Bahrainthismonth.com 104 December 2024 EXPLORING THE MALDIVES The Maldives — a tropical haven of powdery white beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant coral reefs — has long been a dream destination for travellers. On a recent trip to two of the Maldives’ premier resorts, Muna Yousef experienced the intimate, secluded elegance of boutique islands and vibrant luxury of all-inclusive five-star resorts. The Stay OBLU Select Sangeli’s range of elegant villas and suites are designed with modern touches while preserving the island’s natural beauty. The resort features two main types of accommodations: Water and Beach Villas as well as exotic Honeymoon Villas. I stayed in an Overwater Villa with a private pool and could step right off the private deck into the ocean for a swim, snorkel or simply enjoy the tranquility of my surroundings. The villa was spacious with large windows that offered panoramic views of the lagoon. For those who prefer to have their toes in the sand, the beachside villas are an excellent choice. These offer private gardens, outdoor terraces, direct access to the beach and the soothing sounds of the waves. Vibrant Luxury After a scenic 50-minute boat ride from Malé, I arrived at the OBLU Select Sangeli and was immediately greeted by the staff with refreshing drinks and cool towels.The setting was simply breathtaking: crystal-clear waters, powder-soft beaches and stunning villas set the scene for a luxurious stay. Activities With the resort located near some of the Maldives’ most pristine coral reefs, I thoroughly enjoyed guided snorkeling tours. The coast is teeming with marine life, including vibrant corals, tropical fish and even the occasional turtle. Other activities, like paddleboarding and island hopping, provide a golden opportunity to explore the surrounding waters. One of my most memorable moments was a sunset fishing cruise, where we ended up seeing some nursing sharks and, as we sailed along the island’s coastline, watched the sun dip below the horizon – truly breathtaking. OBLU Select Sangeli’s stunning spa, ELE|NA Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, from traditional Maldivian therapies to modern wellness rituals. I enjoyed a therapeutic massage that melted the jet lag away, all while listening to the gentle sound of the waves. Dining One of the standout features of OBLU Select Sangeli is its unique premium holiday plan — The Serenity Plan, which offers guests an allinclusive package to enjoy a range of meals, beverages and activities without worrying about the additional costs. Dining at OBLU is an experience in itself. The all-day dining restaurant, The Courtyard, offers a lively buffet with everything from fresh seafood to international comfort foods. And located on the adults-only island One Banyan are Just Grill, with fresh seafood and meat grills, as well as JustWok – a contemporary Pan Asian restaurant that blew my mind with its scrumptious wok-tossed delicacies, aromatic soups and handmade dim sums. travel With its idyllic setting and luxurious resorts, the Maldives is the perfect place for anyone seeking a tranquil escape, exhilarating adventures or an indulgent holiday. Here’s how two of Maldives’ resorts elevated my experience even further:
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