Photo: Courtesy of Christina Liao
The Beach House
When it comes to remote tropical getaways, the Maldives is easily one of the most sought-after destinations. In the middle of the Indian Ocean where its 1,190 islands are surrounded by crystalline water and vibrant sunsets paint the sky every evening, the country is an idyllic escape for anyone in search of some serious R&R. And while it’s predominantly thought of as a honeymoon locale, you’ll also find that it’s suitable for group travel (families are not an odd occurrence at this romantic spot).
For such occasions, Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah was a welcome addition when it opened last year. Located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (which, by the way, is home to graceful manta rays), it was formerly used as a picnic spot for guests staying at the brand’s nearby Landaa Giraavaru resort. Now, the five-acre island is an exclusive-use property that boasts luxury at every turn. Soaring palm trees sprout out from the powdery white sand; the beach leads into a vibrant reef that’s perfect for snorkelling, and there are no neighbours to disturb this grandiose hideaway. Pure, unadulterated bliss will call your name, but raucous parties until sunrise certainly aren’t off the table if that’s more your beat.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah / Ken SeetThe Beach House living room
The sprawling compound, staffed with 28 people, is made up of three living quarters and an overwater spa suite. It goes without saying that the various decks are furnished with pools and comfortable sunbeds, but each annex has a little something different to offer, which can make picking which one to call your humble abode a difficult decision. The bi-level Beach House—which has two ocean-view suites on the top floor, each with their own balcony, in addition to a bunk room that can fit four children—acts as the perfect gathering space, where you’ll find a gym, library, game room, kitchen, dining room, and an open-fronted living room that looks out onto an expansive patio with two infinity pools and, of course, the beach.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah / Ken SeetThe water villa’s deck
Then there are the two smaller, but by no means less impressive, villas. The two-bedroom option stilted above sparkling blue water is an iconic accommodation that has become synonymous with the Maldives. Its sunset-facing deck is outfitted with an infinity pool, built-in overwater hammocks, and a long table that’s perfect for a picturesque dinner. But for those who want to stay firmly planted on land seeking sand between their toes, the three-bedroom home is the foolproof choice.
Outstanding digs isn’t the only advantage of booking the island, though. While all water sports (jet skiing, kite surfing, and even X-Jetblades) are included, the real prize is the 62-foot yacht that comes with it. Voavah Summer, which comes equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning, is all yours during your stay, sailing within Baa Atoll at any time of day. Take it out for a sunset cruise, head out in search of the best dive spots, or overnight in one of the cabins—it’s really up to you.
Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah / Ken SeetThe beach villa’s master bedroom
Altogether, Voavah can welcome up to 22 people and starts at $40,000 a night. While the price tag seems steep, consider if you decided to arrange a trip at maximum occupancy (an intimate wedding or company retreat, perhaps?). At just a little over $1,800 per person, per night, you have an entire island all to yourselves at a rate not too far off from resort costs. But even if you decide to book it with fewer guests, can you really put an amount on absolute privacy and discretion?
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