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THE MALDIVES
If you're dreaming of an idyllic private island getaway, look no further than COMO Maalifushi in the tranquil Thaa Atoll of the Maldives. This exclusive luxury resort, nestled in the archipelago's southwest, offers a haven of seclusion surrounded by untouched islands, incredible coral reefs, and a vibrant marine ecosystem that beckons explorers and dreamers alike. From its stylish arrival via a private seaplane to its array of enticing activities and world-class dining, Como Maalifushi sets the stage for a truly unforgettable escape.
We checked in for three nights of barefoot island living bliss.
All images courtesy of Faye Bradley, CSP Times.
A Warm Welcome
Upon arriving at Malé airport, the COMO team swiftly handles your baggage, ensuring a worry-free start to your journey. Guests then prepare to embark on the 60-minute seaplane flight to COMO Maalifushi, but not before indulging in the pre-flight lounge. Delectable nibbles and refreshing drinks await, setting the stage for a delightful island getaway. Families will appreciate the thoughtful kids' playroom, ensuring even the youngest adventurers are delighted from the outset.
The 60-minute seaplane journey takes you to the south of Maldives, and guests can marvel at the stunning archipelagos from above.
Accommodation
With 65 exquisite villas dotting its shores, COMO Maalifushi offers a range of luxurious accommodations to cater to diverse preferences. Whether you're drawn to the allure of overwater abodes or the comfort of land-based suites, each villa is thoughtfully designed to ensure a memorable stay. Every villa comes with a private pool.
For those seeking a romantic retreat or an intimate rendezvous with the sea, the overwater villas provide an enchanting experience. With direct lagoon access and private decks to soak in the sun, these villas are a favourite among couples and friends.
Meanwhile, the land-based options, such as the open-plan beach suites and the spacious beach villas, are perfect for families, combining modern amenities with a touch of rustic charm. For the epitome of opulence, the COMO Villa and COMO Residence offer an even more exclusive escape, complete with lavish living spaces and personalised service.
Facilities and Wellness
At COMO Maalifushi, no detail is left to chance. The resort's water sports centre beckons adventure seekers with a host of complimentary activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. For those craving an adrenaline rush, deep-sea fishing is readily available at an additional cost.
As wellness is at the heart of COMO properties, Maalifushi indulges guests with an array of rejuvenating experiences. The COMO Shambhala spa becomes a sanctuary of bliss, where traditional Maldivian healing techniques transport guests to a feeling of full relaxation and renewal. Treatments take place in overwater rooms, so visitors can listen to the sounds of waves crashing as they enjoy a soothing massage or facial. Daily yoga classes are also available on a complimentary basis.
Dining
Set on a private island, COMO Maalifushi’s three F&B outlets promise the best of Maldivian and international cuisine, and guests are spoiled for choice.
Madi, meaning "manta ray" in Dhivehi, delivers beachside dining at its finest. Breakfast is a sumptuous affair, offering a mix of buffet delights and made-to-order dishes with highlights including the ricotta hotcakes, Madi breakfast and local specialties like the potato masala dosal and soto ayam (chicken noodle soup).
Available at an additional charge separate from the half and full board options, the hot pot menu is a tantalising option where guests can create their own culinary masterpieces. There's a choice between the seafood, meat or vegetable set and broths range from tom yum to miso.
Another dinner add-on option is the Indonesian set which includes three starters, seven main dishes (in small portions) and a dessert to share. This delightful experience consists of a range of Indonesian dishes like the bakwang jagung (sweet corn fritter with sweet soy), udang rica rica (wok-fried prawns in spicy tomato sambal) and the be sampi mekalas (wagyu beef short rib in Sumatran toasted coconut curry).
Tai, translating to "red snapper" in Japanese, pays homage to sustainable seafood straight from the Indian Ocean. The restaurant's omakase menu entices with a delectable selection of sashimi, sushi, and wagyu beef, making it a paradise for seafood aficionados. As the sun bids farewell to the horizon, Tai transforms into a mesmerising setting for sunset views, as reef sharks come in to rest by the restaurant.
Thila, the third dining concept, offers a laid-back ambiance, making it a favourite among families. As an open-air bar next to Madi, it grants guests access to the latter's sumptuous menu, setting the stage for a relaxed and flavourful dining experience.
There are also in-villa dining options.
Things to Do
At COMO Maalifushi, the adventure doesn't end with luxurious accommodations and divine dining. Snorkelling is among the best in the Maldives, with multiple swimming spots to see turtles, sharks, and other amazing marine life.
The dolphin cruise is a magical experience where bottlenose and spinner dolphins accompany guests on an enchanting dance through the azure waters. Guests can witness wild dolphins migrating in pods through the atoll, showcasing acrobatic spills, and surfing the boat's bow waves, all against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset panorama, while sipping Champagne and indulging in delectable canapés.
For those seeking an exclusive island experience, a four-hour picnic on the resort's Muldavhoo promises secluded bliss. Dubbed the "Family Castaway Picnic", this secluded day out means guests can use the whole private island to themselves. Lunch arrives by boat (you can choose the dishes in advance) with a mix of sandwiches, salads, sushi and light bites.
Other experiences with the resort include whale shark snorkelling trips, turtle expeditions, surfing, romantic beach dinners, guided water activities, and even a photographer upon request (this is complimentary and includes one print-out photo – additional photos are available for an extra charge). Raafil Naseem from BlueSand Studios does a flawless job, capturing candid moments around the island that can be cherished forever.
Another must-do during your trip to COMO Maalifushi is to start your morning with a floating breakfast. This picturesque opportunity includes a choice of breakfast delights and can be enjoyed from the comfort of your private villa pool.
Overview
From the stylish arrival via a private seaplane to the diverse accommodations and world-class dining, every aspect of this private island delights and captivates. The seclusion of the Thaa Atoll, coupled with COMO's signature impeccable service, creates an oasis where guests can unwind, connect with nature, and savour the beauty of the Maldives. Whether it's snorkelling amidst vibrant coral reefs or witnessing the enchantment of dolphins and sharks, COMO Maalifushi offers a plethora of activities to keep guests engaged.
Getting here from Hong Kong: As there are currently no direct flights from Hong Kong International Airport to Malé Airport (Cathay Pacific has currently suspended its route), Hong Kong travellers can go to the Maldives via Bangkok, Dubai, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. We travelled via Bangkok (less than four hours from Hong Kong) and then took another flight (four hours) to Malé. We would recommend enjoying a night in Bangkok before flying out to the Maldives.
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Address: Thaa Atoll, Maldives | Website: comohotels.com/maldives/como-maalifushi | Phone: +960 678-0008 | Email: maalifushi@comohotels.com | Instagram: @COMOMaalifushi | Facebook: @COMOMaalifushi