Endless ocean views, white-sand beaches, spectacular marine ecosystems — the beauty that the Maldives is, never ceases to amaze me; so much so that I decided to explore it amidst a pandemic.
Setting foot into the world of international travel once again, I flew to the turquoise paradise in February this year, for a zen holiday at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the latest resort by THE OZEN COLLECTION. Situated in a glittering lagoon in South Malé Atoll, this uber-luxe private island resort opened its doors to guests in December 2020.
Warm Welcomes
The resort is a 20-minute catamaran ride from Velana International Airport, where, upon arrival, I was greeted by the resort’s team and escorted to the private and air-conditioned THE OZEN COLLECTION LOUNGE. While I waited for my ride to arrive, I refreshed myself with a face towel and some water. As a part of the traditional welcome, I was offered a palm leaf garland which is now the latest addition to my little keepsake box that holds memories from my travel tales.
However, a more elaborate Maldivian welcome awaited me at the Bolifushi island. The blowing of a conch shell, the rhythm of the bodu beru (a Maldivian drum) drumming and sangu shell whistling against the blue backdrop complemented by the serving of kurumba (fresh coconut) drink seemed like the ideal start to my island sojourn. And that wasn’t all! I was then pampered with a foot massage, which, at the risk of sounding dramatic, was soul-stirring.
A surreal abode
OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI features 90 secluded villas and RESERVE accommodations that are located overwater and beachfront in six categories and a luxury superyacht.
I checked into the stunning 265-sqm Ocean Pool suite with direct private access to the lagoon. The suite comes with a sunken indoor bath and rain shower, over-water hammock, a private infinity pool, and an outdoor deck, where I would spend hours marvelling at nature and its many shades. Kitted with all the essential amenities, the suite exudes a sense of comfort and positive energy with ample natural light. Besides, the subtle hues with pops of colour well-suited my understated and minimal taste in decor.
Tip: If the child within you demands a hint of adrenaline on this trip, book the Ocean Pool suite with an outdoor water slide.
From the pretty leaf artwork on my bed everyday to placing delectable chocolates in my room and preparing my sunken tub for a relaxing evening bath, it was the little gestures by the staff that impressed. Not to forget, my butler Iboo, ensured that my stay in the Maldives was comfortable and full of new discoveries.
High-spending individuals must definitely opt for the Royal RESERVE – a luxurious three-bedroom RESERVE offering ultimate seclusion to host family and friends. This majestic residence comes with a main ‘sanctuary’ and two guest villas. The accommodation boasts a private beach, spa pavilion, open-air jacuzzi, a gym, a pool, outdoor and indoor living areas, stunning bathrooms, an overwater bar, and a dedicated restaurant as well as a fully-stocked professional kitchen with a wine cellar. A separate service quarter can accommodate up to four staff members.
THE RESERVE PLAN
This is exclusive to OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and is curated to include the fine dining offerings, premium beverages, and exclusive experiences, along with the stay. Perks include the maxi bar in the villa, replenished twice daily, or unlimited access to the overwater gym.
A Culinary Escapade
‘Eat, sleep, swim, repeat’ was my travel mantra for the trip.
All my F&B experiences were unique and effortlessly catered to the varied taste profiles of the guests from across the globe.
You may agree or disagree, but the perfect holiday breakfast is the one that starts off with mouth-watering Asian delights like dim sum and ends on a sweet note with waffles and pancakes; and the in-betweens are for eggs Benedict with a side of bacon and pastries. And, Vista Del Mar gets this brief on point. The venue serves world cuisine best enjoyed in the outdoor seating area with ocean vistas. The Maldivian breakfast comprising tuna curry and flatbread reminded me of my roots in south India.
Another meal that took me back home was the one that I had at Tradition Saffron. The Indian Thali that served here featured various dishes from Indian cuisines including Hyderabadi, Kashmiri, Bengali and Lucknowi. The melt-in-mouth lamb kebabs were heavenly. Some of my other favourites from the meal include lamb biryani, gustaba (a Kashmiri speciality) and prawn curry. I concluded my meal with lip-smacking dessert creations like firni (pudding) and kala jamun (Indian sweet made with milk solids).
Modern Arabic cuisine is offered at Sangu Beach. The mezze platters, aromatic tagines, shish-tawook, grilled meat delicacies and enchanting desserts with live entertainment are sure to teleport you to an authentic middle eastern restaurant.
Next is OZAR, a cosy bar located next to the main pool, where I would spend my evenings sipping Pimm’s Cup under the starry sky and watching yet another blissful day pass by. From an elegant high tea service and molecular mixology-induced fine cocktails, premium barista coffee to fresh juices, there is something for everyone at this bar.
Should you wish to enjoy a one-of-a-kind meal service inside your villa, the staff will pamper you with a floating breakfast in your private infinity pool. On my large floating breakfast tray, were dishes including cold mezze, chicken and avocado sandwich, fresh juices and Danish pastries that I savoured in the company of the sun and sea.
Dive into the Marine World
Bolifushi island is an ideal base for underwater explorations. Swim alongside the vibrant marine beings and explore popular wrecks and ocean caves, including the Bolifushi Wreck site. The on-site dives centre also offers diving certifications and dive trips in exotic coral reefs.
The resident marine biologist provides interesting presentations and snorkelling tours, for an enlightening experience of marine conservation.
Recreational Time
Apart from a world-class diving experience, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI also boasts a wide variety of leisure amenities and activities. These include an eco-friendly open-air ice rink; organic spa treatments; an overwater fitness centre with a choice of group classes or personal training; cooking classes, semi-submarine adventure; complimentary non-motorised water sports including kayaking and pedal boating and motorised water sports including sea bob, jet skiing and water skiing; fishing expeditions; kids club and teen lounge – and the list goes on.
However, if you aren’t looking for something too adventurous, then I suggest hopping onto a bicycle parked outside your villa and exploring the property, whilst chasing the spectacular sunset that you always wanted to witness but couldn’t owing to your hectic work life. Sounds good?
As I pen this, I hope to revisit the tropical paradise soon to re-experience the sweetness of “doing nothing” and be one with nature once again!
