The Maldives is currently one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, with luxury hotels opening up left and right on its many small islands and atolls. The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is the recently luxury resort to open.
Located on the crescent-shaped Vagaru island on the Shaviyani atoll, JW Marriott Maldives is just a 55-minute plane ride from the capital, Malé, and the resort is sure to satisfy all of your overwater bungalow fantasies. While the resort has an intimate feel, there are 60 incredibly spacious villas, each starting at 2,520 sq ft, complete with private pools and decks. In typical JW Marriott fashion, there are five gourmet dining options to choose from, from Maldivian cuisine and Thai cuisine to pizza and teppanyaki. Fresh produce abounds, and is harvested directly from the chef’s garden, as do craft cocktails and wine (there’s a wine list with more than 300 labels). A sense of adventure, like the treetop restaurant, is felt throughout every aspect of the resort.
Where to stay if you want the full Maldives experience? The Duplex Overwater Pool is a one-bedroom villa over the bright-blue Indian Ocean that has exceptional views of the water and surrounding land. It’s completely private, with a wooden sunbathing deck, private pool and direct access to the lagoon. For those with larger groups, the Duplex Beach Pool Villa is a two-bedroom accommodation with direct beach access, a beach view and a spacious balcony. The entire villa is very private and surrounded by lush greenery to shield prying eyes.
And because this is the Maldives, the resort has a strong focus on relaxation and wellness. There is a stunning spa, offering treatments for a relaxing pampering session or two; an overwater fitness center; yoga classes; and daily workout classes, each with a focus on mindfulness.
Those interested in conservation will be pleased to know that there is an in-house marrine biologist who hosts diving and snorkeling excursions so guests can get to know the local flora and fauna of the region. The biologist will take you to see the local sea life and the natural reefs just steps from the white-sand beaches.
For more information, visit jwmarriottmaldives.com