Luxury Redefined At JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
An emerald-green gem set amidst the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is a blissful getaway
for the entire family!
By SHAHNAAZ BAKSHI
I REALISED SOMETHING ABOUT MYSELF recently. I like being greeted by a group of pleasantly smiling people as soon as I disembark from a seaplane onto a wooden jetty, handed a refreshing fruity drink, and then escorted down the path to the sound of claps, drums, and jubilant singing. And that’s what JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa does so well—set the tone for a memorable vacation as soon as you step on their property. Literally!
There’s a gentle breeze blowing as the genial hostess introduces me to the thakuru, a specially assigned butler to cater to any requirements I may have during my stay—yet another thoughtful gesture that enhances my sense of well-being. There would be many more,
as I soon discovered.
I’d already captured an aerial glimpse of my picturesque destination from the seaplane, as we came to the end of a 55-minute flight from the Maldivian capital city of Malé. The luxurious property sits on the pristine Vagaru Island in Shaviyani Atoll and is blessed with a dense, green landscape, white-sand beaches, and undulating waters of every imaginable shade of blue. Dotting the edges of this island resort are 60 tastefully designed beach and water villas—each featuring airy interiors, plush bedding, a lavish bathroom, and thoughtful amenities. Large French windows lead out to a wooden deck with a private pool. A few steps from here and I found myself on the beach, with spectacular views of the ocean. Bliss! And given the thick foliage around each beach villa, you are guaranteed complete privacy, perfect for that intimate escape you’re seeking. Equally stunning, the overwater villas offer the same opulent layout, with an infinity pool, and direct access into the waters below. There are duplex options available, as well, in both categories, for families travelling with children. What else can one ask for?
A TASTE OF HEAVEN
Exceptional food, that’s what. I had built up quite an appetite exploring every aspect of my villa, and headed to two exclusive fine-dining jewels at JW Marriott Maldives—Hashi and Shio. Housed in the same space, the former serves delectable Japanese cuisine, while the latter offers signature meat and seafood grills. Since I found it impossible to choose, I tried the tasting menu that included sushi, tempura prawns, grilled lobster, Wagyu steak, grilled fish, and more—flavourful and beautifully presented, it was a feast for all the senses. It couldn’t get better than this, I thought. I was wrong.
The next day, at lunch, I discovered Kaashi. And fell in love with the Thai treetop eatery. The open-air structure features tables set on different levels, connected by stairs and even a wooden rope bridge, leading up to its highest point—a mesmerisingly intimate spot.
With beautifully authentic fare, a cool breeze, and breathtaking vistas of the ocean, there’s only one word to describe
the setting—magical!
For the king of all meals, the all-day restaurant Aailaa serves an amazing breakfast buffet, with fresh juices, international cuisines, and outdoor seating that promise a refreshing start to the day. Don’t feel like stepping out of your villa? Then opt for the delightful floating breakfast—a choice of eggs, juices, bagels, granola bowls, and even a glass of champagne—served in your private pool!
BEGUILING PLEASURES
Culinary delights aside, the resort lives up to its reputation as an alluring haven with its array of stimulating experiences for all age groups. Among the most inviting of these for adults is Spa by JW. Blessed with a serene ambience and treatment rooms with uninterrupted views of endless waters, this relaxation centre offers a multitude of rejuvenating therapeutic packages. I recommend the 60-minute re-energising massage that released all the stress in my muscles with every restorative stroke of essential oils. If possible, try the couples massage in the Deluxe Treatment Suite with a plunge pool—guilt-free pampering at its best.
Speaking of guilt-free, wondering how to keep the kids busy while you enjoy a pleasurable moment or two? Not to worry. The colourful Family by JW Little Griffins Kids Club is, without a doubt, one of the most creative spaces on the island. Home to a colourful activity centre (offering arts-and-crafts sessions, child-friendly menus, and more), a kids’ swimming pool, and a 13-metre-long pirate ship, it’s sure to keep the young ones totally engaged. In fact, they may not want to leave!
An oft-felt sentiment amongst most visitors at this paradisiacal escape.
