Tag Archives: Accommodation

Kurumba Maldives

1 September 2010

A guest snorkeling in the lagoon of Kurumba Maldives

Resort Overview

The original Maldivian resort, popular Kurumba offers quality at great value, along with a convenient location, traditional style, fabulous leisure facilities and sublime hospitality – in cosmopolitan surrounds fringed with delectable beaches.

Rooms

180

Airport transfer time

10 minutes from Male’ International airport.

Location

In North Malé Atoll

Facilities

A wide choice of dining options include an all day dining cafe, three bars, dining options including (half board) buffets and six speciality restaurants, live music and karaoke. There are two pools, children’s pool, fitness centre, tennis, Aquum Spa (prebookable spa packages on request), water sports and diving centre (Diving packages are available to prebook). Excellent snorkelling opportunities on the house reef are just steps from the beach.

Scuba diving

Diving School on site operated by Euro Divers (PADI certification)

Accommodation

180 rooms, with air-conditioning, minibar, tea and coffee facilities, telephone, television, open-air shower and terrace.

Superior rooms are in bi-level buildings. Deluxe rooms are single-level. Deluxe bungalows have dressing area, daybed and bathroom. Private villas are beachfront, as Deluxe bungalow with separate sitting area and jacuzzi. Garden villas are inland, as Private villas. Pool villas are spacious with walled garden, plunge pool, jacuzzi and terrace overlooking the sea, and guests receive a private airport boat transfer.

Presidential Suites – 255 square metres.

are Duplex Villas, Private Speedboat Transfer, Personal Butler Service , Private Courtyard with Beach Entrance, Private Swimming Pool in Flower Garden, Jacuzzi – Private Terrace with Enclosed Courtyard, King-size Day Bed under a Thatched Roof Pavilion, King-size four- poster Bed,  Air Conditioned, DVD Player, 2 Satellite TVs, Hairdryer, Mini Bar, In-Room Safe – IDD Telephone, High Speed Internet Access, Satellite TV – Espresso Machine,  Tea and Coffee Making Facilities. Bathrooms: His and hers Washbasins,  3 Showers (1 Open-air), Glass Walled Shower, Free Standing Bathtub.

Royal Kurumba Residence – 768 square metres.

Two-Winged Suite with 2 Bedrooms, 1 Sitting/Dining area, Butlers Pantry & Beachfront Veranda,  Bridge Entrance over an Ornamental Pool,  2 Large Enclosed Wooden Sun-decks with Salas,  2 King-size four-poster Beds, Private Speedboat Transfer, Personal Butler Service, Air Conditioned, DVD Player, Sound System, Hairdryer, Mini Bar, In-Room Safe, 2 Satellite TVs (1×35” Plasma),  IDD Telephone, High Speed Internet Access, Tea and Coffee Making Facilities,  Espresso Machine. Bathrooms: Two Large Bathrooms opening into Private Courtyards, each with: Open-air Shower,  Jacuzzi,  Swimming Pool,  2 Washbasins,  Glass Walled Shower, Free Standing Bathtub, King- size Day Bed under a Thatched Roof Pavilion. In addition Sitting/Dining area includes 1 Bathroom with Shower.

Restaurants & Bars

Vihamana – Main restaurant. Golden Cowrie – Italian restaurant. Hamakaze – Sushi, Sashimi and Teppen-yaki. Kurumba Mahal – Indian Cuisine. Ming Court – Chinese cuisine. Ocean Grill – Barbecue and seafood specialities at the edge of the ocean. Neptune Coffee Shop – Mini meals throughout the day. In addition there is a poolside pizzeria, Beach bar, Rendezvous Lounge – Karaoke Bar.

Swimming Pools

Large freshwater swimming pool with children’s pool located in the beautiful gardens just beyond the bar, with a smaller pool at the Sports centre.

Beach description

White sandy beach.

Spa and beauty

The Spa at Kurumba is an inner sanctuary of calm and wellbeing surrounded by a reflection pond of healing water and stunning architecture sets the scene for the care and wisdom that radiates from the AQUUM experience at Kurumba, Maldives.  Dedicated to perfection of treatment and standard, our Spa menu includes remedies and rituals to soothe the mind and nourish the body. (see more photos of this resort)

Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Resort Overview

Lily Beach Resort: enjoyed a great reputation world-wide for its pristine beaches and lush tropical vegetation, and its exotic house-reef 3-10 meters away, and its location within the popular Ari Atoll of the Maldivian archipelago; boasting some of the most amazing and exclusive dive sites all-around. The new Lily Beach Resort & Spa At Huvahendhoo; upgraded to a 5-star luxury product with its All-new ‘Platinum Plan’ adds a whole new level to the traditional Maldivian holiday experience; Affordable Luxury in the Maldives!

Location

Huvahendhoo Island, situated on the south-east of Ari Atoll in the Maldives

Airport transfer time

25-minute scenic flight by Sea Plane from Male’ International Airport

Number of Rooms

119 Villas

Accommodations

Visually, a fusion of contemporary style and elegance sophisticatedly combined with traditional Maldivian aesthetics; serve to provide with a wholesome and luxurious island accommodation experience.Only natural materials are used for all its Villas as well as Public areas. The final product is a fusion of contemporary design and local architecture. It is a wonderful combination of wood, different kinds of natural stones and modern design, which blend in creatively with the natural surroundings of the island.

Sunset Water Suites (4 Suites) Villa Size: 182m 2

Individually designed and ultra-private, these Grand Water Suites on the western lagoon side of the island are truly the pride of the resort, each with its own individual butler service catering to your every whim. They offer uncompromising views of the ocean with an amazing private deck and direct lagoon access. A combination of natural wood flooring and white marble in the bathrooms, a four-poster king-sized bed, an oversized day-bed, a 14 square meter. Jacuzzi Pool and 42” LCD flat screen TV.Fully air-conditioned, along with ceiling fan, coffee/tea/espresso making facilities, safe, free internet access, CD/DVD player, satellite TV. Truly the ultimate ‘over-water’ living delight!

Deluxe Water Villas (36 Villas) Villa Size: 126m 2

Romantic and very private; with a distance of 15-feet between each villa, these villas are aesthetically appointed with a single piece hand-crafted standalone bathtub with Jacuzzi and an additional medium-sized Jacuzzi pool on the deck offering a fantastic view of the entire lagoon and direct access to the lagoon. A combination of natural wood flooring and white marble flooring in the bathroom, a 4 poster king-sized bed, an over-sized day bed, 7 square meters Jacuzzi Pool and 42” LCD flat screen. Villas are fully air-conditioned, along with ceiling fan, coffee/tea/espresso making facilities, safe, free internet access, CD/DVD player, satellite TV. A complete ‘over-water’ living experience!

Lagoon Villas (16 Villas) Villa Size: 90m 2

Spacious self-contained villas, half over the water, are appointed with natural wood flooring and stone flooring in the bathroom, king-sized 4 poster beds, an oversized day bed and 29” LCD flat screen TV. All these villas have direct access to the lagoon from their private decks. Villas are fully air-conditioned, along with ceiling fan, coffee/tea/espresso making facilities, safe, free internet access, CD/DVD player, satellite TV.

Beach Villas (57 Villas) Villa Size: 68m 2

Nestled along the shores of pristine beaches, elegant and smartly designed villas with natural wood flooring in the bedroom and stone flooring in the spacious open air bathroom, a queen-sized bed, vibrant color schemes, and an day bed and 29” LCD flat screen. Villas are fully air-conditioned, along with ceiling fan, coffee/tea/espresso making facilities, safe, free internet access, CD/DVD player, satellite TV.

Beach Family Villas (6 Villas) Villa Size: 136m 2

6-sets of two interconnecting rooms with full amenities.

Restaurants & Bars

Lily Maa: The main restaurant, an open sided restaurant with sand floors and views of the lagoon, showcase some of the finest cuisine served in the Maldives. The experienced International Chef, will conjure up a wonderful variety of ‘world cuisine’, offering expansive buffets, aesthetically set-up. Two open-cooking stations add variety to a sumptuous and relaxed dining experience. Tamarind is the A La Carte restaurant offering Indian and Chinese fusion cuisine, with a romantic & distinctive fine dining experience with signature dishes, specially created by the Executive Chef and a wonderful selection of wines to go with. (Tamarind is not part of the Platinum Plan – however each guest is entitled to one á la carte fine dining dinner experience during stay.Informal and lively The Spirit is the ideal spot for chilling out… Sand floors, vibrant color schemes, and day loungers, tastefully selected lounge music, and makes it a very exciting and inviting location of the resort to spend your fun filling evenings…from 09.00 am – until 01.00 am

Facilities

Tamara Spa

Amidst all this fun and frolic, our over-water spa pavilions are designed to be sanctuaries for the inner self – to refresh and rejuvenate your spirit as well as your physical being. Tamara presents a holistic journey, touching you body, soul and mind and transporting you to a haven of self-reflection of re-discovery!

Diving with Ocean Pro

With exceptional dive sites in the area Lily Beach has access to more than 40 dive sites. “Ocean Pro” Dive Centre offer theory & practical lessons (English, German, Japanese and French) by a professional European Team of colleagues with knowledge of the best dive sites and wrecks within the vicinity and afar…A choice for everyone, beginners to advance, and all courses are conducted by PADI standards. Children 8-11 years can enjoy the Bubble-makers course.

Kids Club – Turtles

Make the youngest clients’ vacation – an absolute delight, Turtles at Huvahendhoo, offers a variety of kids club programs to make their holiday, fun-filled, adventurous & exciting…A creative and experienced team of professionals are on hand to assist with wide choice of activities – both indoors and outdoors.

Evening Entertainment: – Live music, traditional local music, disco, night fishing, traditional cultural variety shows, and beach games. During the Day: An up-to-date gymnasium, a full-fledged water sports centre equipped with all non-motorized activities including canoeing, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, as well as motorized sports such as fun-tube riding and banana boat rides (all lessons are chargeable) a flood-lit tennis court, table tennis, dart, carom, billiards/pool, beach volleyball, island hopping, big game fishing, sunrise fishing, snorkeling safari. Other Facilities include: Fully equipped Dive Centre: Ocean Pro Internet Café.

Swimming Pools

2 Fresh Water Swimming Pools with Bar.

What’s Included in a Platinum Plan?

All Premium brands of Alcohol, Beer & Liqueur in main bar – The Spirit, Unlimited Cocktails & Signature drinks. variety of fine quality red/white/rosé wines, Collection of sparkling wines, Mini-bar Access: Mini-bar will be maintained regular supply of beer, wine, soft drinks, mineral water, and some nic-nacs. Combination of á la carte and sumptuous buffet breakfast and lunch PLUS fine dining dinner experiences at the main restaurant – Lily Maa. Mid afternoon snacks with fresh juices & cold towels served at the Bars and Pool areas • Evening snacks (Maldivian, Indian, hot/cold canapés by the pool with tea/coffee/fresh juices/mineral water) One á la carte fine dining dinner experience at our Specialty Restaurant Tamarind once during stay per person. Variety of fresh fruit juices, soft drinks, mineral water. Daily supply of 2 bottles of mineral water in all villas. Four brands of cigarettes during stay. Internet access on the entire island including villas. Snorkeling equipment with fins for every guest. Visit to an uninhabited island & fishing villages once during stay with snacks, soft drinks and mineral water. Sunset fishing once during stay (weather permitting) Access to sports centre, tennis court, gymnasium, all indoor games, all non-motorized water- sports. Activity day once a week; various games, competitions, treasure hunts. DJ with disco/live music band thrice a week • Traditional Maldivian dance performed by locals once a week. Airport meet and greet on arrival and departure. Complimentary VIP lounge access at domestic Seaplane terminal of Maldivian Air Taxi . Various in-house surprises! (see more photos of this resort)

Meeru Island Resort

29 August 2010

Fresh water pools of Meeru Island.

Resort Overview

The sand floor bars and thatched open restaurants give a true ‘no news no shoes’ feel to this large island with a wide choice of facilities. ‘Meeru’ is superb, simple, natural yet stylish and incredibly popular, so early booking is recommended.

Rooms

286

Airport transfer time

55 minutes by boat or 20 minutes by seaplane

Location

In North Malé Atoll

Facilities

Two main restaurants – one north and one south, poolside coffee shop, à la carte floating yacht restaurant (seasonal), overwater Asian Wok restaurant and Hot Rock Restaurant and Bar, sand floor bars, occasional entertainment and internet café. Two Swimming pools (one with adjacent kids pool and one new pool for adults only), fitness centre, two spas (one over-water) , tennis, badminton, table tennis, volleyball, golf driving range and a new 9-hole pitch and putt golf course. Dive centre, snorkeling, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, canoes. Large boutique and shop. The house reef is reached by boat, and a host of excursions.

Accommodation

286 rooms, each with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, telephone, television, CD/DVD player, tea/coffee facilities, minibar, open-air shower, and terrace.
Garden rooms are simply furnished in single level terraces located in the interior of the island. Beach villas rooms are individual, beautifully furnished wooden bungalows with facilities as above, a semi open-air bathroom and a terrace enjoying views towards the beach/lagoon through foliage and trees. Jacuzzi beach villas with walled garden and outdoor jacuzzi. Water villas are on stilts straddling the water’s edge, with four-poster bed and sun-deck. Jacuzzi water villas are stylish overwater stilt villas reached by jetty with jacuzzi and espresso machine. Honeymoon suites are reached by small boat, available on request.

Restaurants & Bars

Farivalhu & Maalan – Two restaurants offer the same menu and service. Located at opposite ends of the island, guests will be allocated the restaurant depending on room number. Hungaanu – Coffee Shop – onboard a yacht anchored in the lagoon. The Dhoni Bar, on the beach beside the Dhoni Bar Pool; the Kakuni Bar, with sports bar facilities such as table tennis, billiards, snooker, table football, darts, chess, board games and color satellite TV coverage of international sporting events; the Club 1992 Bar aboard the Goma yacht anchored in the lagoon; the Uthuru Bar next to the Maalan Restaurant.

Swimming Pools

One swimming pool and sun terrace

Beach description

Beautiful white sand

Meeru Weddings

Meeru offers a wonderfully romantic setting from where to renew your wedding vows, flanked by soft sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The unique package includes guests leaving by traditional Phoni boat! RENEWAL OF VOWS PACKAGE INCLUDES a Bridal bouquet, decorated location, one hour make-up for the bride, Dhiffushi girls escort, Bodu Beru drums, guests leave by dhoni.

WOW fact.

Watching the sun setting whilst sipping an exotic cocktail, with the soft sand under your feet. (more photos)

One&Only – Reethi Rah

25 August 2010

Grand Water Villa

Resort Overview

Reethi Rah’ meaning beautiful island. And the name almost says it all…for the white sand coves and turquoise bays are enhanced by One&Only’s grand chic, very private and sublimely luxurious resort. One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah inspires extraordinary journeys for the soul.

Rooms

130

Airport transfer time

75 minutes by luxury yacht.

Location

One&Only Reethi Rah is one of the largest islands in North Malé atoll.

Facilities

Toes-in-the-sand and overwater restaurants, eastern tapas and poolside snacks. Two swimming pools, fitness centre, tennis, table tennis, beach volleyball, diving, sailing, windsurfing and pedalos. One&Only Spa with steam-rooms, saunas and yoga pavilion. Complimentary supervised KidsOnly and teenagers’ club.

Accommodation

130 spacious villas, each with either a secluded area of shore or a private deck over the lagoon, air-conditioning, flatscreen television, telephone, bath and shower, and terrace with table, seating area and sun bed. Beach villas are as above, some with private plunge pool. Duplex beach villas some with pool. Water villas, are built on stilts over the lagoon, with sun-deck.
One and two bedroom Grand beach villas and Grand water villas available on request.

Restaurants & Bars

Fanditha – healthy but filling chargrills and salads. Open for dinner and special functions only. Rah Bar – an all day menu of healthy salads, wraps and snacks. In the evening, it becomes a vibrant cocktail bar. Reethi Restaurant – An impressive à la carte. Tapasake -is a five star Japanese speciality restaurant.

Swimming Pools

One lap pool for adults only and a free form shaped swimming pool for adults and children, both next to the Reethi Restaurant. One children’s pool at the Kids Club.

Beach description

With 6 km of white sand coastline. The house reef is an ideal place for snorkeling, located 20 meters from the shore line.

WOW fact

Pamper yourself by a private butler, burry your toes in sand while lying down on a hammock and sipping your favorite cocktail or indulge yourself with a spa  treatment from the award winning One&Only Spa are totally out of this wold experiences. (more photos)

Infinity pool of Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort

Resort Overview

Set in a shallow lagoon, Olhuveli is perfect for those who wish to swim, snorkel or partake in water sports. Stretches of soft white sand encompass this lively island and the sumptuous treatments at the spa will renew you in mind, body and spirit.

Rooms

134

Airport transfer time

45 minutes by speedboat from Male’ Airport.

Location

South Malé Atoll.

Facilities

A mile of white sands, main buffet restaurant over water, two à la carte restaurants, Island Pizza, two pools – one with infinity edge, poolside bars, coffee-shop, evening entertainment, children’s pool, water-sports available in the large shallow lagoon, Gold Palm PADI dive centre, badminton, floodlit tennis, table tennis, beach volleyball, dart, board games, fitness centre, tropical spa with steam-bath, sauna, jacuzzi and beauty salon, private karaoke/TV room, cybercafé with library, souvenir/ jewelry shop and in-house doctor with clinic. A wide range of excursions available.

Scuba diving

Gold Palm PADI dive centre.

Accommodation

134 rooms and Water villas with air-conditioning, telephone, tea/coffee facilities, minibar, television, kingsize bed (four-poster double in Deluxe rooms and Deluxe water villas) and balcony or terrace.

Deluxe rooms in bi-level blocks of four. Beach villas have individual rooms, beach view and open-air bathroom. Deluxe water villas are overwater with sitting area, CD player and private sun-deck. Jacuzzi water villas with open-air jacuzzi. Honeymoon water villas with separate living room, Jacuzzi, steam cubicle and large sun-deck. Presidential Water Suite – The height of luxury for those seeking paradise. Situated at the far end, where the two footbridges meet, the suite with complete privacy and an un-paralleled view. The spectacular glass walled living room provides stunning views of the surroundings. The Suite is fitted with the finest furnishing and amenities, combining modern design classics and traditional Maldivian architecture. The suite comprises 2 king-size bedrooms with four-poster beds, a luxury en-suite bathroom with designer amenities and a kitchenette. Outside on the double leveled timber deck is a private plunge pool, open air Jacuzzi and chaise lounges. A staircase from the second level, leads into the lagoon below.

Restaurants

Sunset Restaurant: Over the water serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fusion of Asian, local and international. Lagoon Restaurant: Fine dining with a selected line of international cuisine. Sakura: An Asian fusion specialty restaurant built over water.

Swimming Pools

Main swimming pool, infinity pool and kids pool

Beach description

White sand.

Spa and beauty

Sun Spa – Encompassing the Five Element Theory; Wood, Fire, Metal, Earth & Water and the healing practices of traditional Ayurveda, each spa experience takes you on a journey through the cycle of nature. Eight deluxe treatment pavilions complete with open shower, garden, luxurious spa bath and individually selected spa music. Other facilities within the complex include reception, a manicure / pedicure facial room, beauty and hair salon, boutique, separate wet areas for men and women including sauna, steam, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and chilled plunge pools. (more photos)

Villa Muthee deck and infinity pool

Resort Overview

A brand new stylish, luxurious resort with a feast of fine facilities, forests of banyans and coconut palms, and nearly 1½ miles of white sand beaches. Discreet service with Shangri-La’s renowned hospitality – a rare opportunity in the Maldives to experience both complete opulence and the accessibility to local culture.

Rooms

142

Airport transfer time

70 minutes flight from Malé to Gan, then ten minutes by speedboat.

Location

At the southernmost tip of Addu atoll.

Facilities

There are two speciality restaurants, bars and lounges, forest and beach dining, CHI The Spa, complimentary health club, tennis, nature trails, complimentary supervised children’s zone, water-sports, dive centre, snorkeling, excursions, complimentary boat to Gan to cycle ten mile five island road, entertainment, and boutiques. There is also an environmental centre, decompression chamber and doctor. The British Loyalty shipwreck is just ten minutes away by boat.

Accommodation

142 individual, elegant villas, each with air-conditioning, television, DVD player, iPod dock, Wi-Fi, indoor and outdoor shower and nespresso machine.

Pool villas on the east sunrise side, ocean-facing overlook a coral beach, with private pool. Deluxe pool villas are larger and more secluded. Beach villas in garden setting located either on the ocean (sunrise) side or the lagoon (sunset side) with private infinity pool, separate living room, roof patio and sun-deck. Water villas reached via jetty, with daybed (no pool). Unique Tree house villas with separate living room and private pool, are built ten feet up amid the trees with panoramic ocean views and an elevated infinity pool. Villa Muthee is like a pearl in its own oyster nestles in its own luxurious environment.  From the choicest of decor to the stunning seascapes that surround it, Villa Muthee promises a truly sensational experience.  The only one of its kind at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, The name says it all.  Muthee, which means ‘pearl’ in the local language, is a villa for those craving sanctuary from the fast-paced world in an ambience that offers stunning vistas and absolutely everything necessary for a perfect getaway. Incorporating Eastern influences like Lipao teak with mother-of-pearl accents and other customized furnishings, Villa Muthee exudes a tropical contemporary style. Complimentary broadband Internet access, 40-inch LCD TV, a Bose DVD player and iPod docking station. Spacious bathroom with its own walk-in wardrobe, dressing area and his and hers vanity counters, and a spa pavilion. VIlla Muthee cover an area of 570sqm or 6,135sqft. Villa Laalu is spacious, stylish and thoughtfully designed, Villa Laalu is the jewel in the resort’s crown, with two large, high-ceilinged bedrooms, an extensive garden and everything the discerning guest could possibly require.  Round-the-clock, in-villa dining can be enjoyed in the living room with timber-decked verandahs, or in air-conditioned or al fresco dining pavilions. Carefully selected artworks are on display throughout this exquisite villa, together with precious, high-end Asian artifacts, sculptures and urns from Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Complimentary broadband Internet access, 40-inch LCD TV, a Bose DVD player and iPod docking station. The tastefully appointed master bathroom brings the outdoors within.  A luxurious tub for two is raised from the floor on textured stone, with an adjacent cascading water feature and a spa pavilion.Villa Laalu area is 957sqm or 10,301sqft.

Restaurants

Javvu Restaurant offering Western cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. Khzaanaage offers cuisines from the Arabian Gulf, Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. The resort has 3 bars and the Fashala Lounge.

Beach description

White sandy beach

WOW fact

Charter a private yacht to the equator for lunch . . . for a totally unique experience. (more photos)

Ocean Villas

Resort Overview

Welcoming and luxurious, the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is ideal for couples and families following a stunning refurbishment on all of their accommodation and facilities. Relax and unwind on the private spa island or take to the water in the crystal clear lagoon.

Rooms

156

Airport transfer time

20 minutes from the Male’ International Airport.

Location

In the North Malé Atoll, approx. 20 minutes by boat from the airport.

Facilities

Recently upgraded facilities include a charming freeform pool, sun deck, children’s pool, all day café, bars with beachside terrace, choice of restaurants, in-room dining, sports bar and live bands, fitness centre, tennis, IT lounge/library, water sports, excursions and a diving school (packages can be pre-booked). The unique spa is located on its own island linked by a small bridge to Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.

Scuba diving

Experienced EuroDivers, over 40 world famous sites close by.

Accommodation

156 beautiful refurbished rooms, each with air-conditioning, ceiling fan (not in Beach deluxe rooms), minibar, tea/coffee facilities, telephone, television in all rooms, internet connection, shower and balcony/terrace.

Beach Deluxe rooms are in bi-level, groups of four close to the shore. Island Cottages are individual cottages facing the beach, with television, CD player, open-air bathroom with bath and garden shower. Beachfront cottages are as Island cottages located closer to the beach. Water bungalows are overwater, detached or in pairs, with DVD player, television, shower, bath and ocean view. Water villa, set over the water and covered with a thatched roof, is your own spacious tropical haven on the Indian Ocean. All offer a king bed and large terrace with sun lounges and direct lagoon access. The spacious bathroom features spectacular Indian Ocean view, direct access to the balcony, lighted mirrors, spacious bathtub, separate shower and toilet, and a range of pampering Shine for Sheraton™ bath amenities. Water Suite features a separate lounge area with its own deck, two plasma TVs, and stylish furnishings, including comfortable rattan seating and a glass-top table. The appealing king bedroom overlooks a second deck area, with direct sea access and sun lounges. The bathroom is spacious, with direct access to both balconies, lighted mirrors, a range of pampering Shine for Sheraton™ bath amenities and includes an inviting open-air Jacuzzi plunge pool—perfect for relaxing and enjoying the never-ending Indian Ocean views. A Sony 40″ LCD flat screen television offers a choice of local and international channels, and DVD player. Ocean Villas have uninterrupted sea views from bed/deck/plunge pool. High tech interior facilities, ipod docking station, surround sound system. Located on private side of island, close to surf spot. The private deck features an individual plunge pool with a daybed and an outdoor rain shower. A dining area, hammock, and garden seating area with a personal BBQ create the ultimate luxury outdoor living experience. Inside, calming colors and Balau wood flooring create a distinctly Maldivian décor, each villa features a king size Sheraton Sweet Sleeper™ Bed, a 42” Plasma flat screen television, and comfortable rattan seating.

Restaurants & Bars

Baan Thai: Fine Dining Thai Restaurant. FEAST: Main Restaurant. Sand Coast Cafe: International bistro dining. Atoll Grill: Seafood & Meat BBQ. Anchorage Bar: Lagoon Front Bar with Panoramic views. Drifters: Pub with Sports Theme and Karaoke.

Swimming Pools

One freshwater swimming pool.

Beach description

White sandy beach.

Children’s club

New Kid’s Club located at the East end of the island.

WOW fact.

Shine Spa for Sheraton is located on its very own private island linked by a jetty. (more photos)

Soneva Fushi Jungle Reserve

Resort Overview

Effortlessly blending natural and traditional styles with contemporary barefoot luxury allowing you to relax and unwind surrounded by an aura of holistic tranquillity and white sand beaches caressed by gently lapping azure waves. First “Robinson Crusoe” style hideaway in the Maldives.

Rooms

65

Airport transfer time

Approx. 35 minutes by seaplane.

Location.

In the Baa atoll, this is one of the largest islands covered by natural leafy vegetation.

Facilities

Peaceful for strolling and cycling. Outstanding facilities include a sand floor restaurant, unique jungle garden restaurant, a Sense by The Sea restaurant offering contemporary Peruvian-Japanese fusion dishes, a champagne bar on the jetty and beach barbecues can be arranged, Six Senses Spa, boutique, CD library, dive school and water-sports.

Scuba diving

Soneva Fushi Resort & Spa dive centre Onsite

Accommodation

65 beach villas, each with air-conditioning, minibar, ceiling fan, CD/DVD player, part open-air bathroom with bath and shower.

Rehendi villas are sea facing beach bungalows. Blocks of two or three. Crusoe villas are bi-level villas with separate sitting area some with pool at a supplement. Soneva Fushi villas are spacious individual villas with private beach, sun terrace and some with a water garden. Private pool option on request at a supplement. Fushi Villa Suite (with Pool) Beach front villas with foyer entrance. Spacious bedroom with king-sized or twin beds – Additional sitting room with daybed/sofas – Possibility of separating sitting area from bed room by curtain -Luxurious open-air garden bathroom and water feature with large bathtub and separate shower – 7 Soneva Fushi Villa Suites have their own private sea water pool -1 villa in this category includes Spa Suite. Soneva Fushi Villa Suite & Tree House Beach front villa with foyer entrance – Spacious bedroom with king-sized or twin beds – Additional sitting room with daybeds/sofas – Luxurious open-air private garden bathroom with water feature, large bathtub and separate shower – In-villa wine cellar – Private sea water pool Tree House A walkway leads from the villa to the tree house – Situated 2.5 meters above ground level – 1 bunk bed ( 2 singles) and 1 single bed – Small toilet with basin and W/C Balcony/ terrace. Retreat: Beach front villas, one on the sunrise and one on the sunset side 2 bungalows with two levels each. 1st villaEntrance hall with large walk in storage wardrobe Luxurious open-air private garden bathroom Large bathtub and separate shower Double sink unit with large overhanging mirror Spiral staircase in entrance Spacious bedroom with four poster king-sized bed Door from bedroom leads to gangway to adjoining villa In-villa wine cellar Outside Sea water pool Dining pavilion above the pool Spa Suite with steam room, gym and relaxation area 2nd Villa A large staircase from study leads down into hallway to main entrance On one side of hallway is a smaller bedroom suitable for a child or the nanny/maid which is equipped with a bed and separate bathroom Large sitting room with daybeds/sofas Large study, kitchen and in-villa wine cellar A gangway leads over the sitting room and continues into the dining pavilion. Jungle Reserve: A beach front villa with foyer entrance – Spacious bedroom with four poster king-sized bed – Luxurious open-air private garden bathroom, large bathtub and separate shower Sitting Room Large sitting room with two daybeds -Private outside sitting area with direct access to beach – Private sea water pool – Dining room with 4 chairs – In-villa wine cellar Tree House A walkway leads from the villa to the tree house – Situated 2.5 meters above the ground level – 1 bunk bed (2 singles) and 1 single bed – Small toilet with basin and WC – Balcony/terrace Other Facilities - Spa suite with private treatment room, gym and steam room. Spa Suite – Spa Suite is attached to 1 villa from each villa types apart from Rehendi and one Bedroom Crusoe Suite Couples treatment room, massage beds and stereo system with surround sound speakers Bathroom with blitz shower and steam generator – Gym with 2 yoga mats, 2 fit-balls, 2 therabands, 2 exertubes, dumbbells, elliptical machine, weighing scale refrigerator and relaxation area with daybed with a supplement.

Beach description

Palm fringed, white sandy beach surrounding the island.

WOW facts

Enjoy dinner in the treetops at the Fresh in the Garden restaurant and then follow the elevated walkway to the observatory for an amazing view of the universe with the resident astronomer. A truly other worldly experience.

Villas with cadjan roofs are built using sustainable materials like bamboo and have candlelit private pools. “You can seek out other people or stay completely alone.” The six restaurants serve everything from Peruvian-Japanese fusion to homemade ice cream. “A private concierge works every day to make you happy.” Stargazers frequent the resort’s observatory. ( more photos)

Residence exterior

Resort Overview

Serene, intimate, understated, excellent – this special place basks in one of the Maldives’ largest lagoons, blending lavish creature comforts with rustic crafted artistry, and myriad ways to wind-down. Soneva philosophy of intelligent luxury.

Rooms

37

Location

North Male’ Atoll in a large lagoon.

Airport transfer time

20 minutes by speedboat from Male’ Airport.

Accommodation

45 spacious Water villas, each with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, television/DVD player, CD hi-fi, minibar, sitting area, open-air bath and shower, cantilevered and rooftop sun decks and day bed. Villa suites are as mentioned above. The Residences which are larger, with kitchenette, small wine cellar and living room with daybeds. Crusoe residences (without jetty) are reached only by boat.

Facilities

An infinity pool, tennis, table tennis, volleyball and varied water-sports. Fishing trips, a PADI scuba school and Six Senses Spa are all payable locally. There is also a DVD/CD library, shops, underground gourmet & wine cellar, overwater bar, al fresco sand floor restaurant, pizza area and a new Sense by The Sea restaurant offering contemporary Peruvian-Japanese fusion dishes.

Scuba diving

Soneva Gili Resort & Spa dive centre onsite.

Beach description

White sandy beach

WOW fact

Visit the dramatic underground wine cellar with the resident sommelier to develop your palate with some of the best wines in the world. ( more photos)

Velassaru – Maldives

18 August 2010

Velassaru-Maldives

Resort Overview

A member of ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’, reopened recently after a complete transformation into a beautiful contemporary resort. It now offers ultra-stylish facilities, elegant designer accommodation and lovely beaches, ideal for the romantic and a relaxing honeymoon holidays.

Rooms

129

Airport transfer time

25 minutes by speed boat from Male’ airport.

Location

South Malé Atoll

Facilities

Elegant facilities include a brand new oceanfront infinity pool, variety of dining outlets including the main restaurant, brand new Mediterranean and Japanese overwater restaurant, oceanfront Grill, cafe, bar, beach bar and sun-deck, fitness centre, tennis, snorkeling, windsurfing, diving and new unique overwater Aquum spa (prebookable spa packages on request). Snorkeling is possible directly from the beach.

Accommodation

129 rooms, each with air-conditioning, ceiling fan, minibar, telephone, tea/coffee facilities, television, DVD player, sitting area and terrace. Deluxe bungalows are individual single-storey buildings, a few meters from the water with garden bathroom, bath and indoor shower. Beach villas are stunning brand new thatched cottages facing the beach, facilities as above plus espresso machine, DVD player, open-air bathroom with bath and shower. Water bungalows are overwater on stilts, spacious, facilities as above, plus sitting area, canopy bed, indoor shower, bath overlooking the sea, wine chiller and large balcony. Water villas are brand new, overwater, with large balcony, some have a private pool at a supplement.

Restaurants

Oceanfront – Located by the ocean.

Swimming Pools

Small freshwater pool, separate children’s section, stunning sun-deck and bar.

Beach description

White sandy beach.

WOW fact

Affordable designer island, offering a perfect setting to renew your wedding vows. The soft sandy beaches make the most romantic platform to stroll barefoot hand in hand against the water’s edge. (see more photos)