Travel

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is the ultimate luxury destination, and a perfect choice for families who crave exceptional service and true five star amenities. Our memorable journey began from the moment their friendly staff met us at Velana International Airport, and escorted us to the comfortable VIP lounge. Toys and a playmat were immediately set up for the children while Dan and I were greeted with a lovely video message from our butler. After a delicious breakfast spread and a few cups of much needed caffeine we boarded our seaplane and enjoyed clear blue views of the Maldives on our way to our dream resort.

Our butler and plenty of friendly staff were there to greet us upon arrival and even brought gifts and treats for the children. We were in absolute awe from our first buggy ride across the island admiring the grand dining venues, alluring facilities, and dreamy surroundings. Nothing could have prepared us for the luxury of our two bedroom villa. The identical design can be booked overwater or on the beach and boasts plenty of space for a family of four or more. Each villa is designed with all the modern and stylish details we could desire. Grand bathrooms with a deep bathtub overlooking the ocean, sumptuous plush bedding, expansive terraces both downstairs and upstairs for relaxing, dining or just enjoying the surroundings. The refreshing plunge pool added the perfect touch and we loved that lights, temperature, sound, and blinds could all be controlled from the provided iPad.

When we actually pulled ourselves away from the deluxe villa, we enjoyed snorkeling, hunting for crabs and shells, and Ever and River loved the indoor and outdoor play areas at the beautifully designed kids club. Our personal butler assisted us daily by reserving our meals and spa appointments and ushering Ever and River to and from the kids club for planned activities. While Dan and I indulged in the picturesque hydrotherapy pool and a relaxing couples massage, the kids were led by staff in pizza making, crab races and so much more.

Dining options were endless from the indulgent and abundant breakfast each morning to lobster burgers, on the beach, or a Middle Eastern feast at their intimate and private pop-up restaurant, Cargo. The Whale Bar served some of the best Bloody Mary’s we’ve tasted and was where we witnessed spectacular sunsets and a grand champagne sabering display each evening.

It’s impossible to fault this incredible resort, with their attention to detail in every aspect of your stay. If you are looking to book the trip of a lifetime and truly treat your family or loved one, this would be the ideal choice.

After a scenic domestic flight and lively speedboat journey, we arrived on the island of Reethi Faru. This little slice of paradise is both beautiful and natural, showing the true beauty of the Maldives. A melodic, beating drum led us to the cozy reception where we were treated to fresh cold coconuts and friendly faces. Reethi Faru offers very cost efficient all-inclusive and dining packages which are great for groups and families. We loved the variety of options from cocktails at the Sunset Bar to fine dining on the beach. Our beach villa was spacious and had plenty of room for our little family of four. The best part was the beautiful patio and private jacuzzi right on our back step. We were only a few sandy feet away from clear turquoise waters and the colourful house reef was abundant with fish and marine life. Exploring the island we found small coves on the beach with sparkling calm water, suitable for beginner swimmers and toddlers. Ever and River spent the entire day hunting for shells, dipping into the ocean, only to return to our villa for a bubbly session in the jacuzzi. The staff were so kind and accommodating throughout our stay and great with children. A truly memorable spot for a Maldivian escape.

After a picturesque speedboat ride through the Indian Ocean we arrived at an island oasis, Taj Coral Reef. The natural island is completely walkable and has a distinct feeling of being on your own private island. Our spacious and rustic beach villa came complete with a marble bathroom, outdoor shower, relaxing terrace and direct access to the sandy beach and clear blue waters. Service was impeccable at Taj Coral Reef from check-in and restaurants to the detailed turn down service. Mornings were spent indulging in a decadent breakfast and swimming in their refreshing infinity pools and afternoons were occupied with beach lazing and snorkeling. Daily feedings meant we saw an abundance of marine life everyday. The kids came in close contact with stingrays, reef sharks, and friendly herons. The food is a true highlight at Taj, with the Indian and local Maldivian flavours as our favourites. We had such full days and restful sleeps during and made so many unforgettable memories. A perfect getaway for couples or families seeking a restful and beautiful resort.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma is the perfect little island escape in the Maldives. After a short boat journey you’ll find yourself in a white sand beach paradise with all that you had hoped for during your stay. We loved our cozy beach house complete with picturesque views from the balcony, relaxed private space downstairs, and only a few steps to the clear blue waters and white sand. The best part about the resort is all the activities offered ensuring you’ll get the most out of the country’s beauty and marine life. You can sign up for anything from surf lessons to dolphin cruises, snorkelling tours, and even night fishing. Our kids loved the splash pool at the kids club and snorkelling with turtles alongside their expert guide. Sunsets are epic whether they’re enjoyed from the beach or the luxurious sunset cruise, and the food was delicious and varied for all palettes. We often get asked about affordability in the Maldives and I truly believe Holiday Inn Kandooma is one of the best options. There’s no shortage of postcard worthy beaches and you’ll see all the marine life you can imagine. A variety of room categories ensures you will find something within your budget and is very suitable for larger groups. Their dining packages are perfect for groups or families and you can even add the Stay Spirited package to enjoy wines and cocktails throughout your stay. A lively and friendly resort we would love to visit again.

We kicked off our month in the Maldives at the fun and idyllic Finolhu. The beautiful island boasts stunning villas over the turquoise water, long white sand beaches and epic views, as well as mouthwatering dining options. We were instantly in awe of our dreamy and luxurious water villa complete with a large relaxing deck, decadent bathroom, a plush oversized bed, and steps straight into the ocean. Long sunny days were spent exploring the marine life, lazing in the lively main pool, splashing in the clear blue water, and indulging in a variety of cuisines and cocktails. The kids couldn’t get enough of the family friendly Oceaneers Club, where children were entertained with a full schedule of activities. The friendly staff made sure they had an unforgettable time doing everything from snorkeling and cooking classes to meeting a real life mermaid. Highlights included the mouthwatering seafood at the resort’s Crab & Fish Shack, cocktails at sunset, the picturesque sandbar, and the friendly and accommodating staff. A Maldives resort that offers luxury and fun for everyone from couples and groups of friends to families big and small.

https://www.finolhu.com