10 reasons why these Maldives resorts are paradise on earth

Words: Sarah Jappy

Nobody ever needed a reason to visit the Maldives. Yet here we are, giving you ten – all starring The Residence Maldives, sitting pretty in the unapologetically gorgeous Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The setting hits every conceivable tropical tick-box: azure hues, shimmering lagoons and more than 2,500 coconut palm trees. Here’s why the only thing you’ll be dreaming of is more time on those white sands.

1. Two islands (and resorts) in one

Why settle for one paradise island when you can flit between two – each with its own winsome resort – at The Residence Maldives? For uber romance, The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi delivers a masterclass in island seclusion. On the flip side, The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah excels at all-ages adventures. The longest private bridge in the Maldives connects the two islands. Zip across in a buggy with a member of the resort team, stroll along hand in hand, or cycle over on borrowed bicycles.

2. Holiday-enhancing extras

Both resorts are luxury all-inclusive: leave your wallet at home if you like. Guests are also treated to complimentary transfers (two adult domestic flights) to either resort. Lucky kids can stay for free at The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah. That means up to two children under 12 (or under 16 for stays from 1 May–31 October) eat free on Standard All Inclusive when sharing with two adults. All you need to cover are their domestic transfers.

3. Va-va-voom villas

Choosing between a beachfront, overwater or lagoon villa is about as onerous as decision-making gets here. The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi has 94 island-chic villas featuring thatched roofs and natural furnishings. Each of the 173 sun-soaked villas at The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah has a private pool deck and panoramic ocean vistas.

4. Nine ravishing restaurants

Tantalise your tastebuds, courtesy of nine restaurants across both islands. Highlights include The Dining Room, a beachfront bistro offering à la carte breakfasts, light lunches and globe-trotting options by night. Perched pearl-like at the end of a 230m-long jetty, The Falmuhaa is an irresistibly romantic dining spot serving seafood and juicy meats, paired with fine wines. Hop to the Med at poolside Café del Sol, which aces fresh pizzas, pasta and burgers. Savour Cantonese cuisine at Li Bai, set in a lush garden. Intimate private dining experiences can also be arranged on either island.

5. Totally tropical taste

Staying hydrated is never a problem at The Residence Maldives, which quenches thirsts via six cinematic drinking spots. Let sun-soaked days segue into starry nights at The Beach Bar, which surveys the sand from its sunken position amid the swimming pool. Come sunset, head to Long Island for fruity cocktails with rose-gold and lychee-pink horizon vistas. To cosy up inside, perfect your chess and billiards moves – with libations and deli light bites – at The Library Bar.

6. Natural magic by Clarins

Discover the healing power of plant-packed potions and lotions, formulated with decades of French skincare expertise, at the Maldives’ one-and-only Spa by Clarins. The setting alone is chakra-aligning: an end-of-jetty spot overlooking rainbow-bright coral reefs. Facilities include six separate spa pavilions, a chic hair salon and a sea-breezy open deck dedicated to yoga and meditation.

7. Aquatic adventures galore

Take the hint from Gaafu Alifu’s myriad blues. Potential pursuits include snorkelling and sunset dhoni cruises, where you may be lucky enough to spot bottlenose and wild spinner dolphins. There’s also a dedicated sports centre with a flotilla of on-loan yachts and motorboats.

8. Dazzling diving

Gaafu Alifu is one of the world’s largest, deepest, atolls with the all-star diving to match. Make a splash at the PADI 5* Dive Centre, which caters equally well to beginners and pros. You may catch sight of trigger fishes, parrot fishes, turtles, barracudas, all manner of rays (eagle, sting and manta) and a coterie of reef sharks swimming leisurely in the crystal-clear waters.

9. Lures for landlubbers

Back on dry land, indulge your inner forager on The Residence Maldives’ wholesome Earth Basket tour. Swot up on the cycle of farming and visit the plant nursery and garden. You’ll learn about compost making, explore the herbal garden and sip refreshing, herb-infused drinks. The experience culminates in a cookery class with a resort chef starring your just-picked veg.

10. A castaway island

As if two islands weren’t enticing enough, The Residence Maldives has a bonus castaway island up its sleeve. Channel your inner Crusoe and prepare for hidden coves, pearlescent sands and a distinct lack of fellow sunworshippers. Bliss.

Book your holiday at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi or The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous checked baggage allowance and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Maldives holiday now at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi or The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Based on two sharing. Full balance due seven weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.