Check out these 5 pet-friendly hotels in Khao Yai, Thailand for you and your pooch to enjoy a happy holiday.

The holiday season is fast approaching, and if you are planning to escape Bangkok’s chaotic city life, this one’s for you. If you are one of those who like to explore new places along with your furry friends, especially during the festive season, take a road trip outside of Bangkok to enjoy the fresh air and the cool breeze while overlooking Khao Yai’s gorgeous mountains. About 2.5 hours by car, you can reach your destination and change scenery. Not only will that be a core memory for you, but perhaps for your pup as well. 

5 pet-friendly hotels in Khao Yai for road trips with your pooch

The former royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang is wrapped in a time warp but it is this quaint vibe that beckons travellers to this UNESCO Heritage Site. Nestled amidst rolling hills at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers and dotted with ancient temples and monasteries, Luang Prabang is a harmonious sanctuary and a “living museum” blending Eastern and Western influences. And it is this unique mosaic of styles that is reflected in the architectural designs of the luxury and boutique properties in the city.

With sprawling mansions, hilltop havens, royal residences, colonial villas, spa retreats, heavenly hideaways, and luxurious stilt houses set in tropical gardens and verdant paddy fields, you cannot ask for a more exclusive and premium address in the city. We have curated a selection of some of the best hotels to stay in Luang Prabang which add to your mystical experiences in the city.

Best hotels to stay in Luang Prabang

Nestled admist the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island is a romantic haven for honeymooners. Located in the North Malé Atoll, it is easily accessible from Malé via a 55-minute thrilling speedboat or a 15-minute scenic seaplane ride. An idyllic resort for couples to collect memorable stories to weave into their very own fairytale, it unfolds an array of experiences from sunset cruises to movies under the stars. As soon as you check-in with the love of your life, a dedicated butler is assigned to pamper you to the hilt.

Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island: Designed for Romance

Jumeirah Maldives is an all-villa, luxury resort offering 67 beach and over-water villas, surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape. While each villa is designed in a contemporary Mediterranean style, a spectacular 120-square-metre roof terrace with a magnificent private deck offering unobstructed lagoon views is truly exceptional. Ideal for ‘elevated love’, it is the perfect space for myriad intimate adventures, from serene yoga sessions to rejuvenating couple’s massages. This is also the perfect venue for personal cinema screening under the star-studded Maldivian night sky.

Sensual Dining

With six distinct restaurants and bars serving exquisite cuisines and unparalleled ocean views, Jumeirah Maldives understands that the way to the guests’ heart is through a symphony of flavours. The award-winning menus at Kayto and Shimmers showcase gastronomic excellence set against the backdrop of dazzling sea views. A range of romantic settings complement the culinary artistry—take your pick from an intimate gazebo dinner on the beach, a relaxed repast on the pier while soaking in the uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, or simply enjoy an indulgent floating breakfast in your private pool.

Idyllic Island Life

Adventurous souls can pick from over 50 weekly thrilling activities—from guided nature walks to underwater photography. Capture memorable moments with a fun- filled photoshoot set against the backdrop of pristine beaches and lush tropical sceneries. Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise aboard a private yacht or a traditional dhoni boat, and be mesmerised with the Maldivian sky that transforms from clear blue to warm hues of orange and pink.

Special Indulgences

Lounging in the comfort of your villa, sauntering to your private rooftop to soak in the views, sampling the finest food and drinks, enjoying lazy swims or thrilling water sports, being pampered with couple treatments at the Talise spa, and indulging in a range of complimentary tokens like sparkling wine, exquisite bed and bathtub decorations, floral bath, and so much more—these are all the ingredients for the honeymoon of a lifetime!

Related: The Ultimate Guide To Maldives Resorts For Every Kind Of Luxury Traveller

With its stunning location atop a cliff overlooking the South China Sea, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for a magical wedding. The resort’s stunning architecture is inspired by a unique combination of Paris’ Jardin du Luxembourg along with the aesthetic style of a Balinese palace. The panoramic view of the sea, lush greenery, lavish outdoor spaces, and elegantly manicured lawns with peacocks strutting about, make this picturesque resort ideal for exchanging vows.

Dreamy Spaces at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

Rent out the entire resort with 215 rooms, suites, and villas if you are planning an extravagant celebration, or book only one wing of the accommodation for a cozier affair. For couples that prefer intimate solemnisations, the exclusive Villa du Jardin that comes with a private pool and garden fits the bill perfectly. From an elegantly manicured lawn at Spice Island Point to Saffron Garden, with its immaculate landscaping and an unparalleled view of the South China Sea, there are gorgeous open-air venues to choose from. Large outdoor spaces also allow for fireworks and ceremonies, making it especially well-suited for Indian weddings. The spacious and open-aired Straits Verandah is particularly popular as a picture-perfect spot for sunset ceremonies. Then there are two grand wedding banquets—the Straits and Saffron ballrooms. Providing complete flexibility to host your marriage in your special style, these ballrooms have their own private access and driveway, and since they are pillarless, they can be set up in any theme and size as per your requirement.

Festive Feasts

With two Indian chefs who specialise in authentic menus, all dietary requirements can be catered for in lavish and delectable spreads. Of course, you can also add a choice of Western and Asian cuisines. Besides the wedding festivities, you can indulge in fun and rejuvenating activities like spa treatments at Sofitel SPA or mixology masterclasses at LeBar.

For more information, click here.

Related: Dive Into A World Of Family Fun At Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

Here are our picks for the best hotel staycation deals in Singapore this Christmas 2023 and throughout the holiday season.

Overseas travel is back without any signs of slowing down. And if you are also planning to fly to Singapore for the holiday season, here’s where you can have a relaxing getaway in the Lion City.

With 2023 being a hot year for notable hotel openings in Singapore, there’s no better time to treat yourself to rejuvenating staycations at these properties than the Christmas and New Year’s Eve 2023 period. However, if you prefer somewhere familiar, don’t rule out iconic local hotels like JW Marriott, St. Regis, Hilton, and Marina Bay Sands Singapore.

2023 is an exciting year of hotel openings in Singapore

There are many firsts regarding the new hotel entrants in Singapore. The arrival of EDITION Singapore marks the first EDITION brand in Southeast Asia. This also applies to Mondrian Singapore Duxton and Artyzen Cuscaden Singapore, as both brands make their first marks in the region. Furthermore, The COMO brand, which has dozens of luxury properties around the world, has finally had a homecoming with the COMO Metropolitan Singapore hotel located in the heart of Orchard Road.

Notably, Accor’s Pullman also opened two hotels – Pullman Singapore Orchard and Pullman Singapore Hill Street – in 2023. Marriott’s Aloft Singapore Novena also launched in the city-state as the world’s largest Aloft (thus far).

Besides these established names, individualistic boutique hotels have also created a buzz with their debuts. Ascott’s The Robertson House by The Crest Collection stood out with its British colonial-inspired decor while The Serangoon House in the Little India neighbourhood, owned by The Garcha Group, transports guests to colonial India with its opulent interior.

To make your first stays there even sweeter, these new hotels in Singapore are running promotional staycation packages during the Christmas 2023 season. From special weekend prices to X’mas or New Year-themed stays, leverage on these deals to unwind and relax this festive season.

8 best hotel staycation packages in Singapore this Christmas and NYE 2023:

Presenting Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa, where every moment is a journey into serenity and every dish is a celebration of Indonesia’s rich flavours.

Few know of the wonders that await at Labuan Bajo, a town located on the westernmost tip of Flores, Indonesia. A former fishing site, this quaint destination has now emerged as an exotic destination waiting to be explored. An undiscovered paradise, Labuan Bajo doubles as the gateway to the UNESCO-protected Komodo National Park where one can spot Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Here, one can even climb to the peaks of Padar Island, sink your toes in the sand on the famous Pink Beach, or even visit Kalong Island — also known as Bat Island — whose thousands of resident bats create an extraordinary sight when they take flight around sunset. Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa serves as the apt stay option to make these explorations better. 

Introducing Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa

Located in the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park, Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa is a true Labuan Bajo resort tucked away in a small cove on Waecicu Beach. When here, guests can immerse in luxury and seclusion, all while soaking in the sun-kissed days of relaxation and adventure in Indonesia’s untouched region. Founded by couplepreneurs, lecturers, and philanthropists Yozua Makes and Dewi Makes, this luxury resort boasts of being the first of its kind in the region.

At the heart of the Plataran philosophy are three X factors – eXoticism, eXperience and eXcellence – which are embodied in the resort’s character and operations — from the architecture and interior design of the properties, to the exquisite culinary offerings, unique destination experiences, and warm personalised service. Excellence and the beautiful spirit of Indonesia reside in every detail, and are thoughtfully crafted to deliver a completely authentic and enriching guest experience.

“We’ve always taken great pride in our journey, showcasing what we call ‘Hospitality With Impact,’ acknowledging our close connection with nature, culture, and community,” reveals Yozua, CEO and Founder of Plataran Indonesia, adding, “We’re a homegrown Indonesian hospitality group, and our vision has been clear from the start: ‘for Indonesia and Indonesians,’ to make meaningful contributions to our beloved Indonesia and its people. It’s about sharing the treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders that this remarkable archipelago holds with the world.”

Tropical Fun

With 18 exclusive residences on offer, this sanctuary promises private beachfront living with some of the best sunset views, modern amenities, and traditional charm. Each element converges to create a distinctive, authentic, and contemporary experience — be it the personalised butler service that promises heartfelt hospitality or tropical experiences that also bring in elements of sustainability.

Take the resort’s architecture, for instance. Built in a traditional heritage style that is further accentuated by cultural experiences, the resort’s interiors and exteriors evoke an experiential feeling unlike any other. When here, indulge in a culinary journey with iconic picnic breakfasts on pristine shores or intimate romantic dinners under starry skies; tune to the sounds of the ocean waves while enjoying the signature beach bonfire barbecue; or take off for thrilling water sports with Lost Paradise. And if nothing fits your schedule, trust the private butler to customise an experience that is tailored to your itinerary.

Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa houses a private jetty–which offers easy access to Plataran Private Cruises–that makes these aquatic adventures possible. Encounter schools of fish, dolphins, and coral formations by snorkelling in calm waters or sail across the ocean as the sun sets into the horizon. With the resort’s curated experiences, one can even form deeper connections with the local culture, indulge in wellness activities, or simply sit back and soak in the pristine environs. Consider venturing beyond the premises to explore natural wonders such as Komodo Island, Taka Makassar Island, Rinca Island, and Komodo National Park by hopping onto the Plataran Private Cruise that offers a phinisi and yacht, both. If that wasn’t enough, Plataran Komodo is also rich with local culture and traditions of Manggarai, such as the Caci Dance and Tiba Meka welcome ritual. In short, expect a truly rounded experience! 

Hospitality with Impact

If you wish to give back to nature, culture and community while enjoying the epitome of hospitality, partake in coral preservation activities offered by Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa. Even the dining experiences here come complete with locally-inspired meals featuring ingredients sourced from nearby villages, in turn promoting cultural preservation and allowing the local communities to thrive. What’s more — the resort welcomes guests to engage and give back, forging a deep connection with the local communities and leaving an indelible mark of positive impact.

No matter what the occasion, head to Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa for a private stay customised to your liking. It’ll be nothing short of luxurious!

Related : Hop Aboard WHOOSH! Southeast Asia’s First Bullet Train Launched In Indonesia

Bangkok isn’t particularly big in size, but each district displays its own strong characteristic that makes the city seem full of variety when it comes to picking the best area to stay. Depending on the kind of experience you’re looking to have, here we’ve listed some of the best hotels and the best areas to stay in Bangkok.

These five districts around Bangkok are different in personality, merging with the ambience of their surroundings. Whether you’re here for luxury shopping or for cultural experiences, there’s a five-star hotel waiting to welcome you.

The best areas and hotels to stay in Bangkok

To Enjoy Riverside Living along Charoen Krung: Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

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Recently ranked at No. 3 on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023, the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok can be justified as the best hotel in Thailand this year. The stately venue welcomes guests to its high-ceiling lobby with the air of a quiet urban retreat. The seamless indoor and outdoor transition connects you with the city’s River of Kings; a view that is visible from most of the 299 rooms and suites of the hotel. Located on the historic Charoen Krung road, the hotel lies just steps away from local street food, and minutes away from several of Bangkok’s Michelin fine dining restaurants. For a cocktail before dinner, the famous BKK Social Club is undeniably one of the main attractions of the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is located on Charoen Krung Road.

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To Immerse Yourself in the Life of the City in Sukhumvit: 137 Pillars Suites & Residences

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Boasting a completely different ambience from its original Chiang Mai property, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences is located in the centre of the always-bustling Phrom Phong neighbourhood. The Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Thonburi, and Rattanakosin Suites provide a unique city hideout, where you’re safe-kept in the serene suites but offer the view of city skyscrapers just outside the windows. Sukhumvit is not a prime location only for food – to the likes of renowned names like Sushi Masato and R.Haan – but it is also the best area to explore Bangkok’s nightclubs and bars. Not sure where to start? Ask for the hotel’s 137 Pillars Louie Tour to get to know the city in a London Cab.

137 Pillars Suites & Residences is located in Soi Sukhumvit 39.

To Admire the Royal District of Dusit: The Siam Hotel

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Reside in this understated part of Bangkok in the royal area. The Dusit district is devoid of any skyscrapers and roaring nightclubs. Instead, it invites you to revel in the historical attractions such as Amphorn Satharn Villa, or The Marble Temple, along with other prominent temples. Despite its peaceful location, a fair 15-minute ride could also take you to the well-known Khaosan Road, if that’s more up your alley. The Siam Hotel sits humbly in between all these attractions. Though compact in size, it offers everything you need and more whether that be at Chon Thai Restaurant, The Pier riverside venue, or in your own pool villa or suite.

The Siam Hotel is located on Khao Road.

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To Shop Until Your Drop in the Siam Shopping District: Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok

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Surrounded by Siam Paragon, Siam Square, Siam Centre, Siam Discovery, and Central World, the Siam Kempinski Hotel boasts a location like no other in the beating heart of Bangkok’s shopping district. This is where everything comes easy with its proximity to shopping malls and to public transportation. Although several casual restaurants are within walking distance, you’ll find it hard to resist the sumptuous in-hotel dining venues. Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin is an award-winning Thai restaurant loved by the locals and by visitors alike; ALATi is hailed as one of the best places for breakfast; and the afternoon tea set at 1897 Lounge so far has never disappointed.

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is located on Rama I Road.

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To Explore The ‘Other’ Side of the River at Thonburi: The Peninsula Bangkok

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Right across the Chao Phraya River is the old capital of Thonburi. With fewer skyscrapers, the Khlongsan area is an intriguing creative district with local markets, restaurants and cafes, temples and churches, and the giant luxury shopping mall ICONSIAM. Almost like a portal to Thonburi, The Peninsula Bangkok is situated on this riverside, presenting a timeless hideaway decorated in Thai style. The hotel also loves to promote wellness activities, with The Peninsula Spa offerings, complimentary fitness classes, and nutritious plant-based delicacies.

The Peninsula Bangkok is located on Charoen Nakhon Road.

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Related: The Best Neighbourhoods In Bangkok For Expats, According To Actual Expats 

The historic Angkor Archaeological Park with its crown jewel Angkor Wat may have put Siem Reap on the tourist map but the city has evolved into a vibrant wellness destination with a flourishing art and cultural scene as well.

After traversing the ancient world of the Khmers and gazing upon golden sunrises and rosy sunsets, you can relax in a spa, watch a circus, shop at the markets, or just laze in the comfort of your spacious and atmospheric rooms set amidst tropical gardens and serene pools.

As the Cambodian city morphs into a chic city that is also at the forefront of reviving traditional arts and crafts, the hotels and resorts that beckon you are inspired by the Khmer style of architecture with wooden villas, stilt houses, tasteful suites, and sprawling rooms.  Nestled in an oasis of calm amidst verdant tropical gardens, there are luxury resorts, wellness retreats, and boutique properties vying for your attention. Here are the ten best hotels in Siem Reap for your next trip.

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Discover the best hotels in Siem Reap for a luxurious stay

It’s not every day that you meet Komodo dragons while enjoying world-class hospitality near a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cue in: AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, a sustainable retreat sanctuary in Indonesia. 

Taking luxury vacationing in the wild to another level, AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach in Indonesia is a sanctuary unlike any other. Located on Labuan Bajo’s glistening Waecicu Beach, this sister property of AYANA Estate in Bali doubles as the luxury gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to around 5,700 endemic giant lizards.

Introducing AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach

Stay

Taking inspiration from Flores Island’s rich cultural heritage, the 205 guest rooms and suites–available in three categories: Full Ocean View Suite, Deluxe Full Ocean View Room, and Full Ocean View Room–at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach fuse rustic beauty with modern-day comforts. Think bathtubs with ocean views, private balconies, walk-in wardrobes, and more. Add to this ocean vistas from each room and stylish open spaces, and you’ve got the right ingredients for a truly luxurious stay.

Dine

Begin your days at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach with coffee at RINCA, an all-day dining that comes complete with natural hardwoods, comfortable seating, and direct access to the resort’s white sandy shores. A world-class destination in itself, Naga Bar is the apt social hub to unwind with bubbly and tapas. Head here to soak in the picturesque ocean views or simply sunbathe by the shoreline. Alternatively, splash about near the Pool Bar which offers an all-day dining menu — from healthy foods, and indulgent cocktails to even delicious plates to suit every palate.

Treat yourself to a Japanese lunch at HonZEN where fine flavours meet technique in a relaxed setting; followed by sundowner cocktails at Mesa Bar and Lounge, located on the top floor of the hotel. An island interpretation of a hotel lobby bar, this relaxed setting oggers majestic ocean views from every nook.

Open for dinners, KISIK Seafood Restaurant presents a seductive ambience of Jimbaran’s famous beachfront barbecue scene with some of the finest fresh seafood. The ideal nightcap awaits at UNIQUE Rooftop Bar which reflects the wild and rustic nature of Komodo’s timeless beauty and pairs it with endless panoramas of sapphire seas.

Experience

There’s no dearth of experiences offered by AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach. Float peacefully across Komodo’s crystal clear waters in a Glass Bottom Boat by AYANA Lako Taka, enjoy breakfast by the sea, go for a round of stand-up paddle boarding or sea kayaking, savour a five-course curated float away dinner for two, or even get close to the island’s marine life with a Snorkeling Trilogy Expedition by AYANA Lako Lelo. Those looking for land-based adventures can trek up the island’s majestic peaks, enjoy the wild beauty of Rangko Cave or cycle around the island.

For a truly packed itinerary, consider a full-day island hopping tour. This tour invites you to explore Padar Island, snorkel along the Pink Sand Beach, embark on a Komodo Dragon Tour, and savour takeaway lunches and chilled beverages along the way. Travellers intrigued by the underwater world can choose the Komodo Dragon Quest by AYANA Lako Taka which not only includes a snorkelling experience, but also takes one to RINCA, Menjerite, and Kelor Islands located not too far away. For shorter excursions, a guided tour of the Mirror Stone Cave is the best bet. Spanning roughly 90 minutes, a professional local guide takes you to this unique natural wonder that lures travellers for its sparkling sunlit walls.

Beyond the Ordinary

Komodo’s natural beauty is best explored by sea and AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach understands this well. That’s why, then, the team has a fleet of exclusive water vessels to take you on aquatic adventures. AYANA’s magnificent phinisi, AYANA Lako di’a, has nine cabins divided into Master, Luxury, and Deluxe Suite rooms. On the other hand, AYANA Lako Sae has 10 cabana-style rooms across three decks. It even has a bar, dining area and multiple sun terraces. AYANA Lako Taka, a glass bottom boat, takes its inspiration from the blue whale to give a peek into the underwater world; AYANA Lako Cama offers a compact guest cabin with a sunroof, a comfortable VIP lounge with a mini pantry and dining section, plus an alfresco helm; and AYANA Lako Lelo has a spacious deck for casting, premium rod holders for a professional fishing experience, and an open lounging area.

One with Nature

In its commitment to save the planet from degradation, AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach has introduced the Komodo Conservation Fund. With this, AYANA pledges USD 1 (roughly INR 80) for every room booked. The funds are then used to work with the local community in support of sustainable development and education, as well as the continued protection of Komodo National Park.

Moreover, the resort has introduced resident Marine Biologist Lee Miles to study the reef’s biodiversity. Miles also joins guests for designated excursions, provides education and awareness on protecting the ocean and marine life, and conducts regular workshops and presentations.AYANA’s commitment to sustainability also extends to the support of the local people by offering comprehensive hospitality training and fair wages, donating to local schools, and organising onsite educational visits. Embodying the spirit of ocean-to-table, the team sources Indonesia’s freshest fish and shellfish from local fishermen, as well as cultivates their seaweed farm to use in dishes.

Stays Made Better

Book directly via the hotel’s official website to enjoy up to 23 per cent discount on room rates and embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Komodo National Park with an extensive one-day island hopping tour for two. Experience the breathtaking Padar Island, indulge in snorkelling on its unique pink sand beach, and witness the majestic Komodo dragons in their untouched habitat.

The offer also includes a 10 per cent discount on spa and selected food and beverages; 15 per cent discount on select water activities and boat trips; complimentary daily one-hour kayak, SUP, and snorkelling sessions (on a minimum two nights’ stay in a suite); and shared transportation to and fro from airport for two adults.

Related: Learn About Balinese Culture At AYANA Segara, Bali — A Luxury Stay Option In Indonesia

On a trip to the Maldives, Travel+Leisure India & South Asia ditches the sprawling islands and checks into the remote and intimate OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort.

Playful, intimate, and remote— OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is all of these and more. Located on an island that is just a little over 350 metres in length, the resort and its surroundings look like they popped out of the set of The White Lotus, sans the gruesome murder.

After a 25-minute ride on a seaplane that makes a pitstop on the way, a speedboat picks you up from a floating pontoon jetty for the final stretch to this remote island. And unlike many other luxury resorts on the archipelago, OUTRIGGER doesn’t overwhelm you with meandering paths that make you go in circles. That is not to say that it isn’t sheltered by thick vegetation and girded by white beaches.

Arriving at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort 

The first order of business on landing on this piece of heaven is to head to Edgewater for a drink by the pool. Overlooking the lagoon, this bar also serves lunchtime classics including salads, wraps, sandwiches, catch of the day, noodle or rice bowls—all of which are perfect accompaniments to the cocktails. I recommend gin infused with Earl Gray tea and lemongrass to beat the midday sun

As I loll back in the handwoven rope couch after a perfect sandwich, I see Chris Long, executive chef of OUTRIGGER approaching. An Englishman who has spent many years in Vietnam, Long is as much of a free spirit as he is a cook. We get talking about the many joys and challenges of living on a remote island. “The biggest challenge is ensuring quality of food that arrives twice a week from overseas,” he admits. “Having a good relationship with food suppliers is key,” says Long, and I don’t doubt him a bit. The variety of cuisines and dishes served at the six eateries in OUTRIGGER is a testament to Long’s commitment.

Islandic Delights

OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has 81 villas—beach and overwater. My stay is in a one-bedroom sunset overwater villa that opens to a private pool. After lunch and a nap, I walk barefoot along the sandy pathways lit up by garden lamps that cast moving shadows of the foliage.

Moodhu Grill is buzzing with guests when I arrive. It is one of the signature dining experiences on the island—there are five overwater private dining platforms along with indoor tables—serving grills of various kinds. The chef-recommended Whole Roast Portobello Mushroom with garlic butter, spinach, blue cheese, and herb crust is creamy and soulful, but the highlight of the meal turns out to be the dessert—Giant Iced Profiterole. The choux dessert has ginger craquelin filled with coconut ice cream, on a bed of warm dulce de leche sauce, and toasted coconut, all of which hit the spot.

Next morning, I head to Coral, the water sports centre, for guided house reef snorkelling. The inhouse cockatoos greet me; they fly from shoulder to shoulder, delighting staff and guests alike. In a while, I put on my snorkel, mask, and flippers, and swim to the house reef with my guide for an hour of underwater therapy. He is patient with my nescience, and as I get used to the silence, he points towards surgeonfish, Moorish idols, and more scuttling below us. My peripheral vision catches sight of a moored boat that tips me off on how far into the ocean we’ve ventured. To quell any potential panic, I keep my head under water. Soon, it is time to turn around and swim back to the shore (float, in my case). The strong waves, however, push us back to the ocean. Clinging to my guide’s arm, I kick my feet and heave my body. And after what seems like ages and a good cardio workout, we reach the shore, relieved at the agility the land offers.

The ordeal calls for some pampering. So, at Navasana, the spa at OUTRIGGER, I surrender to a Relaxing Full Body Massage, and a steam and shower. After a hearty lunch, I head back to the villa, encountering multiple herons and blacktip reef sharks on the way. I watch golden hour give way to sunset. A dhoni glides in front of the setting sun, while a school of fish leaps out of the water creating a Maldivian spectacle. And just then, it rains, as if the island is applauding itself for the very brilliant show.

Related: The Ultimate Guide To Maldives Resorts For Every Kind Of Luxury Traveller

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

— How to reach OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort?
Located in the South Ari Atoll, OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is a 25-minute seaplane journey from Male.

— What is the room rate at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort?
Doubles start from INR 48,438.

— Does Maafushivaru have a house reef?
The island has a house reef with many tropical fish.