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you can find this article in our printed Spring/Summer edition: “DSECTION “DREAMERS VOL 2”
The Maldives. The very name conjures images of a paradise untouched by time. Crystal-clear waters lap at pristine shores, swaying palm trees whisper secrets in the gentle breeze, and luxurious overwater bungalows promise an escape into a dreamlike world. But the Maldives offer more than just picture-perfect beaches. Beneath the turquoise surface lies a vibrant coral paradise teeming with marine life, while lush vegetation carpets some islands, offering a tranquil escape from the sun-drenched shores. Here, amidst this idyllic archipelago, awaited The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – a resort that would elevate the Maldivian experience to new heights.
BY PAULO MEIXEDO
My Maldivian journey didn’t start with the usual seaplane transfer but instead with a luxurious 50-minute yacht ride. As the sleek vessel glided effortlessly over the shimmering Indian Ocean, it felt as though the weight of the everyday world dissolved into the horizon. In its place, anticipation built – the promise of paradise. Upon arrival, I was enveloped in the warm embrace of Maldivian tradition. The resonant blow of the Sangu conch shell – an ancient island welcome – set the tone for a stay steeped in cultural authenticity and opulence. After a grueling 17-hour flight, my body craved one thing above all: renewal. As the sun dipped below the horizon, igniting the skies in fiery shades of orange and pink, I found myself at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, perched above a serene turquoise lagoon. This wasn’t just a spa; it was a sanctuary. Its unique circular design wasn’t merely an architectural marvel – it was a philosophy. Representing wholeness and harmony, this design reverberated through every corner of the experience. Inside, nine treatment rooms, each aligned with a cardinal direction, exuded profound energy. Ancient wisdom dictated the flow: North for grounding, East for renewal, South for passion, and West for letting go. My treatment room, bathed in natural light with panoramic views of the endless ocean, felt like a cocoon of serenity. The gentle sound of waves below created the perfect rhythm for relaxation. The journey began with a massage tailored to my travel-weary body. Expert hands worked through tight knots, the tension melting away with every stroke. As the calming scent of essential oils filled the room, the waves lulled me into a meditative state. By the end, I felt lighter, physically and emotionally – as though the journey here had already paid off. But the spa wasn’t limited to treatments alone. With a salon for hairstyling, manicures, and pedicures, as well as a boutique offering curated wellness products, every detail was crafted to enhance the sense of luxury and self-care. Leaving this oasis, the serenity lingered – a testament to its transformative power.
The circle wasn’t just an architectural marvel at The Ritz-Carlton Spa; it was a philosophy, resonating with a sense of wholeness and perfection.
For the next few days, my villa would be my haven. Perched above the azure waters, it wasn’t just a place to sleep; it was an extension of the ocean itself. My sundeck opened to an infinity pool that seemed to spill into the horizon, blurring the line between architecture and nature. Whether it was the Beach Pool Villa tucked into soft sand or the Overwater Pool Villa suspended above crystal-clear lagoons, each space offered absolute privacy and a front-row seat to the ever-changing beauty of the Maldivian seascape. The interiors reflected a masterful balance between understated elegance and thoughtful design. From the moment I arrived, it was clear this wasn’t a replication of Maldivian tradition – it was a reimagination for the modern traveler. Designed by Kerry Hill Architects, the resort drew inspiration from the Beru – the Maldivian drum – with its iconic circular shape playing a pivotal role. This wasn’t merely a design choice; it was a nod to the island’s rich cultural heritage. Every villa was a celebration of wholeness, connection, and immersion in the landscape. Sustainability was central to the philosophy here. Natural materials like wood and stone seamlessly blended the structures into their surroundings while minimizing their ecological footprint. The use of pioneering techniques, such as cross-laminated timber and prefabrication, ensured that the island’s delicate ecosystem remained undisturbed. It wasn’t just luxury for now; it was luxury with a conscience.
This haven, where barefoot elegance met impeccable service and ancient traditions intertwined with modern marvels, had left an indelible mark on my soul.
Beyond the stunning accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, offered a gastronomic adventure. Seven restaurants and bars, each with their distinct character, catered to every mood and palate. Mornings began with Southern Italian indulgence at La Locanda, where the aroma of freshly brewed espresso paired perfectly with homemade pasta and the warmth of Italian hospitality. As the day unfolded, I explored global cuisines – from the intimate Cantonese flavors at Summer Pavilion to the vibrant Mediterranean vibes at the Beach Shack. Evenings brought their own magic. At IWAU, a lively open-air Japanese Chef’s Table, fresh seafood and expertly grilled meats turned dinner into a celebration. Arabesque transported me from Lebanon to North India with flavorful mezze platters and aromatic cocktails served in a stunning Bedouin-tent-inspired setting. For casual indulgence, Tum Tum’s food trailer-style offerings at Fari Marina Village were a delightful surprise. Steaming bowls of noodles and bao buns packed with flavor brought a playful twist to the resort’s otherwise sophisticated culinary repertoire. As my journey drew to a close, a bittersweet feeling set in. The Bodu Beru drums echoed in the distance during a farewell sunset ceremony, their rhythmic beats a poignant reminder of the island’s enduring traditions. The sky, ablaze with colors, seemed to bid me farewell as much as the resort’s impeccable staff did. Leaving The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, wasn’t just departing a luxurious resort – it was leaving behind a haven where barefoot elegance met cultural depth and modern ingenuity. This wasn’t just a trip; it was an awakening, a rediscovery of serenity.
The memories I carried home – the caress of the Maldivian breeze, the kaleidoscope of ocean blues, and the symphony of flavors – ensured that this was more than a holiday. It was an unforgettable journey into paradise, where every element came together to create something truly magical.
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