Top 10 Reason Why You Should Choose Maldives For Your Luxury Family Vacation

Loading Maldives Offers....

Any vacation, or holiday away from your own country and city would have one main objective, to have a good time. Most family vacations are focused on taking a break to make good memories together, when usually everyday life is a different route for every individual in the family. Whether it is to relax and unwind, or simply finding some time away from your busy hectic life, Maldives Luxury Resorts are the most privy destinations you can look up for, which will vouch you the perfect hideaway. Get baffled in the private islands, while enjoying the peace and beauty of nature at its best, and listed are our top 10 reasons why you should go for Maldives Resorts.

1. Spend quality time.

Put in your time and effort to make your family and loved ones feel close to your heart. At Luxury Maldives Resorts, all you have is the cloistered islands and time to invest on your family. Watch the golden sunsets, or enjoy some fun activities at the beach where your view would be the infinite ocean.

2. Barefoot island experiences.

The stretch of sandy white on all Maldives Luxury Resorts is all about fun in the sun. Whichever time of the year you come, Maldives is always sunny. Enjoy beach sports with your family, build a sandcastle with your kids, tan away on the white pearl beaches or enjoy your meals on the beach with the waves right next to you and the music of the sea to accompany you.

3. Peaceful heavens.

Maldives, in other words can be described as one of the most sequestrated holiday destinations, worldwide. Offering you private islands where only the Resort staff and holiday makers are accesible of, everything is private and you get to spend your holidays your way, without any disturbance.

4. Excursions.

If ever your stay needs some adventure, get your backpack and wander to the islands near your holiday resort, where you can enjoy and explore the Maldivian lifestyle and meet locals, take photographs to treasure with an island kid from the Maldives. Enjoy your journey with your family while you discover the Maldivian way of life, and experience untouched beaches as you explore.

5. Pollution free environment.

The Maldives, as you know it, is a thread of little islands, where Luxury meets nature. All our Resorts are all natural and does not have any factories, vehicles, or any source of pollution creating industrial processes carried out anywhere near the Luxury Resort islands. You and your family will be safe from all the pollution, in fresh air, where you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

6. Sea and Ocean unlimited.

Whenever Maldives Luxury Resorts are on your mind, most of the content would be about the crystal clear waters and the beautiful underwater life you can explore. So if you have a thing for the ocean, Maldives is the place to spend your vacation. From water sports like windsurfing jet ski and banana boat rides or fishing trips with family, to diving into the coral garden heavens or shipwrecks and snorkeling, Maldives can be enjoyed to the fullest in the turquoise waters with your family since the water stays at a warm temperature of 27 degrees all year long.

7. Kids club.

Imagine your holidays, with no need to worry over a single thing, not even your kids. The Maldives Luxury Resorts offer Kids clubs, so you can leave your kids with trained staff to look after while giving your kids some good fun and activities to enjoy. Your relaxation and intimate moments won’t be troubled.

8. No distractions, just relaxing.

Having your kids around might not be as relaxing if you are in a city where every place has something the kids long for and would go out of their way to get from you. But in the Luxury Maldives Resorts, everything is designed for pure loosening and even the kids will enjoy the arrant peace and harmony.

9. Yachts, the floating luxury.

Well the fact that Maldives is mostly sea doesn’t have to be mentioned, but picture cruising away these waters in a floating yacht. Jumping off the deck and swimming in the middle of the ocean, exploring different coral sites, fishing with your family and having your catch grilled up for lunch or dinner? All reclusive and all that for just your family in an extremely spacious Yacht. Perfect isn’t it?

10. Safe and sound.

Wherever you are, your safety and your family’s well being is most important to you. Maldives has disease controlled environments and the Luxury Resorts are away from civilisation, making it safest to the degree of assurance. Your chances of being attacked by a gun is null because they are prohibited for locals, and most of all, there are almost no land transportation and no space for you or your family to get into an accident at the Luxury Resorts. Keeping safety in mind, Maldives offers you the best of it, effortlessly guaranteeing your kids and family a 100% safe vacation.

Writer: Afza Hassan (ALPHA MALDIVES)

Hong Kong Airlines to begin scheduled flights to Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers....

Hong Kong Airlines is planning to resume flights to Maldives from 1st May, operating as scheduled service. The airline operated Hong Kong – Malé service in 2011 as charter flights.

Airline will use A330-200 aircrafts each Tuesday and Saturday will be targeted for tourists.

Hong Kong Airlines, formerly CR Airways Limited, is a Hong Kong based airline, with its main hub at Hong Kong International Airport. The airline operates scheduled regional passenger and cargo services to 36 destinations in Asia and Europe.

http://maldives.net.mv/8486/hong-kong-airlines-to-begin-scheduled-flights-to-maldives/

Photographs to Treasure - At Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Luxury Resort

Loading Maldives Offers....

A little bit of everything you enjoy during your vacation at the beautiful Maldives Resorts to be carried back home, in a compact box. Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi offers you a personal photographer in the resort, to shoot your barefoot white sand beach walks, sunset silhouettes, or even quixotic honeymoon captures. Select from a motley of different themes, that best suites you and your vacation purpose.

Hilton Iru Fushi is Situated in the northern atolls of the Maldives on a private 52 acre island surrounded by endless turquoise lagoons and the wide open seas of the Indian Ocean. White sandy beaches merge with abundant tropical vegetation creating a cocoon for the villas that are nestled along the beachfront or create a wonderful backdrop for those that are perched on stilts.

Tania, the in house photographer has many different packages to choose from, it may be an hour on the beach or for a whole day of themed photographs. These images not only complement your holiday; you will have a stunning album to take away with you but can also be a creation of images that would better suited to the front cover of glossy magazines. There are limited hours of daylight, so ensure that you book well in advance.

If you are celebrating an important event, then let the resort know! Their team of specialists are able to create something very special for your celebrations; perhaps a sunset romantic dinner on the beach, an extravagant party in one of our suites or retreats, a stunning birthday cake or even a simple bed decoration.

Create your own story, it could perhaps be one of fun and happiness, a celebration of love or even as wild as 'trash the dress'! Take a look at the brochures plus existing gallery and see for yourself. Photographs capture happy memories, fun, laughter, proposals, weddings and celebrations. Memories are what you take with you to the future.

Take reward in not being missed in all photographs of your loved ones, because you were the face behind the camera. Enjoy, have a good time and pose for the camera as the photographer clicks away every moment and every expression. Pack your best moments with you as you go back, taking memories to be treasured, home, with you from this gorgeous Luxury Maldives Resort.

Trash the dress at Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi

Loading Maldives Offers....

Trash the Dress” or “Rock the Frock” is a Photography Phenomenon Taking the World by Storm and it is now in the Maldives at Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa.

Guests have already had the wedding of their dreams and the dress now hangs in a plastic carrier feeling lonely and rejected. Now guests of Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa have the opportunity to dust it off and put it on again for some fun and frolics.

Trash the Dress or Rock the Frock is a photography phenomenon that is taking the world by storm so guests can now bring their wedding dress with them to the Maldives and create some dream inspiring and fun pictures.

Guests can create a masterpiece that will hang proudly on their wall at home, a picture that will bring back fond and fun memories of their stay at Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa. Perhaps they are celebrating a wedding anniversary or you just want to have fun in their wedding dress or maybe they are on their honeymoon and don’t want their special day to end. They can run along pristine white sandy beaches with their own set of props, create images that would suit a surreal pre-Raphaelite approach to painting, have a water fights, catch fish, jump (or be pushed) into swimming pools – Tania, the in-house photographer can create a fantastic library of amusing or serene images.

The two hour shoot is packed full of joy and laughter whilst the ‘bride and groom’ explore the resort and have fun with each other whilst Tania creates the best environment for the images to be taken. Guests can be as calm or as foolish as they wish, it is a fun photo shoot, so they can relax in Tania’s company and use her fantastic eye to bring them a collection of photographs to enjoy forever.

If guests don’t have a wedding dress, but still fancy some fun an evening dress or a ball gown would be equally as fun.

Packages start from $450 and include 60 images.

http://maldives.net.mv/8494/trash-the-dress-at-hilton-maldives-iru-fushi/

W Maldives named ‘Best Maldives Hotel’ by Destinasian magazine

Loading Maldives Offers....

W Retreat & Spa Maldives has been named “Best Hotel in the Maldives” by readers of DestinAsian magazine in their annual Readers’ Choice Awards for 2013.

W Maldives – a private island and luxury playground in a wonderland of white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs. W Retreat & Spa Maldives offers jetsetters an exclusive escape, and indulgence in a pristine seaside sanctuary.

With a total of 2,909 respondents, W Hotels Worldwide has been recognized to provide consistent and unsurpassed standards in excellence and service with three awards which includes W Retreat & Spa Maldives, W Retreat & Spa Bali and W Taipei.

This year, two new award categories have been added: the best individual hotels in Maldives and Koh Samui. “These two island destinations have emerged to become important luxury holiday destinations of travelers in the region and they deserve their own categories in the RCA,” says Ronald Liem.

Steve Delefortrie, Director of Operation at W Maldives said, “When our guests visit the retreat, they expect an experience that is a universe away from the norm. This Readers Award from DestinAsian magazine is a testimony of the service that we provide to our guests on a daily basis. I could not be prouder of the Talent of W Maldives and more grateful to our loyal guests”.

Congratulating winners, publisher of DestinAsian Travel magazine, Ronald Liem said “We would like to congratulate all the winners of the Readers’ Choice Awards. Each one deserves high praise. We salute you for your commitment in providing the best quality of service throughout the year.”

Aquatic Marvels in the Luxury Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers....

Are you planning to unwind at one of the Luxury Maldives Resort on your next holiday? Then a headlong plunge into the blue ocean would be on top of the recommended activity list, that being said is of course with an air tank on your back, a pair of flappers, a mask and a camera if you want to treasure all the beauty you would encounter underwater in Maldives. The marine life and landscape of coral reefs in the Maldives, both as staggering, are frequented by barracudas, trevally and black snapper fish at all seasons. Experience finest diving precinct at Maldives, where there is no limit to majestic rock faces, caves, deep gutters and overhangs, which are caught sight of at more than 600 named dive sites in the Maldives. Engender your stay at Maldives, making a worthwhile trip to the clear waters to dig into all the stunning species waiting to be fancied.

Some of the best reefs are right by the Luxury Maldives Resorts, which are the house reefs, others to be reached by a boat ride no longer than one hour at most within the atoll. These picturesque reefs are famed for manta rays convening on large numbers, seasonal grey reef sharks and whale sharks which make an appearance every now and then. Dappled with overhangs and crevices as well as large boulders the reefs are well known and experienced by dive instructors, and you will be in safe hands while you go on inquiring the waters and their dazing life.

Looking pinpointed at what exactly you might expect to see in a dive at any atoll during your Luxury Maldives Resort vacation, a vast motley of species are spotted in every dive experience. Most charmed divers could spot eagle rays, barracuda, big-eye trevally, eagle rays, trigger fish  tuna and reef sharks. The marine life comprise numerous species of dam selfish, snapper, long-nose hawk fish, feather star fishes. Presence of dainty corals in mostly shallow areas, they are ideal to encounter rare invertebrate species such as nudibranchs, flatworms, leaf fish and frog fish, and more pelagics. The exterior reefs have several sandy inlets and ridges cutting across it, and sandy slopes transpire commonly as popular reef shark spots.

Dive site options in all Luxury Maldives Resorts and nearby areas also include some very dandy and interesting shipwrecks Featuring prodigious array of soft corals in a riot in bright colors, flanked by black corals and gorgonian fans and all the usual The natural dive sites hold overhangs, swim-throughs and caves with chimneys which are worthy probes. The main reefs have a beautiful terrain of coral ridges, usually teaming with schools of flamboyant fish life. There also are bijou bays with sandy patches where gobies, shrimps, dog-tooth tunas, fusiliers and oriental sweet-lips are spotted. Some reef tops are shallower, just perfect depth where you can complete your safety stop among the fields of anemones, soft corals and tunicates, which are bright and vibrant in the sun’s nourishing rays.

Whichever dive site you explore, be prepared to have the time of your life and be startled by all the tiny and huge life you’d be spotting and keeping as great memories treasured in your heart. ALPHA MALDIVES will guide you book the finest Luxury Maldives Resorts offering the best dive experiences, furthermore helping you pick a resort nearest to the type or certain taxon you want to spot underwater during your holiday dive experiences.

Writer: Afza Hassan (ALPHA MALDIVES)

Villa Air introduces the ATR 72-600 in the Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers....

Maldivian carrier Villa Air, commercially known as FlyMe, is about to become the very first operator of an ATR -600 series aircraft in the archipelago. The airline will start operating an ATR 72-600 which has been delivered to the US-based lessor GECAS (GE Capital Aviation Services Limited), the commercial aircraft leasing and financing company of GE, who is leasing the aircraft to Villa Air. The aircraft, after arriving in the Maldives, will perform its inaugural flight between Malé and Maamigili, the main hub of Villa Air in early February.

This new generation ATR 72-600 will allow Villa Air to expand the airline’s fleet and boost service to cities destinations it already flies to: from Maldives’ capital Malé to airports in Maamigili, Gan and Dharavandhoo. Villa Air already operates a fleet of 2 ATR 42-500s aircraft deployed on domestic routes in the islands.

The ATR 72-600 is equipped with a new full-glass cockpit and is configured in a highly comfortable 66-seat layout. The modern Armonia cabin features extra legroom, new seat trim and shapes and wider overhead luggage compartments. In addition to the performance advantages and enhanced comfort, this aircraft will bring additional capacity to meet the needs of Maldives’ rapidly strengthening travel demand and address the sustained growth of the Maldivian travel market.

Qasim Ibrahim, Chairman of the Villa Group, underlined “the importance of offering new standard of comfort to passengers as well as the outstanding inter-island capabilities of the new ATR 72-600. We are delighted to upgrade our fleet with the most modern 70-seat regional aircraft renowned for its environment friendliness. We want to associate our growth to the preservation of the environment in the Maldives.”..

http://www.4-traders.com/EADS-4637/news/EADS-Villa-Air-introduces-the-ATR-72-600-in-the-Maldives-16010277/

Per Aquum appoints Nigel Pace as General Manager NIYAMA, Maldives

Loading Maldives Offers....

Per AQUUM has appointed experienced hotelier Nigel Pace as General Manager of NIYAMA Maldives.

Nigel has over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry with his last position General Manager of the world renowned Singita Safari Collection in the Kruger National Park. Prior to this Nigel was General Manager at the award winning Cape Grace Hotel in Cape Town where he was recognized by the Luxury Travel Advisor’s Awards of Excellence in 2011 as ‘Top General Manager of a Luxury Hotel/Resort Worldwide’.

Per AQUUM Retreats • Resorts • Residences CEO, Neil Palmer comments, “Nigel is a seasoned and highly respected General Manager who brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in the 5 star premium luxury field. We are very much looking forward to having Nigel on our award winning team.”

On completion of his contract, NIYAMA’s opening General Manager Brian Gardiner has returned to South Africa to join his wife and children. Brian continues to be an ambassador for Per AQUUM.

Source: http://maldives.net.mv/8457/per-aquum-appoints-nigel-pace-as-general-manager-niyama-maldives/

World's most romantic islands

Loading Maldives Offers....

(CNN) -- When you want to get away from it all, set your course for these romantic islands, as chosen by Travel + Leisure readers.

Bora-Bora seduces couples with visions of overwater bungalows above a turquoise lagoon. But that's not all: The island offers coral reefs and, should you need backup, the St. Regis romance concierge (duties have included spelling "Marry Me" in coconut husks on the beach).

The Tahitian island has certainly captured the hearts of Travel + Leisure readers, who voted Bora-Bora the No. 1 island for romance, a new category in this year's World's Best Awards survey. Spin the globe, and you're bound to land by one of the top romantic islands.

From the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, they share the powerful ingredient of fantasy. There's nothing like escaping to an island with your loved one to bring out starry eyes in the most jaded traveler. Discover the getaway escape that's right for you two castaways among these top islands for romance.

1. Bora-Bora, French Polynesia

What could be more seductive than an overwater bungalow above a turquoise lagoon? That's the essence of Bora-Bora, a geographically blessed sliver of French Polynesia. At its heart lies the jagged peak of Mount Otemanu; on its fringes, tiny motus (islets) and a coral reef with a swirl of colorful marine life.

Travel + Leisure: World's Best Airlines

Room to Book: Villas 103 to 110 at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort have private decks with whirlpools and outdoor showers.

Table for Two: Order the poisson cru (a local take on ceviche) at the sand-floored Bora Kaina Hut.

Don't Miss: A private snorkeling trip with Diveasy Bora Bora, whose divemasters get you up close and personal with moray eels and giant manta rays.

2. Capri, Italy

Known for its limestone cliffs and waterfront villas, this 4-square-mile speck in the Tyrrhenian Sea fully embraces the concept of la dolce vita. (For proof, look to the afternoon crowds stretched out on the rocks and sipping Prosecco at the glamorous La Fontelina beach club.)

A funicular railway whisks visitors from the main port to the boutique-lined streets of Capri town; privacy-seekers keep heading upward by foot or bus to the quieter village of Anacapri. There, stroll through the gardens of the 19th-century Villa San Michele with only ivy-covered statues for company.

Room to Book: No. 2 at J. K. Place Capri for a roomy terrace and dreamlike water views.

Table for Two: Sign up for a cooking lesson at the agriturismo TerraMMare, where you'll make, and then dine on, traditional island recipes.

Don't Miss: The nightly passeggiata, when well-heeled Italians glide through the streets at sunset before settling in at a bar on the piazza to watch the action unfold.

3. Santorini, Greece

If there were ever a place that could get by on its looks, it would be Santorini. Whitewashed cave houses framed by bougainvillea and backed by blue-domed churches spill down the rim of an ancient volcanic crater; at sunset, the Sea of Crete is bathed in a rosy glow.

Yet as compelling as the scenery may be, Santorini's true appeal lies in its wealth of diversions: extraordinary wines, black (or red or white) beaches and archaeological sites from the prehistoric era.

Travel + Leisure: Best Secret Beaches on Earth

Room to Book: The Perivolas Suite at Perivolas hotel, whose cliffside terrace seems to hover at the crater's edge.

Table for Two: Order the flaky pastry-wrapped saganaki (traditional fried cheese) with fig jam at Assyrtico Wine Restaurant, a buzzy newcomer.

Don't Miss: The richly preserved Bronze Age settlement of Akrotíri, sometimes referred to as the "Minoan Pompeii," which reopened last spring.

4. Kauai, Hawaii

It's the oldest of Hawaii's eight main islands -- and arguably the most dramatic, with scenery that ranges from wind-eroded mountains and red-walled canyons to primeval rainforest and photo-ready waterfalls.

Room to Book: No. 808 at the St. Regis Princeville Resort for unobstructed views of Hanalei Bay.

Table for Two: Share a succession of small plates (slow-braised short ribs; honeycomb with goat cheese) at the laid-back, open-air Bar Acuda in Hanalei.

Don't Miss: A six-hour hike with Chuck Blay of Kauai Nature Tours; you'll learn the myths of every fruit and flower along the way.

5. Boracay, Philippines

Once a backpacking haven with only the most basic accommodations, this 5-mile-long island now rivals better-known Asian destinations such as Phuket and Koh Samui, Thailand. A 45-minute flight from Manila brings you to either Kalibo or Caticlan, where boats connect directly to White Beach, whose powdery sand may just be the softest in the world.

Room to Book: A short tuk-tuk ride from the southern end of White Beach, Mandala Spa & Villas feels like a true retreat, with daily yoga classes and massages included in room rates, along with all the mangoes you can eat. The cliffside Pool Villa has the best vantage point over the Sulu Sea.

Table for Two: Feast on Mediterranean mezes at Kasbah (Station One, White Beach), where pillow-strewn sofas evoke North Africa on the sand.

Don't Miss: Mandala Spa & Villas' Hilot Trilogy, which incorporates an ancient Filipino form of massage.

6. Maldives

This remote Indian Ocean archipelago greets travelers with white-sand beaches, atolls and secluded high-end resorts that lure honeymooners and celebrities. The world's lowest-lying nation has a close union with the sea: Where else would you find a hotel with a coral nursery and an underwater nightclub? That would be Niyama Maldives, a Per Aquum Resort. It has a restaurant reachable by boat only.

7. Maui

Peel back the tropical-paradise façade of this Hawaiian island to reveal a rich variety of landscapes: the otherworldly summit of the volcanic crater Haleakala, the sugarcane fields and farms like O'o Farm, and the 1900s cowboy town of Makawao, with horses trotting down the back roads.

For the ultimate tucked-away-ness, the eastern town of Hana at the edge of a rainforest is like falling back in time -- and after a day out exploring, you two can retreat to luxe Travaasa Hana Maui, a special place that emphasizes the culture and tradition of Hawaii, from the indigenous patterns used in textiles to ukulele and hula lessons.

8. Moorea,Tahiti

The less-visited sister island of Bora-Bora offers an intoxicating blend of rugged jungle interior, blue lagoons and scents of tiare, pamplemousse and vanilla that swirl in the air. It's believed that author James Michener's Bali Hai in Tales of the South Pacific was inspired by the island.

To get the lay of the land, drive up Magic Mountain, and you'll see Opunohu and Cook's bays sparkle below. The Tahitians are typically friendly and open -- and can point you to the wild, coconut-strewn beach where Mutiny on the Bounty was filmed.

9. Vieques, Puerto Rico

The secret is definitely out about Vieques, which promises the key ingredients for romance, among them, a slew of pristine coves and beaches and a languid pace. Portions of the island are designated a National Wildlife refuge -- protecting sea turtles, lagoons and mangroves -- and the island's famous bioluminescent bay is filled with microscopic organisms that flash bright blue and illuminate the water.

The eco mindset here carries through at the intimate Hix Island House, which opened its solar-powered six-room Casa Solaris in the past year, built by Canadian-born architect John Hix.

10. Bali

Bali's been at the apex of the romance circuit for decades, if not centuries, with couples drawn to the mist-shrouded temples, mountainous landscapes, Balinese art and world-famous friendliness of the locals.

The island got a recent boost (as if it needed it) from the success of "Eat, Pray, Love," whose film crew chose the white-sand Padang-Padang beach as backdrop. Just a short drive away from here is the new Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran, with a saltwater lagoon pool.

Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/01/25/travel/most-romantic-islands/index.html?c=&page=4

Top 5 reasons to head to the Indian Ocean

Loading Maldives Offers....

If you’re in need of some warm sunshine right now, there’s no place better to head to than the Indian Ocean.

Here are our top 5 reasons why you should pack your bag and escape to one of our unique resorts or super deluxe hotels.

1. Beaches, beaches, beaches

Imagine the softest white sand between your toes, and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. Your holiday playground is set on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – from Anse Georgette, the private beach at our Seychelles’ Lemuria Resort, to the soft sands of Moofushi.

2. Luxury

It’s hard to resist the idea of a little luxury at this time of year, and Constance hotels offer this in spades. Wonderfully designed rooms, delicious food, stunning locations and an attention to detail means you can expect to find everything you could want in just the right measure.

3.  Sunshine

While it’s freezing cold in the Northern hemisphere, it’s hot and sunny across the Indian Ocean. Immerse yourself in the warmth of the sunshine, and give your body the boost of Vitamin D it needs to restore that delicious sense of well being.

Diving with turtles at Constance Moofushi

4. Diving, spa, watersports

If you tire of the beach or infinity pool, rest assured there are plenty of things to do. From water skiing, windsurfing and tennis to golf and spa treatments, and some of the best diving sites in the world – there’s no shortage of entertainment.

5. Gourmet food and fine wine

The Constance culinary spirit is central to the luxury experience you’ll find at our resorts. Expert chefs use the freshest local produce to create meals of exceptional quality, and our wine cellars are stocked with many inspiring wines that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Enjoy relaxed beach dining during the day before indulging at our elegant restaurants by night.

Find out more about our hotels and resorts on our website, Constance Hotels & Resorts.

2013 Alpha Maldives FAM trip to Maldives Luxury Resort “Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef”

Loading Maldives Offers....

Starting off on a speedboat at the Male’ International Airport, the trip was a 45 minute ride to reach Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef. We were accompanied by one of the resort representatives, the Sales Cordinator at the Airport who was very well inclined and guided us throughout the trip. Smiling faces of the very polite staff were at the Vivanta Coral Reef jetty as we arrived, waving and welcoming each and every client with warm wishes. The island is quite cosy with top notch architecture, we could walk from one end to the other in a few minutes. On arrival, if you are tired, let the resort staff drive you to your villa in a buggy, enjoying the island view. The total 9 acres around the Luxury Maldives Resort can be walked within 10 minutes. As we made our way to the Reef Bar, which overlooks the infinity pool and house reef, I noticed how the island had been named, as the island looked like a piece of beautifully moulded land floating on a coral reef.

At the Reef Bar, couples were unwinding, relaxing with a good read, or a tablet browsing the internet, reading magazines and sipping on a cocktail while enjoying the cool evening breeze. The bar sure gave me the feeling of soothing the senses. We enjoyed a nice mocktail, with cranberry and orange flavor which refreshed us for the upcoming events. After a while to loosen up, we headed out to the main jetty where cranes were flying around making the scene look striking.

As we walked past the infinity pool, clients, mostly couples were lying on the pool sun loungers, some taking a swim, perching away beautiful moments with a spectacular view. Next to the pool is the Open - The Grill and Pizzeria, joined by a walkway bridge. It provides a young stylish interactive experience at the Teppanyaki Grill where the meal is accompanied with flavoured organic sea salts and a choice of different olive oils while the Sushi chef demonstrates his skills at the sushi bar. The seats at Open - The Grill are limited and therefore is available for pre booking. And the Pizzeria offering wood fired pizza oven that dishes out Italian classics all day long. At night exclusive private dinners can be arranged at Open, with slow cooked Italian delicacies savoured under the twinkling and bejewelled night sky.

Next up was a tour of the JIVA Spa, an indian Spa with massage rooms, steam room and retail boutique. Offering face treatments, manicures and pedicures along with body massages and treatments. The all-natural treatments draw on the ancient health and beauty traditions of India, from cultures that celebrate beauty and refinement and honour nature’s precious gifts. All oils and herbs used for all treatments are custom designed exclusively for JIVA. The exotic aromas of spices and fragrant blooms, and the gentle sound of soothing music, will bathe your sense and lull you into a state of relaxed bliss. A salon service in accordance with JIVA is on its way to be opened at Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef.

We, the ALPHA MALDIVES team, went into exploring and examining the categories of villas, and the suite. The Charm - Beach Villa has a grand entrance, interiors with light pastel shades and total privacy. A total of 12 elegant, 58 sq metre spaces. Delight - Deluxe Beach Villa, 16 villas which are spacious and boast of an amazing beach view through large glass bay windows, a space of 66sq meters. Both Beach Villas come with thatched roofs, equipped with large comfortable sea-facing bed, mini bar, well ventilated four fixture toilet with grab bars, glass enclosed shower stall and outdoor shower allowing natural in light and uniquely designed open space. Nirvana - Beach Suite, 2 Spacious 215 Sq metre two bay villas (duplex-140 Sq metres ground floor, 75 sq metres first floor) with thatched roof offering stylishly designed interiors and total privacy. The large wooden deck has a private plunge pool, sun loungers and umbrellas facing the sea and an outdoor rain shower. The Villa is equipped with large comfortable master bed and twin beds,sitting-cumdining area with pantry, three fixture powder room, day bed, elegant workstation, luxurious well ventilated five fixture toilet, glass enclosed shower stall, spacious bath tubs, energy efficient mood lighting and personalized in-room butler service. All of the accommodation spaces were breathtakingly awing, with a touch of nature and luxury added in.

The dive centre, Blue In is situated a few meters from the swimming pool and the diving entrance. It is a member of the PADI International Resort Association. On a daily basis the team of instructors organize different sessions of scuba diving courses from beginner levels to the more advanced ones.  These lessons are held in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish and Japanese. A shipwreck diving site right next to this Luxury Maldives Resort is the favorite part of all diving clients. Snorkeling sessions are free of charge for all inhouse guests and the required instrument will be provided on request.

Latitude is  the all-day dining restaurant of Vivanta Luxury Maldives Resort,serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to all guests. We probed the majestic environment of white sand and  grand architecture with notable lighting which complimented the white dining tables and wooden motifs. Emphasising on Pan Asian cuisine where all main course items are served a la carte from a daily changing menu. The restaurant offers a private dining room along with a wine display, an ideal venue for private wine dinners offering tailor made menus by the Vivanta Executive Chef.

Time was ticking by so fast as we explored the beautiful heaven, it was almost 1700 hours and that, at Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef is the time when some very tame stingrays swim by the beach, and the in house guests get to feed them by hand as they clutter up at the sandy shores and slew around in a friendly manner. We joined in for the very unique experience. The excitement was overhauling as the relatively large sting rays glided on the shore and I fed them with my own hand, which virtually felt like a vacuum cleaner suction when the stingrays pulled in the fish we fed them. The moment was intimate and the feeder can pat on the ray’s head near the eyes before it swims back to the shallow water. The trained staff assisted us, and kept a close watch, as everyone basked the hour. Not to mention cranes flying in and joining for the delicious treats of the feeding session. 

As the sun was almost about to set, the happy and full stingrays swam back to the ocean and all house guests took part in a tug of war friendly game. Resort staff enjoyed along, and took part after which a beach volley session continued. Couples and families socialised and got to know each other in the friendly environment of the Luxury Resort. As we headed off to the Reef Bar to have some snacks and get ready for our departure, the sky  turned shades of orange, pink and purple like an artist painting brush strokes on canvas. The tunes played in the bar were boosting our senses as we enjoyed the atmosphere and drinks, talking away the evening with the very friendly staff and cracking jokes. Guests were having fun and making new friends as some of them danced and played pool at the pool table. Our departure was just as warm as everyone lined up at the jetty to wish us a safe journey back home and set us off with happy smiles.

Writer: Afza Hassan (ALPHA MALDIVES)

Maldives Luxury Resort Constance Moofushi : Moussaka on the beach

Loading Maldives Offers....

Mediterranean food features highly on our menus at Constance Moofushi.

We’ve gathered recipes and influences from across Europe, put them in our basket and brought them over to our idyllic Maldivian island. Some of our favourites include our Asparagus salad, Baba Ghanoush salad, Moutabel salad, Bell pepper chakchouka, Hummus, marinated artichoke and this dish, our famous Moofushi Moussaka.

• Potatoes
• Minced meat – lamb, beef or a mixture of both
• Tablespoons butter
• Tinned tomatoes or 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Grated cheese – cheddar, parmesan or kefalotiri
• Onion, chopped
• Parsley, finely chopped
• Oil for frying
• Salt, pepper
• French toast (friganies), or dried breadcrumbs

For the Bechamel Sauce

• Butter
• Plain flour
• Milk, (warmed, but not boiling)
• Egg yolks
• Salt, pepper
• Grated cheese, cheddar, parmesan or kefalotiri

Preparation

1. Peel the potatoes, wash well and slice into 1/4 inch round slices.

2. Fry the potatoes both sides.

3. Remove from pan and place on absorbent paper to soak up any excess oil.

4. Melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté the chopped onion, fry the ground meat (lamb or beef) until browned.

5. Add the finely chopped tomatoes (or paste), salt, pepper and parsley.

6. Cover and simmer until most of the juices are dried up.

7. Remove from the heat.

8. In a greased baking tray, sprinkle the French toast on the bottom of the tray.

9. Place half the potatoes in a layer on the bottom of the baking tray.

10. Sprinkle 1/3 of the grated cheese over the potatoes.

11. Pour all the mince meat sauce over the potatoes and spread evenly.

12. Finish with the rest of the potatoes in a layer over the meat sauce.

13. Prepare the béchamel sauce and pour evenly over the potatoes.

14. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce and then about 2 tablespoons of the ground French toast or breadcrumbs on top.

15. Bake in a medium oven (180C) for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches a nice golden colour.

16. Remove from the oven and leave it to stand for 5-10 minutes to set before cutting into portions.

Serve with fresh crusty bread and a crisp green salad.

Source: http://blog.constancehotels.com/recipe-moussaka-on-the-beach-at-constance-moofushi/

Tec Diving with Benoit Capitaine

Loading Maldives Offers....

DBI is now able to propose you to learn more about technical diving as well as the possibility to enjoy the many benefits of Rebreather diving all this with the personal attention and excellent quality equipment that you can expect from us. If you want to develop your personal knowledge and understanding of Scuba diving to increase your comfort and safety then tech diving is for you. If you want to push your limits in a safe and controlled manner, explore previously unreachable dive spots then tech diving is for you. And the best news is: it’s easy and everybody can do it! Some of the courses that we are offering are:

The new Recreational, full automatic, electronically controlled Closed Circuit Rebreather (R-eCCR) Poseidon Mark 6 Discovery will allow you to stay down for up to 3 hours enjoying your preferred dive site without to worry about running out of air or having to do long decompressions.

We also offer alternative modes of diving such a Sidemount which gives a great sense of freedom, streamline and relieve the strain of carrying a bulky dive tank on your back.

For those of you who like to spend a bit longer down there but want to remain safe and not exhausted after the dives, give the Advanced Nitrox course a go (PADI Tec40-45). You will see, it’s better than Nitrox!

DBI is now able to offer these courses with the exceptional level of personal service that you have come to expect from us, with very experienced technical instructors that are not Army Drill Sergeants.

Contact us for more information. PADI Courses proposed are: Sidemount, Tec Sidemount, Self Reliant diver, CCR Diver and Advanced Diver, Tec 40, 45 and 50 Diver.

More advanced levels and private guide or technician services are also available for private yachts. Let the tec take care of your rebreathers setup and maintenance and simply enjoy using it!

For more information please visit : http://www.divebutlerinternational.com/
Source: http://www.divebutlerinternational.com/2012/09/tec-diving/

Little bit About Dive Butler International (DBI)
Dive Butler International are pioneers in the field of true luxury ‘Rendezvous’ diving, being the first of its kind to provide ‘Rendezvous’ luxury scuba diving instructors, private personal scuba guides, diving  itinerary services, dive management and consulting services across the world to super yachts, charter companies, luxury 5 Star resorts, VIP individuals and the luxury scuba diving market.... Read more