Milaidhoo Island Debuts Overwater Bungalows In The Maldives
The newest Maldives resort, Milaidhoo Island, is ready to welcome its first guests. Here's a look inside the highly anticipated property.
Milaidhoo Island's five-star experience extends beyond room service and thread-counts. In addition to 50 spacious villas and residences, the resort wants the property to feel like home — yes, they hope you kick off your shoes.
To reach this luxurious private-island resort, fly into Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (MLE), and the resort will arrange the next leg: a 30-minute scenic flight via seaplane.
For accommodations, choose from 30 overwater bungalows (800 square feet) or 20 serene beach villas (950 square feet). There's no bad choice here, as all villas have private swimming pools and an island host is ready and waiting to tend to your every need.
Local architect Mohamed Shafeeq designed the property, and each villa was built in a contemporary Maldives style to emphasize spacious outdoor living. Bonus: the villas open up 180 degrees to maximize the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The resort features three restaurants and two bars. The signature eatery, Ba'Theli Lounge and Restaurant, is perched on stilts in the ocean and shaped like a dhoni, a traditional Maldivian sailing boat. Dine al fresco on the "deck," or indoors where you can watch the marine life through glass floors.
Even the resort's spa is overwater. Book a massage in one of four treatment rooms set over the lagoon. Daily complimentary yoga and meditation classes are also offered.
The property also offers a collection of experiences called Milaidhoo Moments. Should you want to fish in the glass-clear Indian Ocean, a dedicated island host will arrange for a local to take you out. Sign up for cooking classes and pick local herbs alongside the chef.
Perhaps best of all, the resort's marine biologist will show you the underwater splendor of this 13-acre location amid the Baa Atoll, part of a UNESCO Biosphere. Sure, mantas and whale sharks regularly cruise by. Those need no explanation. But as for the smaller wonders, the scientist will explain the clownfish's relationship to its anemone home, and why certain angelfish seem to stay still as inch-long goby fish nibble their skin clean.
After all, the new luxury isn't just about coming back refreshed, but with memories never to be forgotten.