With more than 1,000 jewel-like islands scattered across the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, it’s no wonder the Maldives routinely crops up on bucket lists. Many of the islands remain uninhabited, but those occupied often boast single-island luxury resorts where you can explore and enjoy your own private paradise.
I’m headed to one of these sandy gems to experience Club Med Kani’s new Manta Exclusive Space, and immediately, I’m struck by how incredibly vibrant the water is here. Hypnotic shades of blue, from aqua to turquoise and every neon tint in between hypnotised me each day. From my first glimpse while boarding a speedboat at the international airport for the 35-minute trip to Club Med Kani until the day we left, the Maldives’ dazzling waters fringed with talcum-powder sands indulged all my castaway fantasies.
Occupying a lush tropical island with its own private stretch of pure white sand, Club Med Kani makes the most of its heavenly surrounds. The resort’s recently launched Manta Exclusive Collection takes the island getaway to the next level, offering luxurious bungalows perched above the sparkling lagoon which come with a range of exclusive benefits for guests. Each overwater villa has a private terrace and sun deck with direct access to the gin-clear waters. There’s even an exclusive beach haven specially built for Manta guests to unwind and recharge – complete with its own dedicated waiters, so you have nothing to worry about except breathing as you stretch out on your sun lounger.
While Club Med is known for pioneering the all-inclusive buffet-style holiday (and the Kani property is incredibly generous with activities, meals and alcoholic beverages for all guests), as a Manta guest you have the luxury of breakfast served in your private bungalow, with a choice of four different cuisines delivered to your door. You’ll also enjoy priority reservations at Club Kani’s à la carte Kandu restaurant and snorkelling trips on a private boat.
We particularly loved the exclusive Manta overwater bar – complete with oversized sunbeds hovering above the water – where there is an excellent range of cocktails and alcoholic beverages on offer and complimentary Champagne by the glass from 6pm to 11pm. Sunset bubbles quickly became our evening ritual.
As guests of the Manta Space, you can also enjoy complimentary day access to the Finolhu Villas, Club Med’s flagship resort. Just a five-minute speedboat ride away, the resort allows you to indulge in its sophisticated and luxurious surrounds – lounge around the pool, explore the private beach and sip a cocktail from the bar.
As far as romantic destinations go, the Maldives is pretty hard to beat, and with the new Manta Exclusive Collection elevating this South Pacific gem’s luxury offerings to rival any five-star resort in the area, Club Med Kani now offers a dream holiday style to suit just about every couple.
Looking for romantic accommodation in the Maldives? Find the perfect spot here…
