MALDIVES PERFECTION IN PAIRS

Your Maldives encounter is inevitably shaped by the place you stay. Experience more of these islands by staying in two sister-resort destinations on your next trip.

NIYAMA is a world of vibrant hues – just a 40-minute seaplane ride from Malé. A pink sunset bathes Edge and its overwater diners in magenta light. Lime Spa adds a pop of green to the blue sea on the horizon, while six metres under the waves at Subsix, lunches, celebrations and club nights are tinged by the aquamarine reef. The Ocean Pavilion is the island’s most coveted accommodation. Step into the ocean or cocoon yourself in the floating daybed and let the Thakuru butler service bring you cocktails straight from the in-room bar. New in February 2015 is Play, a second island to complement the original, Chill. Connected by a bridge, Play brings with it even more dining options, 48 new villas and a kids’ club.

In the North Malé Atoll, 40 minutes by speedboat from the international airport, is sister resort Huvafen Fushi, where modernity and the Maldives’ oceanfaring rhythm lulls you into bliss. Seafood fine dining at Salt, healthy menus with a crunch at Raw and the cushioned glamour of UMBar set the tone for the variety there is to uncover. Enjoy a full-day encounter with the majestic whale shark, and end your stay with a table set for two in the shallows of the infinity pool, studded with fibre-optic light. The ultimate decadence is to set sail on a private Dhoni complete with kingsize bed and wine cellar, particularly spectacular for overnight voyages under the moon. PER AQUUM: Below and above