Curator’s statement
On the other side of the world, Maldives delivers on the wow factor. When choosing a destination for my milestone birthday and wedding anniversary, Maldives was at the top of my list. From the sea plane arrival to the crystal-clear water, arriving at a Maldives Island, is like being on the Blue Lagoon.
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Things to do in the Maldives
In the Maldives, the hotel is the destination. You have the choice to do a lot, or nothing at all.
Try taking the Glass Bottom Boat ride around the lagoon and see reef sharks native to the area.
Visit the first under-the-sea restaurant Ithaa during visiting hours for champagne. It was the perfect time to watch be undersea as the sun provided the perfect backdrop for the sea life all around you.
If you want to relax, try a 120-minute signature couples treatment. It starts with an invigorating side-by-side body scrub, followed by a relaxing massage and facial.
One of the greatest moments on the island, however, is at night when crossing the bridge from the adult-only Rangali island to the family-friendly, Rangali-Finolhu. The manta rays are in full action. You see their large black presence swimming like bats in the ocean. It’s a sight you’ll never forget.
Places to eat & drink in the Maldives
The Wine Cellar is a special, intimate venue where the Chef and Sommelier match pairings that made me reconsider entire food groups. If you’re not a fan of sushi, think again. The flavors were so fresh and bold, I now seek out sushi hoping to recapture the taste.
My favorite restaurant on the island is Mandhoo at the spa. The food is inspired by the five elements, Air, Earth, Fire, Water, and Plant. The lamb chops under the Earth section were otherworldly. I came back multiple times just for the lamb chops.
The Quiet Zone offers the best Shrimp Tempura and was our stop while laying out at the adult pool.
Conrad also offers beach dinners and special themed nights. Events like the Lobster and Champagne offer grilled lobster, caviar, free-flowing champagne, and my favorite- lamb chops.
Need to know
You arrive on the island by seaplane, which is quite small, and there’s no air conditioning, but the view is worth it. Once you arrive, you’re greeted with coconut water in the actual coconut. You are introduced to your room steward and provided with their info via What’s App. We also received turn-down gifts every night. On Easter Sunday, they left an amazing white chocolate egg. They make you feel special and truly celebrate your milestones.
Travel Advisor
Monica Morgan-Vargas
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Maldives page.