The Waldorf Astoria Maldives, the newest resort to open in the Indian Ocean, promises a true escape from the coalface.
If you’ve not yet been to the Maldives, here is the chance you might have been waiting for. Not only is the Indian Ocean archipelago packed with tiny, paradisial atolls surrounded by vibrant coral gardens, but atop each idyllic setting is a resort where your every whim (well, most of them) will be catered to.
The newest arrival, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, opening July 1, complete with 122 villas, world-class dining and access to some of the best diving and snorkelling on the planet. Located just 30 minutes by boat from the international airport, the new resort is especially easy to reach from Asia, where most flights arrive after the seaplanes have stopped flying.
While you can all but guarantee spacious accommodations – some on the beach and others perched above the lagoon – complete with swinging daybeds, outdoor showers and private plunge pools (for the ultimate digs opt for one of the boat-access-only Stella Maris Ocean Villas, a series of indulgent one-bedroom duplexes), what the Waldorf Astoria is focusing on is dining.
The resort will boast 11 specialty dining venues, which is pretty remarkable for a property in the middle of the ocean. The line up will include treetop dining at Terra, authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Yasmeen, wine pairing meals at The Rock. The resort will also be home to The Ledge by Dave Pynt, a tantalizing new dining experience from the chef behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends restaurant.
Think of it as Cast Away with a few creature comforts.
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