Where do I even begin? We had a super amazing 8 day trip to the Maldives and it was just too overwhelming that I couldn’t even bring my thoughts together. It was a trip of a lifetime, something I’ve been planning for a while now, then ended up booking 2 weeks before. It was a whirlwind of actions, everything happening too fast and then we were there…
Maldives doesn’t need any introduction. With its breathtaking seascapes, white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise blue water, It’s no surprise that it has become one of the most popular destinations among wanderlusters and a consistent item in everyone’s bucket list. As the place is very remote and secluded, guests are ensured to enjoy a tranquil and stress-free retreat.
Planning involved a lot of comparative research. There are too many choices when it comes to selecting your resort and location and it could be nerve-racking. If I only have one chance to go, then I know I have to make it as perfect as possible. Since I am an elite Marriott Bonvoy member, I guess it was logical to keep my choices within its group of hotels. They have various resorts all over Maldives and there’s a good variety of options.
I based my choice primarily on reputation and excellent reviews. I was contemplating between the ritzcarltonmaldives and the St. Regis Vommuli Resort, although I was leaning towards the former. Both are stunning category 8 hotels. I opted to trust my gut and went with RC and I couldn’t be happier because it did not only impress, but far exceeded our expectations.
The resort is located at North Male Atoll and part of Fari Islands multi-resort destination, in collaboration with other two equally best in class hotels, Patina Hotel and the soon to open Capella. Alongside are shops, restaurants and a beach club accessible to guests of all three hotels.
From the time we set foot at Male airport until the time we checked in for our return flight, we never had to carry our luggage. A 45 minute ride on a nice and cozy speedboat was the final leg of our journey to reach the fabulous resort. It was November and the tail of the monsoon season, so brief, sporadic drizzles or showers are to be expected. Our arrival was not spared and made us miss the traditional conch Maldivian welcome ceremony, instead we were directly escorted to our villa. Check-in is normally at 3:00pm, we arrived at 10:00 am and our villa was all prepared, waiting for us. No spoiler moment. We took it as a welcome blessing and a chance to freshen up and prepare for the start of a super exciting week. A delicately crafted birthday cake (they knew I was celebrating a birthday), along with a bottle of champagne, some delicious sweets, a fruit platter, a welcome note and a birthday card await a round dining table.
The resort embraces a “Circle of Island Life” theme as reflected by the circular shapes prominent around the island. The whole property spells luxury, style and sophistication, yet never intimidating nor uncomfortable. While the design may be contemporary and minimalist, the mood is very homey and welcoming. Every single detail was meticulously thought about. Every corner is spotless. Maintenance and upkeep is apparent all around, every day. The most basic villa offers at least 1600 sq ft of space, which may be more space than one’s entire home. We stayed at one of the overwater villas, equipped with our own infinity pool, a lounge net or hammock dangling over the crystal clear water, a direct access to our own private beach and the most spectacular view in the world. I could lay all day just staring at the gorgeous scenery.
Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks at the mini bar are on the house and are regularly refilled. Technology is state-of-the-art and everything is on trend as the hotel is still basically brand new. Each guest is assigned a bike which they can use to explore around. But you can also request for a buggy service if biking along the overwater boardwalk does not really excite you.
More than the opulent and grand surroundings, the one thing that truly stands out in this resort is the impeccable and top-notch service that is comparable to none. The whole staff literally treats you like royalty, always going above and beyond, always aiming to please, always offering a helping hand. This is something we’ve never seen anywhere else we’ve been. Everyone was polite, friendly and very respectful. How they greet you (no fail) with a smile and a hand to chest gesture, is such a heartwarming sight to witness each time.
All guests get their own butler, or ‘aris meeha’ in Ritz language, who takes care of all your needs and is at your disposal, whenever, wherever and however. A housekeeping team is also assigned to keep your villa clean and re-stocked at all times. Cleaning is done every morning and a turn down service is done every night to prepare your bed for sleeping. Each night, our in villa attendants would surprise us with treats like premium signature chocolates, linen spray in soothing scents and luxury toiletries, which always added an amusing and sweet touch.
The resort offers various wellness experiences geared towards stimulating your senses and rejuvenating your body. They have a daily sunrise yoga which is complimentary for all guests. A variety of relaxing massage and signature spa treatments are available at the spherical shaped spa, dramatically nestled over an aquamarine lagoon. On the opposite side of the property, there is a 24 hour fitness center that is not only equipped with modern facilities and supervised by a knowledgeable fitness specialist, but also overlooking a stunning view of the ocean. If that is not inspiring enough… I don’t know what else is.
There are 5 onsite restaurants and bars featuring international cuisines prepared by world class chefs. The Ritz Kids Club provides an indoor and an outdoor playground, a pool and daily activities. If your idea of fun involves water sports and underwater activities, head to the dive center and enjoy a wide selection of action-packed water adventures and excursions. All non-motorized water sports are free of charge. There’s a tennis court available for tournaments and private lessons and a photography studio for portrait sessions and workshops. Complimentary boat services to the Fari Marina Village are available daily on schedule.
The resort hosts 2 cocktail nights a week, one for all guests and another exclusively for elite members. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres are served at no cost. A Maldivian cultural sunset ritual is performed every night at the Eau Bar. On Tuesday nights a traditional Maldivian buffet dinner is available at the Beach Shack for guests to indulge in, along with an ethnic dance performance by a local group. Buffet dinner is for a price but everyone is welcome to enjoy the show.
While this trip was not inexpensive, despite booking by point redemption, the thorough details, world class ambience and exceptional service made every penny that left our pockets unquestionably well worth the value we got in return. This trip has created an indelible memory that will never be forgotten for years to come.
Our flight back was at 10:50 pm, and although check out was at 12nn, we never had to transfer or move to a waiting area. Instead, we were allowed to stay in our villa up until the time we left. How considerate and thoughtful can that be? At the airport, a hotel representative was waiting to assist with our luggage and check-in and never left until we were fully settled and ready to go to immigration.
With a heavy heart we left, but secretly made a pact to come back in the not too distant future… so no goodbyes... just see you again... and hopefully soon!
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