Latest Travel News Updates: Maldives Today & : Luxury Resorts

Redefining Paradise: My Active Escape to Ananea Madivaru, a New Fitness&Focused Haven in the Maldives

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:21:25 +0500

For many, a trip to the Maldives conjures images of ultimate relaxation—a "fly and flop" holiday spent entirely on a sun lounger. That was precisely my hesitation. As someone who struggles to sit still, I worried that a Maldivian resort would offer little beyond romance and rest. However, a recent stay at the newly opened Ananea Madivaru resort in the North Ari Atoll completely transformed my perception, revealing a world where exhilarating wellness and adventure are woven into the fabric of paradise.

From the moment we landed at Malé’s sleek new terminal, the pace was set by pilots in flip-flops for our scenic seaplane transfer. Upon arrival at the twin-island resort, we were greeted not with enforced digital detox, but with the natural distraction of piercing blue water, lush foliage, and crisp white sand.

A Resort Built on "Slow Glamour" and Activity

General Manager Martin Snee introduced us to the resort’s "slow glamour" ethos—an unpretentious, laid-back luxury that focuses on genuine experience over flashy gimmicks. This philosophy extends to its design and layout. The original island (East) houses beachfront villas, family rooms, and main restaurants, while the newer North island features deluxe water villas and upscale dining, connected by an overwater walkway.

Our home was a stunning deluxe water villa at the northern tip, complete with a private deck, pool, and direct stairway into the sea. While the chic, modern interior by Peter Harper was impressive, the floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean were utterly captivating.

A Dynamic Wellness and Fitness Hub

Contrary to the sedentary stereotype, Ananea Madivaru is built for movement. Our active journey began at the state-of-the-art gym, boasting new Technogym equipment, free weights, and—to my delight—a reformer Pilates machine, all with panoramic ocean views.

The resort's Kandu Spa is a wellness sanctuary. We indulged in the 150-minute signature couples' massage, an overwater treatment that included a foot ritual, full-body scrub, and massage, concluding with champagne under the moonlight. For more active pursuits, the spa's domed yoga platform hosted our unforgettable private sunrise yoga session, with group sunset and aqua yoga available weekly.

Thrilling Adventures on and Under the Water

The resort’s Azure water sports centre is the gateway to adventure. We grabbed complimentary snorkels and kayaks, spotting a spotted eagle ray within minutes. For a bigger thrill, we took out jet skis, where I had a full "Bond girl" moment racing across the bay.

The true highlights, however, were the guided excursions. A snorkelling trip revealed a kaleidoscopic underwater world of vibrant coral, starfish, and reef sharks right off the resort's beach. The pinnacle was swimming with nurse sharks—an awe-inspiring and safe experience sharing the water with these graceful, two-metre-long creatures, alongside gliding manta rays.

Even a sunset fishing trip turned competitive and rewarding. Using simple hand lines, I managed to catch several fish, including a red snapper and a barracuda, which the staff expertly grilled for us the next day—a truly "farm-to-table" Maldivian experience.

Culinary Journeys Across Nine Restaurants

The resort’s nine dining venues ensure your taste buds are as engaged as your body. From wood-fired pizzas at the laid-back Sting Bar to Japanese-Peruvian fusion at Flores, the options are exceptional.

Standouts included the open-fire Flame restaurant, with its savoury cinnamon roll bread, and Kaage, which served a Michelin-worthy tasting menu of traditional Maldivian tuna dishes. Our final indulgence was the ultimate floating breakfast, delivered directly to our villa's pool.

The Verdict: A New Blueprint for the Maldives

As we toasted our martinis at the Paradise Beach Club on our final evening, listening to local musician Anya, my initial concerns felt a world away. Ananea Madivaru has masterfully redefined the Maldivian holiday. It proves that you can have the powder-soft sand and tranquil lagoons and a holiday filled with reformer Pilates, shark encounters, and jet-ski adrenaline.

It’s not just for honeymooners; it’s for anyone who seeks a paradise that invigorates the body, delights the senses, and soothes the soul in equal measure. I went to the Maldives skeptical and left utterly converted.

New Beginnings: Culinary Highlights for January 2026

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 02:17:21 +0500

Discover January’s culinary highlights at Gili Lankanfushi, featuring festive brunches, wine‑paired dinners, seasonal specials, and unforgettable beachfront dining.

The post New Beginnings: Culinary Highlights for January 2026 appeared first on Gili Lankanfushi Maldives.

Turning Waste into Wonder: Inside Gili Lankanfushi’s Sewage Treatment Plant

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 02:17:19 +0500

Sustainability efforts at Gili Lankanfushi include an innovative Sewage Treatment Plant that turns wastewater into reusable water, saving resources and reducing the resort’s environmental footprint.

The post Turning Waste into Wonder: Inside Gili Lankanfushi’s Sewage Treatment Plant appeared first on Gili Lankanfushi Maldives.

Meet Our Hosts – Grant Ruffel

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:57:22 +0500

Captain of Soneva in Aqua

Grant has been captaining boats of all kinds in a multitude of places around the globe for more than two decades. After being in charge of one of the first electrically propelled super yachts in excess of 100ft, he discovered Soneva, and was drawn to the philosophy practiced at the resorts and was excited to continue to play a part in the evolution of sustainability.

Where are you from?

I was brought up in a small fishing village close to Cape Town in South Africa.

What bought to you the Maldives?

Soneva’s philosophy on sustainability combined with the lure of a tropical ocean paradise.

How many countries have you lived in or travelled to?

Around 50.

Tell us about your role as Captain of the Soneva in Aqua yacht?

I am responsible for making sure that Soneva in Aqua is ship-shape and ensuring that guests have the time of their life, filled with unforgettable experiences.

It’s pretty difficult to nail down a set routine for my day – it is one of the cool things about my job!

What do you love the most about your job?

I love being out on the ocean, exploring this tropical wonderland while at the same time working with and meeting some incredible people. It’s amazing seeing guests’ delight and wonderment as they experience something they love for the first time and wanting more of the same.

Describe your perfect day…

It would start by waking up to witness a magnificent sunrise and heading straight out on the yacht’s tender to surf the perfect wave, not too far from the yacht’s anchorage. We’d successfully coach one of the guests’ children into their first barrel while the parents hoot with joy – throwing both arms into the air with a look of pride all over their faces.

After breakfast we’d jump into the water from the transom of the yacht to film the guests swimming alongside the giant mantas cruising around the nearby cleaning station on the way back from our surf. It would be incredible to see guests take to the water with much more confidence and enjoyment following a successful free-diving lesson on the first day of their voyage.

After lunch I’d take the youngest guest (who had been a little intimidated by the reef at the surf spot that morning) and show them how to ride the wake of our tender on one of the surfboards – joined in their new pursuit by a pod of inquisitive dolphins. The dolphins would stay around long enough for us to set up the dolphin sled – enabling all the guests to experience what it feels like to swim alongside these amazing creatures.

In the evening, we would marvel at the beauty of the setting sun and the changing colours of the sky over a picture-perfect deserted island. With the water rich in bioluminescent plankton, we’d decide to head back into the ocean, feeling like Peter Pan as we swim alongside giant mantas, their outlines glowing as they glide past us leaving a trail of stars in their wake.

After an delicious dinner we’d all pass out with a huge grin on our faces and the feeling of deep satisfaction that comes from time well spent. The perfect day, filled with amazing experiences that create unforgettable memories.

The post Meet Our Hosts – Grant Ruffel appeared first on Soneva.

The Sun, Moon and Stars with Petr Horálek

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:57:17 +0500

Astrophotographs from Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani that are out of this world

Born in 1986 in the Czech Republic, astronomer and astrophotographer Petr Horálek has been featured more than 30 times by NASA, in their Astronomy Picture of the Day. Petr specialises in the outreach of modern astronomy, delivering talks to the public that demonstrate how amazing the Universe is, and what can be even seen by the naked eye. A celebrated astronomer, Petr even has an asteroid, 6822 orbiting between Mars and Jupiter, named after him.

A long route brought him also to Soneva Fushi in 2019, and this February, Petr returned to Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives, to capture some stunning astrophotographs of the sparkling Maldivian night sky.

Astrophotography is the photography of astronomical objects, such as the moon, sun and stars. By working with extended exposure times, astrophotography is able to capture hundreds of thousands of occurrences, which are often invisible to the human eye.

This image is the wonderful view of the starry sky from our Soneva Jani villa with an open roof. Yes, it is a real image, with some advanced astrophotography work. The bright star in the sky is Sirius, the brightest star of the night sky, ‘floating’ close to the Milky Way

I tried to use some time and clear skies for some astrophotography, taking some advanced astrophotographs. This unique moment of comet ZTF in the Bull constellation was taken from the platform of Soneva Jani Starstruck. It is some 1,5h long multi-exposure, processed with some mathematical methods. So, I was able to reveal many deep-sky objects

One morning I witnessed a very dramatic, beautiful moonset, against the powerful bioluminescence. I have prepared a multi-exposure sequence of the phenomenon. It will always remind me of one of the most beautiful moments in local nature

The delights of astronomy are a special part of the rare experiences on offer at Soneva. Guests can wander in celestial glory, gazing at the night sky through the lenses of our state-of-the-art telescope. Tucked away from the lights of civilisation, our resident Astronomers introduce guests to the splendours of the galaxies that few have been fortunate to witness.

Retractable roofs in several of the Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi villas mean that guests can gaze up at the night sky, from the comfort of their own abode.

The state-of-the-art observatory at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani offers a star-lit dining experience. Guests can sit back and enjoy great food and drinks as our in-house Astronomer takes them through a journey of the night sky and beyond. Using a 16” telescope that rises from the ground, there is plenty to see, talk about and learn.

About his visit to Soneva, Petr said “it was a pleasure to be here as an expert astronomer.” He shared some incredible snaps that he took during his time in the Maldives, along with the details of what sheer beauty has been captured in each shot. Beautifully, glowing turquoise waters, golden moons, and sparkling stars are spread throughout each photo, showing how incredible our solar system is.

The post The Sun, Moon and Stars with Petr Horálek appeared first on Soneva.

25 Years as a Trailblazer

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:57:13 +0500

First Experiences:

“I was completely blown away. I’d never seen anything like it.” This was Sonu’s first glimpse of the Maldives, flying in with his then-girlfriend, Eva, in 1987. They never looked back. In 1995 – over 25 years ago – they opened Soneva Fushi, the very first luxury resort in the Maldives.

Things were very different back then. “There was only a handful of resorts and they were very basic, with plastic chairs, strip lighting, salt water showers – and all the food came out of tins”. But it was the landscape that captivated Sonu and Eva, who married soon after. “The first time I put my head in the water I was staggered. The colour, the coral, the fish – it was like being in an aquarium.”

A Life Changing Idea…

Sonu and Eva fell in love with the Maldives, and returned time and again, but they soon became disillusioned. “We no longer wanted to support the resorts because we could see they weren’t sustainable. Coral was being taken from the reefs to build villas, for example. We felt we could do something different.”

They were right. “Malé, the capital, was tiny in those days, just a few buildings and a handful of cars. The biggest building belonged to the government. I turned up in my shorts and polo shirt and asked if I could lease an island,” says Sonu, with a laugh. It would take several years before the couple received their wish – but it was worth the wait. They discovered Kunfunadhoo, an unspoilt, uninhabited tropical island far from the established resorts, in the pristine Baa Atoll, and began work on Soneva Fushi.

A New Style of Luxury

“It was obvious what needed to be done. We needed to build sustainably, to protect the coral and maintain the vegetation. We needed to make the menus as fresh and local as possible, to offset carbon emissions and to limit and treat our waste. And we needed to get rid of shoes!” That ethos of sustainability – and of chic, barefoot style – has been there from the very beginning.

“The idea of luxury back then was formality and fuss. It was dressing up for dinner, but we wanted to move away from all that,” explains Sonu. Soneva Fushi introduced a “no news, no shoes” philosophy, encouraging guests to disconnect from technology, kick off their shoes and feel the sand between their toes. It struck a chord with those who were seeking a more authentic, relaxed way to holiday – a way that was also sustainable and had a positive impact.

A Team with a Difference

Sonu and Eva introduced the idea of Barefoot Butlers, a bespoke one-on-one butler service for every villa. “We felt we needed to create a personalised service from the start,” says Sonu, and it was those connections between the team and the guests that further solidified Soneva as a brand that was making waves.

New Resorts, New Ideas

Soneva’s tremendous success allowed it to grow. Next came Soneva Gili (which has since been sold) in 2000 with the first overwater villas in the Maldives, and Soneva Kiri on Thailand’s rainforest-swathed island of Koh Kood opened in 2009. The ethos remained the same: remote areas, extraordinary natural beauty, and a sustainable thread that runs through everything.

Soneva Villa Ownership followed, offering the chance to purchase a private residence in the sublime surrounds of a Soneva resort, and in 2015, Soneva in Aqua launched, a 23-metre luxury yacht with the experience of a villa at sea. 2016 saw the next Soneva resort open in the Maldives: Soneva Jani in the beautiful Noonu Atoll, a 5.6 km private lagoon with overwater villas (complete with signature waterslides) and island villas with endless views of sparkling turquoise.

Next up: Maldives and Japan

Two more resorts will join the Soneva family in the next few years – one in the Maldives, and another on a jungle island in Okinawa, Japan’s tropical south. What ties all the resorts together is the unwavering commitment to what Sonu and Eva call the SLOWLIFE concept, where incredible experiences create unforgettable memories, all with a minimum impact on the natural world. As well as eliminating plastics, introducing water filtration systems and cultivating organic gardens at each resort, other innovations include building in-resort observatories and glass-upcycling studios. The latest scheme is Namoona, which provides funding, expertise and coordination for waste management systems that clean up local islands.

A True Trailblazer…

“We are incredibly proud of this silver anniversary,” says Sonu. “But what we’re most proud of is how our sustainable practices have been adopted elsewhere. Local islanders have changed how they recycle, how they use water and their attitude and approach to food has changed. And to know that we’ve been pioneers in introducing sustainability to the travel industry – that is a fantastic feeling.”

Facts and Figures

Throughout 2020 – 21, Soneva’s resorts will be hosting a calendar of events and celebrations to recognise its ground-breaking achievements and industry firsts.
Since opening, all three resorts have garnered an impressive list of international awards. In 2020 Soneva Jani was included in the Gold List of Conde Nast Traveler’s Best Hotels and Resorts in the world. In 2019 Soneva Fushi was included on the same list, while Bilanz’s ‘best hotel in the world’ award went to Soneva Jani, and Soneva Kiri was named the ‘number one resort in Asia/Thailand’ in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Soneva’s success paved the way for Sonu and Eva’s next brand, Six Senses Resorts and Spas, with award-winning properties in Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Six Senses gained a global following before being sold in 2012.
All Soneva properties are 100% carbon neutral.
In 2008, Soneva began producing its own filtered, mineralised and alkalised drinking water, served in reusable glass bottles, and has since been plastic bottle free.
The Soneva Foundation, launched in 2010, funds over 500 projects and charities. These include: the Myanmar and Darfur Stoves Campaigns, which has distributed fuel-efficient stoves to over 230,000 families; the Soneva Forest Restoration Project, planting more than half a million trees in Chiang Mai, Thailand; and a Wind Turbine project in Tamil Nadu, India, producing 80,000 MWh of clean energy which mitigated 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
Soneva’s latest initiative is Namoona, a partnership with NGO Common Seas in collaboration with the Government of the Maldives and three local islands to radically reduce waste and prevent plastic from ending up in the ocean.
Soneva’s “Waste to Wealth” philosophy, which in Soneva Fushi is focussed on our Eco Centro, means that the company recycles 90% of our waste. Some of the key activities includes composting, building-block making, the maker space where we recycle plastic, and the Glass Studio.
Our SLOWLIFE ethos stands for Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wellness, Learning, Inspiring, Fun, Experiences.
Each of our resorts has its own organic garden where we grow herbs, fruit and vegetables for our restaurants.
Soneva was the first resort to offer observatories for guests to explore the night skies, guided by resident Astronomers.
Soneva Jani has the only overwater cinema in the Maldives. The widest screen in the Maldives is at Soneva Fushi’s Cinema Paradiso.

To view Soneva’s full 25^th anniversary campaign including a curated collection of videos by Bruno Aveillan, and Soneva’s gallery of old photos since 1995, please visit: https://soneva.com/25-years-of-soneva

The post 25 Years as a Trailblazer appeared first on Soneva.

Redefining Family Travel: How Four Seasons Maldives Combines Bonding & Marine Education

maldivestoday — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:36:45 +0500

In the world of luxury travel, the Maldives has long been synonymous with romantic seclusion and honeymoon bliss. Today, however, a new wave is reshaping this idyllic destination. As multi-generational travel rises globally, discerning families are seeking more than just a beautiful beach; they crave meaningful connection and shared learning. Pioneering this evolution, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives has masterfully transformed its two iconic properties—Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru—into immersive campuses for family bonding and marine conservation. Moving beyond conventional kids' clubs, the resorts offer structured, intergenerational experiences that educate, inspire, and create lifelong memories, firmly positioning the Maldives as a premier destination for thoughtful, engaged family travel.

The New Paradigm: Family Travel as a Journey of Discovery

The modern luxury family vacation is no longer about parents relaxing while children are entertained separately. It's about curated experiences that unite all ages. Four Seasons Maldives has built its entire family programming on this principle, designing activities where grandparents, parents, and children can participate side-by-side. This shift responds to a growing desire for travel that fosters genuine connection and leaves a positive impact, both on the family unit and the destination itself.

Central to this philosophy is a deep commitment to the surrounding environment. The Maldivian archipelago is a living, breathing marine ecosystem, and Four Seasons leverages its two distinct locations to offer unparalleled access to it. Rather than being mere spectators, families become active participants in conservation, turning their holiday into a hands-on educational adventure.

A Dual-Resort Campus: Tailored Learning for All Ages

The genius of the Four Seasons Maldives offering lies in its two-resort strategy, each with specialized programs catering to different age groups and interests, allowing families to choose their perfect base or even split a stay.

At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the focus is on sparking wonder in younger children. The flagship Junior Marine Savers programme, designed for ages 8-12, introduces marine science in fun, accessible ways. Children can participate in building coral frames to help regenerate reefs, join guided reef monitoring snorkels, learn about dolphin behavior on spotting trips, and visit the resort's turtle rehabilitation centre. For families who love the waves, Kuda Huraa's renowned surf school offers lessons for all levels, from first-timers to those looking to improve, providing an exhilarating shared challenge.

At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, the programming matures to engage teenagers and young adults. The Trainee Marine Biologist programme for ages 13-18 offers a serious, hands-on dive into real-world science at the resort's advanced Marine Discovery Centre. Participants can assist researchers with manta ray identification using photo databases, participate in coral planting initiatives, and conduct biodiversity surveys—experiences that often ignite lifelong passions for marine biology and environmental stewardship.

Shared Adventures: From the Depths to the Dinner Table

Beyond the core educational programs, the resorts are designed to facilitate effortless family adventure. Recognizing that diving is a dream for many visitors, both properties host PADI 5-star dive centers that simplify certification for the whole family. Children as young as eight can start with Bubblemaker sessions in the lagoon, while parents and older teens can utilize a blend of pre-arrival e-learning and in-resort practice to complete Open Water certification together. The result is the unparalleled joy of a first family dive on the house reef.

For days above water, families can bond over tennis or the increasingly popular padel at Landaa Giraavaru, set out on kayaking or paddleboarding expeditions, or embark on the ultimate private adventure by chartering a yacht for snorkeling, dolphin encounters, or a secluded sandbank picnic. Accommodations are thoughtfully configured for family life, featuring spacious multi-bedroom villas and estates with private pools, living areas, and the signature Four Seasons service that effortlessly accommodates different schedules and dining preferences.

The Ripple Effect: A Legacy Beyond the Vacation

The impact of this integrated approach extends far beyond the duration of a stay. Children return home not just with souvenirs, but with a newfound understanding of marine ecology and the importance of conservation. Families share a unique narrative—the story of the manta ray they identified together, the coral they planted, or the wave they caught side-by-side. These are the threads that weave the strongest family bonds.

By placing family connection and environmental education at its core, Four Seasons Maldives is doing more than adapting to a travel trend. It is leading a meaningful shift in how luxury is defined—from one of exclusivity and material comfort to one of shared experience, purposeful engagement, and legacy-building. In doing so, they are not only creating unforgettable family holidays but also fostering the next generation of ocean advocates, ensuring that the pristine beauty of the Maldives continues to inspire for generations to come.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa: A Bucket&List Escape For All Ages & Forbes

maldivestoday — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 15:57:16 +0500

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa: A Bucket-List Escape For All Ages Forbes

Set on blissful Vagaru Island hugged by the cerulean waters of the Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a five-star, multi-generational haven that focuses on every aspect of a guest’s well being. Here, time seems to stand still as you and your loved ones are invited to get back in touch with your authentic selves and fully embrace the present moment. Find out what makes a stay at the JW Marriott Maldives so transformative.

The Property and Setting

The setting at the JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa is piercingly beautiful, offering not just pristine, soft sand beaches, but also a verdant swathe of tropical trees and flora. The lush jungle canopy peppered throughout the island really accentuates the sensation that you are on a naturally-formed, idyllic island where sand and surf exist in harmony with Mother Nature’s green spaces.

While the resort certainly pays homage to its gorgeous natural surroundings, it puts an equal emphasis on opulence. The overall design of the property mixes natural island elements with contemporary sophistication, creating a sense of luxury that’s grounded in nature. Well-maintained pathways cut gently through lush greenery, connecting the various parts of the resort and villas, while still inducing a feeling of seclusion. The use of stone, wood and thatch showcase a welcoming Maldivian aesthetic, while modern architecture evoke an atmosphere of understated elegance.

Underpinning the personality of the property is a welcoming ambiance that prioritizes solicitous, genuinely friendly service that makes the resort feel upscale yet accessible.

The Rooms

With pristine beaches, cerulean seas and achingly gorgeous sunsets, is there a reason to ever stay indoors for long when in the Maldives? The accommodations at the JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa are certainly up to the task of tempting you to linger inside.

There are 60 thoughtfully designed villas with a beach or overwater setting, as well as a sunrise or sunset option. Each of the airy, sophisticated villas features sky-high ceilings and plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows so you’re never long without your jaw-dropping view. The expansive, modern interiors have plush, comfortable furnishings that will tempt you to curl up with a good book. Though it’s likely that the unobstructed ocean view will succeed in drawing you outside — after all, the warm embrace of the aquamarine waters is just steps away.

Adding to the elevated allure of the villas is the evocative Maldivian design — note how the thatched roofs resemble inverted Dhoni boats used by local fishermen? Inside, warm wooden touches and hues of white and ecru evoke the unspoiled beaches and lush landscape, while hits of gold mimic the playful dance of sunbeams and gossamer, blossom-shaped pendant lights float overhead. Elegant marble bathrooms feature a separate bathtub and shower, a bidet, double vanities and bespoke amenities from Aromatherapy Associates. Come nighttime, pour yourself a glass of bubbly and enjoy a soak in your deep bathtub as you listen to the soft call of the waves. Each villa also comes complete with large wooden decks, private pools and outdoor showers. Committed to ensuring you make the most of your stay, all guests get a personalized Thakuru (butler).

Dining

The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa has clearly made it a mission to ensure guests relish the very best culinary offerings.

Shio

Is it possible to have the best steak meal of your life on a remote island in the middle of the Indian Ocean? Treat yourself to a meal at carnivore-oasis Shio and discover the answer for yourself. Meat lovers should consider ordering the Butcher’s Block, which features a succulent Gold Label Black Angus filet, Sher Wagyu tenderloin (never has meat melted so tenderly on your tongue) and 150-day grain fed striploin with your choice of two sides. To ensure that diners experience an unforgettable meal, the restaurant even offers a selection of different meat knives, salts and six different varieties of butter. The restaurant has an impressive wine list but consider trying an off-menu but highly recommended gin and fresh passionfruit cocktail with your meal — it sets off the richness of the meat beautifully. Nearby bar Wabi-Sabi also has plenty to tempt you with, including unique smoked and Japanese-inspired cocktails.

Hashi

Feast on an array of indulgent and painstakingly prepared Japanese dishes at Hashi. The sushi and sashimi platter (with a side of Ebi shrimp tempura) will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. The “problem” comes at dessert time: tangy yuzu cheesecake, rich matcha cream brulee or a black sesame parfait — what to choose? Do yourself a favor and order all three.

Wine Room

Looking for an epicurean evening that you’ll never forget? Then book a private meal in the Wine Room. This is not your average food and wine pairing. In an opulent private room surrounded by some of the world’s finest vintages, knowledgeable sommelier Lahiru Fernando will regale you with captivating tales of winemaking and intriguing insights into the noble grape. You’ll enjoy expertly prepared dishes like lobster salad, pan-fried foie gras and luscious lamb rack, each paired with a thoughtfully chosen wine from around the globe. As you eat and sip, Lahiru explains — with infectious enthusiasm — what makes the pairing such a captivating combination. If you can only splurge on one meal, this is it. Kosher and Italian wine pairings are also available.

Aailaa

This all-day beachside restaurant has an incredible spread for breakfast, including live cooking stations, gluten-free and special kid-friendly offerings, as well as Maldivian, Western, Indian and Asian fare (note that unlike some resorts, there is no free-flowing bubbly on offer which can be a small bummer if you’re a die-hard mimosa fan). The selection of fruit and fresh juices alone is dizzying — trust me, you’ll want to wear your stretchy pants. The restaurant also serves lunch, as well as an a la carte dinner (complete with vegan options) that also showcases Maldivian, Western and Asian delights.

Kaashi

Featuring what is possibly one of the most enchanting restaurant locations in the whole of the Maldives, this relaxed Thai eatery is actually perched in the trees, hovering serenely above a powdery sand beach on the island’s southern tip. Sous chef Narawat Laksanayame, lovingly known as “Mama,” creates flavorful, home-style Thai fare that will warm your spirit — and your belly. The standouts are the can’t-stop-eating Kao Suey and the refreshing Som Tam salad. The restaurant’s bar, Rum Baan, highlights Thai-inspired rum drinks and boasts a collection of over 90 rums from around the globe.

Fiamma

Sit by the pool and enjoy freshly made Italian food at this laid-back al fresco restaurant. Chow down on beloved Italian dishes like risotto, bruschetta, pasta and pizzas cooked in a wood-fire oven. The classic tiramisu is the ideal end to a tasty meal. Still have room for more? Grab a swing seat at pool-side Horizon bar and sip on a zesty tropical drink.

If the five restaurants and three bars aren’t enough to sate your hunger, the resort also has dining options designed to make your stay extra special, including a Maldivian favorite: the floating breakfast. Is there anything more indulgent that munching on avocado toast and eggs Benedict as you toast the morning with champagne from the comfort of your private pool? The resort also offers BBQ beach diners and Maldivian dinners complete with traditional drum song.

Activities

The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa prides itself on offering guests an abundance of adult and family-friendly activities. The overwater fitness center is small but modern and looks out over a lagoon in which small blacktip reef sharks are often seen. There are also two large pools overlooking the ocean, as well as a kids’ pool at the resort’s Little Griffins Kids Club.

Arguably the most essential activity to add to your must-do list while at the resort is the Spa by JW. Serenely elegant and luxurious, the spa (which also houses a salon for hair care) has large treatment rooms that overlook the ocean and have some of the best views on the island. Each one is designed as a separate island-inspired cabana so you have complete privacy. If you’re feeling indulgent or are celebrating a special occasion, try to book the deluxe treatment suite that has its very own plunge pool, steam room and large rain shower that comes complete with a unique sound library of things like birdsong or rainforest harmonies.

The extensive list of spa treatments promises respite for tight muscles, skin in need of hydration and a spirit longing for relaxation. The Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience is a winner for guests who want to be completely pampered with a restorative full-body aromatherapy treatment that uses a customized mix of therapeutic essential oils. The effects last long after you’ve returned home. The spa also offers daily complimentary activities like sunset yoga, Pilates and meditation classes as well.

Sustainability is a priority at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. Not only does the resort have its own on-site water bottling plant to prevent the use of plastic, it also offers eco-conservation activities and even recently introduced JW Garden. The bountiful garden and greenhouse (which can be toured) grow an impressive selection of herbs, fruits and vegetables which are then used at the resort’s restaurants and bars so you can have a genuine Maldivian farm-to-table experience. Guests can also sign up for a Garden to Glass cocktail class where they’ll harvest herbs and fruit from the garden and then learn how to make a refreshing cocktail and mocktail with the delicious, fresh ingredients.

As you might expect, the resort’s Dive Center has a striking selection of water-based activities to keep guests entertained. Try your hand at scuba diving, day and night snorkeling, dolphin cruises, sunset fishing cruises and more. A nice extra is that non-motorized activities like kayaking and paddle-boarding are free, as are the use of snorkels and fins.

The resort is also very serious about ensuring kids have an equally as unforgettable stay as their parents and boasts one of the biggest kids’ clubs in the Maldives — complete with kids’ pool and a giant wooden boat just dying to be climbed and crawled through. The Little Griffins Kids Club is truly a energy-filled oasis where parents can send their children for the whole day to enjoy unique daily programs that include over a hundred distinct fun activities like handicrafts, pizza making, nature discovery, beach Olympics, kite flying and more. Best of all, children under 12 eat free, enjoying curated menus just for the little ones. Traveling with a teenager? No worries! The resort even has that rarest extra of all: a Teen Lounge devoted to the needs of those 12 and above. It features Play Stations, pool tables and even a teen-only plunge pool. The resort really does its utmost to help kids of all ages feel like VIPs.

The Best Family&Friendly Resort Getaways That Feel Like Summer Camp — From L.A. to the Maldives