With 1,200 islands dotting the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a good place to escape the stress and bustle of your world. The atoll picture postcards are breathtaking with white sandy beaches, and crystal clear water. Here are five more reasons why Maldives should be your first choice for your next holiday:
1. Exclusive accommodation: Banyan Tree Maldives, Madivaru – Here, you will not find the usual water villas and beachfront huts – instead, you will be able to relax and enjoy your stay in a tented pool villa. Each pool villa comes complete with spacious living, eating and bathing tents. Fancy that!
2. Underwater dining: Conrad Maldives, Rangali
Island – Home to the only undersea restaurant in the world, Conrad Maldives sits on two little islands. Ithaa, the undersea restaurant is located 80 meters below sea level – and you can wine and dine while enjoying the sights of marine life. The restaurant seats only 14 per sitting, so booking in advance will work out to your advantage.
3. Spa holiday: One&Only Maldives at Reethi, Rah Island – Complete with vitality pools, crystal steam rooms, ice fountains, signature treatments, you can have it all at the resort’s ESPA spa. Over-water private spa suites are recommended for couples. The spa is run by Susan Harmsworth, well known spa guru while Bastien Gonzalez, renowned podiatrist offers fabulous manicures and chiropody treatments.
4. Family friendly: Island Hideaway, Donakulhi – This fabulous family resort has numerous activities for your kids, including a kids’ club, bicycles and a children’s playground. Speedboat trips, fishing cruises and dolphin safaris are also on offer for families staying at the resort. Water sports include water skiing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, diving, canoeing and snorkeling while the resort has a gym as well as facilities for playing table tennis, tennis, billiards, and beach volleyball too.
5. Private: Soneva Gili – Soneva Gili’s private reserve has five buildings comprising two master suites which feature floor to ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. A two-person bathtub built over coral gardens and an open-air private bathroom is also part of the deal. It also offers private spa facilities while your personal butler will cater to your every whim and fancy.