Two of a kind
Maldives has always enjoyed a well-established flow of travellers beguiled by the beautifully curated islands, over-water villas and golden sunsets.
Each hotel offers a unique experience, making it a challenge when choosing the perfect getaway for you. Is it better to be within an easy reach of the airport and experience a boutique island, or is swimming with Manta Rays the ultimate goal? Put those pros and cons to rest as the Four Seasons has solved that dilemma for you.
The hotel giant has two unique islands in the turquoise waters – the smaller Kuda Huraa hotel in the North Male Atoll which is accessed via a 25-minute private boat transfer from the airport, and Landaa Giraavaru in Baa Attol which is a further 30-minute seaplane ride from Kuda Huraa.
Both offer a flawless service that the Four Seasons brand is known for, and provide plenty of dining and activity options. However, each destination gives it’s own take on the Maldivian life and culture, which is why majority of the guests choose to split their vacation across both.
The laid-back resort feels like a quaint traditional village, despite housing over 96 rustic villas, some are currently being renovated into modern beach shack spaces. Right now you can book into the recently unveiled Two-Bedroom Beach Pavilion with pool while further 10 Deluxe Beach Pavilions with pool will fully launch by December 2019.
Kuda Huraa Healing Waters treatment
The unique massage is performed lying face up on cushions of warm water. Expert therapist glides her hands under your limbs and uses your body weight to relax and unwind the tired muscles.
Surfing lesson
It might surprise you, but the Maldives is one of the best places to start your surfing journey. With expert instructors on hand, you’ll be catching those waves in no time.
Baraabaru restaurant
Inspired by the architecture of Kerala, this award-winning restaurant combines vibrant Indian flavours with fresh local seafood.
Enjoy getting around this expansive resort on personalised bikes, dine at one of the four fabulous restaurants and relax in one of the 103 enormous villas. Home to an ayurvedic-focused spa, a pioneering Marine Discovery Centre as well as a manta-on-call service – you get an old Nokia phone that will alert you when the sea giants are near the resort. From November you can book into one of their new all-pool water villas that will offer even more outdoor space to watch those golden sunsets.
What to do
Turtle rehabilitation
One of the biggest marine centres we have seen in the Maldives, it is home to multiple injured turtles that are nursed back to health. Don’t miss an interactive and educational talk with their team.
Underwater excursion
This is the first and the only place in the Maldives where you can book in for a submarine tour in DeepFlight’s most advanced model yet: Super Falcon 3S. It takes up to two guests and is piloted by an expert who navigates you through some of the best coral reefs where you can spot sharks, turtles and other marine life.
Ayurvedic consultation
A consultation with one of the islands Ayurvedic doctors is an absolute must. The Indian “science of life” is designed to bring supreme balance to your wellbeing, and after a thorough analysis you will walk away with beneficial diet and lifestyle advice.
What to Wear
From the left: Cecilie Bahnsen dress Dhs5,010; Norma Kamali top Dhs440 and briefs Dhs510; Chan Luu earrings Dhs410; Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses Dhs1,580, Orada bag Dhs4,530; Ancient Greek Sandals Dhs710.
