Irish Daily Mail

The Maldives... a turtle bargain for families, and it’s all-inclusive

You won’t have to shell out the big bucks to savour the beaches of this Indian Ocean paradise

- BY EOIN MURPHY

WHEN y ou think of the white sandy, turtle-littered beaches of the Maldives you automatica­lly think of prices that would make your bank manager weep.

In the past these Indian Ocean destinatio­ns have been reserved for European playboys and one-off honeymoone­rs.

For Irish families this sort of paradise getaway is about to move from a dream destinatio­n to an affordable getaway.

Last week Dinesh Bhaska showcased Atmosphere Kanifushi’s impressive platinum plus product.

The idea is to couple one meal plan, all inclusive, with a fivestar experience. Guests arrive by seaplane.

Villas have direct access to the stretch of beautiful white beach and turquoise lagoon but most importantl­y you don’t put your hand in your pocket from the moment you arrive until you board your sea plane to go home again.

There are four restaurant­s to choose from, and the mini-bar is replenishe­d twice a day with your chosen beverage.

Honeymoone­rs can lounge uni nterrupted around an adultonly pool while families can avail of the reef snorkellin­g and children’s clubs that are running all day, everyday throughout the resort.

Activities include sunset fishing, diving and snorkellin­g, turtle watching and believe it or not, shark gazing.

Atmosphere also are launching two new products: Oblu by Atmosphere opens in November 2015, and Ozen opens in April 2016.

The owners are keen to stress the importance of safety and security and guarantee a stress-free experience away f rom the stresses and aggravatio­n that exists currently in Tunisia and parts of the Middle East.

But while the properties look breathtaki­ng it is the price tag that is completely eyewaterin­g.

Packages, available through Travel Mood, start at a staggering € 1,400, which i ncludes flights, accommodat­ion and full board (including all alcoholic beverages).

The event organiser Mr Bhaska stressed that the Irish market was one that they were keen to invest in.

As a result these packages are being rolled out exclusivel­y for Irish holidaymak­ers.

 ??  ?? Table for two: And no interrupti­ons Anyone for
the pool: Relaxation is
to the fore
Great blue wonder: Waking up to the sound of the ocean and endless sky
Table for two: And no interrupti­ons Anyone for the pool: Relaxation is to the fore Great blue wonder: Waking up to the sound of the ocean and endless sky
 ??  ?? Private beach? Solitude on the
pristine sands
Private beach? Solitude on the pristine sands

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Ireland