TRAVELSCAPES 10.20

Maldives Islands

2021 Restoration

Do you need to EXHALE? The Maldives is one of the most beautiful places in the world. This collection of pristine islands is dotted in the Indian Ocean across the equator. Its powdery white sands are legendary, as are the crystal clear lagoons that teem with colorful marine life. Lured by the rich nutrients that flow in with the currents, large pelagic fish such as manta rays – call the Maldives their home. From Ibiza-style chic to classic luxury, the Maldives has all bases covered when it comes to premium resorts. Fly into Malé Airport – and let the healing begin.

Overwater Villas – Kooddoo Island, Maldives

This stunning white-sanded beachfront resort has overwater villas that surround you with dreamlike aquamarine water and an array of colorful marine life. If water soothes you, immerse yourself in this gloriously beautiful environment.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island & the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant

Ithaa, which means mother-of-pearl in Dhivehi, is an undersea restaurant located 16 feet below sea level at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island in Alif Dhaal Atoll in the Maldives. It is the first undersea restaurant in the world.

Finolhu: Chic Styling and Overwater Villas

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baa Atoll, the 5-star Finolhu resort is a vibrant playground for chic styling with the Ibiza-style beach club 1 OAK. Overwater villas offer retro-style luxury.

Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa

This all-villa boutique-style resort with a luxury spa is situated on 5 miles of gorgeous coastline with perfect white baby powder sand. It also offers 6 bars and restaurants and a 9-hole golf course.

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives

Situated on the private Kuredhivaru in the Noonu Atoll with overwater wooden pathways leading to thatch-roofed villas, this is a divers paradise set on white sand with sapphire waters. Spectacular sunsets cushion the end of your activity-charged day. Each villa gives you a floating-away feeling on a glistening lagoon.

Kanuhura

Considered one of the most exclusive, leading hotels in the world, the Kanuhura is very intimately private (think honeymoon) with an award-winning spa and world-class dining. It even has a marooned restaurant that is only accessible by boat. This deluxe, atmospheric paradise is truly spectacular.

The Maldives is a multi-cultural treat worth planning for 2021 or 2022. The traditional cuisine is based heavily on fish and coconut, with several dishes that have no parallels anywhere else. Visitors are requested to treat the environment respectfully by not standing on, touching or removing coral structures while snorkeling or diving.