Location: Shangri-La Villingili
Strung like a brilliant necklace across the Indian Ocean, the hundreds of islands that make up the Maldives are a delicately beautiful destination for honeymooners seeking seclusion and romance. Exclusive resorts are built on sandy atolls ringed with reefs rich in exotic fish, making the Maldives one of the dive capitals of the world.
Linked strands of overwater villas hover just above peaceful lagoons at honeymoon resorts like Coco Island, reminiscent of a traditional Maldivian fishing village; the remote, casual-chic Gili Lankanfushi Maldives; and the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa. The Maldives’ beautiful beaches are home to five-star resorts, including the Six Senses Laamu (the only resort in the isolated and beautiful Laamu Atoll) and the Shangri-La Villingili with its full range of activities including tennis and golf. Style-wise, honeymoon choices range from the contemporary Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa to the simple luxuries of the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, set amid a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and featuring a lush private island that guests can sail to on the resort’s catamaran.
Location: Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi
In addition to its 57 overwater villas, the Constance Halaveli Maldives boasts rare two-story accommodations among its beach villas, along with a lavish presidential beach villa for honeymooners looking for a stylish splurge. Each villa has a private plunge pool; the presidential villa adds a private gym, outdoor jacuzzi, a spa treatment room, and personal butler service.
Located on a private island, the Kanuhura resort comes fresh off a year-long renovation in December 2016 that will up the already idyllic resort’s luxury marks, while promising to retain the connection to nature that has been the Kanuhura calling card for the past 15 years. The Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi earns its name “dream island” with lagoon bungalows that have swimming pools right above the ocean and crewed Dhoni boats that you can charter to explore nearby reefs, isolated beaches, and for overnight stay on the gently rocking waters. Like many of the resort’s accommodations, the Lime Spa sits atop the waves at the end of a long pier, guaranteeing the ultimate in peaceful relaxation.
>Written by: Bob Curley
