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MALDIVES<br />

INSIDER<br />

Find your perfect slice of paradise by immersing yourself<br />

in our edit of the very best resorts in the <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

2019


JAresorts.com /Manafaru @JAManafaru_<strong>Maldives</strong>


Ultimate luxury getaway<br />

IN THE MALDIVES<br />

Cast away all stress and crinkle your toes in the sands of a tropical island<br />

haven in an ultra-luxurious, private island with luxury beach villas and<br />

water bungalows. Explore 7 world-class restaurants and bars and step<br />

underground for a decadent tasting experience amidst lava stone.<br />

Discover the layers of island life with a variety of unique experiences, soar<br />

above the scenery by seaplane, dive underwater to meet colourful sea life,<br />

swim, spa, play and indulge as you muse over the magic of JA Manafaru<br />

For bookings and more information<br />

email reservations.manafaru@jaresorts.com


EDITORIAL<br />

Chief Creative Officer<br />

John Thatcher<br />

Managing Editor<br />

Faye Bartle<br />

Contributing Editor<br />

Claire Malcolm<br />

ART<br />

Art Director<br />

Kerri Bennett<br />

Senior Designer<br />

Hiral Kapadia<br />

COMMERCIAL<br />

Managing Director<br />

Victoria Thatcher<br />

General Manager<br />

David Wade<br />

Commercial Director<br />

Rawan Chehab<br />

Senior Advertising<br />

Manager<br />

Mia Cachero<br />

PRODUCTION<br />

Production Manager<br />

Muthu Kumar<br />

Cover image<br />

Conrad <strong>Maldives</strong> Rangali<br />

Island © Justin Nicholas<br />

INSPIRED BY<br />

Reproduction in whole or in part<br />

without written permission from<br />

HOT Media is strictly prohibited.<br />

HOT Media does not accept<br />

liability for omissions or errors<br />

in <strong>Maldives</strong> <strong>Insider</strong>.<br />

Tel: 00971 4 364 2876<br />

Fax: 00971 4 369 7494<br />

Welcome to <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Kick off your shoes and get set<br />

to unwind, as barefoot bliss<br />

is synonymous with a visit to<br />

this spectacular 1,200-island<br />

archipelago. Expect a surfeit of powderwhite<br />

sand beaches, azure waters and<br />

palm-fringed atolls home to vibrant marine<br />

life. A dream destination where you can<br />

switch off and succumb to the charm of<br />

Mother Nature, there’s something for<br />

everyone here, from watersports and spa<br />

treatments to gourmet dining and cultural<br />

exploration. The cachet of staying on your<br />

own private island is hard to beat, and<br />

many resorts are thoughtfully designed to<br />

create an illusion of castaway seclusion.<br />

Whether you’re looking for a 21 st century<br />

Robinson Crusoe experience or fully<br />

immersive indulgence, our hand-picked<br />

collection of standout resorts will ensure<br />

you find your Maldivian mojo.<br />

GETTING THERE<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> is served by a number of<br />

GCC-based airlines, including Emirates<br />

and Etihad Airways. Flights arrive into<br />

Velana International Airport in Malé, and<br />

the onward journey to your desired resort<br />

depends on how far away it is. Some are<br />

close enough to zip to on a speedboat,<br />

while others will organise a seaplane for a<br />

seamless connection to your destination.<br />

WEATHER FORECAST<br />

The equatorial climate features two main<br />

seasons, with sunshine assured in both.<br />

From November to April the weather is<br />

fairly dry, whereas May to October<br />

brings with it the occasional brief rain<br />

shower, after which the sun will reappear<br />

to dry things up. Daytime temperatures<br />

hover around 30°C and dip to the mid-20s<br />

at night.<br />

Park Hyatt <strong>Maldives</strong> Hadahaa<br />

5 Welcome


6<br />

of the best<br />

Maldivian<br />

experiences<br />

Don’t miss these once in<br />

a lifetime discoveries…<br />

1. Rock those castaway<br />

vibes. Liberate the<br />

senses with a boat ride<br />

aboard a traditional<br />

dhoni and a day spent<br />

unwinding on your very<br />

own desert island (p9).<br />

2. Unwind like a local.<br />

Enter a state of deep<br />

relaxation with a fragrant<br />

oil massage as part of<br />

the dhivehi-beys (local<br />

medicine) tradition (p13).<br />

Baros <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Contents<br />

7<br />

RESORTS WE RATE<br />

Curate your dream Indian<br />

Ocean holiday with our selection<br />

of world-leading resorts and<br />

experiences in the <strong>Maldives</strong> that<br />

have been designed to put you<br />

back in touch with nature.<br />

8<br />

Baros <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Reethi Faru Resort<br />

9<br />

One&Only Reethi Rah<br />

10<br />

JA Manafaru<br />

13<br />

Park Hyatt<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> Hadadaa<br />

14<br />

Sheraton <strong>Maldives</strong> Full Moon<br />

Resort & Spa<br />

16<br />

W <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

JW Marriott <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Resort & Spa<br />

19<br />

Centara Grand Island Resort<br />

& Spa <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

20<br />

Grand Park Kodhipparu, <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Mövenpick Resort<br />

Kuredhivaru <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

22<br />

Conrad <strong>Maldives</strong> Rangali Island<br />

The Westin <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Miriandhoo Resort<br />

24<br />

Six Senses Laamu<br />

26<br />

Milaidhoo Island <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Anantara Kihavah<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> Villas<br />

28<br />

Velaa Private Island<br />

29<br />

Soneva in Aqua<br />

30<br />

Heritance Aarah<br />

32<br />

Fairmont <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Sirru Fen Fushi<br />

3. Spa with the fishes.<br />

Soak in the sight of the<br />

vibrant Indian Ocean<br />

marine life from the<br />

bubbling serenity of a<br />

glass-bottomed Jacuzzi<br />

(p29).<br />

4. Be at one with the<br />

water. Swim with<br />

dolphins, snorkel among<br />

shoals of fish and catch a<br />

rad surf wave (p24).<br />

5. Learn the secrets<br />

of Maldivian cuisine.<br />

Discover an endless<br />

variety of home-grown<br />

ingredients and dine on<br />

the freshest flavours with<br />

take-home tips from<br />

culinary masters (p10).<br />

6. Explore an eclectic<br />

arts scene. Celebrate<br />

the beauty of the natural<br />

world and dive down<br />

to visit a one-of-a-kind<br />

underwater art gallery<br />

(p32).<br />

6 Contents


RESORTS<br />

WE RATE<br />

Secluded retreats, family hotspots and<br />

hidden hideaways – find your bliss in<br />

this Indian Ocean archipelago<br />

Milaidhoo Island <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

7 Hotels & Resorts


Baros<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

A Maldivian legend, the resort has<br />

been welcoming guests to its idyllic<br />

shores for five decades. It’s easy to<br />

understand why, with every island<br />

fantasy indulged, from a choice of six<br />

haute-rustically thatched villa styles<br />

(headlined by the textbook romantic<br />

setting of the overwater residences),<br />

to dining at the very edge of the ocean<br />

at The Lighthouse. A swift 25-minute<br />

speedboat ride from Malé airport, the<br />

house reef-ringed island is perfect for<br />

snorkelling adventures. Or, you can<br />

charter a private yacht to venture further<br />

afield in search of dancing dolphin<br />

pods. Back on shore, there’s a delightful<br />

infinity pool, daily life-affirming yoga<br />

sessions and more at Serenity Spa, as<br />

well as three world-class restaurants.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Row your boat to the overwater Piano<br />

Deck for a spot of culinary seclusion and<br />

a sunrise bubbly breakfast or seafood<br />

sunset dinner for two.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

No need to pack a waterproof camera.<br />

Book a resort reef dive and an<br />

underwater photographer will capture<br />

every memorable marine life moment.<br />

“White sands and lush vegetation<br />

meet impossibly blue waters”<br />

Reethi Faru<br />

Resort<br />

Named after the colourful house reef<br />

that embraces Filaidhoo (the island on<br />

which is stands), Reethi Faru Resort is<br />

where white sands and lush vegetation<br />

meet impossibly blue waters, creating<br />

an all-natural canvas for all types of<br />

holidaymaker. A 45-minute seaplane<br />

journey from Malé, eschew a beach or<br />

overwater stay in favour of a hidden<br />

Garden Villa on the island’s easterly tip,<br />

where contemporary interiors blend<br />

with Maldivian architecture. Marine<br />

conservation is a big deal, with dive<br />

centre guests invited to snap pictures<br />

of manta rays for the resident marine<br />

biologist. Rejuvenate the body with a<br />

papaya and red clay wrap at Coconut<br />

Spa, which should give you an appetite<br />

for the temptations of the resort’s five<br />

restaurants and four bars.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

The candy-striped deckchairs and<br />

isolated setting of the eastern shore sited<br />

Nala Bar. Perfect for a refreshing drink<br />

after snorkelling or kite surfing.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Clip on a GoPro for stunning shots<br />

of the resort from the air, as you brave an<br />

exhilarating parasailing experience.<br />

8 Hotels & Resorts


One&Only<br />

Reethi Rah<br />

An A-lister favourite in the North<br />

Malé Atoll and a short 15-minute<br />

seaplane ride from Malé, here you<br />

can live and breathe the island<br />

lifestyle from the secluded luxury<br />

of your private beach or overwater<br />

villa. Design influences span<br />

Maldivian, Balinese and Chinese<br />

cultural accents with the Grand<br />

Sunset Residence the ultimate style<br />

showboat, complete with private<br />

pool and chauffeured buggy. Nine<br />

world cuisine restaurants and bars<br />

keep the dining offering fresh, but<br />

it’s the Japanese-tapas-inspired<br />

Tapasake that steals the show with<br />

reef sharks swimming beneath your<br />

feet. Work off those calories on the<br />

climbing wall or in the adults-only<br />

lap pool before discovering the<br />

12 beaches, local dive sites and<br />

Ayurvedic paradise of ESPA Spa.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

The resort is a draw card for fashion<br />

mavens, with its three boutiques<br />

a haven for designer labels and<br />

covetable beach and resort wear.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Travel to a desert island aboard a<br />

traditional dhoni and rock those<br />

castaway vibes with the wind in<br />

your hair.<br />

9 Hotels & Resorts


JA Manafaru<br />

A teeny tiny island reachable in just over<br />

an hour by seaplane from Malé, this chic<br />

family-focused hideaway is home to<br />

just 84 spacious villas and suites, each<br />

with a private pool and lush outdoor<br />

space. Live large in the two-storey,<br />

three-bedroom Royal Island Suite (with<br />

its own spa facilities, barbecue area and<br />

ornamental pond) and make the resort<br />

your leisure playground with beach<br />

volleyball, a futsal pitch, games room,<br />

infinity pool, and more. Parents can<br />

escape to Calm Spa while kids enjoy<br />

the dedicated Coolzone and Chillzone.<br />

There are seven dining destinations<br />

to discover, including White Orchid by<br />

Michelin-starred chef Da Dong. We say<br />

sign up for a Maldivian cooking class.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Dine two-and-a-half metres below sea<br />

level at The Cellar, an award-winning<br />

grape cave for 10 guests that offers a<br />

side serving of haute cuisine.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Get out on the water and stand up<br />

paddle board into the distant Indian<br />

Ocean sunset.<br />

10 Hotels & Resorts


W <strong>Maldives</strong> is a private island surrounded by white sand beaches,<br />

turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs, known to be one of<br />

the best in the <strong>Maldives</strong>. With 77 luxury villas each with its own<br />

plunge pool and secluded sundeck with a choice of spectacular<br />

overwater views or tropical indulgence to soak up the Maldivian<br />

rays on or off the beach.<br />

Explore the spectacular Indian Ocean aboard our stunning luxury<br />

25 meter two cabin sailing yacht Escape where whale shark<br />

sightings await at sunset or create your own adventure under<br />

the stars with an overnight diving experience.<br />

Experience AWAY Spa before a live band playing at Fish,<br />

our ocean-to-table cuisine or set the stage for the night with<br />

our Resident DJ spinning the latest hits. Fit in a sunset yoga<br />

session overlooking the Indian Ocean or sweat it out with a<br />

W FIT instructor.<br />

For reservations<br />

reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com<br />

+960 6662222<br />

www.wmaldives.com<br />

@wmaldives


explore<br />

a moment of discovery.<br />

enjoying the paradise and the island<br />

vibes of Kuredhivaru, <strong>Maldives</strong>.


Park Hyatt<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Hadahaa<br />

The first resort to debut in the Southern<br />

Atoll, Park Hyatt’s eco credentials are<br />

as strong as ever a decade later, with<br />

the 50-villa destination a poster child<br />

for sustainability. This doesn’t come<br />

at the expense of luxury, however, with<br />

minimalist villa design and signature<br />

hospitality framing a sensational natural<br />

landscape. Journey time is around an<br />

hour on a domestic flight from Malé to<br />

Kooddoo Domestic Airport, followed by<br />

a 30-40 minute speedboat ride. Stay in a<br />

Park Sunset Ocean Pool Villa for sublime<br />

ocean views and oodles of privacy. You’ll<br />

often be hard pressed to spot more than<br />

a handful of guests, with the expansive<br />

resort designed to create the illusion<br />

of complete isolation. Embark on the<br />

equator experience, where you can swim<br />

across two hemispheres.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

The traditional Maldivian herbal<br />

medicine of dhivehi-beys scents the air<br />

at Vidhun Spa – try the signature rose,<br />

lotus and jasmine oil Sehathu Massage.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Celebrate Mother Nature in all her glory<br />

by watching the sunset from the cooling<br />

waters of your villa's plunge pool.<br />

13 Hotels & Resorts


Sheraton<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> Full<br />

Moon Resort<br />

& Spa<br />

Picture postcard tranquillity beckons<br />

a mere 20 minutes by speedboat from<br />

Malé airport, making this standout resort<br />

an all-round winner. A hospitality icon<br />

on North Malé Atoll, it’s packed with<br />

14 Hotels & Resorts<br />

first-class facilities yet has ample space<br />

to ensure that sought-after sense of<br />

seclusion. The cosy Cottages are great<br />

for couples or those with small children<br />

while the overwater bungalows charm<br />

from every angle. Eight restaurants<br />

and bars run the full spectrum of world<br />

flavours, from grilled seafood at Sea Salt<br />

to Asian at Baan Thai. Stay active with<br />

watersports fun or head off base to check<br />

out the diving action at Banana Reef and<br />

Okobe Thila.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Walk this way for escapist, hands-on<br />

relaxation at Shine Spa. Set on its own<br />

miniature private island, it offers an<br />

indulgent menu of Maldivian, natureinspired<br />

holistic treatments designed<br />

to soothe.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Have a giggle with your kids as they test<br />

their skills at coconut bowling, or take<br />

part in an island scavenger hunt.


BY LAND. BY SEA. BY SOUL.<br />

GO ON. DIVE IN.<br />

Conrad <strong>Maldives</strong> Rangali Island is an idyllic island paradise, nestled in the<br />

South Ari Atoll, our Maldivian playground is alive with possibilities. Ignite the<br />

imagination with adventure to be had, local culture to be explored and<br />

soul-enriching discoveries designed with meaning and purpose. Conrad<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> connects global wanderers to the pulse of the <strong>Maldives</strong> through<br />

an inspired experience that quenches curiosity and nourishes the senses.<br />

Discover a paradise unlike any other.<br />

South Ari Atoll, 20077, Republic of <strong>Maldives</strong> l Phone +960-688-0629 l Conrad<strong>Maldives</strong>.com


W <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Fun yet stylish, with a dash of<br />

contemporary flair, W <strong>Maldives</strong> follows<br />

in the footsteps of its worldwide sister<br />

hotels with its signature playful and<br />

whimsical atmosphere. Take your<br />

pick from the ultra-chic villas located<br />

on the beach or over the water – all<br />

are just steps away from the island’s<br />

wonderful house reef. With your<br />

snorkelling gear on, dive in to discover<br />

the beauty of hundreds of species of<br />

marine life, including colourful fish,<br />

rays, turtles, tuna and even reef sharks.<br />

Better yet, get away from it all at the<br />

resort’s dhow-shaped luxury spa,<br />

AWAY Spa, that offers indoor and<br />

outdoor treatment areas for an allencompassing<br />

experience. It takes just<br />

25 minutes by seaplane to reach this<br />

lively resort.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Make your way 15 feet beneath the<br />

island sand and dance the night away<br />

to hip beats at 15Below, a pumping<br />

underground nightclub.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Just a stone’s throw from the resort<br />

is Gaathafushi, an untouched tropical<br />

paradise and the retreat’s own secluded<br />

island that’s yours to discover. Offering<br />

privacy in spades, the beauty spot<br />

is perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime<br />

proposal, a romantic adventure under<br />

the stars, or a private party with your<br />

best buddies.<br />

JW Marriott<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Resort & Spa<br />

The new kid on the <strong>Maldives</strong> resort<br />

scene, understated luxury is the<br />

byword for this 60-villa destination<br />

located on a crescent-shaped<br />

island in the Shaviyani Atoll. With a<br />

flight time of under one hour from<br />

Malé, it boasts some of the largest<br />

standard villas in the archipelago,<br />

starting at 234 sqm; each with a<br />

private pool. The standalone Kids’<br />

Club by JW, with its own pool,<br />

pirate ship and packed calendar of<br />

activities, will keep younger guests<br />

entertained while parents sneak<br />

off for a couples' massage at the<br />

signature spa. Dine differently<br />

every day with six restaurants<br />

including Riha, which serves local<br />

flavours under the stars.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

The on-site turtle sanctuary where<br />

kids can learn about the resort’s<br />

rehabilitation programme, and even<br />

help release one of these plucky<br />

creatures back into the wild.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Enjoy breakfast with dazzling views<br />

of the Indian Ocean from the<br />

comfort of your Duplex Overwater<br />

Pool villa master bedroom.<br />

16 Hotels & Resorts


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Centara Grand<br />

Island Resort<br />

& Spa <strong>Maldives</strong><br />

A laidback fun-filled destination that<br />

welcomes little ones with open arms,<br />

this 112-suite and villa destination is<br />

big on fuss-free holidaying with its<br />

Ultimate All-Inclusive philosophy.<br />

Accommodation is light and bright<br />

with high ceilings and uncluttered<br />

finishes putting the view front and<br />

centre. Throw yourself into island life<br />

from dawn until dusk with (almost)<br />

everything included, from dining and<br />

drinks to Spa Cenvaree credits and<br />

complimentary activities. A kids’<br />

club offers arts and crafts, games<br />

and beach play, with a full menu of<br />

watersports and nearby shipwreck<br />

dive open to fun seekers of all ages.<br />

Plus, it's just a 25-minute seaplane<br />

ride from Malé.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Splash a little extra cash and upgrade<br />

to Island Club status for a host of<br />

benefits including a private pool,<br />

beach access and premium dining.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Join the evening feeding sessions that<br />

lure rays and black and white tipped<br />

sharks into view – you don't even need<br />

to get your toes wet.<br />

“A laidback fun-filled<br />

destination that welcomes<br />

little ones with open arms”<br />

19 Hotels & Resorts


Grand Park<br />

Kodhipparu,<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

A contemporary take on Maldivian<br />

tradition defines this one-island-oneresort<br />

destination located just 20<br />

minutes by boat from Malé airport.<br />

There are five artisan styled villa types<br />

on offer with the Grand Residence<br />

living up to its name, offering a<br />

coveted glimpse of the colourful<br />

marine life through its sleek glass<br />

floor. Bragging rights are guaranteed<br />

if you’re a snorkel or scuba fan, thanks<br />

to a teeming house reef and wealth of<br />

nearby sites, in addition to above water<br />

activities aplenty. The Spa is a haven<br />

for Asian, Balinese and Ayurvedic<br />

healing philosophies while three<br />

restaurants and bars meet the culinary<br />

mark; try Firedoor for its out-of-thisworld<br />

prime cuts.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

The resort’s vibrant villa décor with<br />

its artisan crafted touches, tropical<br />

pops of colour in its soft furnishings<br />

and penchant for macramé.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Master that swan dive and plunge<br />

into the lagoon from the wooden<br />

deck of your overwater villa.<br />

Mövenpick<br />

Resort<br />

Kuredhivaru<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Prepare to be dazzled by the powderwhite<br />

sands of this family-focused<br />

resort nestled on the undisturbed<br />

Noonu Atoll, 45 minutes north of Malé<br />

by seaplane. Lounge on the upper deck<br />

sala of your Beach Pool Suite Sunrise<br />

while the kids splash in the plunge pool.<br />

Or, let them have the run of the Beach<br />

Spa Pool Residence, which sleeps six.<br />

Young guests have access to the Little<br />

Birds Club for storytelling, music, dance<br />

and arts and crafts fun. Sequester<br />

yourself in a lush jungle treatment room<br />

for a signature therapy at Sun Spa by<br />

Esthederm and then snorkel on the<br />

house reef among boxfish, rays and sea<br />

turtles before dinner. Food is central to<br />

the Mövenpick experience, with three<br />

resort restaurants including Bodumas,<br />

which serves amazingly fresh seafood.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Perfect your downward dog and child<br />

poses during a sunrise or sunset<br />

Vinyasa yoga session in the stunning<br />

overwater sala.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Dine on a bespoke menu under a<br />

magnificent canopy of stars on a private<br />

beach or deep in the lush jungle.<br />

20 Hotels & Resorts


Conrad<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Rangali Island<br />

Spanning two Alif Dhaal Atoll islands<br />

and connected by a bridge, the resort’s<br />

remote geography (30 minutes by<br />

seaplane from Malé) lets guests dip in<br />

and out of daily life without sacrificing<br />

personal privacy. Its villas and suites are<br />

dotted across the islands, with beach,<br />

water or spa locations to choose from.<br />

We say opt for a villa on the smaller,<br />

quieter island where there’s an adultsonly<br />

pool. Golf buggies will whizz you<br />

around, so you can discover the resort's<br />

12 award-winning restaurants and bars,<br />

pools, beach and Spa Retreat complex.<br />

The latter is home to a clutch of dreamy<br />

villas, each with its own spa room. For<br />

fun, go diving, play a game of tennis,<br />

discover the teeming coral reefs, or head<br />

off on an excursion, such as the romantic<br />

Sandbar Picnic.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

The 3:1 staff to guest ratio, including the<br />

lovely poolside chap who will polish your<br />

suntan lotion smeared glasses.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Stay 16 feet below sea level at The<br />

Muraka, an ultra luxurious two-level<br />

residence with submerged master<br />

bedroom, tunnel viewing theatre and<br />

above water deck with infinity pool. It<br />

also offers private jet skis.<br />

“Your personal thakaru (concierge)<br />

will indulge your every whim”<br />

The Westin<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Miriandhoo<br />

Resort<br />

An enviable location within the Baa<br />

Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere<br />

Reserve forms the backdrop for<br />

upscale downtime from the second you<br />

step onto the arrival jetty (a 35-minute<br />

seaplane flight from Malé) with its<br />

visually arresting shell-shaped canopy.<br />

The resort architecture presents a<br />

modern twist on island style, with<br />

talking points such as the ‘floating’ lily<br />

pad daybeds in the main pool. Westin<br />

signature Heavenly beds, outdoor rain<br />

showers and jaw-dropping views come<br />

as standard in your choice of villa,<br />

from the one-bedroom Beach Villa<br />

- Pool to the two-bedroom Heavenly<br />

Beach Residence. Your personal<br />

thakaru (concierge) will indulge your<br />

every whim, including making dinner<br />

reservations – head to Island Kitchen<br />

for Maldivian specialities. More<br />

Heavenly branded experiences await<br />

at the spa.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Let the little ones off the leash at<br />

the on-site kids’ club housed in a<br />

repurposed shipping container, with<br />

free activities for four- to 12-year-olds.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Take a day trip by boat to Hanifaru<br />

Bay to spot gliding manta rays and<br />

frolicking whale sharks.<br />

22 Hotels & Resorts



Six Senses<br />

Laamu<br />

Feel at one with nature at the only<br />

resort in the Laamu Atoll, where<br />

sustainable luxury reigns supreme<br />

and exploring barefoot is the order<br />

of the day. Fly from Malé into Laamu<br />

Kadhdhoo Domestic Airport and then<br />

hop on a 15-minute speedboat ride to<br />

the resort where Six Senses’ 12 villa<br />

types offer something for everyone.<br />

The Lagoon Beach residences are a<br />

favourite for lovers of solitude with a<br />

charming treetop deck. The beachfront<br />

spa houses four couples’ nests and an<br />

Ayurvedic pavilion and there’s a roster<br />

of renowned visiting practitioners<br />

for personal consultations. Eat well<br />

on organic produce at the resort’s<br />

six restaurants and bars, from<br />

signature venue Leaf, which works<br />

with Maldivian fishermen and farmers<br />

to source local ingredients, to the<br />

dramatic sunken bar setting of Sip Sip.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Decadent indulgence is the preserve<br />

of the Ice & Chocolate Studio, an<br />

alfresco ice cream parlour serving<br />

more than 40 varieties of creamy<br />

frozen goodness.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Swim with dolphins, snorkel among<br />

the vibrant marine life and get set<br />

to catch the Yin Yang, a popular surf<br />

break that's just a five-minute boat<br />

ride away.<br />

24 Hotels & Resorts


Milaidhoo Island<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong><br />

Small but perfectly formed, with just 50<br />

hideaway villas, this coveted resort pairs<br />

Robinson Crusoe-esque escapism with<br />

upscale island living. Couple-centric<br />

(it's a no-go for children under nine),<br />

each beach or overwater villa boasts a<br />

private infinity pool and terrace while<br />

romance is definitely in the air at the<br />

spa’s intimate stilted treatment rooms.<br />

Leave the confines of your oversized<br />

terrace daybed long enough to try<br />

the three restaurants and two bars,<br />

including Compass Pool Bar’s delicious<br />

26 Hotels & Resorts


Anantara<br />

Kihavah<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> Villas<br />

A 35-minute seaplane journey from<br />

Malé airport lands you in the heart<br />

of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere<br />

Reserve on the shores of a lush<br />

emerald paradise. Out of respect for<br />

the environment, the 80 beach and<br />

overwater villas are discreetly sited<br />

in and around natural gaps in the<br />

landscape and feature a fusion of<br />

Indian Ocean, Arab and Portuguese<br />

design motifs. Leisure comes in<br />

all forms, from stargazing at the<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong>’ only overwater observatory<br />

to seabobbing through the water,<br />

joining an art studio session, lazing<br />

on a suspended daybed, and dining<br />

beneath the Indian Ocean at Sea<br />

(there are five other venues to check<br />

out, too). Children enjoy special<br />

amenities and access to the Thiththi<br />

Boli Kids’ Club.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Settle back on a comfy sofa with<br />

popcorn in hand, or go grown-up<br />

with bubbles and oyster nibbles, for a<br />

classic or blockbuster movie night at<br />

the Cinema Under The Stars.<br />

bento boxes. Milaidhoo also has its<br />

own dive centre, as well as a fantastic<br />

range of island-hopping excursions. It's<br />

a scenic 30-minute seaplane ride away<br />

from Malé.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Say "ahhhhh" with a divine couples' spa<br />

retreat at Serenity Spa, which includes<br />

a dreamy coconut scrub, fruity bubble<br />

bath and deep-tissue massage for two.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Raise a glass to romance and dine on<br />

exquisite Maldivian cuisine with a chefcurated<br />

dinner for two on your private<br />

deck. Starlit sky and heart-stopping<br />

views are complimentary.<br />

“Small but<br />

perfectly formed,<br />

with just<br />

50 villas”<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Let the high seas carry you away for<br />

an overnight adventure aboard the<br />

Ocean Whisperer, the resort's luxury<br />

42-metre gulet.<br />

27 Hotels & Resorts


Velaa<br />

Private Island<br />

The passion project of a billionaire Czech<br />

financier, Velaa is named after the sea<br />

turtles that flock here to hatch and the<br />

high number of repeat (human) guests<br />

is testament to its appeal. A 45-minute<br />

seaplane ride from Malé, the mix of beach<br />

and overwater villas with private pools,<br />

outdoor bathing and dining spaces and<br />

sundecks is deservedly swoon-worthy.<br />

Action and relaxation come in equal<br />

measure with tennis, squash, climbing<br />

and aquatic fun as well as a Spa My<br />

Blend by Clarins destination. Reserve an<br />

overwater, treatment villa with sunken<br />

Jacuzzi for some next level pampering.<br />

Six diverse dining locations deliver worldclass<br />

cuisine, but do save space for tower<br />

teppanyaki restaurant Tavaru, which is<br />

also reputedly home to the largest bottle<br />

collection in the archipelago.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Sharpen your short game across 170<br />

metres of lush greens at the resort’s golf<br />

academy, with its Jose Maria Olazabal<br />

designed swing studio.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Book the lagoon suspended Romantic<br />

Pool Residence and be rowed home<br />

to your (temporary) love nest by your<br />

personal butler.<br />

28 Hotels & Resorts


Soneva<br />

in Aqua<br />

Sail the ocean waves aboard this super<br />

luxury yacht-meets-floating-villa for a<br />

five-star stay on the water. Part of the<br />

Soneva Fushi family (you can board via<br />

Soneva Jani or Soneva Fushi, which<br />

are a 45- and 30-minute seaplane ride<br />

from Malé respectively), the yacht has<br />

two en-suite bedrooms, a main deck<br />

Jacuzzi and lounge area with plump<br />

cushioned daybeds, as well as an indoor<br />

dining space and library. Plot a bespoke<br />

itinerary with the captain, who will<br />

weigh anchor so the chef can catch<br />

your lunch fresh from the ocean. Check<br />

out the archipelago's best dive spots<br />

under the watch of the expert Soleni<br />

Dive team – keep your eyes peeled for<br />

turtles, dolphins and manta rays.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Say "hello" to your personal onboard<br />

crew, inclusive of a captain, sous chef,<br />

Mr. Friday and massage therapist.<br />

You'll also benefit from the on-call dive<br />

master and astronomer.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Push the wall button in the master suite<br />

to reveal a glass-bottomed Jacuzzi<br />

hidden beneath the wood panelled floor.<br />

29 Hotels & Resorts


Heritance Aarah<br />

This welcoming resort calls with its<br />

eye-catching smattering of thatched roof<br />

villas and suites. The jewel in the crown<br />

is the stunning two-bedroom Ocean<br />

Residence, which elevates the <strong>Maldives</strong>’<br />

water bungalow game with its private<br />

plunge pool, large terrace and butler<br />

service. Dining here is a joy, with eight<br />

venues to discover, including Ambula,<br />

which specialises in the exotic flavours of<br />

Sri Lanka. Plus, there's the option to book<br />

a private meal on the sand. The resort is a<br />

40-minute seaplane ride from Malé.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Retreat to the overwater spa, which offers<br />

a mixture of soothing spa therapies and<br />

medical spa treatments, such as skin<br />

peels, to pick from. You can’t go wrong<br />

with the Island Indulgence, which includes<br />

a traditional aromatherapy massage, along<br />

with a de-stressing scalp and facial rub.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Bring out your adventurous side by<br />

testing your skills at fly boarding under<br />

the watchful eye of a trained professional<br />

who’ll be on hand to control the throttle of<br />

the wave runner, so you can simply fly.<br />

30 Hotels & Resorts


31 Hotels & Resorts


Fairmont<br />

<strong>Maldives</strong> Sirru<br />

Fen Fushi<br />

With a name that translates as ‘secret<br />

water island’, this gem of a holiday spot is<br />

concealed within a 600-hectare lagoon in<br />

the Shaviyani Atoll, a 55-minute seaplane<br />

ride from Malé. Let your cares melt away<br />

at the sight of the sun-kissed ocean<br />

that surrounds this all-villa resort – for a<br />

taste of adventure, opt for the castaway<br />

style Tented Jungle Villa. Renowned for<br />

its culinary flair, foodies can dine at four<br />

destinations, including seafood market<br />

Azure and bamboo bar Onu Onu. Not<br />

the sun lounger type? Try Thai boxing,<br />

pummel out the jet lag at Willow Stream<br />

Spa, embark on a desert island picnic for<br />

two, or meet the locals on a cultural tour.<br />

WE LOVE<br />

Take a 50-metre snorkel swim to view<br />

The Coralarium, a semi-submerged<br />

tidal art installation sea-scaped<br />

with underwater trees and endemic<br />

planted corals.<br />

MEMORY MAKER<br />

Get some laps under your belt with a<br />

swim in the 200-metre pool that bisects<br />

the island; the longest in the <strong>Maldives</strong>.<br />

“It's the kind of place<br />

where cares melt away”<br />

32 Hotels & Resorts

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