Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Is A Honeymooner’s Dream Come True | The Escape
Paradise awaits at not one, but two magical Maldivian islands, says Editor, Nina Catt
There’s something to be said about starting married life on a remote tropical island — sun-drenched white sandy beaches; the soothing sound of rolling waves; candle-lit meals for two; and of course, world-class hospitality that’s second-to-none. Take all of that and add in a second island, dolphin-watching cruises at sunset, bespoke spa treatments at your whim, and a personal butler who will gleefully guide you on snorkelling tours of the resort’s remarkable house reef, and you will unquestionably find yourself in paradise. Welcome to Raffles Maldives Meradhoo.
Located a 55-minute flight from Malé International Airport followed by a 15-minute speed boat ride, the journey across the Indian Ocean’s hypnotic aquamarine waters where Pantone’s most sizable colour chart fails to catalogue the variety of blues on display, will eternally be etched into the memory of any newcomer.
Soak up the breath-taking views from the bathtub
Perched on Gaafu Alifu Atoll — one of the largest and deepest atolls, the newly opened resort wins major points for its proximity to some of the world’s most breath-taking reefs, teeming with a magical array of fish and other fascinating marine life who nestle themselves into the protected coral formations. Guests are encouraged to keep an eye out for Apollo, one of the resident turtles who regularly pops up to say hello.
Offering two distinctly luxurious experiences, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is uniquely set across two private islands. Peppered by palm trees, the Beach Island Experience comprises of 21 villas and residences while the Overwater Island Experience, just a moment away by boat, is home to 16 villas and residences that jut out of the water like they were purpose-built for Instagram.
Instagram-worthy interiors come as standard in every spacious villa
No doubt designed to deliver an experience of unparalleled opulence to couples that dream of living life on the water, accommodation on both islands is some of the largest in the Maldives. Boasting private swimming pools, outdoor decks that allow guests to slip from the bedroom into the ocean with minimal effort, over-sized living spaces and lavish marble bathrooms with outdoor showers, accommodation here really is the epitome of luxury.
Laze your days away, post-wedding with bespoke couples treatments at Raffles Spa
Wellness is a key ambition of the resort. Set over the water, Raffles Spa combines Eastern practices with local influences, and offers personalised facials, rejuvenating body treatments and signature manicure and pedicure services. Yoga, Tai Chi and mindfulness sessions are held on a breezy sea-facing deck while an expansive gym awaits those wishing to burn off last night’s glorious dessert selection.
As well as three exquisite restaurants to visit, private dining experiences such as a caviar breakfast on a remote sandbank reached by jet ski, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that couples should most definitely indulge in.
A private dining experience is the perfect way to begin honeymoon life
Once the sun has dipped into the ocean, relax into a chair carved from the sand for uninterrupted views of the open sky. Thanks to its position on the equator, stars from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres can easily be spotted from this slice of paradise. What better way to begin married life than underneath a twinkling starlit blanket, hand-in-hand with your forever love?
From Dhs6,600 per night with breakfast and speedboat transfers; Raffles.com/maldives
Images courtesy of Raffles Maldives Meradhoo