Just a mention of Maldives brings to mind crystal clear seas, stunning marine life, powdery white sand and indulgence beyond measure. But more than just a luxury escape, Maldives also offers a fascinating culture, delicious food and adventures to suit every taste and budget. Here’s what’s been happening in the archipelago, in terms of accommodation, since we’ve been away.
Travel Update
Flights to Singapore and, therefore Maldives, which is just another short flight from Singapore, resumed for vaccinated Australians on November 8. The archipelago’s unique one island, one resort geography makes it one of the most naturally socially distanced destinations in the world. The country remains open to tourists who present a negative COVID-19 test result, and continues to relax restrictions for vaccinated travellers.
With 93% of the country’s resort employees fully vaccinated (and 99% having had their first vaccine dose), Maldives is also one of the world’s safest destinations, and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has granted the Maldives its ‘Safe Travels Stamp’ in recognition of the efforts to implement enhanced health and safety measures, in line with the WTTC global safe travels protocols. The major entry point to Maldives, Velana International Airport, has also received the ACI Airport Health Accreditation for consistent measures in line with ACI’s standards in ‘the new normal’.
Best New Resorts to Visit
In the time since Australians could make their way to Maldives, six new resorts have opened their doors. Here, we spotlight them.
Kagi Maldives Island, Male
A resort best suited to couples, the five-star Kagi Maldives Spa Island takes its guests on a curated wellness journey while indulging in the beauty of the Maldives. It is an intimate all-pool-villa resort, bringing understated luxury and elegant simplicity to the Maldives.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands
Designed by renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, Patina Maldives offers 90 contemporary one- to three-bedroom beach and water pool villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios. Guests can enjoy tailor-made wellness journeys, interactive music programmes, and captivating culinary experiences. Or, for a truly special experience, they can bask in the light-filled James Turrell Skyspace pavilion.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The first Ritz-Carlton in the Maldives has 100 overwater or beachfront villas where guests can enjoy the round-the-clock services of a dedicated aris meeha, or personal butler, who can organise activities such as Maldivian cooking classes, traditional drum performances timed to sunset, beach cricket matches or kids’ arts and craft sessions.
Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Lhaviyani Atoll Thilamaafushi Island
Built on Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa is a playful sanctuary and a true castaway experience with an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna, a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs teeming with wildlife including manta rays and turtles. When you’ve tired of exploring, choose from six restaurants and bars.
Kuda Villingili, Viligilimathidhahuraa
A slice of paradise welcoming everyone, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is a private island you won’t want to leave. The island is home to the biggest pool in the Maldives and offers a wide range of activities including a world-class surfing point and an incredible variety of dive spots, as well as seven dining outlets varying from hawker-style elevated street cuisine to fine dining.
Jumeirah Maldives, Olhahali, North Male Atoll
The newest on this list, Jumeriah Maldives is by the same people behind several of Dubai’s most luxurious properties, including the famous sail-shaped Burj Al Arab in Dubai. Located on an island in North Male Atoll, the property will be accessible by seaplane and motorboat, and all its 67 villas and overwater bungalows (available in one, two, and three-bed configurations) boast panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, some even with private gyms, infinity pools and rooftops equipped with dining areas.
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