Holiday Island Resort & Spa: a beckoning to one of the last unspoiled paradises

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The crystal blue waters and the velvety white beaches of Maldives have always been a dream destination for travellers from around the globe. This tropical paradise inspires holidaymakers to visit all year round to experience its warm and sunny weather.

Located in the South Ari Atoll, five-minutes from Villa Airport Maamigili by boat lies the ravishingly beautiful island of Holiday Island Resort & Spa. This serene resort is the second property opened under the umbrella of Villa Hotels & Resorts. The local brand has a total of five properties.

Counting its 24^th year, this four-star resort is exclusive for its soothing and tranquil ambience. An ideal place for a perfect relaxation and seclusion from the busy lives. Majority of occupancy is from Germany and Switzerland; however, Holiday Island Resort welcomes tourists from all the regions of the world.

Holiday Island Resort currently accommodates only superior beach bungalows for its holidaymakers. These spacious bungalows are facilitated with baths and open showers. This property has 142 accommodation units, of which nine are interconnected with each other. The superior beach bungalows are designed with private porches and sun beds which gives access to the beach just outside the lodging.

Holidaymakers at Holiday Island Resort can now upgrade their stay to the newly remodelled bungalows. Two mock-up bungalows are styled with modern, sophisticated interiors and facilities. An outdoor Jacuzzi embellishes these classy bungalows, distinguishing it from the others. Though the bungalows are still in the test run, they are highly in demand; providing upsells on availability. I was lucky to visit one of these bungalows to observe its exclusivity.

You have an abundance of choice when it comes to F&B considering the island offers four outlets. The main restaurant serves buffet with exquisite tastes at all meal hours. À la carte meals can be relished at the coffee shop. The Main Bar and the Reggae Bar at the beach are exclusive for beverages, serving alcoholic drinks and cocktails as well. Guests enjoy the privilege of 24-hour room service and mini bar service.

On my tour around the property, I cherished the spectacular landscape under the bright sun. Holiday Island Resort offers several outdoor, indoor activities and water sports for its vacationers. Main outdoor activities include; tennis, badminton, beach volley, basketball, and mini golf while the indoor activities are; snooker, table tennis, golf simulator and gym.[/vc_column_text][vc_images_carousel images=”20844,20846,20850,20849,20848,20847,20843″ img_size=”full” autoplay=”yes” hide_pagination_control=”yes” hide_prev_next_buttons=”yes” wrap=”yes”][vc_column_text]Adventurous water lovers can choose between the extensive water sports and activities offered at Holiday Island Resort. From fun tubing, jet surfing, parasailing and everything in between can be enjoyed by the average fun lovers. The more daring water enthusiasts are fond of dolphin tours, whale shark snorkelling, turtle snorkelling and manta snorkelling – whale sharks and mantas are two of the star attractions of South Ari Atoll. For serious water sporting, PADI courses and diving is made available by Dive Oceanus.

For sensational relaxation, guests can obtain contemporary spa services. The spa has four classic treatment rooms, two Ayurvedic treatment rooms, two Jacuzzis and a steam room. Annexed to the spa is a salon providing basic beauty solutions such as manicure and pedicure. Likewise, brides at Holiday Island Resort rapture the bridal makeup for their special day.

Holidaymakers who wish to take tangible memories back home can shop for keepsakes at the souvenir boutique located in the main lobby area. This adored island in the South Ari Atoll has one of the most remarkable lagoons in the region. The purest beach of Holiday Island Resort fascinates vacationers to have their ceremonial beach weddings on the silky sand sprinkled across the crystalline turquoise waters.

Holiday Island Resort also provides for its guests to experience the local island life. Tours are arranged to Fenfushi Island where the rural lifestyle is seen at its best. Guests joining on these excursions tour around the island visiting memorable landmarks; followed by a barbeque lunch on a neighbouring picnic island. The tour ends with experiencing snorkelling at a nearby reef, after lunch. This full-day excursion has become very demanding over the years. I got the chance to join on a tour to Fenfushi Island and explore the rural life.

Staying at Holiday Island Resort and visiting the preserved island of Fenfushi was a unique experience. With the touch of palm style throughout the property, it gives the true feeling of holidaying in the Maldives. Indulging myself into the balmy sea at the sunset hour was the highlight of my visit. It was a moment of pure magic watching colourful rays disperse through deep waters. Warm hospitality from the executive management and hosts made my stay truly gratifying and pleasant.[/vc_column_text][vc_images_carousel images=”20839,20842,20841,20840,20838,20845″ img_size=”full” autoplay=”yes” hide_pagination_control=”yes” hide_prev_next_buttons=”yes” wrap=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row]