Take a peek at anyones dream vacay bucket list, and we bet our right arm that the Maldives will make an appearance. Because who doesn’t want to wake up to tranquil cerulean waves lapping at white powdery shores, palm trees swaying in the salty sea breeze, and nothing more strenuous than an afternoon snorkelling sesh to look forward to? So you can imagine when the chance to spend four days swanning around not one, but two, pristine Maldivian islands landed on the desk at Honeycombers HQ, I had to elbow the rest of the team out of the way to bag my seat on the plane.
A smidge under five hours from Singapore, the Maldives is just close enough to make it a viable long weekend getaway. We flew with Singapore Airlines who now operate 14 flights per week to this paradisiacal archipelago; getting there has never been easier. Upon arriving in the capital of Male, you’ll have a tad more travelling to do prior to reaching beachy bliss. There are numerous resorts a mere boat ride away (more on that later) or, to experience true remoteness, you’ll need to hop on a seaplane.
Though an extra 40- to 60-minute flight might not seem like a great idea having already completed a five-hour schlep, a ride in these teeny-tiny planes is an experience not to be missed. Be prepared to have your breath taken away by the stunning views of crystal-clear waters spattered with white sandy beaches and tropical islands. Though the additional cost will bump up your vacay bill, rest assured that what awaits on the other side is totally worth it.
Our first location, the stunning resort of Angsana Velavaru, is a 40-minute seaplane ride from Male. This remote, family-friendly island sits within a stunning lagoon and has nothing to break that beautiful vista other than the rising and setting sun. As soon as I set foot on its powdery shores, reality became but a distant memory and I immediately slipped into the Maldivian leisurely pace of life.
Though there are numerous traditional Maldivian villas dotted around Velavaru (ideal if you’ve got kids in tow), my luxury InOcean villa was a short boat ride from the main island. The custom made jetty houses 34 huge, private villas and is surrounded by turquoise waters teeming with multi-coloured fish. The only audible sound being waves gently lapping against the wooden structure. Paradise? You bet’cha!
Each pad is spacious, modern, and comes complete with an infinity pool, a hammock suspended over the ocean, and a huge freestanding bath. Head on up to the roof and you’ll find even more space where in-villa spa treatments or dining can be requested. A giant floor to ceiling glass wall ensures uninterrupted views across the ocean are guaranteed. Oh and did I mention the staircase that leads straight into the lagoon? #Livingthedream.
A packed itinerary including sunset cruises and dolphin watching awaited, but alas! The weather conspired against me and I found myself victim to what I thought was the worst case Maldivian scenario: rain. And not just intermittent showers; relentless downpours, a sky so black it looked like the apocalypse was nigh, and deafening thunder rumbles. Plans scuppered, the weather opened up an interesting conundrum: what on earth is there to do in the Maldives when it rains? I was about to find out… and the answer was surprising.
Firstly, being trapped in a villa with nowhere to go, intermittent Wifi, and only myself for company, provided a rare opportunity to just be. Languorous baths, endless cups of tea, unlimited hours to read; I had forgotten the joys of switching off entirely. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I felt this relaxed, ever.
Secondly, the Maldives is still extraordinarily beautiful no matter the weather. That ocean is still as warm as a soothing bath (and mind-bogglingly blue), the sand is still pristine white, and the general temperature never really dips below 27 degrees. Life is always a beach in the Maldives.
Finally, there is still a tonne of stuff to do! In no particular order I had the pleasure of snorkelling among rainbow-hued coral and fish, witnessed giant stingrays being fed from the shoreline, enjoyed the freshest lobster during a moonlit dinner, got pampered within an inch of my life at a heavenly outdoor spa, sipped on a fresh coconut while watching the moody sky, walked the shoreline as gentle waves lapped at my feet, spotted numerous turtle nests with hundreds of eggs just waiting to hatch, and cooked up a storm at a Maldivian themed culinary class (we created a delicious curry I’ve subsequently made several times since returning). I managed to pack so much into these two days it felt as though I was away for a week.
After returning to Male on yet another fantastical seaplane ride, we were whisked to our next destination – Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru – by speedboat (James Bond; in your face). A Banyan Tree welcome is like returning to a home you never knew you had; expect warm greetings and huge smiles. I knew I wouldn’t want to leave before I’d even stepped onto the jetty.
This tiny island (a mere 20-minute walk to circumnavigate) channels luxurious, tranquil, and stylish vibes, it’s also blessed with epic views across the ocean in every direction. And my beautiful villa was the epitome of Maldivian chic. Think king-size four-poster bed, stunning outdoor shower, my own private pool and jacuzzi, and french doors that opened out onto the most beautiful stretch of dazzling white sand. The rest of the resort is equally breathtaking (palm-lined sandy tracks, cosy bar, beautiful lagoon… you get the gist); perfect honeymoon destination? Hell yes.
Maldivian life is luxuriously slow and with each passing moment I felt myself descending into a state of complete and utter zen. But for the restless, there is still plenty to do. My personal highlight of this island was getting up close and personal with marine life. The snorkelling is – unsurprisingly – spectacular (and though we couldn’t partake due to the weather, word on the street is the diving is also second to none). Vabbinfaru’s reef is a little further from the shore, and deeper waters meant an introduction to a slightly scarier underwater encounter: sharks! Though eyeballing the first one was a hairy moment, it quickly became apparent these beauties were vegetarian and more interested in darting in and around the coral then trying to nibble on me. Phew!
The animal action continued on land thanks to the turtle sanctuary run by the resident team of marine biologists. Learn more about these cuties and, if you’re savvy and coordinate your trip with the hatching season, there is even the chance to help release these little guys into the big wide world. The stingray feeding frenzy also continued at Banyan Tree. Every day at 6pm a group of hungry rays flock to the jetty looking for a feast. The marine team provides a fascinating insight into these amazing creatures, while also serving them up the finest leftover fish from the kitchen (even the rays get spoiled!).
Whether you’re planning a chilled family getaway or a lovey-dovey romantic break, these two resorts have got you covered. I’d always wondered whether the reality of the Maldives would live up to the picture perfect postcards, and after spending four blissful days here I can confidently say it doesn’t. It’s better – even in the rain!
Angsana Velavaru, InOcean Sunrise Pool Villa, USD1,480 ++ per night at Best Available Rate (Full Board including breakfast, lunch and dinner). Seaplane with Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) USD460++ per person.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Oceanview Pool Villa, USD1,069++ per night at Best Available Rate (Full Board including breakfast, lunch and dinner). Return Speedboat transfer to Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru USD150++ per person.
Singapore Airlines flies 14 times weekly to Maldives with fares starting from SGD518. Book now at singaporeair.com.
This article is brought to you in partnership with the Banyan Tree