At Newell’s Travel, we love helping our clients tick off those bucket-list destinations and recently, our very own Claire Young had the incredible opportunity to experience the Maldives for herself! From pristine beaches to luxury overwater villas, her trip was full of unforgettable moments that perfectly showcase what makes this tropical paradise so special.
Journey to Paradise
“I flew with Qatar Airways from London Heathrow, and to make things stress-free, I took the direct train from St Erth to London Paddington on the Elizabeth Line. I stayed one night at the Holiday Inn Express T4 before flying out, which gave me peace of mind and a chance to relax before the long journey.
Top Tip: Sleep on the aeroplane!
Accommodation Highlights
Outrigger Maafushivaru – South Ari Atoll – 5★
A 25-minute seaplane ride from Male for a 2-night stay. With 8 different room types, an array of facilities including a spa, kayaking, and its own reef to explore. The service was impeccable, with your own concierge accessible via WhatsApp. We even had access to their private island, where we enjoyed sundowners and pure bliss!
Kuramathi – North Ari Atoll – 4★
A one-night stay on a top-selling, larger island that never felt crowded. Speedboat transfers from Male made it easy to reach, and regular buggies helped us get around the island, though it’s walkable end-to-end in about an hour. Perfect for families, with a fantastic kids’ club and a great selection of restaurants and facilities.
Kandolhu – North Ari Atoll – 5★
From one of the biggest to one of the smallest atolls, this intimate resort with only 30 rooms was perfect for a one-night stay. It has a selection of restaurants and the liveliest house reef for snorkelling—a true tropical paradise!
Ananea Madivaru – North Ari Atoll – 5★
Our final stop was two nights at one of the newest 5★ resorts. Each of us stayed in an overwater villa, which was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. With restaurants, a spa, kids’ club, and a variety of activities, it’s the perfect blend of luxury and adventure.
Quick Visit: Due to our seaplane connection home, we also fit in a cheeky visit to 5★ Kurumba, the Maldives’ first resort. Just 8 minutes by speedboat from Male, it’s very popular and great for families.
Activities to Remember
Snorkelling around the islands was unforgettable, with spectacular reefs teeming with life. We were lucky enough to see turtles, sharks, and a rainbow of tropical fish, especially around Kandolhu. After a week of exploring, a full-body massage at Ananea Madivaru was the perfect treat, deeply relaxing and incredibly special. Even the seaplane transfers became a highlight; although I was a little nervous boarding such a small aircraft for the first time, the experience was unforgettable, with breathtaking views over the hundreds of atolls that make up the Maldives.
A Trip to Remember
A once-in-a-lifetime adventure with five amazing ladies. From luxury overwater villas to vibrant coral reefs and relaxing spa days, the Maldives truly is a bucket-list destination that lives up to the hype!”
