Maldives Travel Plans – Preparing for my Long Haul Luxury Escape to the Indian Ocean

If you know me well, you’ll know I barely leave Europe. I’m like a hermit crab, never leaving anywhere which isn’t reachable within 4 hours of my home. I’m 29 now and back in my early 20’s I was jetting off to America, spent a lot of time on the South Pacific Islands and lived quite a few months in LA. Some time later and I settled down, much to my surprise. Since then I’ve been in a very happy nine-year relationship. While everything is and has been perfect – it doesn’t help when your partner hates flying. Though that’s all about to change because I’ve bribed and convinced our way to the Maldives and I’m very, very excited. My Maldives travel plans are finally coming together – though I’ve still time for an extra hotel or two, right?

Stop 1 – Kurumba

1-kurumba-snorkeling-7177

kurumba-private-residence

After a gruelling 12 hour flight we’ll have finally touched down at Male International Airport and been swept away by speedboat to Kurumba. They even have a video to show you just how quickly the transfer is and the crystal blue waters we’ll be arriving into. A spot of fresh seafood for lunch followed by a full exploration of the island and its marine life. The photos are going to be incredible, armed with lots of technology and an incredibly long 4 meter selfie stick – don’t forget to tune into my Instagram to keep up with the latest. Later that evening will be enjoying a no doubt incredible hosted progressive dinner and cooking demonstration to see just how these master chefs utilise the fresh seafood and ingredients around them. The next morning we’ll be taking a much deserved morning dip in the ocean.

Stop 2 – Velassaru

Aerial%20Overview

Velassaru%2064-1228

A second speedboat later and for our second night, we’ll be whisked away to the incredible, Small Luxury Hotel – Velassaru. Checking into one of the hotels top rooms we’ll be enjoying all this island and its hotel have to offer with the Velassaru indulgence plan. We’ll be able to eat across all the hotels exquisite restaurants and sip a cocktail in each bar – the teppanyaki restaurant hanging over the ocean has me very excited already. The spa here also looks rather incredible, just wait till you see the outdoor hydro pool – perched on the turquoise waters edge. I’ll be revealing all over on my Twitter through videos (and selfies) galore. Before our candlelit dinner in Sand we’ll be heading out into the ocean on a sunset cruise.

Stop 3 – Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa

 

After a whirlwind of some of the Maldives most luxurious hotels, we’ll be taking a seaplane to one of this areas most southern hotels – Shangri-la Villingli Resort & Spa. A paradise of seclusion and privacy with its own jungle, golf course and a gastronomic experience to never forget. I’m particularly excited about my ocean adventure here and getting over my fear of a shark attack! I’m going to brave it and dive to the bottom – doing it all for you guys and ladies, snapping those underwater shots to share over on my Facebook. I’ll be spending three days here and can’t wait to share my experience with you – especially as we’re booked into one of the incredible water villas out in the middle of the ocean.

Stop 4 – Shhhh it’s a Surprise!

maldives-1532020_1920

You’ll have to check back nearer the time when my final hotel will be revealed, completing my Maldives experience. It’s going to be incredible!

Have you been to the Maldives before and can pass on any top tips? Or is it on your wish list like it’s always been on mine?

 

18 Comments

  1. September 8, 2016 / 6:09 pm

    Gary, this looks amazing!! I can’t wait to follow your adventure

    • September 8, 2016 / 8:50 pm

      Thanks, I can’t wait to experience it!

  2. September 8, 2016 / 11:31 pm

    I stumbled on this post at the right time! My partner and I are considering going to The Maldives on honeymoon! Did you organise this with anybody? I’m so keen to go however knowing where exactly hasn’t been easy, this post has certainly helped.

    The Maldives looks like paradise and your trip sounds fantastic!

    Laura x
    http://www.shehearts.net

    • September 9, 2016 / 9:30 am

      Omg it would be amazing! I mostly booked my trip through the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Group. They have some amazing properties! I really wanted to go to One & Only too but not enough time. Next time perhaps!

  3. September 9, 2016 / 1:24 pm

    I’m so excited by this post!!! The Maldives is AMAZING!!!! You are literally going to have the best time ever. The speed boat ride from the airport to your hotel will be incredible – try and film it if you can so you can watch it over and over again. Also there are a lot of sharks swimming around even in the shallow waters. I didn’t mind as they didn’t bother me but my husband freaked out so don’t go too far into the sea! Can’t wait to follow you on Instagram! xx

    • September 9, 2016 / 5:41 pm

      SHARKSSSS!! Oh god! lol Literally my worst fear ever. Will make sure I stay in paddle distance! I’ve already got my super long selfie stick ready for that speedboat journey!! 😉

  4. September 9, 2016 / 11:54 pm

    I fell in love with Kutumba when we stayed there but you really can’t go wrong with any hotels in the Maldives! Would love to go back soon. Enjoy this amazing adventure!

    • September 10, 2016 / 7:57 am

      Everyone keeps telling me how amazing it is, I can’t wait! Just invested in literally every lens and camera attachment going!! Didn’t come across Kutumba – off to go Google it now! Gary x

  5. October 26, 2016 / 11:22 am

    Awesome post! Can’t wait to see more pics during and after your trip!!! xx

    • October 26, 2016 / 11:37 am

      Thanks!

  6. November 6, 2016 / 9:48 am

    This is going to be an epic trip. Those stops all look gorgeous! Have fun!

    • November 6, 2016 / 10:03 am

      Thanks Kavey! x

  7. November 6, 2016 / 7:59 pm

    Wow those photos are stunning, with the cooler weather coming this is the perfect time to go.

    • November 6, 2016 / 10:28 pm

      thankyou!

    • November 6, 2016 / 10:28 pm

      Thanks Rosana! x