Forget preconceived notions of the Maldives being reserved for giddy-in-love newlyweds. This Indian Ocean archipelago is also a paradisal playground with plenty of fun and activities.
Within the heart of the Indian Ocean lies The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious accommodations, this island retreat offers an escape like no other.
Arrival
As our seaplane from the Maldivian capital of Male touched down on the pristine sands of Miriandhoo Island, we were greeted by the Westin team with a warm Maldivian welcome. The resort, located the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, seamlessly blends modern elegance with the natural beauty of its surroundings.
A Walkable Paradise
What sets The Westin Maldives apart is its intimate size. The island is small enough to explore on foot, making it easy to discover its hidden gems and secluded beaches. Every stroll is a journey through paradise, where lush greenery meets the azure waters, and each turn reveals a new stunning vista. The walkability of the island adds a layer of convenience and charm, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the serene environment.
Accommodation
The Westin Maldives offers a range of spacious villa types, each designed to provide an oasis of comfort and tranquillity. We stayed in a beachfront villa, nestled among lush greenery, which provided a private escape with the gentle lapping of the waves as our soundtrack. The villa featured a private pool where we could cool off under the tropical sun, as well as direct access to the pristine beach just steps away.
Dining
At The Westin Maldives, dining is an experience to savour, with four unique restaurants offering a delectable array of international and local flavours. Island Kitchen serves a diverse menu of Asian, Maldivian, and European dishes in a relaxed, open-air setting. The Pearl takes you on a gastronomic journey to Japan. Hawker brings the vibrant tastes of Asia’s street food to your plate, while Sunset Bar provides the perfect backdrop to toast the day’s adventures with handcrafted cocktails as the sun sets in a blaze of colours.
Exploration
Whether we sought adventure or relaxation, The Westin Maldives catered to our every whim. Staying in a beachfront villa offered the unique opportunity to snorkel directly from the beach. The house reef, teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life, was just a few steps away. Exploring the underwater world so close to our villa was a daily delight.
One of the most unforgettable experiences during our stay was swimming with manta rays. These majestic creatures, with wingspans that can reach up to seven meters, glide effortlessly through the water, creating an almost otherworldly experience. The resort offers guided excursions to Hanifaru Bay, a renowned manta ray hotspot, where we could witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Another highlight was the sunset dolphin cruise. As the sun began its descent, casting golden hues across the sky, we set sail. Soon we were met by pods of playful dolphins showing off their acrobatic displays as we sailed through the pristine waters. The cruise, complemented by refreshing beverages and light snacks, was a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.
Relaxation
To unwind after a day of snorkelling, we were treated to a massage at the resort’s Heavenly Spa by Westin. Tucked away in a corner of the island, the spa is a haven of relaxation. As the therapist’s skilled hands worked out the knots in our muscles, the view of the turquoise waters below us, along with the gentle sounds of the ocean and the fragrant aroma of essential oils, transported us to a state of bliss.
Departure
As our time at The Westin Maldives came to a close, we bid farewell to this island paradise with a sense of gratitude. The memories we made – from swimming with manta rays to indulging in sunset cocktails – will stay with us long after we’ve returned home, beckoning us back to this island haven.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, this Maldivian gem promises an experience that is nothing short of magical.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
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