The Maldives’ latest opening is Velaa Private Island.
North of Male the hotel is the brainchild of Radka and Jiri Smejc who decided, having travelled extensively across the islands, that they could do it better than the rest.
They claim it will bring something new to the Maldives and be “best in class.”
Velaa shares it’s name and home with the island’s original inhabitants, sea turtles.
The colours and patterns of the turtle shell are reflected in the design and from above the over-water villas will resemble the head of a turtle.
The hotel has 43 villas and five four-bedroom residences all of which have their own pool.
The Romantic Villa goes one step further than the rest as it can only be reached by boat.
The spa will have the country’s first snow room and feature My Blend by Clarins products.
Other features include a yoga pavilion, tennis and squash courts, a dive centre, a football field, three restaurants and two bars.
The cuisine has been put together with the help of Michelin-star chef Adeline Grattard and the resort has two boats – a luxury yacht and a traditional Batheli.
