Get Lost In A Haven Of Wellness At JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

Hotels

There’s more to Maldives than white sand beaches and seaplane rides. Travel+Leisure India & South Asia checks into JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa to experience unique offerings that lend a fresh perspective to life. By Aindrila Mitra

It’s one of those destinations that can never bore you, especially if you’re a beach bum. It is my fifth visit to the Maldives, and this time, I check into JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. What truly arrests my attention this time is the foliage—green pathways shape the island resort in a way that’s unique and calming. I check into a two-storey Duplex Beach Pool Villa that can easily accommodate a family of four to six people; I have so much space that I manage to find a different comfortable corner each night during the three nights I spend at the 278 square metre-villa. My favourite turns out to be the upper deck with its lounge-like minimalist decor—the sofa here becomes the spot for my virtual meetings throughout the stay.

Check in: JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

Stay

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa sits on the edge of Shaviyani Atoll.

The hotel boasts 60 luxurious beach and overwater villas, each with its own private pool, spacious wooden decks, and children’s amenities. In fact, FAMiLY by JW—Little Griffins Kids Club is one of the biggest in the archipelago, and has 100 activities to keep children engaged while adults enjoy quality time at the spa or simply laze by the pool. Gordana, who welcomes me at the kids’ club, says, “This service is complimentary [for all guests] and is available to kids above three years. Also, we don’t encourage virtual games—all games here are interactive.”

Dine

The culinary treasure is a treat for the taste buds. With an option of five dining destinations featuring international cuisines, three bars, and a cellar with 1,200 grape beverages, you’re spoilt for choice. Whether it’s Chef Jayson’s teppanyaki at Hashi, the delectable steak dishes at Shio, or my favourite Thai spread at Kaashi that is enjoyed on a treetop—the gourmet experience is unmissable. And if you’re looking for a more intimate set-up, an Italian wine dinner at Wine Room, located in the heart of the all-day dining venue Aailaa, comes highly recommended. There are over 300 wine labels to choose from!

Rejuvenate

I save the best for last—Spa by JW. There are six overwater treatment rooms, and a total of 10 treatments on the menu. I opt for the ultimate aromatherapy massage with a natural product-based facial. After an hour and thirty minutes, I feel my muscles relax, and head to the open-air yoga pavilion. I sit by the ocean and feel a deep sense of rejuvenation. It’s the Maldives, I tell you.