The Maldives’ idyllic South Ari Atoll has a new luxury destination with the opening of lti Maafushivaru.
Starting to get cabin fever? We get ya. Whether you’re in self-isolation officially or you’re just doing your best to avoid people while COVID-19 does its best to reach every corner of the world, many of us will be daydreaming of where we’ll travel when this is all over (whenever that might be). If you’re looking for a spot of inspiration, a new resort has opened in the heart of the Indian Ocean playground of the Maldives.
READ: Time to Perfect Your Ice Driving Skills
After an extensive renovation of an existing five-star resort, the luxurious lti Maafushivaru has flung open its doors, a 25-minute seaplane flight from the international airport at Male.
A picture-perfect Maldives locale, lti Maafushivaru boasts 81 new guest villas, scattered on the beach and perched above the lagoon. Entry-level Beach Villas feature private sea-facing sun decks and semi-open garden bathrooms with rainfall showers, while Water Villas are perched over the lagoon. Travellers wanting their very own hideaway can opt for the Beach Villa with Pool or a Duplex with Pool, which include a private plunge pool overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean.
READ: Breitling Updates Top Time Collection
If you can drag yourself away from your villa, with its private sun deck, king-size bed and cavernous bathroom, you’ll also find world-class dining. Head to Moodhu Grill, lti Maafushivaru’s signature restaurant, for fresh meat and seafood and a range of dishes from the tandoor oven; or make a beeline for Umi, which offers an over water teppanyaki experience.
There’s also Cielo, set above the Water Bar, with its all-day Mediterranean-feel menu; Las Tapas, which serves lighter lunchtime bites beside the main pool; Cuisine Gallery, home to Mediterranean cuisine infused with local and regional flavours; and the Water Bar, where you’ll find sundowner cocktails and old and new world wines.
READ: Explore Botswana and Zimbabwe on Safari with Wilderness Safaris
Of course, if you’ve become a fan of social distancing, the resort’s castaway island, Lonubo, is perfect for lazy picnic lunches and snorkelling excursions in search of migrating whale sharks. Alternatively, head to the Océane Spa, with its overwater treatment rooms and sublime wellness treatments, many using Yonka and VOYA organic skincare products.
The extensive menu offers signature couples therapies as well as single massages, facial and body treatments, using VOYA’s organic skincare line and Yonka products for skin care. A range of Spa care programs are also available and can be personalised, depending on the length of stay and tailored to each guests’ needs.
If you’re feeling particularly active, there’s a fully certified PADI dive centre, trips to local islands to experience Maldivian culture, and sunset cruises that are guaranteed to fan the flames of passion.
Something to look forward to, right?
For more Travel inspiration click here.