The MaldivesWelcome to the world’s most

beautiful destination

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A daydream brought to lifeThere is nowhere else on Earth quite like the Maldives: its combination of bright-white, feather-soft sands, undulating palms and fish-filled turquoise waters represents what many of us picture when we close our eyes and imagine paradise. A double chain of 26 atolls, the coral islets – which number almost 1,200 – are protected by lagoons which serve as barriers to the Indian Ocean’s stormy waters, making it the perfect place for scuba-diving (among the hundreds of species residing in its waters are stingrays, turtles and sharks).The best bit? You can get there in as little as four hours, depending on where in the GCC you’re flying from.

However, the Maldives’ very existence is under threat: on average, the islands protrude only 1.5 metres above the surface, meaning we may be one of the last generations able to visit them if sea levels continue to rise – so go now, while you still can.

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AbOuT THIs GuIdEHolidaying in the Maldives is blissful: the resorts encompass entire islands, each steeped in more luxury than the last. It can be difficult to know where to start when faced with such a plethora of amazing options – so Kanoo World Traveller is here to talk you through the best on offer and help you on your quest for the most relaxing holiday you’ll ever have.

Weather Temperatures are generally very pleasant – April and May are the hottest months, peaking at around 31°C, while for the rest of the year the mercury lurks between 23°C and 29°C (November to January are the coolest months). The rainy season falls between the end of April and October, and diving conditions are best between November and April.

Visas Tourists from all countries are granted a free 30-day visa on arrival at Malé airport.

Money Though the official Maldivian currency is Rufiyaa (Rf, divisible into 100 Larees), hotels operate in US dollars. At time of going to press, $1 was equivalent to 12.8Rf.

Maldives by

numbers

1,192 Number of islets

that comprise the Maldives

200 The amount

of islands that are actually inhabited

1.5 Average ground level, in metres

2.3 The highest

point, again in metres, making

the Maldives host to the

world’s lowest highest point

9 Number of months the

famous Arab explorer Ibn

battuta spent in the Maldives

during his travels – he

was reportedly half-bribed,

half-kidnapped into staying for

such a long time

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KurumbaTime from Malé: 10 minutes by speedboat.This 48-acre island was the Maldives’ first resort, though refurbishments have seen modern touches – including sublime outdoor showers – added to the classic colonial-style rooms. As well as chilling out in the Aquum spa, which is centred around a stunning ornamental ‘reflection pond’, you can fill your days with diving, tennis, volleyball, watersports, island-hopping and fishing. And the 10 dining outlets (which also offer kids’ menus) will allow you to sample different cuisines each night.You’ll love: The beach bungalows’ window walls, all the better from which to enjoy the postcard-perfect view.www.kurumba.com

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Time from Malé: 20 minutes by speedboat. When you’re not busy luxuriating in the comfort of your five-star villa – beachside, naturally – then you just have to tuck into the plentiful dining options, whether it’s the international dishes at Vabbinnfaru’s beachfront restaurants or enjoying a private barbecue on your terrace. You can even learn how to cook Maldivian-style by requesting a demo from one of the resort’s chefs. Alternatively, take advantage of the free, five-minute boat transfers to the resort’s sister island, Angsana Ihhuru, and enjoy a dinner date there instead. You’ll love: The day excursions on offer. Try an island visit with a local guide that culminates in a performance from a traditional boduberu band – a unique way of gaining an insight into traditional Maldivian life. www.banyantree.com

‘Try an island visit with a local guide that culminates in a performance from a traditional Boduberu band’

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Anantara Veli Resort & Spa Time from Malé: 35 minutes by speedboat. An idyllic hideaway for honeymooners to drink in the surrounding beauty, absolute privacy comes as standard in this stunning resort, where you can wile away your day on the sun-drenched deck of your over-water bungalow – it has steps that lead directly to the duck-egg blue ocean below and also makes for a fine vantage point at night, when you can stare up at a blanket of stars. Once it’s time to up the tempo, you can try your hand at surfing or windsurfing on the lagoon. You’ll love: baan Huraa, the resort’s Thai restaurant. It’s perched on stilts above the Veli lagoon and boasts open-air views across the ocean – remember to catch your breath before you order. www.veli-maldives.anantara.com

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Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & SpaTime from Malé: 70 minutes by plane to Gan International Airport then an eight-minute boat ride. It may be a little further from Malé airport than most, but Villingili Resort’s location makes it a perfect pick if you dream of leaving the real world far behind you. The secluded setting doesn’t just offer a feast for the eyes either – dr Ali’s, its main restaurant, has three living rooms, each serving the finest cuisine available between the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Gulf. Alternatively, head down to Javvu for more relaxed western fare. but why stay on dry land? For a different way to dine, take a cruise on a luxury yacht and have lunch along the equator.You’ll love: The tropical tree house villas, which are perched on stilts amidst lush greenery, making an altogether different spot to stay. www.shangri-la.com

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The Spa of course is fabulous but sometimes nothingbeats retail therapy Live the moment.

One&Only Reethi Rah is part of a portfolio of distinctive and memorable resorts in The Bahamas, Dubai, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico and Cape Town.

Call +960 664 8800, email Reservations@oneandonlyresorts.com.mv or visit oneandonlyresorts.com.

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VelassaruTime from Malé: 45 minutes by speedboat.Thatched roofs and natural materials are the order of the day in this exclusive resort: choose from a bungalow on the beach, opening directly onto velveteen sands, or a serene water villa perching above the crystal-clear water. No matter whether you defect to a nearby deserted island, see the day in with yoga or close it with a sunset cruise, it’s impossible to feel anything other than 100 per cent relaxed here.You’ll love: The degustation menu at Mediterranean restaurant Etesian, which showcases the chefs’ flair to perfection – the umbrian truffles are a particular highlight.www.velassaru.com

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Taj Exotica Resort & SpaTime from Malé: 15 minutes by speedboat. With endless stretches of white beach and clear blue sea, Taj Exotica is truly stunning – so be sure to take a stroll between bathing and spa treatments to absorb its natural beauty. If you want to take it easy, head to the infinity pool; activity-seekers, meanwhile, can get involved in an array of pursuits, from beach sports to catamaran-sailing and fishing excursions. Away from the beach, your palm-thatched villa, with its very own sun deck, loungers and serene sea views, is just the place for winding down… You’ll love: Jiva Grande spa, where you can take your pick from an array of traditional Indian therapies, from massages and scrubs to wraps and facials – guaranteed to send you into a blissful state. www.tajhotels.com

Vivanta by Taj – Coral Reef Time from Malé: 50 minutes by speedboat.Whether you have a loved one or entire family in tow, there’s an abundance of water activities to keep restless souls occupied. set sail aboard a boat, step into a canoe or indulge your curiosity for the sea by taking a night-time fishing trip (it’s brilliant) – then head to one of the resort’s restaurants and sate your appetite. Alternatively, wander back to your chic-yet-comfy villa and chill out on its private deck. You’ll love: Open The Grill, for an al-fresco dining experience that allows you to feast on teppanyaki, sushi or Italian fare while overlooking the lagoon. For an added helping of romance, arrange a private dinner for two. www.tajhotels.com

‘Set sail aboard a boat, step into a canoe or indulge your curiosity for the sea by taking a night-time fishing trip’

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Anantara Dhigu Resort & SpaTime from Malé: 35 minutes by speedboat.Outer reefs ensure that the shallow waters of dhigu’s lagoon are placid, meaning you can wile away entire days floating around without a care in the world – though if you tire of the water, let the staff know and they’ll set you up with a net on the beach so you can play volleyball or badminton. Plush linens and colourful silk provide the backdrop to your luxurious villa, and meals can be taken onsite or at sister resort Anantara Veli.You’ll love: The onsite cooking school, where master chefs will teach you the art of preparing Maldivian cuisine.http://dhigu-maldives.anantara.com

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Naladhu Maldives Time from Male: 35 minutes by speedboat.Take your pick from a rolling beach or Indian Ocean-facing view at Naladhu and savour your chosen sights from your own private house. If you can bear to pull yourself away from its large bedroom, open-air bath and personal plunge pool, it’s worth taking a stroll to the resort’s spa, where you can indulge in a facial, exotic steam bath or massage. You can even choose where you want to be pampered – so if you really can’t bear to leave your villa, you don’t have to. You’ll love: The Horizon, Naladhu’s yacht, which can be chartered for a private sunset viewing, dinner, or overnight trip. Chill out by bathing on its decks or relaxing in its plush lounge. www.naladhu.com

The resort is just a paddle away from the Kandooma Caves, which are among the atoll’s largest and home to green turtles’

Holiday Inn Resort KandoomaTime from Malé: 40 minutes by speedboat.Activities aplenty mean there’s far more to keep yourself occupied with than a simple sunbathing session. If you’re feeling lively, get your kicks from diving, surfing, windsurfing or kayaking. Or why not unleash your inner team player with a little beach volleyball, cricket, underwater hockey or bicycle polo? If you’d prefer to take it down a notch, check out some of the more chilled-out activities on offer, such as a castaway picnic or sunset cruise.You’ll love: The dive Centre. The resort’s location is just a paddle away from some of the Maldives’ top diving sites, including Kandooma Channel’s renowned reef, Cocoa Corner and the Kandooma Caves, which are among the atolls’ largest caverns and home to green turtles.www.ichotelsgroup.com

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Beach House Maldives Time from Malé: 85 minutes by seaplane.In the Maldives’ northernmost atoll, this is a haven for luxury-loving families – as well as all that the sea has to offer, there’s tennis, watersports, and a fab kids’ venue called Play which offers pool table, golf simulator, Wii and Playstation. Meanwhile, you can chill out in your gorgeous land or sea-based villa and then reconvene for a family feast at one of the nine excellent dining spots.You’ll love: The bungee trampolines, ideal for tiring the kids out so you can enjoy your infinity pool in peace.www.beachhousemaldives.com

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One&Only Reethi RahTime from Malé: 75 minutes by yacht.This 130-villa resort caters superbly for active types: there’s beach volleyball, football, Pétanque and croquet, plus endless paths allowing you to weave amongst the island’s 44 hectares. Parasailing is just one of the watersports on offer, but if you’d rather be under the water than above it, Reethi Rah will delight you with its proximity to one of the Maldives’ best shark sites as well as the 1988 wreck of the Hembadu, the Rasfari Protected Marine Area and some excellent turtle and manta ray-viewing.You’ll love: The stunning Grand Water Villas, not least due to their over-water hammocks and private pools, which look directly in the direction that the sun sets.www.oneandonlyresorts.com

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H O T E L S A N D R E S O R T S

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Huvafen FushiTime from Malé: 30 minutes by speedboat.As well as eating at six top-class restaurants, you can indulge in a spot of ‘destination dining’ when staying at Huvafen Fushi: beneath the stars on a private rock island, underground in the atmospheric cellar, or in the privacy of your bungalow. sociable types can hit the enormous communal infinity pool but for a more solitary adventure, go out on a see-through glass kayak. Adventurers will love the ‘CsI Marine’ night snorkelling, where you can watch glowing micro marine life, but the spa is also not to be missed – it boasts the world’s first underwater, glass-walled treatment rooms.You’ll love: The glass floor of your ocean bungalow – perfect for fish-viewing while enjoying an in-room massage.http://huvafenfushi.peraquum.com

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BarosTime from Malé: 25 minutes by speedboat.If you tire of gazing over flawless skies, sands and seas, why not check out the excellently stocked house library, have a game of pool or table tennis or hit the fitness centre? Alternatively, take some time to appreciate your villa – tasteful teak floors, luxurious standalone tub and sandstone-walled flower garden complete with fantastic waterfall shower – or, if you’ve opted for a water villa, climb out of your silk-laden four-poster bed and descend from your deck into the lagoon.You’ll love: ‘diving by design’, which allows you to devise a personal programme with your instructor, choosing which of the 30 nearby dive sites you’d most like to explore.www.baros.com

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‘If you’re looking for a spa experience with a difference, book the over-water, open-air pavilion – pure bliss’

KuramathiTime from Malé: 20 minutes by seaplane.There is something for everyone here, including a handful of boutiques for those keen to snap up that perfect sarong, and three international buffets to complement the six à la carte res-taurants (siam Garden might be based in the middle of lush Maldivian forest but its food will transport you to Thailand in a single mouthful). If you’re looking for a spa experience with a dif-ference, book the over-water, open-air pavilion – pure, unadulterated bliss.You’ll love: Watching tropical fish glide by from the Jacuzzi which sits on the deck of your fabu-lous, stilt-mounted water villa.www.kuramathi.com

Alila Villas Al HadahaaTime from Male: A short seaplane flight fol-lowed by 90 minutes on a speedboat.A visit to this exquisite resort will leave you with a series of mental snapshots which make you smile every time you think of them. There’s the view of thousands of brightly coloured fish and the occasional reef shark on your first snor-kelling trip. There’s the loaded drinks trolley by the side of your private plunge pool. The plate of delicious calamari devoured at Relish restau-rant while you drink in the view over the ocean. The sound of tropical birds singing as you bathe in your private outdoor bathroom. This is the perfect resort for an introduction to all that makes the Maldives the perfect destination.You’ll love: The cultural activities, which include a guided tour of a working island where you can visit the school and meet locals who will answer all your questions about Maldivian culture, politics and history.www.alilahotels.com

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Angsana Velavaru Resort & SpaTime from Malé: 40 minutes by seaplane. Otherwise known as ‘Turtle Island’, you’ll discover Angsana Velavaru on a seemingly untouched island on the south Nilandhe Atoll. On arrival at your island or ocean villa, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a little piece of paradise. drag yourself away from your room to sample some water-based delights, such as snorkelling safaris or dolphin-spotting – or, if relaxation tops your to-do list, the spa is just the place to indulge yourself. You’ll love: The private dining options: have breakfast in your villa, dinner on the beach, or an oh-so-romantic picnic on a secluded island. www.angsana.com

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Banyan Tree MadivaruTime from Malé: 30 minutes by seaplane. This exclusive island sanctuary is ideal if you’re after accommodation with a difference. Once there, you’ll discover a cluster of just six tented pool villas, made up of three interlinking tents in which to sleep and bathe. but forget what you think you know about tents – beneath these cool canopies lies the ultimate in opulence. Inside, you can spend your time relaxing amidst exotic décor and, with two treatment beds inside the bathing room, why not book a spa therapist to come and work their magic? Plus, with round-the-clock island hosts, you won’t have to lift a finger elsewhere either. You’ll love: The Madi yacht. The resort’s very own vessel is just for guests so hop aboard for a scheduled excursion, leaving dry land behind for a sunset cruise, fishing trip or dolphin safari. www.banyantree.com

Hilton Maldives/Iru Fushi Resort & Spa Time from Malé: 45 minutes by seaplane.Although the interiors are beautiful – with high ceilings, modern art and, in water villas, glass floors – there are few better ways to spend a day than reclining on the oversized bed on your terrace. When you’re not busy snorkelling, you can chill out with an afternoon of sailing, jet-skiing or windsurfing. Though there are several options for dinner, we recommend Islander’s Grill, a wonderfully relaxed beach spot perfect for casual, al-fresco feasts and fresh, simple seafood cooked however you like it.You’ll love: The i-spa jacuzzi bath in your private courtyard, which allows you to connect your iPod for a very musical soak.www.hilton.com

‘Islander’s Grill is a wonderfully relaxed beach spot perfect for casual, al-fresco feasts and fresh, simple seafood’

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Conrad Maldives Rangali IslandTime from Malé: 30 minutes by seaplane.split over two idyllic, white-sand islands, this award-winning resort comprises 150 villas with Philippe starck fittings, including fabulous spa Water Villas with their own treatment rooms, and elegant beach Villas centred around inner courtyards and fountains. There’s a handful of sophisticated boutiques and movie fans will love the ‘starlight Cinema’, which screens films on the beach. Little princesses aged three to 12 will be in their element at the Ice Cream spa, while fully grown queens (and kings) are spoilt for choice with two options – the glass-bottomed Over-Water spa focuses on colour therapy while the spa Retreat bases treatments around the five elements.You’ll love: spending evenings dining at the world’s first all-glass, underwater restaurant.www.conradhotels.com

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EAsY WINNow that you’ve seen just how amazing the Maldives are, you’re probably already looking into flights – and we’ve got a truly wonderful prize up for grabs. The extremely lucky winner will get to choose between four nights’ half-board in a deluxe beach bungalow at Kurumba Maldives (p4), or the same but in one of Velassaru Maldives’ gorgeous beach Villas (p8) – plus you’ll be whisked to your island of choice by speedboat. It doesn’t get much more luxurious than that.To be in with a chance of winning, email the answer to the following simple question to easywin@hotmediapublishing.com.

What is the name of the Mediterranean restaurant at Velassaru?

a) Etesianb) Epicureanc) Etcetera

TERMs ANd CONdITIONs: Entries must be submitted on or before september 30, 2010. Prize cannot be transferred to a third party or exchanged for cash. Prize must be used before August 31, 2011. Room will be subject to an $8 bed tax per person per day. black-out dates: december 21, 2010-January 11, 2011; April 21-30, 2011.

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