The Maldives has long been synonymous with honeymooners and love-struck couples but I can attest that you don't need a romantic plus one to make the most of the incredible destination.
To prove this to myself, I took a trip to the island of Thilamaafushi and stayed at the Le Méridien, a new resort that opened in September 2021, and I chose to bring along my mum. At the end of 2022, I made a list of things that were important to me for 2023 and one of those was to spend quality time with my nearest and dearest, enter: an off-grid trip to reconnect.
I knew the slow pace of life in the Maldives suited my mum, and we both decided the itinerary was that there was no itinerary; zero pressure so we were free from any scheduling. A slow adventure, if you will.
After landing in Male airport, the transfer was a breeze. It was our first time flying on a seaplane and the experience really started there because the views from that altitude are breathtaking, I just love the feeling of being thousands of miles away from home. All in all, the short flight took around 35 minutes, more than enough time to get the perfect holiday picture dump for the 'gram. Once you’ve landed, there’s nothing quite like Maldivian hospitality, the warmest ‘welcome’ awaits arriving guests, and the team greet you by name whilst your luggage is swiftly whisked away whilst a buggy escorts you to check-in, feeling every bit like a rockstar the moment you touchdown.
Our hotel fused beach house vibes with mid-century modern; it felt open, tranquil and bright but had all the natural finishes and organic textures to perfectly complement the “outside”. I instantly felt calm and at ease. Le Méridien is often categorised as ‘affordable luxury’, but I would argue it was giving luxury all the way.
We were lucky enough to stay in an iconic overwater villa - ours were sunset facing, and you can also request for sunrise facing depending on what you prefer. The expertly decorated rooms are full of personality and seem to set the stage for the main showpiece; big sliding glass doors and floor-to-ceiling glass bathroom walls that lead onto the incredibly spacious decking, letting you take in undisturbed views of the stunning turquoise waters that stretch out as far as the eye can see.
The hammock overlooking the water is perfect for lazy lounging or napping, which is pretty easy to do with the sound of the crashing waves. But it was the ladder leading into the lagoon that was the highlight for me, as if by design, the tide was low and the water was so inviting that we both decided to climb in. There we were, in the middle of nowhere, sharing this moment reminded me of the playfulness from my childhood, something I didn’t know I missed, and it was so special.
Then there’s the food. With six restaurants on the island to choose from, whether your taste is particular or you’re more open to trying new things, there is something to suit everyone. To cater to the tastes of international guests is no mean feat, and that’s why I was particularly impressed by the localised menu at Turqoise restaurant, fantastic for adventurous foodies like me who like to sample everything and learn about other cuisines. Menus varies depending on which night you go but the BBQ night was a favourite of ours! Velaa Bar & Grill offers pizza and wraps if you are peckish but more importantly it’s conveniently situated in front of the main pool so a daytime cocktail is no longer than an arm’s reach. As for unique dining experiences, Tabemasu is one not to miss and what better reason to get all dressed up and sample the freshest seafood on offer. The cocktail menu is fantastic and for sushi and teppanyaki fans, it really doesn’t get better than this. The most memorable meal has to be the harvest table; picture an intimate pop up table on the beachfront, with a view that feels like you have the entire island to yourself.
A dedicated chef skilfully prepares course after course of mouth watering garden-to-table dishes of grilled prawns, Asian inspired spring rolls and beef wraps, on portable barbecue within a few feet of the table. I was so impressed by the hydroponic greenhouse and it was fantastic to see all where the fresh herbs and vegetables are grown, not to mention the delicious bok choy infused tonic. Le Méridien has put money where their mouth is when it comes to spotlighting ethical and sustainable practices. The evening was perfect, magical even, the heat, the views and the dining experience made it a truely a 5 star experience.
The Explore Spa was no different, located in the heart of the island. The décor details reminded me of a castaway paradise, and treatment rooms are overwater so guests can enjoy the soothing waves and sea life through a glass bottom. After our Discovery massage we took full advantage of the post-treatment facilities, and left feeling even more blissful, as if it was possible. Although there was a plethora of activities available, yoga or even the state of the art fitness centre, we wanted something more low effort, however we couldn’t resist hiring bikes, for my mum it’s been over 30 years since she’s rode one, so that with the well-timed sunset, became the perfect backdrop as we explored the island and finished off at the Waves café neatly tucked away under the gym for well curated smoothies, coffees and snacks to tie you over till dinner. Even exploring by foot in the evenings felt so serene, peaceful and secluded, but more importantly safe. However my mum was delighted to take full advantage of the buggy, which is so readily available, it’d be rude not to!
Our last night was spent at the fabulous adult only Riviera bar, where the main attraction are the superstar mixologists, aside from the striking views. Cocktails were top notch and the infectious atmosphere meant that two drinks in we made friends from all over America and Canada. The whole experience at Le Méridien was unforgettable, and although we'll go back to our lives now it brought me and my mum closer, I will always remember our time on the deck, enjoy a glass of wine and long conversations, stargazing and doing nothing. That means everything to me.
The verdict? I’d 100% go back, but with the besties! All made possible with the super spacious connecting villas available that can easily sleep a group of 6-7.
For more details and to book your own trip click here.
