Paradise. The word itself evokes so many feelings. True to it’s name, Paradise Island Resort transports one to a dream-like world where there is turquoise blue sea, white sand and nature’s glory blended seamlessly with modern hospitality.
It was my first time in Maldives and though I had read about water villas and seen pictures too, the experience of staying in one totally bowled me over. We checked in to a water villa at the resort. The expansive room, balcony with a bathtub overlooking the sea and plush bathroom- everything screamed luxury. I spent most of my time in the villa- watching the sun rise from my villa, going for a swim in the lagoon water at the sunset and soaking in the bathtub with my favorite book. Complimentary wi-fi meant I could instantly upload the inspiring pictures on Facebook and Instagram; the luxury I didn’t enjoy at some resorts I checked-into later during my trip.
Water Villa at Paradise Island Resort. Photo By: Paradise Island Resort
ROOMS: Paradise Island Resort is located in heart of the island Lankanfinolhu in North Male’ Atoll. It has 282 rooms with options of Beach Bungalows and Water Villas. While beach bungalows are beautiful and offer guests easy access to the beach, it’s the water villas that introduce you to the true charm of Maldives. Sitting in the balcony of a water villa is almost like sitting in the middle of a sea. The Resort has water villas across three categories- Water Villa, Haven Villa, Haven Suite and Ocean Suite. Lagoon view, open air showers and expansive plush rooms make water villas a complete delight for holiday makers, honeymooners and those who are looking for a lush escape. The Haven Suite comes with a private pool and jacuzzi, while the Ocean Suite perched at the end of the reef has an infinity private pool, two bedrooms and offers magnificent uninterrupted views of the sea and the sky.
Interiors of a Water Villa. Photo By: Sujoy Dhar
Though I checked out four different resorts in Maldives, I must say that Paradise Island Resort has one of the most beautiful causeways leading to the water villas. Check out our Instagram feed to know what I mean.
Picture Perfect Setting: Paradise Island Resort
With six restaurants and five well stocked bars, Paradise Island Resort offers ample dining options. Each restaurant not just offers a different cuisine but a different setting as well making every dining experience at the island memorable. Farumathi, the ala carte seafood restaurant is built on the edge of the reef and offers splendid view of the Indian Ocean. Must try the Maldivian lobster here and some cocktails at the air terrace. The shark feeding also happens every evening near the air terrace. A two-minute activity, daily ritual at most island resorts, offers sneak peek into a shark’s life. We also enjoyed feeding the sting rays at the beach.
Paradise-like Setting Indeed: Farumathi Restaurant. Photo By: Paradise Island Resort
Then there is Fukuya Teppanyaki, the sushi restaurant that offers a wide range of sake and Japanese beer too. Seafood not right up your alley? Try the Italian restaurant- Ristorante Al Tramanto. Romantic setting, flavorful Italian food and sunset view- this restaurant is perfect for all your senses.
The water villas have access to the Lagoon Restaurant that has lavish Breakast, lunch and dinner buffet spreads.
BEYOND ROOMS: Your trip to Maldives is definitely incomplete without a spa treatment. Sun, Sand and Sea..what else do you need? Well some spa therapy, yes. Tucked away in the secluded corner of the island are the 17 treatment rooms of the Araamu Spa. The tranquil wellness sanctuary offers Ayurvedic massages, facials and treatments that will heal your body and mind. Designed beautifully with outdoor treatments rooms that allow ample view of the sky, Araamu is easily one of the most prettiest spas I have seen.
Treatment Room that allows ample natural light: Araamu Spa. Photo By: Vishakha Talreja
Paradise Island Resort is not for snorkelling. But there are host of other water activities that it offers. Enjoy the leisurely Catamaran sailing or snap out from the lazy holiday with wind surfing. The resort also offers jet skiing, para sailing and canoeing and diving.
You have host of water activities to enjoy: Catamaran Sailing. Photo By: Paradise Island Resort
Disclaimer: The Hotel Explorer was in Maldives on the invitation of Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC).
Fast Facts
Summary:Paradise Island Resort is a great option for an affordable luxury holiday in Maldives.
