Two Luxury Resort Hotels Open in Maldives
Le Méridien and Jumeirah make their Indian Ocean debut
Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa opened earlier this month on Thilamaafushi, the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll of the Indian Ocean nation of Maldives. Meanwhile the Jumeirah Maldives resort on North Malé Atoll is set to welcome guests beginning Oct. 1.
Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa
Spanning two-and-a-half acres, Thilamaafushi is defined as “island surrounded by vast lagoon” in Dhivehi, the local parlance of the Maldives. Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa celebrates the tapestry of the Maldives, its people, nature, and art.
The resort’s 141 villas offering the option of one, two or three-bedroom layouts, both over water and beachfront, are tucked among the tropical landscape and dotted over the ocean, featuring unparalleled views.
Guests can access the resort via a 35-minute seaplane journey north of Velana (MLE) International Airport, Malé.
In a nod to its environment, the design takes inspiration from the formation of the Maldives Archipelago, emulating the atoll’s distinct topography, life and culture, fused with Le Méridien’s signature mid-century modern and Bauhaus aesthetics to present a resort that sits in harmony with the natural environment.
Guests can also relax and rejuvenate at the Explore Spa by Le Méridien and the two infinity pools at the resort.
“With a nostalgic nod to the glamor of the French Riviera in the 1960s, Le Méridien inspires travelers to explore the world in style, savor the good life and enjoy experiences that offer something more than meets the eye,” said Jason Nuell, senior vice president, premium brands, Marriott International. “We are delighted to bring Le Méridien to this internationally desired destination, the perfect place for guests to step out of their daily routine and into a glamorous getaway where wandering sans agenda and lingering longer are encouraged.”
Jumeirah Maldives
Beach-front and over-water villas also will welcome guests at Jumeirah Maldives beginning Oct. 1. The luxury resort along the turquoise waters of the North Malé Atoll is reachable by speedboat or seaplane from Malé Airport.
Jumeirah Maldives offers 67 beach and over-water villas in one-, two- and three-bedroom configurations, all assuring panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa features a private infinity pool and large roof-top terrace with a dedicated dining area.
Exceptional dining experiences are the focus of attention for Jumeirah Group. Their two signature restaurants, Shimmers and Kayto, infuse the island experience with Mediterranean and Japanese flavors.
The Talise Spa, featuring six overwater treatment rooms, provides a range of therapeutic and re-energizing treatments for wellness and relaxation. Guests can also enjoy an array of activities from daily yoga classes, water sports, beach volleyball, billiards, and tennis, or partake in other experiences from underwater photography to planting coconut trees and making coconut oil. A highlight for any stay is a submarine tour exploring the vibrant marine habitat.
The remote location offers privacy for romantic getaways, an island retreat for friends and family, and experiences to suit the more active traveler. Its panoramic architecture in harmony with the natural environment echoes modern Mediterranean chic.
José Silva, chief executive officer of Jumeirah Group, said: “Jumeirah Maldives upholds our brand values of providing unparalleled hospitality with a genuine flair that exceeds guest expectations while pushing the limits of design, culinary and service expertise. A truly breath-taking addition to the brand’s portfolio, Jumeirah Group’s new home in the Maldives guarantees an immaculate guest experience from the very moment they set foot in our new contemporary resort.”
