By Olivia Cuccaro
The mid-winter slump calls for a change of scenery. We’re thinking ocean views all around with top-of-the-line island accommodations that can only be found in the Maldives.
If a 38,000 sq ft villa with exceptional privacy sounds like the ideal place to get away, Jumeirah Vittaveli has introduced a Royal Residence–a five-bedroom, six-bathroom, two-pool estate with a private beach.
The dream vacation begins at the airport where guests will receive priority customs service and a personal welcome on the tarmac. Then it’s a quick 20-minute yacht transfer to the Residence’s own arrival jetty to enjoy the sundeck and overwater bar.
Upon arrival, guests will tour the nine individual structures of the residence, including an outdoor sunken lounge surrounded by a serene lily pond and a full-sized swimming pool overlooking the beach that the Residence has all to itself.
Inside, a dining room with seating for 10 is adjacent to a living room with Bang & Olufsen home-theater system that connects to the private pool deck that is perfect for sunbathing. In the open-air, Teppanyaki-style kitchen, a personal chef will prepare meals while you take in the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean with a flute of champagne from the fully-stocked wine cellar. Should you require additional assistance, separate service quarters can house up to four more staff.
Spanning 6,000 sq ft, The Sanctuary encompasses the master suite with a separate indoor living area, a private spa treatment room, gym, bathroom and outdoor bathing area with a hot tub. The Villas flank The Sanctuary and pool to the north and south and include their own private open-air deck. The Suite also connects through a portico to the Royal Residence and includes a separate living room and private pool, meaning there’s plenty of room for friends and family.
While the Royal Residence is utterly self-sufficient, guests will also have access to all activities and facilities offered by the main resort (like the Talise Spa, children’s club, water sports and dining) via dedicated buggy and chauffeur. The whole experience can even be tailored to personal interests like, say, having your favorite band perform onsite…Definite party potential.
Rates for the Royal Residence begin at $25,000. For more information, please visit jumeirah.com