Vanity Fair UK - 11.2019

VANITY FAIR PARTNERSHIP

Blues

WINTER

Escape seasonal stress and head for a place where the only blues in

sight are the turquoise tones of the Indian ocean: Milaidhoo Island,

a Maldivian hotspot that’s nothing short of paradise

 T

here’s something particularly magical about

escaping to somewhere tropical during the festive

period. Perhaps it’s the contrast; the sense of

excitement that comes from trading the frenetic hustle and

bustle for serene sun-drenched shores.

To experience this contrast at its peak, head for Milaidhoo

Island. Easily accessible via a 35-minute seaplane journey from

Malé, the 13-acre resort is set in the heart of a UNESCO

Biosphere Reserve in the Baa Atoll region. Encouraging guests

to ditch their iPhones, this Maldivian-owned (and run) island

prides itself on o‹ering an authentic experience that embodies

the culture, spirit and heritage of the Maldives—as well as the

impossible glamour that this destination has come to represent.

Hidden among the tropical greenery and set on stilts over the

crystal lagoon are 30 opulent over-water villas, as well as 20

more on the beach. All feature large private pools, plus an island

host to attend to guests’ every whim. Each individual villa has

been designed by a skilled local Maldivian architect, created

with responsibly sourced natural materials to seamlessly fuse

indoor and outdoor living while ensuring minimum impact on

the precious land and coral reef surrounding the resort.

For a personalised approach, the island is also home to an

innovative “mood dining” concept, which invites guests to

choose from –ive different “moods” (including Sunrise

Awakening and Deep Sleep) consisting of specially curated

menus served across the island. Some are paired with spa

treatments, taken at Milaidhoo’s intimate Serenity Spa.

Families are welcome, although no children under nine

years of age are allowed on the island, making it the perfect spot

for couples—whether it’s a honeymoon or simply a special

escape à deux. There’s even the opportunity to spend a night

under the stars like castaways on a private sandbank.

For more information, please visit milaidhoo.com

Words by JESSICABURRELL

11-19-MilaidhoointheMaldives-Promo.indd 69 17/09/2019 15:57