With a traditional Maldivian welcome and more activities to fill your days with than you can shake a coconut at, Jumeirah Vittaveli is the perfect place for all the family to take an energising escape – or slow things down. Everything the Maldives has to offer is served up in the way only Jumeirah can, with fun in the sun and on the water, pampering wellness treatments, diving, and luxurious accommodations. The island escape has it all and more, merely 20 minutes from Male International Airport, accessible across the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean via motorised catamaran.
A REGAL STAY
Touted as a resort of its own, one of Jumeirah Vittaveli’s latest additions, the Royal Residence, stands out not only due to its remarkable offerings – two swimming pools, five bedrooms, a dedicated grill restaurant, an overwater bar, a sunken lounge surrounded by a lily pond – but also thanks to its collection of bespoke paintings by Emirati artist Maha al Mazrouei.
Known for her work in cubism and abstract styles – which you may have already seen on a 1996 UAE postage stamp, in the Burj Al Arab, or the VIP Majlis at Dubai International Airport – al Mazrouei took inspiration from the endless shades of turquoise in the Maldives lagoons and the unique bird’s eye view of the islands dotted throughout the sea to create her stunning artworks for the Royal Residence.Stepping into the residence, guests will see twin paintings portraying a tranquil mood flanking the grand entry, while a more vibrant garden-inspired piece is showcased in the spa pavilion. An exceptional work depicting the marine beauty of the region was saved for the living area of the Sanctuary – distinct accommodation that includes the master bedroom and is set aside for the residing “host” of the holiday.
“I always feel a sense of calm when visiting the Maldivian islands – it’s heaven on Earth,” said Maha al Mazrouei. “I am so fascinated by god’s creation and all the components that you see when exploring the island, I wanted to create an art collection exclusive to Jumeirah Vittaveli to reflect this unique experience,” the artist added.
The new five-bedroom residence featuring bespoke artwork is truly something to experience, but with a going rate of $35,000 per night, its guests will be some of the lucky few.
SWEET SECLUSION
If it’s complete seclusion you’re after, look no further than the Private Ocean Retreats at Jumeirah Vittaveli. Bobbing on the tranquil lagoon a stone’s throw from the main island resort, these spectacular 256 sqm villas are only accessible by boat, affording the utmost privacy during your romantic escape. Complete with private pool, wrap-around sundecks, bar area and direct access to the lagoon, these two-level suites are just the thing for a honeymoon treat or anniversary celebration.
Don’t fancy making the short journey to the island? Have a chef come to you and prepare a private candlelit dinner for two on the outside deck, or bring a Talise Spa therapist and yoga teacher over for a morning of massage and wellness set to the soundtrack of lapping waves. If your idea of romance means a more active bonding experience, you can don a snorkel and facemask to explore the house reef, and qualified divers can explore the five shipwrecks within easy reach of the resort.
Prefer to stay dry? Vittaveli’s semi-submarine allows you to explore the underwater world of the house reef without getting wet; day and night excursions in the company of a dive-team expert mean you can learn the names of the marine life that inhabit this underwater world (rather than simply gurgling through a facemask) and experience the reef like never before.
Suite Memories: Whisk your loved one away for a romantic escape in an idyllic Private Ocean Retreat, located in the middle of the lagoon, only accessible by boat. With the Suite Memories offer you can save 20% of the Best Available Rate. Quote SUITEMEMO when making your booking to take advantage of this offer.