The Maldives - Just WOW!
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort
Arriving at Male airport, we were welcomed with a warm smile and cool towels, setting the tone for a truly unforgettable stay. We were whisked away to our island resort by speedboat. On the way we passed tiny islands and flying fish. On arrival to Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, we were greeted by drums and at the sand-floor reception we received a welcome shoulder massage!
The resorts spacious over-water villas (starting at 66 sqm) stand as icons of luxury and sophistication, offering uninterrupted views and direct access to the lagoon below. From our private terrace, it was just a few steps into the water, where we could snorkel to our hearts content.
Close your eyes. Breath in. Feel the gentle breeze and the warmth of sunshine. Immerse yourself in the serenity of island life—a world away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday.
This adults-only resort offers couples spa treatments, cinema under the stars, private dining experiences, sunset cruises, island picnics, big game fishing and dolphin cruises. A water-sports centre offers sailing, paddle boarding, water-skiing, wake boarding, parasailing and an electric surfboard! Scuba diving courses are available with PADI certification. You will find some of the most beautiful sights beneath the surface, with colourful corals, sea fans, schools of fusiliers, sea turtles, reef sharks and spotted eagle ray. Sports activities include volleyball, pétanque, beach badminton.
Guests also have access to the resort’s larger sister resort, Anantara Dhigu (suitable for couples as well as families). A traditional dhoni boat operates between the two islands every few minutes. Between both islands there is a fantastic choice of restaurants and bars. The food and service throughout was exceptional. My favourite restaurant was Baan Huraa, a Thai restaurant on stilts over the water. A chilled bottle of Rose as the sun dipped below the horizon was perfect. We toasted unforgettable moments and everlasting memories.
Naladhu private island
Whilst staying at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, I had the opportunity to visit one of the most acclaimed five star beach resorts in the Maldives. Naladhu Private Island Maldives was named the Best Island Resort in the Indian Ocean four years in a row, and in the Top 10 Best Resorts in the World in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards.
With just 20 spacious houses, all with private pool, 24/7 private butler and a no menu dining concept, it is truly special. Guests also enjoy full access to the dining and leisure facilities of Anantara Maldives private resorts, located just across the lagoon. With so much space, you can command your own stunning stretch of powder-white sands that melts into the azure ocean.
'Tranquil days drift by with sailing excursions, picnics on deserted islands, and luxurious spa treatments in house at our private island resort in the Maldives.'
Farewell to Paradise
As our time in the Maldives was drawing to a close, we received a personalised note under our door. The story nearly brought a tear to my eye. I have kept it to this day.
I booked just 4 nights in the Maldives (enroute to Sri Lanka), as I was afraid that I would get bored very quickly, HOWEVER in hindsight, I would advise anyone to stay longer if possible. It is difficult to explain. I completely switched off and relaxed from the moment that we arrived but was 100% content to do so. I was so sad when it was time to leave.
As we bid farewell to Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, we knew that its doors will always be open, ready to welcome us back to paradise whenever we choose to return.
In Conclusion
The property in the Maldives that you choose is very important, as some are small boutique resorts with possibly 1 restaurant, 1 bar, a spa and a water sports centre. This may be exactly what you are looking for to unwind from your normal busy schedule. The larger resorts would generally be busier but have more facilities. You may prefer a resort with a larger choice of a la carte restaurants, like we chose. A resort with its own house reef may be essential to you.
Wherever you stay in the Maldives, it tends to be a no news, no shoes policy! Doesn’t that sound amazing?!
With almost 20 years’ experience of selling this unique destination plus access to the best suppliers and rates available to the Irish market, you can rest assured that I will find the perfect Maldives island resort for you.
