Magic in the Maldives

It's impossible to know just how many weddings were postponed in 2020, but "many thousands" is close enough. Along with cancelled nuptials came plenty of cancelled honeymoons, followed by months of couples waiting, wondering and re-imagining their trips. Whether you missed out on a honeymoon, big anniversary or romantic journey abroad, it's time to re-plan and go big. It's time for the Maldives.

There are few destinations more idyllic than this pristine archipelago, made up of 1192 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. It's a place of endless superlatives - the clearest waters, the starriest skies, the whitest sand - but that's because these statements are all true. This is one of the most beautiful countries you'll ever see, and with only about 200 of its islands inhabited, it's also the kind of place where you can literally spend the day on a deserted tropical beach. Where you can snorkel for hours in a world of hawksbill turtles, whale sharks and other undersea magic. Where you can dive into the jewel-like Indian Ocean directly from your bedroom patio. All of these dreams (and plenty more) await, so here are two of our favorite spots for an ultimate honeymoon in the Maldives.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli


On the private, rainforest-covered island of Vommuli, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli stretches out luxuriously along the coast. The resort's lush, eco-conscious design fits organically into the greens, blues and warm ivories of the landscape, with a total of seventy seven accommodations resting on both land and water - all served by a team of discreet private butlers.

When you're not lounging with a book (the resort's library boasts over 800), you're likely to spend morning, noon and night in your bathing suit. The Vommuli Dive and Watersports Center will set you up for everything from stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling to windsurfing, deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom kayaking. When you're ready to go below, The St. Regis offers diving lessons and certification so you can explore Vommuli's very own reef. Private boat charters can also be arranged - including aboard "Norma," the resort's four cabin luxury yacht - allowing you to customize an island hopping journey at your own pace.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommulis' many gourmet dining options are ready to satiate your appetite whether you've been out adventuring or relaxing at the spa. From a hidden subterranean restaurant and authentic Italian cuisine to cocktails in the architectural wonder that is The Whale Bar, you may end up planning most of the day around your next exquisite meal. After all, who wouldn't want to wake up to a breakfast of poached eggs with orange hollandaise and shaved black truffle?

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli



JOALI Maldives

Uber-chic JOALI Maldives sits slightly further north on Muravandhoo Island, and is another ideal destination for newlyweds - especially those interested in conservation. This design-focused resort was built around as many trees as possible, preserving 1000 of them in the process; it also funds the Joali Reef Restoration Program, which actively invests in reef health throughout the region.

JOALI Maldives offers a variety of elegant accommodations including beach, water and family villas, as well as over-water "Ocean Residences" that boast three bedrooms and two pools. When you're not experiencing revival in the renowned Espa Spa, you'll be out on the marine adventures of a lifetime. Speed across turquoise waves on jet skis or wakeboards, get a bird's eye view of the islands by parasailing or go (somewhat) underwater on a semi-submarine. PADI diving courses are also offered, as well as private excursions with the resort's Marine Biologist, which give guests unparalleled opportunities to learn about the colorful and biodiverse world beneath the waves.

In the evenings, expand your knowledge further by cooking local recipes alongside chefs in Her Kitchen. When you're in the mood for Japanese, Saoke (designed by Noriyoshi Muramatsu) awaits, while Michelin-star chef Theodor Falser and his team offer up exceptional Italian cuisine at Bellinis.

Finally, as the only art-immersive hotel in the Maldives, JOALI Maldives collaborates with local artisans to both revive Maldivian traditions and offer guests nature-inspired artistic experiences. You can find it all - romance, adventure, relaxation and even your creative side - on a trip to this ultimate tropical paradise.


Ocean Residences, JOALI Maldives

Ocean Residences, JOALI Maldives



SELECT
The following hotels are ideal for a Maldives honeymoon. While there, enjoy special bonus amenities made available to you through SELECT.




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