It’s a long way to go. And you might even arrive at night, hop on a boat after changing planes five times and cruise through dark waters. Despite the starry skies, you may ask yourself: Is this going to be worth it? But believe me. In the light of day, the moment you peer from your beach house (or overwater bungalow, suspended above crystalline waters), you’ll not question a thing. The destination, a composite of 1,200 islands (just a few of them occupied, some holding only resorts) sells itself. Strewn island by island across miles amid the marine-rich turquoise-blazing Indian Ocean, the Maldives stretches from the southern tip of India to the equator. Its hotels, considered to be among the best in the world, can be accessed only by boat or seaplane—often via a combination of both. Most hotels lie so far flung amid cobalt-hued waters that no other land mass can be seen from the shores.
Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort is a blissful resort. Contributed by Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort
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My seaplane scoots through the sky as able as a bird. It lands softly in the tranquil waves, then seems to “walk on water” to a pier on the shore. A crowd of brightly dressed staff, musical instruments in action, voices in unison, hands clapping, welcome us with a contagious enthusiasm we can’t resist. We’ve arrived to Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort, even more unique and audaciously inviting than all other Maldives retreats for the way it links two islands with a footbridge, allowing for a kind of two-for-one getaway. Lest you’ve forgotten why we’ve come, Niyama reminds us by naming one island Chill and the other Play. Chill, tending for quieter repose, romantic seclusion and such beckons for those in search of lying about on hammocks, unwinding in the Drift Spa, and staying “at home” in seriously decadent overwater bungalows. On Play, geared for families, active couples and those ever in search of active pursuits, from surfing to zumba, the resort feels more enlivened. Most guests, including us, dally between the two.
Dine beachside at Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort. Contributed by Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort
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During my time at Niyama, I snorkel among a pod of dolphins, eat at an underwater restaurant, nosh in a treetop, go parasailing, luxuriate in the spa, and simply plant myself in the hedonistic surroundings of my oversized, water-edged Pool Pavilion room, a place that seems like the presidential penthouse of tropical residences. With a slew of things to do, champagne flowing, nine restaurants offering every sort of fare, dine-in possibilities, bespoke meal set-ups (think: aboard a dhoni—a classic Maldivian boat— or on a deserted island) and friendly, efficient staff—I want for nothing. But, in the end, what I’ll remember the most about Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort is not the abundance and lavishness, but simply the remote, achingly perfect nature and how the resort, while pampering, does everything it can to showcase its setting with respect and ease.
Kids and couples alike will enjoy the Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort. Contributed by Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort
What we love:
- The resort, though posh, has a casual vibe. I love pedaling my bike across its two delightful islands.
- Each of the resort’s nine eateries is a showstopper. Most dramatic, Asian-focused Nest has a treehouse motif; Edge lies in the middle of the ocean, on the lips of another private island, and must be reached by boat; and Subsix, like a subterranean aquarium, sits underwater, down some stairs, completely flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows for a below the surface, marine-life reality show. Identify fish species as you tipple.
- Guests have an array of accommodation options. Opt for postcard-perfect overwater villas or beach villas—each with a secluded deck meant for midnight dips. Butlers included. Or, for larger parties, ideal for families, partake of a commodious, dreamy thatched roofed pavilion, anchored by its own infinity pool.
- Drift Spa has six overwater treatment rooms, ensuring that whatever healing or relaxing ritual you choose will lead you to bliss. The sense-of-place defined spa, set amid verdant island jungle, set to the sounds of the sea offers everything from energy treatments to result-driven beauty appointments.
- There’s tons to do—or not do. From glorious sunsets to turtle-watching excursions, the retreat captures the attention of every guest.
Info: https://www.niyama.com/
