TRAVEL Escapes

The overwater private deck and pool were the ultimate spot to cool off and take in the flawless nature of our surroundings. These comfortable and stylish villas have everything one could need for a relaxing holiday. Room highlights include free wi-fi, a mini bar, an in-room entertainment system complete with 40-inch LED TV and a freestanding bathtub with an ocean view.

For our last two nights, we got to experience the Sunrise Beach Villa with Swirl Pool. Set right on the main beachfront, these spacious villas are perfectly situated on the eastern side of the island with instant access to the white sandy beach.

In each villa of this kind, a private deck extends towards a swirl pool that offers endless views of the surrounding turquoise waters. As well as the above there is also a semi-outdoor bathroom with a tub, a rainfall shower and comfortable day bed, ideal for simply lounging.

With 10 outstanding eateries on the island, preparing an array of cuisine options, guests are simply spoilt for choice.

On our first night, we were treated to an upmarket dining experience at Smoked. This modern grill house is well known for its open-concept kitchen with a custom-made Parilla grill and giant homemade smoker. A wide range of dishes, including succulent steaks, smoked ribs, fresh fish and an assortment of delicious vegetarian options, are all on offer. Our orders were prepared to perfection and served to us al-fresco style at our beachside dining table. Partaking in this sumptuous cuisine under a starry night sky and listening to the waves lapping on the beach, was an occasion we will remember for many years.

One of our favourite foodie locations on the island was the Sea Dragon. This venue offers Far Eastern fine dining at its very best. Providing a modern take on authentic Asian cuisine, including fresh sea fish and shellfish dishes, guests can select their meal from giant display tanks at the front of the restaurant. The exceptional chefs then prepare your dish to perfection, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.

We found Breeze Bar to be a great location to relax, unwind, dance and watch sunsets, as well as to socialise with other guests. A live band provides uplifting entertainment, whilst DJs ensure the party continues into the night. Cold drinks, cocktails and hookah are all available at this lively venue.

A heavenly equipped spa, a sports arena, state-of-the-art fitness centre, tennis court, football field, medical clinic, an art studio, one of the biggest kids’ clubs in the Maldives and a water sports centre are amongst the variety of impressive amenities on offer at this luxurious destination. Kandima is also a perfect MICE destination, and ideal location to host meetings, conferences, weddings and other lifestyle events.

Aquaholics is the resort’s water sports and dive centre. It offers an array of exciting activities to suit all tastes. These must-try activities include parasailing, sunset cruises, windsurfing, big game fishing, glass canoe adventures and much more.

We were lucky enough to experience both the Turtle and Dolphin Quest Adventures. These expeditions involved tranquil boat rides out into open water to locate dolphins and sea turtles. Fortunate enough to spot both species, we were grateful to the resort for providing such close encounters with these magnificent creatures.

Eager for some snorkelling, we also joined the Seabob experience. This is a super-quick underwater scooter that allowed us to explore greater distances, dive deeper and experience more marine life. A truly exceptional way to witness the underwater wonders of the Maldives.