Elite Traveler Spring 2021

etr li at ve eler SPRING 2021 115

GET PACKING What to pack in your suitcase for a Maldivian getaway

THE CAMERA TO PACK Leica Insta360 ONE R When it comes to cameras, there’s nothing more fashionable than a Leica collab. Slick and sleek, the newly released Insta360 ONE R is the perfect Maldivian tech accessory to pack, and with its HDR ready lens, easy-to-use touch screen and 4k ready motion capture, you’ll snap the most gorgeous pics of your trip. It is also waterproof up to 16 ft. From $478, store.insta360.com

From top Soneva Fushi’s famous open-air cinema; aerial view of the island; water sports are a must-do here

At Soneva Fushi, civilization as you know it is a long way away, which is precisely why so many people choose to stay here over all the other stylish Maldivian beach huts scattered throughout the deep blue sea. The vibe is laid-back shorts and eternal summer dress chic driven by an unpretentious crowd, not at all concerned with designer labels or anything remotely too showy. Style-wise, it’s classic island living, but perhaps the major sell is the brand’s responsible sustainability philosophy. Fushi spearheads a marine conservation program, and there’s a special Eco Centro that handles all of the waste management and recycling. It is also forbidden for the overwater villas to be built over coral. But speaking of villas, these are stunning. For total luxe, book the Private Reserve. Set over more than 32,000 sq ft, the nine- bedroom island mansion features a master suite with private pool and its own spa suite with bath, sauna and treatment room; an outdoor pool with sunken daybed; a gym; and no less than six guest rooms. Mihiree Mitha rustles up the biggest breakfast we’ve possibly ever seen, with eggs any style, fresh-from-the-oven pastries, healthy ayurvedic tonics and rooms dedicated to cheese, charcuterie and more. Cocktails are best enjoyed from an overwater hammock at Bar(a)bara, and for dinner, head to the stunning Out of The Blue. Expect Asian and international bites, including salads, grilled meats and seafood. The chocolate and ice cream parlors and the cheese room are also highlights, along with the into-the-ocean slide (yes, slide — but it’s probably best to enjoy that Soneva Fushi Kunfunadhoo Island

THE SHADES TO BE SEEN IN Tom Ford Dario

Long lazy hazy summer days sprawled out on the beach call for a pair of extra-fabulous sunnies. We’re currently obsessed with Tom Ford’s Dario shades, part of the ultra glam 1950s and ‘70s inspired SS21 eyewear collection. Chic to a T, the bold and timeless frames, complete with the now iconic TF logo, will make you the talk of the Maldivian fashion crowd. From $200, tomford.com

THE MUST-HAVE IN-FLIGHT ACCESSORY Away Bliss Set The flight is long, so you’ll need a pick-me-up on the plane. Trendy suitcase brand Away’s Bliss Set will have you looking extra glam by the time you touch down in Malé. Inside, in-flight wellness comes courtesy of a NOTO mini deep serum, a Bolden SPF 30 brightening moisturizer and a lush Karité hand cream. There’s even a hand sanitizer in there too. From $100, awaytravel.com

pre-dinner). For an extra slice of exclusivity, escape the island for your very own private sandbank for the night, where you’ll enjoy a candlelit dinner and sleep under the stars in a luxurious Bedouin-inspired tent. Hot stone massages at the award-winning Six Senses spa are a must before you leave, too. From $19,240 per night (season dependent). Contact Frederic Brohez, general manager, reservations@soneva. com, +960 660 0304, soneva.com