Making the ‘it-list’ in the Sunny Maldives involved – WOWING my taste buds for great food, artful presentations, creative luxury, unbeatable wellness retreats, personal service, entertainment and resort exclusivity.
The Maldives is a destination of ”ultra luxe” appeal and is not your average hop and go. It’s popular for its exclusiveness where the rich go to play and unwind. It is of undisputed beauty and world-class service. The people are charming and superb in their way of service. I count myself lucky to have lived this magical dream for two years and in its splendour, I give you my personal list of stayed and confirmed – most loved Maldives Resorts.
1 W Retreat and Spa Maldives
This très très chic lifestyle resort makes my personal #1. Great resort – vibrant and upbeat, exceptional and original dining options, sexy music, energetic people and an undoubted playful yet relaxing ambience is reflected in everything. Great diving and snorkelling around the island and in the Maldives making it a bonus spot for dipping your feet right off the foot of your beach villa. It’s your go-to resort for friends and couples. Everything is catered to make you feel like a superstar.
2 Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa
This resort has a special place in my heart. It is a gem and within close proximity to the capital island Male – a smooth 30 minutes speed boat ride and other magnificent resorts making it excellent for island hopping. Offers superb recreational facilities with a strong initiative on marine biology conserving the biodiversity of the precious Ocean life. Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa is my favourite ‘save the Indian Ocean’ resort and best in personal service for luxury. It’s also my personal pick for best family resort and has the absolute best for all ages ‘kiddos and tweens. The spa is to die for. Beautifully located on its own private island with a little Dhoni – a traditional Maldivian boat to transport guests between the Spa and back to the main resort island. The resort itself is on the smaller side, but I love that about it. Kayaking around the island, taking in every amazing view, sunsets and sunrise are truly amazing. The swim up infinity pool bar is a personal favourite of mine and one that is easily accessed to the tantalizing seafood, Indian and international flare cuisines.
3 Huvafen Fushi Resort and Spa by Per Aquum
I love this resort for its natural easy-going feel. Yet luxurious enough to take your breath away. This is one of my top pics of creative luxury. The villas are amazing, spacious with gorgeous open-air bath retreats, generous with personal plunge pools. There’s an easy ‘my spot’ anywhere on this resort to just get lost in its beauty. Cocktails are sexy and entertained with exceptional music and on occasion signature DJ affairs to liven this very exclusive destination. If you love to Spa, you’ll certainly do it in style with the ever talked about ‘under the sea’ LIME Spa. It’s surreal. My personal favourite is their legendary underground wine cellar. It’s great, oaky and a grandeur of the best wines to please any wine connoisseur.
4 Anantara Dhigu Resort and Spa
This is the most unwinding resort. Quieter and with a strong presence on wellbeing. It’s my personal pick to find your balance and be taken on a Spa Journey with signature Thai influences. It’s complemented with excellent healthy choices and great leisure spots to have as your own. Excellent wines and cocktails, signature beach service and flare of dining. The views are amazing from every angle.
5 Kandooma Resort and Spa Maldives
This is my ultimate chill out resort coupled with great cocktails, a rooftop lounge to envy, exciting dining and breathtaking sunsets. I found myself returning time and time again. Subtle luxury speaks within an unconventional design. Chic ambience and contemporary layout. A lounge style, foot-in-the-sand escape that is popular with the dive scene and with good reason. Some of Maldives best diving can be found here. Hanging hammocks dipping into the warm ocean are attached to breezy oceanfront villas.
6 One and Only Reethi Rah Resort and Spa
This is one of the ultra-luxe resorts from entry to exit. It’s an unspoken luxury that is very visible and serene. From grand entryways, a top-of-the-line spa, award-winning culinary affairs, personal butler service and the list goes on. Superb for family vacations and for me, it was the view from my private infinity pool overlooking the beach and vastness of the Indian Ocean.
This resort is an exclusive and luxurious a resort in the sunny Maldives as expected to be. You won’t find skimming here, serving the guests’ every need above and beyond expectations are paramount.