When freedom feels so fragile these days, there’s even more beauty to be found in escaping somewhere safe from external intrusions, a place where paradise brings privacy and a tropical islet invites freedom.
And few places feel as out of the way or out of this world as the Maldives... Fans of this Indian Ocean enclave will already have acquainted themselves with the Waldorf Astoria Maldives’ fondness for fuss-free elegance and quiet opulence, but now, to take luxury isolation to the next level, the property has opened Ithaafushi - The Private Island.
At 32,000 sqm, it is the largest private island in the archipelago and sets the benchmark for seclusion, exclusivity and personalised service. So, what awaits you on your not-so-little plot of five-star sand? A speedboat from the main island will shuttle you over to your sprawling estate, where you can lay claim to a bed in one of two stunning villas and a four-bedroom residence, all sweeping enough to sleep 24 guests, designed with family or friends in mind.
Across the island you’ll have three swimming pools, Jacuzzis, indoor and outdoor rain showers, a shared ‘living room’ – Haali – and 360-beach access at your disposal, as well as lush gardens and coconut palm canopies.
Choose to spend your days cocooned in seclusion fuelled by your own culinary team, swimming, dipping and sipping your way through myriad island experiences, from snorkelling or sailing to sunset yoga and castaway sandbank dinners. Freedom has never tasted this good.