The Maldives seems to have had an image change, thanks to the pandemic. Once the go-to destination for diving and surfing enthusiasts, the untainted paradise has resurfaced as the glamorous Tulum of the East, becoming a magnet to jet setting Indians (and every influencer worth his/her following) who are on the lookout for ’grammable locations.
While wandering its white beaches and soaking up its cerulean sea are still recommended activities, here we shortlist five exclusive experiences that will have you googling the next flight to the archipelagic nation.
Dine at the world’s smallest restaurant
Located on a lagoon and accessible only by a three-minute boat ride, Taj Exotica’s Ocean Pavilion in Maldives is one of those magical places to reserve for your big romantic sundowner. Comprising all the ingredients of a dream proposal, the champagne arrives here as you take your place at the socially distanced, overwater restaurant that features all the privacy in the world with the perks of a customised menu and dedicated butler.
For reservations, see Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives
Watch a movie under the stars
Lounge on a hammock or park yourself on a reclining beach bed on a balmy Maldivian evening to watch your favourite movie as the night sets in. Outdoor cinema experiences with the waves as your surround sound are offered at hotels such as the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, The Standard, the two Soneva properties as well as the Six Senses Laamu. You’ll never want to go back to Netflix & Chill.
For reservations, see Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, The Standard, Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Six Senses Laamu
Take a digital detox
The W Maldives’ two-day Robinson Crusoe experience on the private island of Gaathafushi is not the castaway experience that Defoe immortalised. Located in a tech-free zone, with only one resort phone available, you can switch off and reconnect with nature, or settle in for a candlelit dinner for two. There’s also the digital detox package at LUX* South Ari Atoll resort and villa that requires you to leave your iPhone in a black box. If you manage to stay away until check-out, an amount of your bill is donated to the local community.
For reservations, see W Maldives and LUX* South Ari Atoll
Live in a bubble tent
Made for the times we live in, Finolhu’s bulbous Beach Bubble tent is located on a quiet sandbank in Baa Atoll and comes with its own shower and washroom. Its see-through, polyester fabric allows for a good night of stargazing complemented with a private barbecue on the beach. Reminiscent of Scandinavia's famous glass igloo hotels, the view from its starlit beach is as breathtaking as the Northern Lights.
For reservations, see Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives
Dance the night away at an overwater club
A disco ball in the bathroom sets the mood for your stay at The Standard. The millennial-friendly hotel also features a glass-bottomed dance floor at their overwater Beru Bar, where you can watch a Boduberu (a Maldivian drum made from a coconut tree trunk) drummer perform every day at sunset or settle in after-hours for a Pontoon party boat to cue your moves to the waves underneath.
For reservations, see The Standard Maldives
Also read:
6 hotels to book in the Maldives if adventure sports are on your mind
