Elite Traveler HRS 2017-2018

The mammoth Royal Residence

Jumeirah Vittaveli SOUTH MALÉ ATOLL, REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

RELAX Talise Spa

Using pure coconut oil from coconuts harvested on the island, the treatments are bountiful and the masseuses are extraordinary. The overwater ocean suite is perfect for couples — the parallel massage beds and views of the tranquil ocean make for a romantic setting. Contact Gemma Lacatan, spa & wellness director, gemma.lacatan@jumeirah.com A maharaja-style garden with open-air cabanas, water fountains and ornate vases that sporadically shoot flames is a fitting setting for the inspired Indian cuisine. At full capacity, Swarna seats only 12 people, so an intimate evening is guaranteed. The restaurant is also available for exclusive use. The Dal Swarna (black lentils cooked for 48 hours) is rich and creamy, and be sure to have post-dinner chai tea and delicate rose-petal ice cream on the floating bed. If you can’t get enough of the flavorful cuisine, private cooking classes are available with head chef Bharat Kapoor so you can recreate it at home. Fenesse Dine alfresco at this restaurant over the water as the sun sinks into the Indian Ocean. We recommend the juicy langouste Maldivienne (roasted Maldivian lobster with linguine), succulent Kobe beef or organic crusted rack of Welsh lamb. Contact Sajesh Kana, F&B director, sajesh.kana@jumeriah.com ENJOY The five-star Padi certified dive center has activities and private expeditions to suit everyone. For thrill-seekers, parasailing takes off and lands on the boat, and soaring through the sky is the best way to see the island. Fishing enthusiasts can take to the water at sunset, and if your catch is big enough, have it grilled for dinner that evening. As home to one of the healthiest and most abundant house reefs in the South Malé Atoll, both the scuba diving and snorkeling here are excellent. If you want to catch a glimpse of the marine life but don’t feel like getting wet, marvel at the exotic creatures and coral while sipping on a glass of champagne during a private semi-submarine trip. DINE Swarna

Enjoy the exceptional service and extravagant amenities you’d expect from a Jumeirah resort combined with the laid-back vibes of island life. Located a short 20-minute ride on board a plush catamaran fromMalé, you’re welcomed to Vittaveli with a literally all-singing-all-dancing reception, and from there on every little detail is considered to make your stay here as idyllic as the island itself. The new Royal Residence can be seen as you approach the island thanks to the private restaurant. Built to resemble a traditional Maldivian dhoni fishing boat, you’ll spot it protruding onto the private beach as if ready to glide into the ocean.

Jumeirah Vittaveli Bolifushi Island SouthMalé Atoll Republic of Maldives jumeirah.com

CONTACT Amit Majumder, general manager, amit.majumder@jumeirah.com, +960 664 2020

STAY The Royal Residence Size 37,675 sq ft Nightly rate $35,000 in high season

Opened in March 2017, the Royal Residence feels more like a private island resort and is incredibly peaceful. With everything you could possibly need (five bedrooms, two pools, sunken lounge with lily pond, private beach, private jetty, gym, spa room and dedicated island-grill restaurant) it’s ideal for families, groups, or special occasions — a wedding was recently held there. We particularly love the gilded details in the dining room that catch the light and bathe the room in a golden glow. Contact Lijo John, director of reservation and revenue, lijo.john@jumeirah.com