Bucket list
It’s no wonder that the Maldives is on pretty much everyone’s bucket list. Its 1,192 coral islands, set within 26 atolls spread across the stunning Indian Ocean are as breathtaking in real life as they are in pictures. At first glance, you’d think that each of these islands is a carbon copy of each other, but in fact, they are much more complex and vibrant than one another. So, how does one choose the perfect paradise island to visit? Well, we’ve visited this one for you and if you’ve never been to the Maldives before, this island sets the bar pretty high.
Milaidhoo Island Maldives is a boutique luxury resort in the UNESCO biosphere reserve, close to Hanifaru Bay. With its own coral reef, pristine white sands and barefoot mantra it’s the ultimate place to kick back and unwind. This Maldivian-owned island which opened in 2016 has conservation at the forefront of its mind.
The chic boho-décor, think earthy-rustic meets modern design, is made from responsibly sourced materials and designed by local artisans and designers, while the island’s 50 private pool villas are designed by a local Maldivian architect.
THE VILLAS
What makes this island special is the privacy of its villas making it the perfect romantic getaway. Hidden pathways surrounded by tropical greenery and exotic birds lead up to each villa. Inside, the folding doors open up to the pool and beach offering an indoor/outdoor living space. Service here is also five-star and your own private butler can be reached via your personal mobile phone wherever you are on the island.
THE CUISINE
Milaidhoo is renowned for its fresh, delectable cuisine. With two bars and three restaurants, there’s something for everyone. A must-try, is the island’s signature restaurant Ba’theli. Shaped like a traditional Maldivian sailing boat the restaurant serves up traditional local flavours re-interpreted for the modern palate with fresh seafood. It’s also the only authentically Maldivian restaurant in the entire Maldives. The Shoreline Grill is also a gastronomical delight. Here, your chef will ask you what you fancy to eat and will cook it right up. It also has a Tepanyaki table and a wine cellar. After dinner head to Compass Pool Bar for an evening of live music and artisan cocktails. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the private island dinner or overnight stay is an experience you will never forget.
THE EXPERIENCE
If you’re looking to relax and unwind head to the Serenity Spa where you can enjoy holistic treatments and natural spa therapies offered by Elemis, TheraNaka and, Coola while looking over the sea from the spa’s water villa. Milaidhoo also has an over-water yoga pavilion that hosts complimentary daily yoga and meditation sessions. If you’re more of an adventurist, book a dolphin-watching sunset cruise, guided snorkeling session or a glass-bottom kayak and discover the magical marine life of the island’s own coral reef.
Milaidhoo can be easily reached via a 35-minute seaplane from the international airport in Malé or a 15- minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo domestic airport in Baa Atoll, followed by a 15-minute speedboat to Milaidhoo Island Maldives.
