Northstar

18 | www.travelweekly-asia.com DESTINATION: MALDIVES OUTRIGGER MAKES FANTASY ISLAND A REALITY For a unique experience, get on a glass-bottomed kayak to take in the tranquil surroundings. The Maldives are the epitome of hideaway luxury and tropical bliss – a nation of low-lying coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, just north of the Equator and southwest of the Indian peninsula. Stretching for more than 800km from north to south and covering a total area of about 90,000sqm, the Maldivian archipelago consists of 26 natural atolls with 1,190 islands boasting pristine white sand beaches lapped by idyllic turquoise lagoons. The Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort is located less than 50km north of the Equator, 340km to the south of Male, and conveniently accessible via a 55-minute flight to Kaadedhdhoo Airport, followed by a scenic 30-minute journey on a private yacht. Upon arrival, guests are escorted to a sprawling arrival pavilion, which houses the reception area, and then by buggy to their spacious modern over-water villa. Comprising 21 Beach Pool Villas, 21 Ocean Pool Villas, eight Two- Bedroom Beach Pool Villas, two Lagoon Pool Villas and the Grand Konotta Villa, the resort, with the largest average sized villas, offers a complete sense of privacy and intimate luxury. Here, facilities include new and innovative dining concepts, piece of it back home by signing up for a cooking class. THE AMAZING GAAFU DHAALU CORAL ATOLL A fully-equipped water sport and excursion centre offers trips and insights into the beauty of the Gaafu Dhaalu coral atoll. On a "turtle quest", you can snorkel or choose to take a boat ride to see a family of Hawksbill turtles. Or join a dolphin-spotting excursion from the comforts of your boat. Outrigger also has a stargazing cruise that sets off in the evening. On a traditional dhoni boat, gaze at the Milky Way and the stars. SNORKELING AND DIVING WITH A DIFFERENCE Not many places offer snorkeling or scuba diving with a fully-trained marine biologist like The Outrigger Konotta Maldives. Here, biologist Caterina Fattori will happily join you on snorkeling trips to the house reef or the islands beyond while giving a lecture on marine conservation. You can also take part in the assorted PADI Project Aware marine conservation initiatives on the island. When diving or snorkeling expect to see diverse corals, eagle rays and (friendly) white and black- tip sharks. ARRANGE A POP-UP ROMANTIC DINNER FOR TWO ON THE BEACH As you wander around your idyllic resort, take note of a place on the beach you would like to have a romantic candlelit dinner for two. The resort can make it happen with a private table service with your own chef and an accompaniment of boduberu traditional drums. Barbecued seafood is a specialty in the Maldives with popular items including tuna, lobster and marlin. Taking a 'back-to-basics' approach, the chefs create menus that highlight the aromas, flavours and visual appeal of their dishes in a fuss-free manner, allowing the breadth of their international culinary creativity to shine through. Fresh seasonal produce are blended expertly with a wide variety of spices to present guests with a unique dining experience. Blue Salt, the international à la carte restaurant, allows guests to indulge in international cuisines. While the mood changes throughout the day as does the setting, you can always expect the same warm, friendly and intuitive service. Outrigger Navasana spa, a dive and water sport centre, boutique and a jewellery shop. Prepare to be spoilt with endless views of the horizon, and discover a unique world of rich marine life in the resort's pristine lagoon. This secluded yet seamlessly accessible destination offers a sense of complete isolation, surrounded by unmatched natural beauty. WATER ACTIVITIES WITH A VIEW Famous for powdery white beaches and azure seas, the Maldives is more sea than land. Complementing the warm and inviting waters are the myriad water sports on offer. Whether you prefer a day spent leisurely drifting on a stand- up paddleboard, or the thrill of windsurfing, wakeboarding or surfing, you'll find it here. Or try one of the resort's glass-bottomed kayaks to experience the beauty of the Maldives. CRUISES AND TOURS Beyond the small paradise sanctuary, there are countless islands nearby to explore. Embark on an island-hopping tour, or take a romantic evening cruise on a traditional dhoni boat, watching dolphins play during a sunset. Experience the rich Maldivian culture with guided tours, or bring a Arrange a pop-up romantic dinner on the beach. Top: Ocean pool villa at Outrigger Konotta Maldives; right: Aerial view of the resort .

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