The latest luxury resorts slated to open this year in the Maldives promise unique experiences and gorgeous facilities
1. SAii Lagoon Maldives
Due to launch this summer, one of the latest new resorts in the Maldives – just 15 minutes from the airport by boat – is part of Crossroads Maldives, the island nation’s first integrated resort. As well as their own SAii Aroma Lab where you pick your own amenities, the resort will feature the first Maldivian branch of iconic Ibiza night spot Café Del Mar.
2. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Slated to throw open its doors in July, this 122-villa resort will feature a strong F&B programme with 11 dining venues. A highlight is The Ledge by Dave Pynt – from one-Michelin-starred Burnt Ends in Singapore – a barbecue spot serving up elevated dishes like za’atar crusted yellowfin tuna.
3. Baglioni Resort Maldives
Italophiles will enjoy this 96-villa property from Italian hospitality group Baglioni Hotels. From the handmade bath towels by Frette to the bubbly from Ferrari Trento, Italian brands are the stars at this resort. Their PADI Gold Palm 5-Star Diving Centre is led by Italian scuba diving expert, Alessia Pagani.
4. LUX* North Male Atoll
This recent arrival was conceived by Singapore design company Miaja. Each of the 67 double-storey villas – think understated yet luxurious with wood-toned accents and pops of colour – features a private pool and rooftop deck. One even has its own private dock.
5. InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
September 2019 will see the launch of this hospitality group’s first foray into the Maldives. Along with 81 villas and residences, it will house six dining and drink establishments and The Retreat, an adults-only sanctuary with its own pool and a bar.
6. The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah
Set on Gaafu Alifu Atoll, the latest Residence launches in June. The two-kilometre-long island houses 173 beach and water villas, each with a private pool, and is connected by bridge to The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi.
7. Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
Due to open in August this year, Emerald Maldives’ 120 villas sit on a 20ha private island. For little ones between four to 12 years of age, the complimentary 1,500m2 Dolphin Club has an outdoor playground, kids restaurant and pool.
8. The Nautilus Maldives
At this uber-exclusive resort with only 26 beach and ocean residences, every house has a separate living room and bedroom – most of the furnishings are custom-made for the property – and its own freshwater outdoor pool.
Singapore Airlines and SilkAir fly to Male daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: 8 Maldives resorts promoting sustainable, eco-friendly tourism
This article was originally published in the June 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine
