The Escape | The Paradisial Wedding Venue: Anantara Kihavah Villas
Whether you dream of getting married above or beneath the surface of the ocean, this Maldivian resort has it all
Couples that share an enduring fascination with the ocean and the majestic array of marine life that call coral reefs, home, will no doubt fall in love with the opportunity to say ‘I do’ on a paradise island surrounded by sun-drenched white sandy beaches, and palm trees that appear to sway to the rhythm of a silent song.
Perfectly perched on the rim of the Baa Atoll, Anantara Kihavah Villas is the ultimate island fantasy, where sunsets are outstanding and clear night skies twinkle with a magnificent starlit cloak. Located a 30-minute sea plane ride from Malé, be sure to have your camera ready to capture the Indian Ocean’s hypnotic aquamarine waters, on what will be a magical journey that will forever be etched into your mind.
Lush, tropical greenery encircled by turquoise water awaits
Accommodation here is straight out of a postcard – a vision of beauty in an island-inspired colour palette. Interiors are chic and calming, each space meticulously designed to allow maximum natural light to flood through clear floor panels and oversized glass doors. The other side of that glass? The surrounding natural glory of an otherworldly turquoise ocean, or lush green gardens and white sandy beach – depending on your preferred choice of the resort’s overwater or beach-front villas.
Championing outdoor living with sprawling sun-drenched decks complete with plush daybeds, you’re always just moments away from a refreshing dip in the ocean, or your private infinity-edge pool.
Overwater villas feature sunken glass-bottom bath tubs
All of Anantara’s villas offer the latest in technology via an iPad concierge. Thoughtful touches such a pillow and soap menu, beach bags, sandals and yoga mats, truly make for a personalised stay. Your villa host, on call 24 hours per day, will also ensure every whim is catered to – including unpacking your suitcases into separate his and hers walk-in wardrobes – if you so wish.
It’s understandably challenging to leave your private sanctuary but stray you must – the spa is always a good idea, and perfect for a little pre or post-wedding pampering. Home to the region’s only medical spa, featuring restorative facials, vitamin IV infusions and other detoxification therapies, be sure schedule enough time for a visit, at least once.
With a focus on natural goodness, couples’ treatments take place in glass-panelled pods, allowing guests to take in the mesmerising views of the colourful marine life at play.
The perfect place for pampering
With marine life playing such a huge part in Maldivian experiences, the resort has several wedding ceremony options for couples looking for a unique and memorable celebration. If you’ve always fantasised about an underwater ceremony, but the reality of getting your hair wet doesn’t appeal, SEA, the property’s fine dining underwater restaurant and cellar could be the perfect spot. Six-metres beneath the surface with panoramic views of the house reef, say ‘I do’ with sharks, turtles and tropical fish as your witnesses. Followed by a gastronomic feast, with your human guests.
The resort’s award-winning restaurant, SEA, is located six-metres below the surface
For those wishing to take the plunge, an underwater wedding awaits adventure-seekers. Dive into a dream world beneath the surface which includes presenting your rings to each other encased in a beautiful shell, and signing your wedding certificate directly in front the inquisitive kaleidoscopic array of marine life. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience in every sense.
Dive right in to say ‘I do’
There’s more nature on tap with beach wedding ceremony options, as well as a sunset yacht ceremony, where vows are exchanged backed by the sound of the lapping ocean, and perhaps, a pod of dolphins to wish you well. Visit Anantara.com for more information.
Tie the knot at a barefoot beach ceremony
This summer, and continuing until December 23, 2021 take advantage of Anantara’s Best of Maldives package. From Dhs3,600 per night, for stays of between four to six nights, half board with a dining experience at SEA.
For stays of seven nights or more, a manta ray snorkelling excursion and a stargazing experience (the resort is home to the most powerful telescope in the Maldives) is also included, rounding off the paradisial adventure in the most magical way.
Visit Anantara.com
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