Today (October 16, 2015): Travel Tip: get a FREE upgrade at the world’s most luxurious resort! 

I previously explained how to get a hotel room upgrade. Indeed, there are numerous ways to score a premium room without having to pay for the upgrade, but it often requires a mix of skill, emotional intelligence and a considerable amount of luck. Today, I explain I can arrange a FREE upgrade at the world’s most exclusive resort (and it won’t cost you any effort nor depend from luck)!

The past few years, I have traveled extensively around the globe and stayed at many exquisite and over-the-top 5, 6 and 7 star hotels. But not one comes close to what I consider to be the world’s most luxurious, exclusive and amazing resort: Soneva Kiri in Thailand (you can read my review of Soneva Kiri here). Remote yet accessible by a 1,5 hour flight from Bangkok on the resort’s private plane, the resort sits on Thailand’s fourth largest but least populated island, Koh Kood, in the Gulf of Siam. It is managed by Soneva, my absolute favorite hotel brand in the world (you can read here why). Located on the idyllic white-sand beach or sunny slopes in the rainforest, Soneva Kiri‘s 36 villas are amongst the largest in the world  and come with stunning infinity pools, eco-chic furnishings, personal electric buggies, and impeccable service courtesy of private butlers. Highlights include the open air cinema Paradiso, Benz’ mangrove restaurant, the chocolate & ice cream parlour, the children’s den and the spectacular Treetop dining pod. I included Soneva Kiri in my following top 10 luxury travel lists:

• Top 10: world’s most amazing beach resorts
• Top 10: world’s most outrageous hotel experiences
• Top 10: best private plunge pools in the world
• Top 10: world’s most beautiful hotel beaches
• Top 10: world’s best luxury hotels
• Top 10: luxury hotels with private airports
• Top 10: best luxury hotels in Thailand
• Top 10: world’s best family resorts

If I did not convince you yet to book a holiday-of-a-lifetime at Soneva Kiri, then the following will sure do: I can arrange for you a complimentary room upgrade at Soneva Kiri (e.g. from a rainforest to a beach villa). This is how it’s done (it could not be easier):

• Step 1: contact me before making a booking, so I can arrange a free upgrade for you (via my Soneva contacts).
• Step 2: after I reply to you (to confirm the upgrade), you make the booking yourself on the official Soneva website or via your preferred travel agent.

Enjoy the weekend and stay tuned for Monday when I reveal a new top 10 travel list.

SONEVA KIRI PHOTOS

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The post Get a FREE upgrade at the world’s most luxurious hotel! appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Today (October 14, 2015): Trip report: Finnair A350 Business Class Brussels (Belgium) to Helsinki (Finland).

I am very proud to present you today the very first Business Class trip report of Finnair’s new Airbus A350!

On October 12th 2015, I flew Business Class in a brand new Finnair Airbus A350-900 XWB (Extra Wide Body) from Brussels Aiport (BRU) in Belgium to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL) in Finland. While Qatar Airways and Vietnam Airlines already operate the new Airbus A350 aircraft, Finnair is the first European airline to put the world’s most modern aircraft into service. The first Finnair A350 aircraft (registration OH-LWA) was delivered on October 7th 2015, and Finnair’s A350 fleet will become the backbone of the airline’s long-haul fleet, starting with the Helsinki-Shanghai route on November 21st. Prior to those long-haul flights, the A350 is rostered on crew familiarization flights within Europe, and Brussels was its 4th destination (after Amsterdam, Barcelona, Hamburg). I loved the brilliant A350 Finnair experience, and it’s clear that the new aircraft substantially raises the bar for passenger comfort as compared to Finnair’s Airbus A330 fleet (read here my Business Class trip report in a Finnair Airbus A330 from Bangkok to Helsinki).

Finnair features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best airline lounges, and the best Business Class amenity kits in the sky.

• Trip: BRU-HEL
• Airline: Finnair
• Aircraft type: Airbus A350-900 XWB
• Aircraft registration number: OH-LWA
• Flight Number: FIN812
• Date: October 12th, 2015
• On time departure: no (12.23 pm instead of the scheduled 11.40 am)
• On time arrival: no (3.35 pm instead of the scheduled 3.12 pm)
• Miles: 1026
• Flight time: 2 hours 12 minutes
• Seat: 8L
• Class: business (D)

In this review (more information & photos below my Youtube clip & the slideshow):

1. Facts & Figures about the A350
2. Business Class Cabin
3. Business Class Seat (& what seat to choose)
4. Amenities
5. Meal
6. Entertainment
7. Onboard internet (free!)
8. Other inflight experiences (crew, lavatory)
9. My verdict

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1. FACTS & FIGURES ABOUT THE AIRBUS A350 WXB

Here is some (fun) general information about the A350 XWB as provided by Airbus:

• The A350 XWB is the world’s most technologically advanced commercial aircraft, competing with both the Boeing 787 and the Boeing 777.

• 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials combining composites (53%), titanium and modern aluminum alloys. Composite materials are corrosion and fatigue free resulting in easier maintenance, while titanium is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant substitute for steel.

• Eco-smart design brings more than 25% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the previous generation of aircraft.

• Advanced pure air filtration system changes cabin air every 2–3 minutes.

• The A350 XWB is powered by the new Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, generating 25% lower CO2 emissions.

• The A350 XWB has been awarded Common Type Rating with the A330, and it takes only one week for a pilot to transit from the A330 to the A350.

• Draft-free air conditioning, adjustable temperature zones and the cabin air pressure, which is closer to the sea level air pressure, make the flight more enjoyable and less tiring for passengers.

• The total height of the Airbus A350 XWB is equivalent to the famous obelisk monument Place de la Concorde in Paris (17 meters or 55 feet).

• The length of an Airbus A350-900 is close to the width of a rugby field (around 67 meters or 219 feet).

• The wings of the A350 XWB cover more than 2 tennis courts (443 m2 or 4768 square feet) and – inspired by birds – change their shape while airborne to reduce fuel burn.

• IMHO, the most remarkable fact: the diameter of the A350 XWB Roll-Royce Trent XWB engine is the same as the diameter of the Concorde fuselage!

2. BUSINESS CLASS CABIN

It is a clear that a lot of thought has gone into the design of Finnair Airbus A350 XWB’s remarkably bright cabin (which should not come a surprise since Finland is a country where design can be seen everywhere). Created by Finnish design house dSign Vertti Kivi & Co, the cabin is dominated by calming white and grey colours with some subtle blue accents, reflecting a fresh Nordic style that is light and spacious. In addition, the large panoramic view windows allow a lot of natural light into the cabin, contributing to the overall bright atmosphere. A remarkable feature of the cabin is the dynamic mood LED lighting, which can be changed according to the time of day, destination or even season to create a relaxing flight experience. For example, a warm orange glow can be created to suggest an Asian ambience on flights to the Far East, while cool Nordic blue shades resembling the Northern lights will mostly set the mood as the plane approaches Helsinki. How cool is that!

The Finnair Airbus A350 XWB has 297 seats: 46 in Business Class, 43 in Economy Comfort Class, and 208 in Economy Class. The 46 Business Class seats are spread over 2 cabins: a large Business Class cabin with 32 seats (in 8 rows) is located behind the cockpit, while a smaller and more intimate Business Class cabin with only 14 seats (in 4 rows) is located in front of the Economy Comfort cabin. Both Business Class cabins are divided by the main boarding door, a galley and 2 lavatories.

Business Class seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 alignment ( a so-called herringbone layout), ensuring direct aisle access for all (no jumping over people’s feet here). The Business Class seats on the sides are angled toward the window (about 2 windows per seat, offering great views), while the seats in the middle are angled towards each other. The herringbone layout is great for privacy, so even if you’re traveling solo and end up in one of the middle seats, there’s nothing to worry about since you’ll barely see your neighbor.

Click here for the seat map of Finnair’s Airbus A350 XWB (and click the seat map for a larger image).

3. BUSINESS CLASS SEAT (& WHAT SEAT TO CHOOSE)

For its Airbus A350 XWB, Finnair choose the Zodiac Cirrus III fully lie-flat seats. These are the best Business Class seats in the skies. These days, similar seats can be found on Cathay Pacific (click here for a trip report in a Cathay Pacific B77W), American Airlines (click here for a trip report in an AA B77W), EVA Air and more recently Air France. Qatar Airways also uses a variant of this seat type on their Boeing 787s (click here for a trip report) and Airbus A380/350s. However, none of these airlines (with the exception of Qatar) combines these seats with a fresh, bright, and highly aesthetical cabin design like Finnair does. IMHO, with the introduction of its Airbus A350, Finnair is offering one of the best Business Class products in the skies.

All Business Class seats have the same characteristics: 192 cm (78 inches) in pitch, a width of 53 cm (21 inch), and a 180 degree recline. Each seat comes with plenty of storage space for your personal items (such as a rather large side cabinet with enough room for a smartphone, pen, passport, glasses, and other bits and pieces). Next to the seat, at eye level, are the seat and entertainment controls, a reading light, a universal power supply outlet, and a multi-port connector with an RCA port, an iPhone/iPod connector a USB port. The seats feature a large tray table in addition to a work surface so you can eat and work at the same time. There’s a large ottoman footrest in front of every seat.

When tired, you can recline the seat into a very comfortable, fully flat-bed. The flat-bed is just over 2 metres (82 inches) long and the side storage compartment offers extra knee space for sleeping on your side. For sleeping, you may choose to leave your armrest up for more privacy, or down for more space.

What are the best Business Class seats on Finnair’s Airbus A350 XWB? Click here for the seat map.

• The seats in row 9 to 12 are located in their own little private cabin and are therefore highly recommended.
• Solo travelers should go fo the window seats, while companions should choose the middle seats.

What are the worst Business Class seats on Finnair’s Airbus A350 XWB? Click here for the seat map.

• I suggest to avoid the seats in row 1, 8 and 10, since the proximity to the galley may be bothersome.
• I also suggest to avoid the last row of Business Class, row 12, which is in front of the Economy Comfort Class bassinet seats.

4. AMENITIES

This was a short flight (2 hours and 12 min) and no amenity kit was provided. However, to promote their first A350 flight to/from Brussels, Finnair displayed some amenity kits in Business Class. The ultra-environmentally-conscious kits are intentionally minimalist and  developed in partnership with Finnish design institution Marimekko. They feature the distinctive Marimekko prints and contain essential inflight goodies including an eye shade, earplugs, toothbrush and toothpaste, and Clarins moisturizer and lip balm.

Finnair features in our top 10 list of the best Business Class amenity kits in the skies.

5. MEAL

A lunch was served 30 minutes after take off. The starter and main course were served at once on a single tray. Food was actually quite delicious. The starter consisted of country paté with apple chutney, while the entrée was chicken with a delicious tomato/curry sauce. Dessert was a Finnish pastry filled with blueberry compote.

6. ENTERTAINMENT

IMHO, Finnair developed one of the most impressive inflight entertainment systems. The completely new state-of-the-art Nordic Sky entertainment system has a wide selection of Hollywood blockbusters, classic movies and unique branded channels from the BBC, the National Geographic Channel, and the Discovery Channel.  The Peace of Mind Channel eases passengers into a calm and relaxing flight. The cameras installed in the tail and belly of the new plane also offer some fun moments, especially at take-off and landing (watch my video). The flight tracking is superb: you can observe the plane from different angles (including cockpit view) along the flight route by touching the screen.

7. ONBOARD INTERNET 

This will please many frequent flyers!  Business Class passengers, Finnair Plus Gold and Platinum members, and Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members enjoy full internet access FREE of charge, while Economy Class passengers can purchase it either by the hour or for the duration of the flight. Internet worked great during the flight.

8. OTHER INFLIGHT EXPERIENCES

# CREW: this was a familiarization flight aimed at training the cabin crew and make them familiar with the new plane. More than double the normal number of crew members was present onboard, and they all did a fantastic job. I found their stylish Nordic uniforms quite remarkable.

#LAVATORY: two lavatories for Business Class passengers are located in front of the plane (behind the cockpit), and another two are located in the galley between the two Business Class cabins. Both lavatories were kept very clean during the flight. Female passengers in Business Class can take advantage of the dedicated Ladies’ Room which is stocked with cosmetics and other supplies.

9. MY VERDICT

Finnair is offering a fantastic (and my new favorite) Business Class product on its Airbus A350.

• Seat : 9/10
• Food:  8/10
• Inflight entertainment : 9/10
• Amenity kit: 9/10
• Service: 9/10
• Cabin atmosphere: 9/10
• Overall experience: superb: 8.8/10

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Today (December 10, 2014): Hotel review: Longitude 131°, Uluru-Kata Tjuta (Australia).

• Location: Google Maps
• Hotel website: Longitude 131°

Longitude 131° is located in the spirited heart and red centre of Australia.  Facing majestic Uluru, the hotel commands spectacular views of the outback icon and World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Longitude 131° will make your senses come alive, while you delve into the foundation of Anangu culture and explore this irresistible land and the stories of the traditional custodians. Prince William and Kate stayed here during their recent Australia visit (April 2014).

Longitude 131° features in my top 10 lists of the world’s most exclusive wilderness lodges and the best luxury hotels of Australia.

In this review (more info and photos below my Youtube clip & slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there

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PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• This is the only true luxury hotel near Uluru. There are a couple of hotels at the nearby Ayers Rock Village, but those have the look of a mediocre holiday camp. Compared to these Ayers Rock Village hotels, Longitude 131° is also the best located by a long way, just a few km/mi from the famous rock.

• The hotel is set in a spectacular location, with 360 degrees uninterrupted view of Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), and the surrounding desert wilderness. This is the Australian Outback at its best.

• The hotel’s 15 luxury tented pavilions float over rust-red dunes. Classic touches from bygone eras meld with indigenous textures to evoke a sanctuary of earthy elegance. Each tent is named after a celebrated Australian explorer or wilderness pioneer, and the walls are adorned with relevant memorabilia (cuttings, letters, sketches, etc). All tents have comfy (king or twin) beds, Bose CD sound system with iPod dock, great working air-conditioning, and a complimentary soft-drink minibar. Ensuite bathrooms are small but functional.

• All tents enjoy a breathtaking view of Uluru through a private glass wall. This is the only place in the area where you can admire the inimitable postcard vista of Uluru without lifting your head from the pillow.

• The Dune House is the center of the resort, and represents a convivial meeting place for lounging, relaxing and swapping stories of desert discoveries with other guests. Beneath its canopy roof, you will find the Dune House Restaurant, as well as a library with an impressive collection of books, historical literature and other artefacts enabling guests to trace the paths of those legendary explorers and enhance personal discoveries of Australia’s Red Centre. A comprehensive movie and game library is also available.

• Food is a highlight and – together with all beverages – included in the (insanely expensive) room rate. Breakfast begins early with freshly baked pastries, fruit and a la carte menu selection. Lunch is a three course menu. Dinner is a superb experience, and either served under the canopy of the Dune House or alfresco under a billion stars at Table 131°.  The daily changing 4-course menu is refined, showcasing the riches of Australian produce. The Longitude 131° wine list features varietals from Australia’s finest wine regions.

• Every other night, guests are whisked off to a ‘secret’ location to dine alfresco at ‘Table 131’, with a three-course meal followed by a talk about the vast desert starscape and the opportunity to gaze through strategically sited telescopes.

• The small, curvy pool in front of the Dune House is nice to cool off in the searing desert heat of the summer days.

• The staff is well-trained and service is excellent. Housekeeping cleans your room twice daily, including turn down service.

• The hotel operates complimentary transfers to/from Ayers Rock Airport.

• Excursions are included in the stay and guided by people with a real love and respect for the National Park, Uluru and the Anangu people. They include – amongst others – watching the sunset over Uluru, the Mala Walk & Kantju Gorge evening walk, and a sunrise walk into Kata-Tjuta (the Olgas). Canapés are offered during most excursions.

• The packed picnic lunch on departure day is a very nice touch.

• The hotel is eco-friendly: showers are heated by solar power, and reverse heater-air conditioning units reduce energy wastage.

• Longitude 131° joined the Baillie Lodges collection in November 2013 (and is now a sister property of Capella Lodge and Southern Ocean Lodge) under an agreement with Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia. This may further rise the standards of the resort in the near future.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

While unique and enjoyable, Longitude 131° has one major problem: it is exuberantly overpriced. The management takes advantage of the lure of Uluru and the lack of luxury competitors in the area to charge insane rates. If Uluru is on your bucket list – and frankly, it should be – then “bite the bullet” and pay the price but be aware that you are not getting 1000 AUD per night per person (!!) worth of value, because of the following reasons:

• Excursions are done in group with the other Longitude 131° hotel guest (private tours are possible at extra cost). This may be fun for some, but are a put off for others. Given the price tag, complimentary private tours – taking into account the wishes and abilities of the individual guests – would enhance the experience.

• Excursions do not always involve the most interesting or scenic places. For example, at the Olgas, the complimentary activity offered by the lodge is the Walpa Gorge Walk, a boring 2.6 km stroll into a gorge. However, the most scenic hike at the Olgas is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7 kilometre beauty that makes a loop to two spectacular lookout points, but this activity is only offered by the lodge at a very high extra cost.

• While well-appointed, the rooms are not large (40 sq meters) and not in the same league as many 5 star hotels or luxurious safari lodges.

• Bathrooms have no tub, only a shower. However, this makes sense from the perspective of being environmentally correct as well as the hot water being delivered via a solar heater placed on the roof.

• The pool is too tiny as well as uninviting from an aesthetical point of view. It has the looks of a cheap motel pool. The water is unheated: that’s great during the hot summer days but a dip during a winter visit is only for the brave ones.

• There is a fire pit next to the pool, but it was never used during my stay. It would have been great though if the staff would have fired that up for an after-dinner cocktail.

• All meals are served as ‘nouvelle cuisine’ and as such, food portions are rather small.

• Given the early morning starts of the tours, guest are offered continental breakfast (whichis a good thing), but unfortunately, from a very limited buffet. The cooked breakfast menu, when you do not participate to the tour, is far better.

• Unfortunately, the interior design of the Dune House does not reflect the quality of a true luxury lodge, and feels soulless and empty. It comes close to the ambiance of a caferia.

• Flies are an annoying problem during daylight hours in the Australian outback, especially in the warmer summer months (November to April): when you do not move for a second, a couple of flies are landing on you and/or buzzing around you. However, credits to the hotel as they provide a free insect hood to al guests. Don’t underestimate the impact the flies will have on your visit to Ayers Rock!

• There is no wildlife that one would associate with Australia to be seen at or nearby the lodge.

• There is no private viewing area to watch the famous Uluru sunset: there’s really only one area where everyone goes to view the sunrise and sunset, and so you are surrounded by hundreds of other tourist (yes, hundreds). Not exactly an intimate experience.

• The hotel accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express but payment by credit card attracts a 2.5% surcharge (as, unfortunately, is the case with most hotels in Australia). Direct deposit is the only way to avoid this extra surcharge.

• Longitude 131° lacks an on-site spa. The hotel does provide transfers though to the far-from-luxurious Red Ochre Spa, which is located within Sails in the Desert Hotel, at the nearby Ayers Rock Resort.

This lodge is without doubt the best anywhere near Uluru. It has one of the most incredible locations imaginable and food is a highlight. But currently, it is way too expensive for the luxury experience offered. And unfortunately, there is no excuse for a product that costs 1000 AUD a night per person to be anything other than brilliant. The good news is that the lodge is set to be renovated, upgrading the pool, adding balconies to tents, and adding more luxury.

OUR VERDICT

• Location: 9/10
• Design: 5/10
• Rooms: 6/10
• Food: 9/10
• Service: 8/10
• Overall experience: good: 7.4/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUEST & SAVE MONEY

• Some of the suites are better sited that others. For some reason the suites to the west of the main building are in two rows of three. So the back three suites do not enjoy the same uninterrupted view of Uluru as the front west suites or all of the six suites to the east of the main building. Make sure that you request a tent with uninterrrupted Uluru views.

• Tents 1 and 15 (aka ‘Sir Sidney Kidman and ‘Jane Webb’) are the most private as they’re set at either end of the resort, so very few people tend to wander past; 6, 7 and 8 (‘John Flynn’, ‘Ernest Giles’ and ‘William Christie Gosse’) have the most inspiring uninterrupted views of Uluru.

• The lodge’s schedule seems to be on a two-day interval, as the main events (Dinner under the stars, Uluru/Kata Tjuta tours, sunset viewings) repeat every two days. This means that a 2 night stay is perfect to enjoy the best of the area. A longer stay is only advised if you need more time to relax, or if you’re not into full day activities.

• Do not come in the hottests summer months (December – March) as there are an extraordinary number of flies, moths, and crickets that will challenge your stay.

• Save money: read my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like Longitude 131°. Book a room at the cheapest price and/or receive many free perks!

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Any time of year is a good time to view Ayers Rock and take pictures. However, the area is best visited during the Australian winter (that’s when it’s summer in Europe or the US). The Outback climate is such that during winter warm, dry and sunny days are virtually guaranteed, why the nights are very cold (frosts occur about half of the nights in July and August). If you can stand the heat and the swarms of flies, summer (December to February) is less popular among tourists, so you’ll have more elbow room to jockey for that perfect shot.

HOW TO GET THERE

Ayers Rock is literally in the middle of nowhere. Alice Springs is the closest city – roughly 250 miles away – and it requires a four to five hour drive to reach Uluru National Park. Greyhound operates a bus line between Alice Springs and the park. If you’d rather fly in and out than watch the Outback unfold beneath your wheels, the Ayers Rock Airport is located a 15 minute drive from the lodge. Currently, Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia all fly directly into Ayers Rock Airport from Alice Springs, Melbourne, Perth, Cairns, Adelaide and Sydney ((click here for a direct link to their websites). Check the Wikipedia page of Ayers Rock Airport for an updated list with airlines that have direct flights to Uluru.

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The post Hotel review: Longitude 131° (Uluru, Australia) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today (May 12th, 2014): Top 10 most luxurious resorts in the Maldives. 

This list was updated in 2017.

Perhaps the globe’s ultimate luxury destination, the Maldives has become a synonym for paradise whether it is for honeymooners, sun worshipers, scuba divers or celebrities. Located on the equator towards the south of India and stretching over 800 km, the Maldives are the visible coral tips of an oceanic volcanic mountain range whose outer edge at some points plunge to depths of over 3 km (10,000 ft). The stunningly beautiful islands are blessed with some of the most spectacular beaches in the world, crystal clear blue lagoons, incredible underwater wildlife, and unrivalled luxury resorts that take up their own private islands.

The following list is my pick of the 10 best luxury resorts in the Maldives. These resorts definitely come at a price (some at more than 5000 USD per night), so make sure you read my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel. But be warned: once you experienced the luxury of a Maldivian resort, any other holiday experience will pale in comparison. And I have some great news for you, as I can offer you a complimentary room upgrade at two of the Maldives’ most exclusive resorts (read more here)!

There is more information (with trip reports & Youtube clips) below the slideshow. Think I missed one? Share your favorite Maldivian hotel in the comments section, or take my poll below!

*** Top 10 best luxury resorts in French Polynesia, the Seychelles, Mauritius and the Caribbean ***

10. PARK HYATT MALDIVES HADAHAA

Situated on a private island 55 km (35 mi) north of the Equator in one of the world’s deepest atolls, Park Hyatt is a strikingly modern design resort. Featuring only 50 villas, the minimalist style interiors of the accommodation are designed with the utmost comfort and luxury in mind, whether nestled within the island’s tropical foliage, only steps from the ocean, or elevated above the water. All villas feature floor-to-ceiling windows, and every comfort you would expect, with some villas having the added luxury of a plunge pool. The resort is framed by one of the archipelago’s most unspoilt house reefs, providing easy access for exploration of the underwater marvels of the Indian Ocean.

• Hotel website: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
• Other accolades: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa also features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury hotels for amazing award redemptions, the world’s most remote luxury hotels. the best resorts in the Maldives for snorkeling, and the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives.
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD spa credit).
• Review: read my review of Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa here.

9. FOUR SEASONS LANDAA GIRAAVARU

With 103 spacious villas spread across a remote jungle wilderness in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru combines impeccable service, five-star facilities and world-class cuisine with a real sense of discovery. A stay here can be combined with a holiday at its sister property, Kuda Huraa, which is a lushly tropical private island to the south, renowned for its exceptional surf and easy charm. Both are linked by the luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer, which cruises between the two island resorts stopping at exceptional dive sites, tiny uninhabited beaches and remote island communities along the way. Recently, Four Seasons also opened an ultraluxe private island, called Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, a secluded haven that transcends the private island experience for a maximum of 22 guests.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru
• Other accolades: the Four Seasons resorts in the Maldives also feature in my top 10 list of the best Four Seasons hotels & resorts in the world.
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, $100 USD spa credit, welcome amenity in room on arrival, and departure gift).

8. COMO MAALIFUSHI

COMO Maalifushi is the first luxury resort in the Maldives that opened in the pristine Thaa Atoll in the archipelago’s southwest. Among Maldivian island hotels, the private island resort stands apart with its understated style, encapsulating the spirit of the Indian Ocean and the barefoot chic of the COMO brand. The luxuries are all here, with a COMO Shambhala spa, world-class yoga facilities, and exceptional cuisine along with the Maldives’ vibrant marine life (whale shark sightings are common). With 33 overwater villas and garden suites, COMO Maalifushi may be the ultimate away-from-it-all destination for families, couples, surfers and divers.

• Hotel website: COMO Maalifushi
• Other accolades: COMO Maalifushi also features in my lists of the best new hotels of 2014, the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives, and the most amazing beach resorts in the world.
• Review: read my review of COMO Maalifushi here.

7. SIX SENSES LAAMU

Six Senses Laamu is the only resort in the Laamu Atoll, deep in the Indian Ocean. Just an inter-island plane trip from Malé International Airport and a short boat ride brings you to a place where dolphins swim. Yin Yang, the Maldives’ most famous surfing wave breaks just offshore. The luxury Maldives resort is a combination of fabulous on-land and over-water villas constructed of sustainable materials and set around the palm-fringed paradise. The house reef that encircles Six Senses Laamu is simply spectacular, with a stunning coral garden where it is very common to see Oriental Sweetlips, parrotfish and even green turtles as you make you way along it.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Laamu
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, $100 USD food & beverage credit, and $100 USD spa credit).
• Other accolades: Six Senses Laamu also features in my top 10 list of the best resorts in the Maldives for snorkeling.

6. VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND

Tucked away within the collection of islands that form the Noonu Atoll, Velaa Private Island is elegantly positioned to overlook enchanting vistas of a cerulean ocean. Its name derived from the generations of sea turtles that flock there to nest and hatch, the resort is comprised of 45 private villas. Each villa comes with a personal butler, all services offered can be tailored to personal specifications, and attention to detail everywhere is impeccable: stone pavements from the desert in Jordan, Indonesian flowerpots, luxury wood panelling from Borneo, and glimmering Italian marble. The resort also includes a Romantic Pool Residence which can only be reached by boat, allowing even more exclusivity.

• Hotel website: Velaa Private Island
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast,  $100 USD resort credit, early check-in, and late check-out).
• Other accolades: Velaa Private Island also features in my lists of the best new luxury hotels of 2013, the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives, and the most expensive hotels in the world.

5. THE ST REGIS MALDIVES VOMMULI RESORT

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort brings the iconic St Regis brand and its hallmark luxury services to one of the world’s most magnificent destinations. A 40-minute seaplane ride southwest from Malé airport, the new St Regis hotel is located on a private atoll spanning more than 20 acres, surrounded by unspoiled beaches and a secluded lagoon with sparkling turquoise waters. The resort features 77 luxuriously appointed private villas, all with a distinct contemporary design scheme inspired by the island’s natural materials and color palette. Guests have access to a tranquil spa, an infinity swimming pool (if a private pool on your room’s terrace does not do it for you), a dive center, and three terrific fine dining venues.

• Hotel website: The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
• Other accolades: The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort also features in my lists of the best overwater villas in the Maldives and the best new luxury hotels of 2016.
• Review: read my review of the St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort here.

4. CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI

The ultraluxe Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy resort calls the Noonu Atoll its home, which includes a handful of unspoiled green islands protected from the ocean by a large coral reef.  The islands blend elongated palm trees, tropical flowers, white sand banks, pristine turquoise water and fringing reef. The famous resort offers 46 island, water and garden villas in neutral colors and tones that complement the open design of the space. They each have a variety of contemporary design elements, high doors and ceilings, outdoor areas for relaxation, stunning private swimming pool and lagoon-side pontoons. Cheval Blanc Randheli was the playground of Kate and William during their Maldivian getaway a few years ago.

• Hotel website: Cheval Blanc Randheli
• Other accolades: Cheval Blanc Randheli also features in my lists of the best new luxury hotels of 2013 and the best overwater villas in the Maldives.
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $150 USD food & beverage credit).

3. ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

This chic 6-star resort offered a level of style and sophistication unsurpassed in the world when it opened in 2005. The resort is spectacularly designed in an octopus shape with an extraordinary 6 km (3,7 mi) of coastline. Set on one of the largest islands in North Male’ Atoll, adorned with endless white sand coves and turquoise bays, all 130 spacious villas are discreetly placed amidst beautiful landscaping, each occupying its own secluded piece of sandy shore or private deck over crystal clear waters of the lagoon. Service and dining are geared to guests accustomed to the highest world-class standards. One&Only Reethi Rah is a favorite among royals and A-list Hollywood celebrities.

• Hotel website: One&Only Reethi Rah
• Other accolades: One&Only Reethi Rah also features in my top 10 lists of the world’s best hotel spas, the most astonishing beach retreats in Asia, the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives, the best luxury hotels in the Maldives that can be reached without a seaplane, and luxury hotels loved by celebrities.
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. villa upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, exclusively designed Reethi Rah Kaftans, a complimentary ‘Secrets of the Thila’ excursion or a complimentary dinner for two in the Reethi Restaurant excluding beverages).
• Review: read my review of One&Only Reethi Rah here.

2. SONEVA FUSHI

Soneva Fushi Resort, the Maldives’ original desert island hideaway, is located in the stunning Baa Atoll island archipelago, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Massive, multi-bedroom, fairytale-like luxury villas and private residences are hidden among dense tropical foliage. In keeping with the castaway theme, many are built to resemble tree houses. All open to their own private stretch of sugar white sands, and most boast their own private seawater swimming pools. Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers who know what you want before you want it. A stroll on the islands’ spotless beaches invariably summons up Robinson Crusoe stories.

Contact me to receive a complimentary room upgrade at Soneva Fushi at the time of booking.

• Hotel website: Soneva Fushi
• Other accolades: Soneva Fushi also features in my top 10 lists of the best family hotels in the world, the most astonishing beach retreats in Asia, the best resorts in the Maldives for snorkeling, and the world’s most insanely beautiful hotel beaches.
• Tip: enjoy free VIP amenities when booking via  Virtuoso (e.g. villa upgrade, breakfast, early check-in , late check-out, welcome Champagne with Maldivian tapas on arrival, one lunch for two, original handcrafted arrival and departure mementos, shoreline beach dinner, private sunset sailing by Dhoni at Baa Atoll, and a cooking class for two).
• Review: read my review of Soneva Fushi here.

1. SONEVA JANI

Inspired by a word that means wisdom in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani is located on Medhufaru island, which is part of an uninhabited five-island cluster in the Noonu Atoll. The Maldives’ most exclusive hotel is fringed by pristine beaches, blanketed with lush tropical greenery, and surrounded by a 5.6 km (3,4 mi) lagoon of crystal clear waters with uninterrupted 360° views of the Indian Ocean. Each one of the 24 water villas has a private pool and opens to its own stretch of lagoon, with some villas featuring slides going directly from the top deck into the lagoon below. The highlight of the villas is the retractable roof in the master bedroom, which slides back at the touch of a button so that guests can lie in bed and stargaze.

Contact me to receive a complimentary room upgrade at Soneva Jani at the time of booking.

• Hotel website: Soneva Jani
• Other accolades: Soneva Jani also features in my lists of the most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives, the best new luxury hotels of 2016, the most astonishing beach retreats in Asia, and my favorite hotels in the world.
• Review: read my review of Sonev Jani here.

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