“Flying over water that resembled dyed fabric was remarkably enchanting!”
Day 1
Upon our arrival, we waited in the W Retreat & Spa Maldives lounge for our seaplane transfer to Fesdu Island. The flight over the vividly blue waters was truly magical! Upon our arrival at the W Retreat & Spa, we were greeted warmly by the staff from the jetty. We were escorted directly to our room, which was exceptional. Our accommodation was one of the Wonderful Beach Oasis villas, notable for its remarkable privacy. We savored a few drinks at SIP and relished an extraordinary dining experience at FISH, where our signature dish was aptly named ‘Ocean To Table’.
Day 2
I raised the blinds to a clear sky, which prompted a refreshing morning dip in the ocean just steps from our room. We then proceeded to the buffet breakfast at KITCHEN. The buffet offered a superb selection, fulfilling all our breakfast desires. Josh and I chose a unique seating arrangement at a table partially submerged in water, effectively making the surroundings a pool.
Following breakfast, we opted for snorkel gear to explore the reef, renowned for its astounding diversity. Josh and I were astounded by the vibrant marine life that enveloped us, including close encounters with turtles and even a few reef sharks. Initially apprehensive, the experience ultimately proved exhilarating. That evening, we dined at FIRE, where a splendid seafood and meat buffet awaited us.
Day 3
We commenced our day with a visit to the gym, which featured all the equipment I regularly utilize, among additional facilities, making it an excellent place to work out. After breakfast, we went snorkeling yet again, as we were captivated by the reef’s allure. At 1pm, I was fortunate to enjoy a one-hour massage at AWAY SPA, while Josh relaxed on a daybed situated over the water, ensuring he did not miss out on the experience. Subsequently, we explored WAVE, where we tried out the entertaining sea bobs. As it was our final night at the W Retreat & Spa, we returned to FISH for another delightful dinner accompanied by wine, followed by stargazing on the beach chairs amidst the soothing sound of the ocean.
Day 4
We thoroughly enjoyed the incredible buffet during our final breakfast, sampling additional items from the menu. I highly recommend the healthy bowl with rhubarb. We embarked on one last snorkeling adventure, coming remarkably close to a reef shark. Our concluding lunch was a wood-fired seafood pizza at KITCHEN, which was exquisite. For the remainder of the afternoon, we cherished our private sanctuary in the villa and were delighted with fresh lamingtons prepared by the chef—a true Australian indulgence!
The seaplane then transported us back to Male, the principal island and airport in the Maldives. We felt tremendous sadness at our departure and indeed wish to return. However, our journey was not concluded; we proceeded onto a speedboat leading us to Kandooma Island, where Holiday Inn Resort Maldives staff awaited our arrival. We headed directly to the buffet in the main café and soon retreated to our room, exhausted after a full day, complemented by the impressively soft pillows.
Day 5
The following morning, we ventured to the breakfast buffet, crafting an itinerary for our brief stay at the Holiday Inn. With a plethora of activities available on the island, we were unsure of where to commence. Ultimately, we opted to swim in the pristine blue waters while basking in the sun. Later that afternoon, we checked into our overwater villa, where we experienced one of the most breathtaking sunsets while reclining in the overwater hammock, reminiscing about our week and expressing our reluctance to depart. That evening, we dined on freshly grilled seafood followed by drinks at THE DECK, under the stars.
Day 6
With Josh needing to depart at 9:30am, we woke early, enjoyed breakfast on the deck of our water villa, and relaxed once more in the hammock. Following his departure, I indulged in a one-hour massage at Kandooma Spa, followed by an hour pedicure treatment, both of which were exceptional. The attentive staff contributed to a soothing atmosphere, which made me drift off multiple times during my treatment due to sheer relaxation. After lunch, I explored the gym to maximize my activity before a lengthy flight. I was greatly impressed with the gym’s facilities; the equipment was extensive, the air conditioning effective, and there were amenities such as water and towels readily available, alongside the ability to play my own music. I spent the final hour of my stay sunbathing on the sunbeds at our overwater villa before the boat arrived to transport me back to the airport.
“It was an extraordinary trip. We enjoyed ourselves immensely and could not stop smiling. Though it may sound clichéd, we will cherish these memories forever!”
This Maldives Travel Diary featuring W Retreat and Spa and Holiday Inn Resort was authored by @stephclairesmith
