Think of the Maldives and clear waters, pristine beaches and a carefree beach vacay come to mind. See our top picks for the best resorts for your celebrations and honeymoon.
Set on the Maldivian island of Kihavah Huravalhi, the resort is a 30-minute seaplane flight from the Male airport and boasts 79 private pool villas either set on the pristine white shores of its private beach or settled over the glittering waters. But its key feature is its stunning underwater restaurant and wine cellar that’ll have you tying the knot amidst shoals of fish and other fascinating marine life.
For more information, visit http://kihavah-maldives.anantara.com or email sales@anantara.com.
Images: Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful and intimate (read: children-free) honeymoon or wedding, then Club Med Finolhu Villas should be on your list. Its adult-only policy means you’ll get to take in the gorgeous eco-friendly structures, beautiful lagoon and enjoy its numerous activities including snorkelling (free), water skiing, sunrise yoga (free) or kayaking at Club Med Kani (free) without the distraction of children shouting or playing about. For complete relaxation, try the resort’s organic spa treatments by Club Med Spa by ILA, or simply spend it lounging in your private villa which comes with a plush king-sized bed,a sun deck, a plunge pool, a spacious living room, and two daybeds (one in the outdoor shower area and another beside the plunge pool), as well as the in-room mini bar (with all costs covered).
For more information, visit www.clubmed.com.sg.
Images: Club Med Finolhu Villas
Home to the world’s first underwater nightclub Subsixx (which also makes for a breathtaking wedding venue) which is six metres below the waterline, the Niyama Maldives Per Aquum is divided into two islands: Play & Chill. The former and newer islands provides 48 villas, tree-top dining and exciting activities for the adventurous couple while those seeking a more relaxed experience should check out Chill with its LIME spa, an African fine dining experience only reachable by boat, and lavish over-water studios set against the glittering waters of the Indian Ocean. Private beaches, butler services and free WiFi throughout the island provided guests with a more enjoyable and memorable stay.
For more information, visit http://niyama.peraquum.com/ or email reservations.maldives@peraquum.com.
Images: Niyama Maldives Per Aquum
Rustic palm-thatched villas give way to luxurious accommodations furnished with creature comforts including sundecks, plunge pools and tropical outdoor showers. The Rehendi Presidential Suite is a sprawling award-winning villa that houses a spacious master bedroom, two living rooms, guest rooms and an 18m fresh water pool with a private sundeck as well as in-room butler services. The pier holds a charming antique wooden pavilion that is inspired by the traditional architecture of the region where couples can renew their vows against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
For more information, visit http://www.tajhotels.com/luxury/exotica-resort-and-spa.
Images: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Like all the other hotels under the W Hotel brand, the W Retreat & Spa – Maldives promises super chic furnishings coupled with luxury amenities. Located on the Fesdu island in the North Ari Atoll, couples can expect swanky villas replete with infinity plunge pools, sleek circular daybeds, and underwater lights that illuminate the aqua landscape beneath the living room’s glass floors at night. Two of our favourite wedding options: The Coral Terrace, a private dining area that extends into the waters and that also serves as a romantic venue for intimate solemnisations, and the Escape package that takes couples on a cruise within the Ari Atoll. Afterwards, take the party indoors to 15 Below, the Maldive’s only underground nightclub, or Sip, a sunset lounge situated on the southwest end of the island.
For more information, visit http://www.wretreatmaldives.com.
Images: W Retreat & Spa – Maldives