While the Maldives’ exotic and isolated shores along the Indian Ocean make it a hot destination for luxury travel, it’s what lies beneath the water’s surface that really draws people in—a kaleidoscope of colorful fish and coral.
For luxury clients looking to satisfy their inner Jacques Cousteau, One&Only Reethi Rah Resort offers 29 different dives available through the Reethi Rah dive center, a PADI-certified center for adults and children ages eight and up. The program also has a complimentary dive instruction session.
Here’s a sampling of some of the dive experiences available: The Bodu Hiti Thila is a 30-minute dive suitable for both beginning and experienced divers. It takes you through the Hiti kandu (channel), which sports light yellow and blue coral, ridges with overhangs and tunnels and sandy bottoms. What wildlife will one see, you ask? Fusilier, snapper, tuna, grouper, some white-tip reef sharks and turtles. Those traveling between December and April may also find manta rays. Note: When the current is strong this dive is only suitable for experienced divers.
The Eri Faru dive travels through the protected marine area of the Makunudu kandu that will let divers get up close with lobsters, seastars, white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays and moray eels. Venture to the side slope for the schooling blue-stripe snapper. This tour is ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. While it is calm, a good current will bring along plenty to please your diving diva.
For those who choose to remain on land or take a break from marine-touring, the One&Only Reethi Rah is uber-luxe in its own right, which is why it has had notable guests like Elizabeth Hurley and Sienna Miller. Sitting on one of the largest islands in the North Male Atoll, all its 130 detached villas have ocean views and personalized hosts.
Where to Stay: We hear the Grand Water Villa is the best suite. It is perched on the lagoon, surrounded by water hammocks, platforms for sun beds, a private pool and covered outdoor dining, plus sunset views.
The spa has 10 treatment rooms; two are on the water and designed for couples. Nice Touches: There’s also a spa garden and Chi Pavilion for yoga and meditation. Feeling crispy from the sun? The Reethi Rah Sun Ritual uses sea salts and cooling oils to stimulate circulation and soften the skin.
Reethi Rah has three restaurants, Reethi Restaurant, Tapasake and Fanditha. All are open to locals. Health-conscious guests will enjoy the Well-Being Menu, designed with the help of One&Only’s resident nutritionist.
Bottoms Up: Reethi Rah recently announced an exclusive partnership with Yumegokoro Sake Brewery to produce an exclusive limited-edition sake, Naraman Daiginjo by One&Only Reethi Rah.
The resort is accessible by the airport at Male, the Maldives capital, 22 miles away. A luxury yacht transports clients to the property on a 75-minute trip.
Note: Those arriving by private helicopter also can land at the airport at Male. Contact General Manager Stephan Killinger ([email protected]; 011-960-664-8800) with specific questions.
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| Over-The-Water Villas provide plenty of luxury for land lovers. |