If the waters of the Mediterranean are wine-dark, then those surrounding the Maldives can only be described as Bombay Sapphire blue….
The Maldives have every imaginable sybaritic delight. Once the go-to destination for diving and honeymoon enthusiasts, the untainted paradise has resurfaced as the glamorous St. Barths of the East, becoming a magnet for every jetsetter whenever they tire of those London hangovers, New York meetings and Hong Kong smog. While wandering its white sand beaches and soaking up its cerulean sea are still recommended, these islands have all the ingredients to cater to everyone looking to forget what day it is.
A snorkeling trip can yield anything from the hallucinogenic bright colors of the reef to turtles and whale sharks to pods of dolphins showing off. In the evening you can lounge on a hammock or park yourself on a reclining beach bed one evening to watch your favorite movie as the night sets in and right before bed dangle your feet in your private infinity pool and stare out at the sky.
What's In Your Maldives Trunk
Ensembles that are the total embodiment of all things happy. Swimsuits, making sure to stash a few one-piece's that can double as a top when paired with a sarong or boardshorts. Whimsical colorful dresses, and caftans that can work into the evening and stacked heels and flip flops, you can save the stilettos for another holiday. No need for those to get caught on the jetty! Sunnies, sunscreen and a hat!
Pro tip! Pack a few mini dresses to avoid fabric getting caught around your bike wheels when cruising from your overwater bungalow to the mainland.
Vibe Maxi Dress
Knit Maxi Dress
Mini Wrap Dress
Georgette Pants
Oyster Shell Bikini Top
Nolan Leather Sandals
Top Pick Hotels:
Touting the title of "first immersive art hotel" in the Maldives. Scattered across the island you’ll find several pieces from artists all around the world. Standout pieces include Misha Kahn’s underwater sculpture, and three pieces by Porky Hefer: one of which acts as an experiential dining concept. You can turn up barefoot at Mura Bar for a sunset Martini, a buttermilk-chicken slider and a shisha pipe. Or get dolled up for dinner at Japanese restaurant Saoke. It’s this deep-rooted, solid luxury, without the slightest hint of dictating who guests should be, what they should wear and how they should relax, this immediately makes the Joali the front runner!
Distinctly European in feel with a contemporary feel. The resort’s “experience alchemists” are pros at tailoring your Maldivian vacation to you, crafting an ideal itinerary for every stay.
A private island resort that shows you how to enjoy luxury consciously. Sustainability lies at the heart of what Soneva does, right from the time you enter the boat and take off your shoes; they're only returned to you on departure. The idea is to disconnect from it all and get a few runs in on the waterslide to get those IG photos squared away.
Plan with Upon Arrival for an in depth guide to all the best shops and markets!