Island hopping in the Maldives
My first two nights were spent at Nova. Fully refurbished in 2022, Nova is a 30 minute sea plane transfer located in the South Ari Atoll. Famed for great diving and being able to see whale sharks all year round. It's a beautiful small island great for couples and small groups. With 76 beach and water villas, some with pools, the villas are spacious with neutral and relaxing decor. Nova has three amazing restaurants, including my favourite, Mizu an exceptional Teppanyaki. Great entertainment watching live the performance and tricks of the chefs.
My next 2 night stop was Kandima, 40 minutes by sea plane transfer from Male. Kandima is situated on the largest island in the Dhaalu Atoll. Measuring 3kms long it is one of the biggest resorts in the Maldives.The island is lush and tropical with the most amazing long stretch of white sand beach. It boasts 10 dining venues and a range of rooms from water villas with pools to the sky and beach studios. It offers great family accommodation which can accommodate up to 8 people. The beach is one of the most stunning I have seen in the Maldives, a huge stretch of pristine white sand. The kids club Kandiland offers a fun packed daily programme and is one of the biggest in the Maldives. Kandima has its own house reef and Aquaholics the water sports centre offers activities such as big game fishing and snorkelling trips. If you're lucky you may spot the 5 or 6 Turtles that inhabit the area. Kandima is a really good all-rounder offering something for everyone.
Our next stop was the exclusive Intercontinental Maamunagau.On arrival at Male, you're whisked off to their private lounge. Where the staff greet you with breakfast in the most comfortable of surroundings. Located in the crystal clear waters of the Raa Atoll, Maamunagau is a 30 minute sea plane transfer from Male. Stepping off the sea plane you're traditionally greeted with drummers and then transferred straight to your villa and checked in. I stayed in a beach villa with a pool. The WOW factor hits you as soon as you open the door. Beautiful luxurious interiors with large pools and beach views. You are given an island curator whose thoughtful personal touches completely elevate your experience. My curator Nishaz, knowing I love chocolate, left a quirky chocolate related present each evening. He even had a little video call with my daughter. We were truly spoiled by all the staff and got to experience so much of what the island can offer guests, from serene spa treatments (best facial I've ever had) to the wonderful destination dining, and the islands sunset dolphin watching, luxury yacht cruise. The Intercontinental Maamunagau is one of the most luxurious hotels I've stayed in, nothing is too much trouble. Lots of thoughtful personal touches and I've not even mentioned the amazing food we experienced!
Our last 2 nights were spent in laid back luxury at Cora Cora. Based in the Raa Atoll, a 45 minute seaplane transfer from Male. Cora Cora has a footloose fancy free philosophy - they have managed to create a perfect ambiance that appeals to multi gen families and couples alike. The decor is bright and colourful with a beach club vibe. With four restaurants to choose from, plus a coffee shop with the beans freshly roasted on the island, all included in their premium all inclusive. Plus a grab and go concept in each outlet, so you can dine where it suits you. I particularly liked Ginger Moon an A la carte Asian restaurant completely run solely by women. Cora Cora is on the island of Maamigili which is a unique island. Ships that sailed the Spice route over 900 years years ago would have stopped and traded here. Excavations on the island have revealed more than 60 remarkable finds which you can find in the onsite museum, one of only two in the Maldives. History buffs would love the free guided tour of the relics. Cora Cora offers lots of fun activities, sushi making, art classes, beach movies and an extensive wellness programme. Overall this is a little gem of an island with a big heart.