In case your desert island vibe is modest ‘quiet luxury’, you then’ll end up proper at residence at Como Maalifushi within the southern Maldives, the place you may go from eating barefoot, along with your toes within the sand, to sleeping out by yourself non-public island after which chatting to a NASA astronaut the subsequent (extra on this later). Simply a number of the subsequent stage and distinctive experiences on supply right here.
Como Maalifushi is the one resort on the Thaa Atoll, one of many largest round reefs on the earth, with 60 islands dotted over 500 sq. miles. It is a 60 minute Manta Air seaplane flight, south of Male in direction of the equator (with only a handful of passengers you may nearly say it is a PJ), to this off-the-beaten observe paradise, away from the cross crossing sea planes and vacationer exercise nearer to the capital. Pocket-sized in island phrases at simply 900 metres lengthy, it is an oasis of calm and rest, with 65 villas and suites, starting from seaside suites and backyard rooms to over water villas and Como residences.
Arriving at Como Maalifushi
Splashing down onto the waves we stepped out of the seaplane onto the tiny touchdown raft within the lagoon, earlier than a pace boat switch to the island jetty, the place we have been welcomed by our butler, Pleasure. (Non-public butler service comes with villas and Como residence lodging). His large smile and straightforward going character completely suited his identify. He drove us down the island’s sandy path, bordered by lush undergrowth and tall, elegant palm bushes, to our overwater villa on the far finish of the island. Up to now, so quiet luxurious!
Inside our thatched, one-bedroom water villa, there is a spacious lounge, bed room with dressing space and loo with a sunken bathtub. The inside is pared again and stylish in shades of white, cream and woods, designed by Japanese inside designer Koichiro Ikebuchi, all contributing to an understated quiet luxe vibe. My first thought was, ‘I could definitely live here.’
Stepping out onto the deck, there are home windows main out from the lounge, bed room and loo, the sense of spaciousness continues – there’s a big day mattress, pool and outside bathe. But it surely’s the view that captures and retains your consideration. I spent many hours staring out over the azure-blue waters and the horizon past, studying and considering life whereas watching the clouds, sunsets and rainstorms come and go. We visited in August which is monsoon season so we skilled shiny blue sky days alongside just a few tropical storms. (One of the best time to go to for the climate is peak season between December to March, and April and November for diving).
You’ll be able to entry the the turquoise waves through steps down from the deck, and it is the right place to launch off and go for a snorkel. The water villas and suites are situated on a round jetty and within the centre is the Como Backyard, a coral nursery the place there’s an abundance of sea life to swim and uncover right here.
