Maldives Insider - 2019

MALDIVES

INSIDER

Find your perfect slice of paradise by immersing yourself in our edit of the very best resorts in the Maldives

2019

JAresorts.com

/Manafaru

@JAManafaru_Maldives

Ultimate luxury getaway IN THE MALDIVES Cast away all stress and crinkle your toes in the sands of a tropical island haven in an ultra-luxurious, private island with luxury beach villas and water bungalows. Explore 7 world-class restaurants and bars and step underground for a decadent tasting experience amidst lava stone.

Discover the layers of island life with a variety of unique experiences, soar above the scenery by seaplane, dive underwater to meet colourful sea life, swim, spa, play and indulge as you muse over the magic of JA Manafaru For bookings and more information email reservations.manafaru@jaresorts.com

EDITORIAL Chief Creative Officer John Thatcher Managing Editor Faye Bartle Contributing Editor Claire Malcolm ART Art Director Kerri Bennett Senior Designer Hiral Kapadia COMMERCIAL Managing Director Victoria Thatcher General Manager David Wade

Senior Advertising Manager Mia Cachero PRODUCTION Production Manager Muthu Kumar Cover image Conrad Maldives Rangali Island © Justin Nicholas INSPIRED BY

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media is strictly prohibited.

HOT Media does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Maldives Insider.

Tel: 00971 4 364 2876 Fax: 00971 4 369 7494

Welcome to Maldives

K

ick off your shoes and get set to unwind, as barefoot bliss is synonymous with a visit to this spectacular 1,200-island archipelago. Expect a surfeit of powderwhite sand beaches, azure waters and palm-fringed atolls home to vibrant marine life. A dream destination where you can switch off and succumb to the charm of Mother Nature, there’s something for everyone here, from watersports and spa treatments to gourmet dining and cultural exploration. The cachet of staying on your own private island is hard to beat, and many resorts are thoughtfully designed to create an illusion of castaway seclusion.

Whether you’re looking for a 21st century Robinson Crusoe experience or fully immersive indulgence, our hand-picked collection of standout resorts will ensure you find your Maldivian mojo.

GETTING THERE Maldives is served by a number of GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways. Flights arrive into Velana International Airport in Malé, and the onward journey to your desired resort depends on how far away it is. Some are close enough to zip to on a speedboat, while others will organise a seaplane for a seamless connection to your destination.

WEATHER FORECAST 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.

5 Welcome

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Commercial Director Rawan Chehab

6

of the best Maldivian experiences

Don’t miss these once in a lifetime discoveries…

1. Rock those castaway vibes. Liberate the senses with a boat ride aboard a traditional dhoni and a day spent unwinding on your very own desert island (p9).

2. Unwind like a local.

Enter a state of deep relaxation with a fragrant oil massage as part of the dhivehi-beys (local medicine) tradition (p13).

Contents 7

RESORTS WE RATE Curate your dream Indian Ocean holiday with our selection of world-leading resorts and experiences in the Maldives that have been designed to put you back in touch with nature.

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Baros Maldives Reethi Faru Resort

9

One&Only Reethi Rah

10 Baros Maldives

JA Manafaru

13

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadadaa 6 Contents

14

24

16

26

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

W Maldives JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

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Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives

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Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

Six Senses Laamu

Milaidhoo Island Maldives Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

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Velaa Private Island

29

Soneva in Aqua

30

Heritance Aarah

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Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi

3. Spa with the fishes.

Soak in the sight of the vibrant Indian Ocean marine life from the bubbling serenity of a glass-bottomed Jacuzzi (p29).

4. Be at one with the water. Swim with dolphins, snorkel among shoals of fish and catch a rad surf wave (p24).

5. Learn the secrets of Maldivian cuisine.

Discover an endless variety of home-grown ingredients and dine on the freshest flavours with take-home tips from culinary masters (p10).

6. Explore an eclectic arts scene. Celebrate the beauty of the natural world and dive down to visit a one-of-a-kind underwater art gallery (p32).

RESORTS WE RATE

Milaidhoo Island Maldives

Secluded retreats, family hotspots and hidden hideaways – find your bliss in this Indian Ocean archipelago

7 Hotels & Resorts

Baros Maldives A Maldivian legend, the resort has been welcoming guests to its idyllic shores for five decades. It’s easy to understand why, with every island fantasy indulged, from a choice of six haute-rustically thatched villa styles (headlined by the textbook romantic setting of the overwater residences), to dining at the very edge of the ocean at The Lighthouse. A swift 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé airport, the house reef-ringed island is perfect for snorkelling adventures. Or, you can charter a private yacht to venture further afield in search of dancing dolphin pods. Back on shore, there’s a delightful infinity pool, daily life-affirming yoga sessions and more at Serenity Spa, as well as three world-class restaurants.

WE LOVE Row your boat to the overwater Piano Deck for a spot of culinary seclusion and a sunrise bubbly breakfast or seafood sunset dinner for two.

MEMORY MAKER No need to pack a waterproof camera.

Book a resort reef dive and an underwater photographer will capture every memorable marine life moment.

“White sands and lush vegetation meet impossibly blue waters” Reethi Faru Resort

Named after the colourful house reef that embraces Filaidhoo (the island on which is stands), Reethi Faru Resort is where white sands and lush vegetation meet impossibly blue waters, creating an all-natural canvas for all types of holidaymaker. A 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé, eschew a beach or overwater stay in favour of a hidden Garden Villa on the island’s easterly tip, where contemporary interiors blend with Maldivian architecture. Marine conservation is a big deal, with dive centre guests invited to snap pictures 8 Hotels & Resorts

of manta rays for the resident marine biologist. Rejuvenate the body with a papaya and red clay wrap at Coconut Spa, which should give you an appetite for the temptations of the resort’s five restaurants and four bars.

WE LOVE The candy-striped deckchairs and isolated setting of the eastern shore sited Nala Bar. Perfect for a refreshing drink after snorkelling or kite surfing.

MEMORY MAKER Clip on a GoPro for stunning shots of the resort from the air, as you brave an exhilarating parasailing experience.

One&Only Reethi Rah An A-lister favourite in the North Malé Atoll and a short 15-minute seaplane ride from Malé, here you can live and breathe the island lifestyle from the secluded luxury of your private beach or overwater villa. Design influences span Maldivian, Balinese and Chinese cultural accents with the Grand Sunset Residence the ultimate style showboat, complete with private pool and chauffeured buggy. Nine world cuisine restaurants and bars keep the dining offering fresh, but it’s the Japanese-tapas-inspired Tapasake that steals the show with reef sharks swimming beneath your feet. Work off those calories on the climbing wall or in the adults-only lap pool before discovering the 12 beaches, local dive sites and Ayurvedic paradise of ESPA Spa. WE LOVE The resort is a draw card for fashion mavens, with its three boutiques a haven for designer labels and covetable beach and resort wear.

MEMORY MAKER Travel to a desert island aboard a traditional dhoni and rock those castaway vibes with the wind in your hair.

9 Hotels & Resorts

JA Manafaru A teeny tiny island reachable in just over an hour by seaplane from MalĂŠ, this chic family-focused hideaway is home to just 84 spacious villas and suites, each with a private pool and lush outdoor space. Live large in the two-storey, three-bedroom Royal Island Suite (with its own spa facilities, barbecue area and

10 Hotels & Resorts

ornamental pond) and make the resort your leisure playground with beach volleyball, a futsal pitch, games room, infinity pool, and more. Parents can escape to Calm Spa while kids enjoy the dedicated Coolzone and Chillzone.

There are seven dining destinations to discover, including White Orchid by Michelin-starred chef Da Dong. We say sign up for a Maldivian cooking class.

WE LOVE Dine two-and-a-half metres below sea level at The Cellar, an award-winning grape cave for 10 guests that offers a side serving of haute cuisine.

MEMORY MAKER Get out on the water and stand up paddle board into the distant Indian Ocean sunset.

W Maldives is a private island surrounded by white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs, known to be one of the best in the Maldives. With 77 luxury villas each with its own plunge pool and secluded sundeck with a choice of spectacular overwater views or tropical indulgence to soak up the Maldivian rays on or off the beach.

Explore the spectacular Indian Ocean aboard our stunning luxury 25 meter two cabin sailing yacht Escape where whale shark sightings await at sunset or create your own adventure under the stars with an overnight diving experience.

Experience AWAY Spa before a live band playing at Fish, our ocean-to-table cuisine or set the stage for the night with our Resident DJ spinning the latest hits. Fit in a sunset yoga session overlooking the Indian Ocean or sweat it out with a W FIT instructor.

For reservations reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com +960 6662222 www.wmaldives.com @wmaldives

explore a moment of discovery. enjoying the paradise and the island vibes of Kuredhivaru, Maldives.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa The first resort to debut in the Southern Atoll, Park Hyatt’s eco credentials are as strong as ever a decade later, with the 50-villa destination a poster child for sustainability. This doesn’t come at the expense of luxury, however, with minimalist villa design and signature hospitality framing a sensational natural landscape. Journey time is around an hour on a domestic flight from Malé to Kooddoo Domestic Airport, followed by a 30-40 minute speedboat ride. Stay in a Park Sunset Ocean Pool Villa for sublime

ocean views and oodles of privacy. You’ll often be hard pressed to spot more than a handful of guests, with the expansive resort designed to create the illusion of complete isolation. Embark on the equator experience, where you can swim across two hemispheres.

WE LOVE The traditional Maldivian herbal medicine of dhivehi-beys scents the air at Vidhun Spa – try the signature rose, lotus and jasmine oil Sehathu Massage.

MEMORY MAKER Celebrate Mother Nature in all her glory by watching the sunset from the cooling waters of your villa's plunge pool.

13 Hotels & Resorts

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa Picture postcard tranquillity beckons a mere 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé airport, making this standout resort an all-round winner. A hospitality icon on North Malé Atoll, it’s packed with 14 Hotels & Resorts

first-class facilities yet has ample space to ensure that sought-after sense of seclusion. The cosy Cottages are great for couples or those with small children while the overwater bungalows charm from every angle. Eight restaurants and bars run the full spectrum of world flavours, from grilled seafood at Sea Salt to Asian at Baan Thai. Stay active with watersports fun or head off base to check out the diving action at Banana Reef and Okobe Thila.

WE LOVE Walk this way for escapist, hands-on relaxation at Shine Spa. Set on its own miniature private island, it offers an indulgent menu of Maldivian, natureinspired holistic treatments designed to soothe.

MEMORY MAKER Have a giggle with your kids as they test their skills at coconut bowling, or take part in an island scavenger hunt.

B Y L A N D. B Y S E A . B Y S O U L .

GO ON. DIVE IN. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an idyllic island paradise, nestled in the South Ari Atoll, our Maldivian playground is alive with possibilities. Ignite the imagination with adventure to be had, local culture to be explored and soul-enriching discoveries designed with meaning and purpose. Conrad Maldives connects global wanderers to the pulse of the Maldives through an inspired experience that quenches curiosity and nourishes the senses.

Discover a paradise unlike any other.

South Ari Atoll, 20077, Republic of Maldives l Phone +960-688-0629 l ConradMaldives.com

W Maldives Fun yet stylish, with a dash of contemporary flair, W Maldives follows in the footsteps of its worldwide sister hotels with its signature playful and whimsical atmosphere. Take your pick from the ultra-chic villas located on the beach or over the water – all are just steps away from the island’s wonderful house reef. With your snorkelling gear on, dive in to discover the beauty of hundreds of species of marine life, including colourful fish, rays, turtles, tuna and even reef sharks.

Better yet, get away from it all at the resort’s dhow-shaped luxury spa, AWAY Spa, that offers indoor and outdoor treatment areas for an all-

encompassing experience. It takes just 25 minutes by seaplane to reach this lively resort.

WE LOVE Make your way 15 feet beneath the island sand and dance the night away to hip beats at 15Below, a pumping underground nightclub.

MEMORY MAKER Just a stone’s throw from the resort is Gaathafushi, an untouched tropical paradise and the retreat’s own secluded island that’s yours to discover. Offering privacy in spades, the beauty spot is perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime proposal, a romantic adventure under the stars, or a private party with your best buddies.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa The new kid on the Maldives resort scene, understated luxury is the byword for this 60-villa destination located on a crescent-shaped island in the Shaviyani Atoll. With a flight time of under one hour from Malé, it boasts some of the largest standard villas in the archipelago, starting at 234 sqm; each with a private pool. The standalone Kids’ Club by JW, with its own pool, pirate ship and packed calendar of activities, will keep younger guests entertained while parents sneak off for a couples' massage at the signature spa. Dine differently every day with six restaurants including Riha, which serves local flavours under the stars.

WE LOVE The on-site turtle sanctuary where kids can learn about the resort’s rehabilitation programme, and even help release one of these plucky creatures back into the wild.

MEMORY MAKER Enjoy breakfast with dazzling views of the Indian Ocean from the comfort of your Duplex Overwater Pool villa master bedroom.

16 Hotels & Resorts

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Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives A laidback fun-filled destination that welcomes little ones with open arms, this 112-suite and villa destination is big on fuss-free holidaying with its Ultimate All-Inclusive philosophy.

Accommodation is light and bright with high ceilings and uncluttered finishes putting the view front and centre. Throw yourself into island life from dawn until dusk with (almost) everything included, from dining and drinks to Spa Cenvaree credits and complimentary activities. A kids’

club offers arts and crafts, games and beach play, with a full menu of watersports and nearby shipwreck dive open to fun seekers of all ages.

Plus, it's just a 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé.

WE LOVE Splash a little extra cash and upgrade to Island Club status for a host of benefits including a private pool, beach access and premium dining.

MEMORY MAKER Join the evening feeding sessions that lure rays and black and white tipped sharks into view – you don't even need to get your toes wet.

“A laidback fun-filled destination that welcomes little ones with open arms”

19 Hotels & Resorts

/////////// Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives A contemporary take on Maldivian tradition defines this one-island-oneresort destination located just 20 minutes by boat from Malé airport.

There are five artisan styled villa types on offer with the Grand Residence living up to its name, offering a coveted glimpse of the colourful marine life through its sleek glass floor. Bragging rights are guaranteed if you’re a snorkel or scuba fan, thanks to a teeming house reef and wealth of nearby sites, in addition to above water activities aplenty. The Spa is a haven for Asian, Balinese and Ayurvedic healing philosophies while three restaurants and bars meet the culinary mark; try Firedoor for its out-of-thisworld prime cuts.

WE LOVE The resort’s vibrant villa décor with its artisan crafted touches, tropical pops of colour in its soft furnishings and penchant for macramé.

MEMORY MAKER Master that swan dive and plunge into the lagoon from the wooden deck of your overwater villa.

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives Prepare to be dazzled by the powderwhite sands of this family-focused resort nestled on the undisturbed Noonu Atoll, 45 minutes north of Malé by seaplane. Lounge on the upper deck sala of your Beach Pool Suite Sunrise while the kids splash in the plunge pool.

Or, let them have the run of the Beach Spa Pool Residence, which sleeps six.

Young guests have access to the Little Birds Club for storytelling, music, dance and arts and crafts fun. Sequester 20 Hotels & Resorts

yourself in a lush jungle treatment room for a signature therapy at Sun Spa by Esthederm and then snorkel on the house reef among boxfish, rays and sea turtles before dinner. Food is central to the Mövenpick experience, with three resort restaurants including Bodumas, which serves amazingly fresh seafood.

WE LOVE Perfect your downward dog and child poses during a sunrise or sunset Vinyasa yoga session in the stunning overwater sala.

MEMORY MAKER Dine on a bespoke menu under a magnificent canopy of stars on a private beach or deep in the lush jungle.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Spanning two Alif Dhaal Atoll islands and connected by a bridge, the resort’s remote geography (30 minutes by seaplane from Malé) lets guests dip in and out of daily life without sacrificing personal privacy. Its villas and suites are dotted across the islands, with beach, water or spa locations to choose from.

We say opt for a villa on the smaller, quieter island where there’s an adultsonly pool. Golf buggies will whizz you around, so you can discover the resort's 12 award-winning restaurants and bars, pools, beach and Spa Retreat complex.

The latter is home to a clutch of dreamy villas, each with its own spa room. For fun, go diving, play a game of tennis, discover the teeming coral reefs, or head off on an excursion, such as the romantic Sandbar Picnic.

WE LOVE The 3:1 staff to guest ratio, including the lovely poolside chap who will polish your suntan lotion smeared glasses.

MEMORY MAKER Stay 16 feet below sea level at The Muraka, an ultra luxurious two-level residence with submerged master bedroom, tunnel viewing theatre and above water deck with infinity pool. It also offers private jet skis.

“Your personal thakaru (concierge) will indulge your every whim” The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort An enviable location within the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve forms the backdrop for upscale downtime from the second you step onto the arrival jetty (a 35-minute seaplane flight from Malé) with its visually arresting shell-shaped canopy.

The resort architecture presents a modern twist on island style, with talking points such as the ‘floating’ lily pad daybeds in the main pool. Westin signature Heavenly beds, outdoor rain showers and jaw-dropping views come as standard in your choice of villa,

22 Hotels & Resorts

from the one-bedroom Beach Villa - Pool to the two-bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence. Your personal thakaru (concierge) will indulge your every whim, including making dinner reservations – head to Island Kitchen for Maldivian specialities. More Heavenly branded experiences await at the spa.

WE LOVE Let the little ones off the leash at the on-site kids’ club housed in a repurposed shipping container, with free activities for four- to 12-year-olds.

MEMORY MAKER Take a day trip by boat to Hanifaru Bay to spot gliding manta rays and frolicking whale sharks.

ไ

Six Senses Laamu Feel at one with nature at the only resort in the Laamu Atoll, where sustainable luxury reigns supreme and exploring barefoot is the order of the day. Fly from Malé into Laamu Kadhdhoo Domestic Airport and then hop on a 15-minute speedboat ride to the resort where Six Senses’ 12 villa types offer something for everyone.

24 Hotels & Resorts

The Lagoon Beach residences are a favourite for lovers of solitude with a charming treetop deck. The beachfront spa houses four couples’ nests and an Ayurvedic pavilion and there’s a roster of renowned visiting practitioners for personal consultations. Eat well on organic produce at the resort’s six restaurants and bars, from signature venue Leaf, which works with Maldivian fishermen and farmers to source local ingredients, to the dramatic sunken bar setting of Sip Sip.

WE LOVE Decadent indulgence is the preserve of the Ice & Chocolate Studio, an alfresco ice cream parlour serving more than 40 varieties of creamy frozen goodness.

MEMORY MAKER Swim with dolphins, snorkel among the vibrant marine life and get set to catch the Yin Yang, a popular surf break that's just a five-minute boat ride away.

Milaidhoo Island Maldives Small but perfectly formed, with just 50 hideaway villas, this coveted resort pairs Robinson Crusoe-esque escapism with upscale island living. Couple-centric (it's a no-go for children under nine), each beach or overwater villa boasts a private infinity pool and terrace while romance is definitely in the air at the spa’s intimate stilted treatment rooms.

Leave the confines of your oversized terrace daybed long enough to try the three restaurants and two bars, including Compass Pool Bar’s delicious 26 Hotels & Resorts

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas A 35-minute seaplane journey from Malé airport lands you in the heart of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on the shores of a lush emerald paradise. Out of respect for the environment, the 80 beach and overwater villas are discreetly sited in and around natural gaps in the landscape and feature a fusion of Indian Ocean, Arab and Portuguese design motifs. Leisure comes in all forms, from stargazing at the Maldives’ only overwater observatory to seabobbing through the water, joining an art studio session, lazing on a suspended daybed, and dining beneath the Indian Ocean at Sea (there are five other venues to check out, too). Children enjoy special amenities and access to the Thiththi Boli Kids’ Club.

WE LOVE Settle back on a comfy sofa with popcorn in hand, or go grown-up with bubbles and oyster nibbles, for a classic or blockbuster movie night at the Cinema Under The Stars.

MEMORY MAKER Let the high seas carry you away for an overnight adventure aboard the Ocean Whisperer, the resort's luxury 42-metre gulet. bento boxes. Milaidhoo also has its own dive centre, as well as a fantastic range of island-hopping excursions. It's a scenic 30-minute seaplane ride away from Malé.

WE LOVE Say "ahhhhh" with a divine couples' spa retreat at Serenity Spa, which includes a dreamy coconut scrub, fruity bubble bath and deep-tissue massage for two.

MEMORY MAKER Raise a glass to romance and dine on exquisite Maldivian cuisine with a chefcurated dinner for two on your private deck. Starlit sky and heart-stopping views are complimentary.

“Small but perfectly formed, with just 50 villas”

27 Hotels & Resorts

Velaa Private Island The passion project of a billionaire Czech financier, Velaa is named after the sea turtles that flock here to hatch and the high number of repeat (human) guests is testament to its appeal. A 45-minute seaplane ride from MalĂŠ, the mix of beach and overwater villas with private pools, outdoor bathing and dining spaces and sundecks is deservedly swoon-worthy.

Action and relaxation come in equal measure with tennis, squash, climbing and aquatic fun as well as a Spa My Blend by Clarins destination. Reserve an overwater, treatment villa with sunken 28 Hotels & Resorts

Jacuzzi for some next level pampering.

Six diverse dining locations deliver worldclass cuisine, but do save space for tower teppanyaki restaurant Tavaru, which is also reputedly home to the largest bottle collection in the archipelago.

WE LOVE Sharpen your short game across 170 metres of lush greens at the resort’s golf academy, with its Jose Maria Olazabal designed swing studio.

MEMORY MAKER Book the lagoon suspended Romantic Pool Residence and be rowed home to your (temporary) love nest by your personal butler.

Soneva in Aqua Sail the ocean waves aboard this super luxury yacht-meets-floating-villa for a five-star stay on the water. Part of the Soneva Fushi family (you can board via Soneva Jani or Soneva Fushi, which are a 45- and 30-minute seaplane ride from MalĂŠ respectively), the yacht has

two en-suite bedrooms, a main deck Jacuzzi and lounge area with plump cushioned daybeds, as well as an indoor dining space and library. Plot a bespoke itinerary with the captain, who will weigh anchor so the chef can catch your lunch fresh from the ocean. Check out the archipelago's best dive spots under the watch of the expert Soleni Dive team – keep your eyes peeled for turtles, dolphins and manta rays.

WE LOVE Say "hello" to your personal onboard crew, inclusive of a captain, sous chef, Mr. Friday and massage therapist.

You'll also benefit from the on-call dive master and astronomer.

MEMORY MAKER Push the wall button in the master suite to reveal a glass-bottomed Jacuzzi hidden beneath the wood panelled floor.

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Heritance Aarah This welcoming resort calls with its eye-catching smattering of thatched roof villas and suites. The jewel in the crown is the stunning two-bedroom Ocean Residence, which elevates the Maldives’ water bungalow game with its private plunge pool, large terrace and butler service. Dining here is a joy, with eight venues to discover, including Ambula, which specialises in the exotic flavours of Sri Lanka. Plus, there's the option to book a private meal on the sand. The resort is a 40-minute seaplane ride from Malé.

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WE LOVE Retreat to the overwater spa, which offers a mixture of soothing spa therapies and medical spa treatments, such as skin peels, to pick from. You can’t go wrong with the Island Indulgence, which includes a traditional aromatherapy massage, along with a de-stressing scalp and facial rub.

MEMORY MAKER Bring out your adventurous side by testing your skills at fly boarding under the watchful eye of a trained professional who’ll be on hand to control the throttle of the wave runner, so you can simply fly.

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Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi With a name that translates as ‘secret water island’, this gem of a holiday spot is concealed within a 600-hectare lagoon in the Shaviyani Atoll, a 55-minute seaplane ride from Malé. Let your cares melt away

at the sight of the sun-kissed ocean that surrounds this all-villa resort – for a taste of adventure, opt for the castaway style Tented Jungle Villa. Renowned for its culinary flair, foodies can dine at four destinations, including seafood market Azure and bamboo bar Onu Onu. Not the sun lounger type? Try Thai boxing, pummel out the jet lag at Willow Stream Spa, embark on a desert island picnic for two, or meet the locals on a cultural tour.

WE LOVE Take a 50-metre snorkel swim to view The Coralarium, a semi-submerged tidal art installation sea-scaped with underwater trees and endemic planted corals.

MEMORY MAKER Get some laps under your belt with a swim in the 200-metre pool that bisects the island; the longest in the Maldives.

“It's the kind of place where cares melt away” 32 Hotels & Resorts