Travel

We arrived at Amilla Maldives and instantly fell into family holiday mode, the kind that makes you slow down without trying.  The team treated us with the warmest welcome, tropical welcome drinks, a personalized buggy, and of course an overwater lobby featuring captivating Maldives views. Our two bedroom overwater villa with a private pool facing the lagoon felt like a bright, airy home on the water with a separate second bedroom, generous indoor and outdoor living areas and effortless lagoon access for snorkels and swims. The villa layout gave everyone space to be together and to retreat when they needed a minute alone. 

Amilla has the polished but playful feel of a boutique escape and it is part of Small Luxury Hotels which makes sense the moment you see the thoughtful details and personalised service. Every morning felt relaxed and luxurious. 

For families who love to be active together there is so much on offer. We loved grabbing the personalised bikes and pedaling around the island exploring the verdant island, chasing the kids to the quiet stretches of sand, and kayaking through pristine clear water.  Our favorite experiences included guided tours with the resident marine biologist which included learning about the ecosystem on the island and an educational and captivating snorkel through the house reef.  Both our children came away wide eyed and proud with new knowledge and memories

There is a brilliant balance between play and pampering. The main pool is stylish and sociable and the state of the art indoor and outdoor fitness centers look out to the ocean so workouts never feel like chores. Sports facilities include professional quality tennis courts and a full football pitch which our kids declared the highlight of the afternoons. The kids club is energetic and creative with painting sessions, nature walks and hands on workshops that gave us pockets of grown up time. 

Service felt impeccable and personal. Our butler took care of the small logistics so our family could linger over slow breakfasts and snorkel trips. Javvu Spa is a calm, decadent retreat when you need a pause, perfect for a sauna and tranquil couples massage.  Dining is a real treat. Breakfasts at Fresh combine a generous spread with a la carte choices so mornings never repeated themselves. Favourite evenings included the overwater Japanese restaurant Feeling Koi and Barolo for authentic Italian dinners that felt wonderfully grown up while still family friendly. 

If you are travelling with children and want both adventure and ease, Amilla is the rare place that manages both. For us it was morning swims in our private pool, sandy afternoons and snorkeling with experts, all wrapped in the kind of service that makes a family holiday feel effortless and special. Somewhere we hope to return again and again.

Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.

Just a short drive from Velana International Airport, The Hive Beach in Hulhumale offers the perfect blend of modern comfort, island charm, and easy convenience. Its prime beachfront location lets guests wake to the sound of gentle waves and panoramic Indian Ocean views, making it an ideal stop for travelers beginning or ending their Maldivian adventure.

The atmosphere is effortlessly relaxing, with bright, stylish rooms that frame the sea and provide all the comforts needed for a restful stay. The on-site restaurant stands out for its diverse menu, featuring a mix of fresh Maldivian flavors and international cuisine, thoughtfully prepared to please every palate. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast with ocean breezes or a quiet dinner after a long flight, every meal is accompanied by warm service and a welcoming island vibe.

For those arriving late or departing early, The Hive Beach’s efficient airport transfer service ensures smooth and stress-free travel connections. It’s also an excellent choice for guests wanting to experience a local island before heading to a private resort, offering a glimpse of daily Maldivian life alongside hotel-style comfort.

With its friendly team, beautiful ocean views, and prime location, The Hive Beach delivers the perfect combination of relaxation and practicality—a peaceful beachfront retreat that’s as convenient as it is charming.

Our stay at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives was the perfect blend of luxury, family fun, and island tranquility, making it one of our favorite Maldivian escapes. From the moment we arrived, the resort’s breathtaking setting of pristine white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and warm, attentive service set the tone for an unforgettable family getaway.

We stayed in a Two Bedroom Beach Villa with Private Pool, a haven of comfort and space ideal for families. Just steps from the beach, it offered a serene retreat where mornings began with ocean views and dips in our private pool. The all-inclusive package made every moment effortless, with an incredible variety of dining experiences. We loved the stylish Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Bluefin, the international buffets at The Gallery, and the authentic, flavorful dishes at Taste of India, truly some of the best Indian food we’ve had in a long time.

Days were filled with endless activities and relaxation. We explored the vibrant marine life on snorkeling excursions, set out on unforgettable dolphin cruises, and enjoyed afternoons at the stunning main pool surrounded by breathtaking lagoon views. A highlight was our visit to the resort’s world-class spa, a sanctuary of calm and indulgence where we experienced an incredible couples massage that left us feeling completely rejuvenated. The resort’s bridge connection to Centara Mirage Lagoon was another family favorite, giving the kids access to the waterpark, lazy river, and outdoor play areas for endless fun. Evenings often included family time at the entertainment area, where we played pool, foosball, and board games together.

We also cherished The Club, an exclusive space for villa guests, offering indulgent breakfasts, afternoon tea, and sunset cocktails overlooking the lagoon. Sunset Social, the overwater bar, became our go-to spot for unwinding with a drink in hand as the sky turned golden and the ocean shimmered beneath us.

From the luxurious and stylish villas to idyllic beaches and comfortable boat transfers to and from the international airport, every detail was seamless. Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives combines elevated luxury with genuine hospitality, creating a magical family experience we’ll treasure forever.

Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.

Returning to Fushifaru Maldives for the third time felt like coming home to paradise. This boutique island resort continues to capture our hearts with its perfect balance of barefoot luxury, family-friendly warmth, and unspoiled natural beauty. Surrounded by pristine white sand beaches and a vibrant coral reef, it’s a picture-perfect Maldivian escape where every detail feels thoughtfully designed and deeply personal.

Our Two Bedroom Beach Villa with Private Pool was an absolute dream, spacious, elegant, and just steps from the turquoise lagoon. Mornings began with a dip in our private pool and coffee on the terrace as gentle waves lapped at the shore. The all-inclusive package made every moment seamless, with an impressive buffet, a curated wine list, and a creative cocktail menu that kept every meal and sunset indulgent.

Days were spent moving effortlessly between the pool bar, where we lingered over leisurely lunches beside the infinity pool, and the beach bar, which transformed into a magical spot by night, complete with movies under the stars and toes in the sand. One of the highlights of our stay was the sandbank experience, a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure where we enjoyed a private picnic surrounded by endless shades of blue.

Fushifaru beautifully weaves Maldivian style and culture into its luxury setting, from locally inspired architecture and art to the warm island spirit that infuses every experience. It’s a perfect reflection of the Maldives’ natural charm, combined with refined comfort and modern elegance.

Our kids were equally enchanted, spending their days at the kids club, playing tennis, and exploring the lagoon through kayaking and snorkeling. Every member of the family found their own rhythm, whether relaxing or adventuring, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both fun and tranquility.

What truly sets Fushifaru apart, though, is its incredible team. The staff go above and beyond to make every guest feel special, greeting us by name and anticipating every need with genuine warmth. Their kindness and care create a welcoming, home-like atmosphere that keeps us coming back year after year.

Fushifaru isn’t just a resort, it’s a feeling. A place where luxury meets heart, where every sunset feels like a celebration, and where our family has made memories we’ll cherish forever.

We already cannot wait to return and are especially excited for the grand opening of Fushifaru’s sister property, Meyyafushi, which promises unique Maldivian experiences at the heart of paradise. If it is anything like Fushifaru, it will be nothing short of exceptional.

Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.

Tucked away in the pristine South Ari Atoll, Radisson Blu Maldives is a dreamy haven that effortlessly blends barefoot luxury with family-friendly comfort. Our stay in the two bedroom beach villa was nothing short of spectacular, a private sanctuary featuring two elegant en suite bedrooms, a spacious lounge, and our own shimmering private pool just steps from the turquoise ocean. Morning routines quickly turned into indulgent rituals with floating breakfasts surrounded by palm trees and gentle sea breezes.

The resort’s all inclusive package elevated every meal into an experience. We loved the endless choices from laid back poolside bites at Eats & Beats, to the stunning overwater buffet with sweeping lagoon views. Lunches were best spent savoring creative tapas at Crusoe’s, followed by discovering the impressive selection of wines, premium spirits, and cocktails across every venue.  Don’t miss Kabuki for onakase overwater and Alifaan for a mouthwatering grill menu.

For the ultimate relaxation, the overwater spa is an absolute must. We booked a romantic couples massage that ended with a picture perfect jacuzzi soak overlooking the Indian Ocean, one of those magical moments that define a Maldives escape.

Our children adored every second, from days spent at the Kids Club to snorkeling, tennis, and water sports. The highlight of our trip were the snorkeling excursions, guided by the resort’s own talented team.  They also feature a on-site Whale Shark Research Center, captivating our children with knowledge about the gentle giants and the importance of conservation. Watching our children light up after spotting whale sharks and graceful mantas was pure joy, an especially inspiring moment for our son, a little aspiring marine biologist.

With its exceptional service, world class amenities, and postcard perfect surroundings, Radisson Blu Maldives delivers an unparalleled balance of family adventure and romantic indulgence, the perfect luxury escape for travelers of all ages.

Contact me at ChristingC@gmail.com if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.

Our stay at Sun Siyam Olhuveli was nothing short of unforgettable, the kind of trip that leaves you sun-kissed, smiling, and already planning your return before you’ve even left. Spread across three beautiful islands connected by bridges, this expansive resort felt like its own little world of barefoot luxury.

We stayed in one of the new Grand Beach Suites on Dream Island, and it couldn’t have suited our family better. The suite was bright, modern, and incredibly spacious, a seamless blend of beachy elegance and contemporary design. The kids were thrilled to have their own bedroom, while we loved having space and peace to unwind, all with the sound of waves just steps from our private pool. These suites are clearly designed with families in mind, and it felt like our own slice of paradise.

One of the highlights for us was the dine-around all-inclusive plan. With restaurants dotted across the resort’s three connecting islands, we loved the sense of exploration that came with each meal. Having the freedom to choose from so many dining options without thinking twice about the bill made every evening wonderfully relaxed. Some nights we wandered down for a casual beachfront pizza dinner, while other evenings were for cocktails and candlelight. The variety kept every meal exciting and effortless.

When it came to activities, we tried to experience as much as possible. The guided house reef snorkel was magical, gliding alongside turtles and stingrays felt like swimming through a nature documentary. The three-point snorkelling adventure was even more thrilling, especially spotting reef sharks in the clear blue. And the sunset dolphin cruise was pure joy. Watching dozens of dolphins play in the bow wake as the sky turned golden was something we’ll never forget. Between kayaking in the lagoon and a few friendly family tennis matches, there was always something to enjoy together.

For a slower pace, the Ocean Spa became our little sanctuary. The hydrotherapy facilities and serene setting made it easy to switch off completely, the kind of deep relaxation you only find on island time. With several beautiful pools, including the Maldives’ longest pool, we were never far from a refreshing dip or a postcard-perfect view.

What truly sets Olhuveli apart is the service. Every single person we met went out of their way to make our stay special, from remembering our morning coffee orders to making sure the kids were having fun. With over twenty restaurants and bars, stunning beaches, and an easy boat transfer from the international airport, Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a dream for families who love comfort, variety, and those unexpected moments of magic.

There are few places in the world that capture both serenity and sophistication quite like Dusit Thani Maldives. Nestled within the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, the resort perfectly blends Thai elegance with Maldivian natural beauty, creating a luxurious island escape that feels both indulgent and welcoming from the very first moment.

From the instant we stepped off the boat, the team’s warmth and professionalism made us feel completely at home. Every smile felt genuine and every detail carefully considered. The thoughtful hospitality instantly put us at ease and set the tone for a truly memorable stay.

We stayed in one of the newly renovated overwater villas, and it was absolute perfection. The design effortlessly combines Thai-inspired craftsmanship with modern Maldivian touches, featuring soft neutral tones, natural textures, and uninterrupted ocean views from every corner. Each morning we woke to the sound of gentle waves and slipped straight into the turquoise lagoon from our deck, a moment that felt endlessly magical.

One of the highlights of our stay was a couples spa treatment at Devarana Wellness. The spa is beautifully immersed in the lush greenery of the island, surrounded by towering palms and tropical gardens that create a deep sense of peace. The treatments draw on Thai wellness traditions and are complemented by the soothing sounds of nature. It was pure bliss and the perfect way to unwind together after a sun-filled day.

We also loved the freedom of exploring the island on our personal bicycles. Every guest is given their own set, and our family spent countless happy moments cycling along shaded paths, discovering hidden beaches, and stopping for impromptu swims. It’s such a simple pleasure but one that made us feel even more connected to the island’s natural beauty.

Dining at Dusit Thani is a true celebration of flavor and artistry. Every meal felt special, from fresh beachside breakfasts to sunset cocktails with panoramic views. Our favorite experience was at the overwater Thai restaurant, Benjarong, where the cuisine was both authentic and refined. Each dish was beautifully presented and full of vibrant flavor, and dining above the lagoon as the sky shifted from gold to violet was completely unforgettable.

Although Dusit Thani feels like a romantic paradise, it is also wonderfully family friendly. Our children were enchanted by the Fun Zone activities and marine adventures, from guided snorkeling sessions on the lush house reef to learning about the incredible marine life that thrives around the island. It’s one of those rare places where both couples and families can truly unwind, each finding their own rhythm and joy.

Every moment at Dusit Thani was elevated by the exceptional service. The team was attentive without ever being intrusive and always found thoughtful ways to make our stay feel personal. From our butler anticipating what we needed before we asked to the restaurant team remembering our favorite drinks, every interaction carried genuine care.

By the time we left, we were already planning our return. Dusit Thani Maldives isn’t just a luxury resort, it’s a place that touches your heart. It blends nature, culture, and heartfelt hospitality in a way that makes every guest feel like part of its story.

Contact me at ChristingC@gmail.com if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.

Velassaru Maldives is the kind of place that captures your heart the moment you arrive. A picture-perfect island surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, it perfectly blends barefoot luxury with warm, genuine hospitality. The ease of reaching the island makes it even more appealing for families, and from the moment we stepped onto the jetty, we were completely captivated by its natural beauty and tranquil energy.

Our overwater villa was absolutely stunning, a serene retreat suspended above the lagoon with sweeping ocean views and steps that led straight into the water. Each morning felt calm and restorative, and every sunset painted the sky in the most beautiful hues. It was the kind of place where time slows down and you can fully disconnect, letting the soft sound of waves set the pace for your day. The villa felt private and peaceful, yet close enough to everything we needed, which made it ideal for a family stay.

What we loved most about Velassaru was the relaxed sophistication that defines every part of the resort. The dine around all-inclusive concept meant we could enjoy a variety of restaurants, each offering its own beautiful setting and menu. We loved the mix of fine dining and relaxed buffet-style meals, which gave us the perfect balance of indulgence and variety. Every meal was a highlight, from freshly grilled seafood under the stars to beautifully plated dishes in elegant settings. The wine list was particularly impressive, with a thoughtful selection that complemented each dining experience perfectly. Evenings at Chill Bar quickly became our favorite ritual, sipping cocktails as the sky turned golden and the sea shimmered below.

Days at Velassaru drifted by in the most blissful way. The main infinity pool is absolutely gorgeous, with sweeping views of the lagoon and plenty of space to relax together as a family. The beaches are some of the most pristine we’ve seen in the Maldives, with soft powdery sand and shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming. Snorkeling around the island was a highlight for everyone, with vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life just steps from shore. We also joined a coral adaptation and snorkeling excursion, where we learned about the resort’s conservation efforts and had the unforgettable experience of swimming with nurse sharks and stingrays in their natural habitat. Watching the children’s excitement and sense of wonder was something we’ll never forget.

Velassaru has that effortless boutique island charm that feels both luxurious and personal. It’s beautifully designed but never pretentious, and every member of the team we met was genuinely warm and welcoming. There’s a sense of intimacy that makes the experience feel special, like being part of a small, hidden paradise rather than a large resort.

Our stay at Velassaru was everything we could have hoped for and more, a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure wrapped in the beauty of the Maldives. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple luxury of being together in paradise. Each moment, from sunrise coffee on our deck to starlit dinners by the ocean, reminded us how magical travel can be when shared as a family.

Tucked away in leafy West London, room2 Chiswick sits perfectly on Chiswick High Road—close enough for easy trips into central London, yet nestled in one of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods.

What I love most is the thoughtful design. Every corner feels welcoming, blending modern style with a homely touch. Even better, it’s London’s first net zero hometel, so your stay is as kind to the planet as it is comfortable.

The rooms are cleverly designed with little kitchenettes, perfect for throwing together a quick snack, while still giving you all the ease of hotel living. If you’d rather be spoiled, the on-site café serves fresh, made-to-order breakfasts that are wholesome and delicious.

But the real magic is the atmosphere. The team greets you with warmth that feels more like staying with friends than checking into a hotel. Whether it’s just for a night or a longer stay, room2 Chiswick is the kind of place that makes you want to linger.

London always feels like coming home. We had the perfect city break at the Westin London City, ideally placed for Borough Market, Liverpool Street and Shakespeare’s Globe, which made exploring local food and theatre effortless.  From check-in the team felt genuinely welcoming; their concierge offered helpful tips and made reservations so our days flowed easily.  Our room was modern and peaceful, the Westin Heavenly Bed a real joy after long walks across the city. 

The hotel’s wellness facilities are a highlight: a tranquil indoor pool, steam room and a well-equipped fitness centre mean you can balance sightseeing with rest.  Heavenly Spa treatments added a luxurious reset and left us ready to head back into town. Dining and drinks at the hotel are convenient and relaxed, but if you want to venture out Borough Market and nearby eateries deliver exceptional choices.

If you enjoy extra comfort and quiet, upgrade to Club Level for access to the Executive Lounge where breakfast and evening refreshments simplify mornings and give you a calm retreat at day’s end.  For a short city break that blends wellness, smart design and superb location, The Westin London City is hard to beat. We will definitely return very soon.

Contact me at ChristingC@gmail.com if you’re looking to create a custom itinerary for you and your family.  I am a fully qualified Independent Travel Agent specializing in luxury family travel and am here to help you create your dream vacation.