Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort; a dual island paradise

When we arrived at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, it felt like we were dreaming, I was just so mesmerized, I had no words to describe what my eyes were seeing. We heard of how amazing the Maldives was, but it wasn't until we were there that we understood what the fuzz was about. The Maldives is not just a beautiful place like many others; it's fair to say it's the most beautiful place on earth. If you are looking for a unique, luxurious, and peaceful vacation, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo might be the perfect destination for you.

—WHERE AND WHAT IS THE MALDIVES —

The Maldives is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean consisting of 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls. Only 200 of those islands are inhabited by locals, plus 80 islands that are for tourist resorts. Raffles Maldives is located at the Gaafu Alifu, which is one of the most remote and pristine atolls. The natural beauty of this place makes me speechless. The resort is set on two private islands; the main island hosts all the beach villas & the overwater island is home to the water villas. You can easily get from one island to another within minutes by their speedboat.

— HOW TO GET THERE —

From Malé (Maldives International airport), your butler will be waiting at the arrivals to escort you to the Domestic Terminal. You will need to board a one-hour long flight to Kaadedhdhoo. You don't need to worry about check-in again; your butler takes care of all the details for you. The views from the airplane are to die for (see below). From Kaadedhdhoo, Raffle's team will take you to the resort's speedboat, and your ride will be about 15 minutes long. Remember, the way to paradise might seem long, but it is forever worth it!!!

• The Resort
We had the pleasure to experience both worlds of the resort; the private beach villa & the overwater Villa. Raffles Maldives features two infinity pools - one at the main island and one at the overwater island. And of course, regardless of where you choose to stay, you will also have your own private infinity pool.

• Deluxe Beach Villa with Pool
This jaw-dropping Villa is truly a masterpiece. Bigger than my entire three-bedroom home, (I kid you not), this luxurious piece of heaven is about 2297 Sq ft. Every little corner is designed to make you feel at home, relaxed & restored. If you are just like me, the comfort and size of a hotel bed is a big deal, and speaking of a "big deal," you can easily fit at least four people in this Super King bed. It's great for sleeping but even better for pillow fights! And I warn you, this bed will also make you go home and look at your own bed and think, "what am I doing with my life," ha!

 

The Villa features everything you could possibly desire and then some. A private pool, private terrace, separate living room & a personal bar. Even a butler. That's right; you have your own personal butler 24/7. We were so happy we were paired with our butler, Sinah. What a kind, sweet & professional young man. He was always on point, anticipated any needs, and was extremely responsive. I kinda felt bad because since were creating content for the resort, we were all over the place and probably drove him a bit nuts, ha! I hope not, we love you, Sinah!

 

One of my favorites places at Raffles Maldives (and I thought I'd never say this in my life, ha) was the bathrooms! I know, I know... but hear me out, I'm a little bit crazy loca for beautiful bathrooms. Think enormous, classy, double vanity, separate walk-in shower with a deep soaking massive - I mean HUGE -bathtub. You can't possibly do that to my heart; I love bathtubs!

 

• Overwater Villa with Pool
Not to sound repetitive, but I was blown away by the beauty of these overwater villas, they made something very special here. It's so peaceful, and sounds of nature often embrace you. You are out there, surrounded by clear blue waters that just turns everything into magic.

The living room area is super spacious and opens up to a hammock hanging over the ocean. We took nice cat-naps there, listening to the birds and waves. The infinity pool is majestic; you can't get enough of the beautiful views. You can also enjoy the other side of your Villa, by the entrance, and swim in the calmer crystal clear waters of the lagoon. I'm a kid at heart, so I wasted no time and got my float to the lagoon. It was so much fun, and I got to swim with baby reef sharks as well.

—WHERE TO EAT —

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo has restaurants & bars on both islands.

• Thari -
at the main island, this is all-day dining. Breakfast is served here, and no matter where you sit, you will have the best view of paradise. The food and service are spectacular.

• Long Bar
right next to Thari is the long bar. It's a beachfront chic ambiance with delicious drinks, snacks, and exceptional views.

• The Firepit
also at the main island, this barbecue restaurant is perfect for sunset watching with your loved one. Opened twice a week, if the weather permits, they will carve you a loveseat on the sand, creating the most romantic atmosphere.

• Yuzu \ Nikkei Cuisine
located by the overwater villas, I was so impressed by the dish creations of this restaurant. The food is a traditional Peruvian style with influences from Spain, Italy, China & Japan.

• Yapa Sunset Bar
right next to Yuzu restaurant, the cocktails here are beyond delicious. Get a taste of South American & Japanese drinks prepared by their world-leading mixologists.

 

—activities —

One must think there isn't much to do on a remote island, but at Raffles, they did things right. I wish I had more time to enjoy all of the activities.

• Spa & Wellness
The Spa is out of this world beautiful. It is set overwater, and it was designed to provide a peaceful and unique experience. I love that while getting your treatment, you can see fish, baby sharks, manta rays through the glass floor, right under you. The gym is very well equipped with high-end machines, and it's open 24/7. You can also opt to do sunrise or sunset yoga; I highly recommend it.

• Sandbank Dining
There is a dreamy sandbar near the resort, and you can book a private lunch or picknick over there for a few hours.

• Water Sports
There are many water sports you can enjoy such renting a jet-ski or sea scooter (this is super cool). You can also take the glass-bottom kayak or stand-up paddleboard, go snorkeling, scuba diving, or joining a Dolphin Cruise.

For bookings please visit Raffles Maldives Meradhoo here.
I want to say a special thank you to Len, for treating us with the best and taking us on this magical journey that Raffles is. Thank you to the incredible staff; Sinah, Melyssa, Younes, Trevo, Lal and everyone else, your kindness will always be remembered! We MISS YOU all!

Disclaimer: We had the pleasure to be hosted by Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, and as always, I'm very transparent with my audience. I keep it honest and all opinions are my own. Except when there is sarcasm, then, I don't know where it comes from 😉 Thank you for reading! Be kind, be well & keep climbing!