from beach and pool villas with direct access to the wondrous waters, to overwater villas placed in peaceful pockets above the ocean. As morning breaks, pulling back the curtains, we’re greeted with a million shades of blue. Undisturbed views of the Indian Ocean and the fluffiest white sand lapping up the circumference of the island. Dreamy. The suite itself is a high-spec sanctuary, complete with all the latest mod-cons and home comforts, a novelty outdoor bathroom and a private decking area for blissful bathing from sunrise to sunset. A bottle of bubbly awaits as we pop it open and say
cheers to a week in paradise. Outside, the opportunities are endless. Whether it’s a dip in the ocean, a quick swim to the shore, or a lazy afternoon by the pool, this is a place to wind down and watch the world go by in all its natural beauty. Wake up the mind and body with a morning yoga practice on your terrace, enjoy afternoons with the beach to yourself, and explore what swims beneath us on this tropical isle. You are quite literally at one with nature here. Whether you’re checking in to lap up the luxury and lounge by the pool, beach or on your private deck, or you’re looking to explore some more, there’s plenty to keep you happy at Havodda. Those looking for a little adventure will find heaps of it over at the water sports centre – where the experts can help arrange scuba diving sessions, guided snorkeling, jet ski excursions, paddle boarding, water skiing, windsurfing and banana boat rides. Other facilities include the Breeze Spa,
As morning breaks, pulling back the curtains, we’re greeted with a million shades of blue. Undisturbed views of the Indian Ocean and the fluffiest white sand lapping up the circumference of the island
66 luxe-magazine.co.uk
FEB/MAR20
