Elite Traveler May-June 2018

INSPIRE TOP NEWHOTELS

FAIRMONT MALDIVES SIRRU FEN FUSHI OPENED APRIL 2018

The latest addition to Fairmont’s portfolio of legendary hotels, which includes The Plaza New York and The Savoy London, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi certainly isn’t compromising on luxury. Nor is the turquoise lagoon and white sand of the Shaviyani Atoll any less mesmerizing than that of its neighboring islands. But the resort has some less conventional hallmarks too, fulfilling people’s desire for something unexpected beyond the idyll we’ve come to expect of the Maldives’ many superlative resorts. The most exciting feature here is the underwater sculpture museum created by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, whose work has been declared one of the Top 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic . The accomodations feature overwater and beach-facing villas, plus a safari-style tented jungle villa tucked into a lush grove, with a master suite and second bedroom, which both lead out to a private sala and pool. For each meal, you have a spectrum of international culinary styles to choose from, in light, bright dining spaces of wood and stone. For a sunset cocktail, head to the Onu Onu pool bar, which is almost entirely made of bamboo with a thatched roof that’s inspired by Balinese architecture. THE EXPERIENCE Take inspiration from Taylor’s underwater artworks and sculpt your own pieces in the island’s art studio. With a helping hand from a resident artist, you can create your own masterpiece to take home. Materials and tools for painting and drawing are also available for you to use on your own or with guidance. Three-BedroomWater Sunset Villa from $7,650 per night. Contact Melanie Hofler, marketing manager, reservations@gbh.mv, +960 654 8888, fairmont.com

Photos Paul Thuysbaert, Richard Waite