TRAVELSCENE SAMFORD Feb09

I have just returned from an educational to the Maldives……one of the perks in my job I guess but someone has to do it don’t they?  The Maldives would be the most beautiful place I have been to and is now my new favourite destination.  I went over there with very high expectations and was absolutely blown away.  Surrounded by lagoons and reefs teeming with marine life, this island destination is the perfect setting for that special holiday.

It is perfect for couples, a magical honeymoon destination, but also great for surfing and even a group of friends who just feel like being spoilt.  We visited six different islands while we were there, each of them quite different from each other and each of them suited to different people.  Transfers are by either speedboat or seaplane and these are all included in the packages.
I think it is very important to match the person to the right resort and this is particularly so in the Maldives.  My two  favourite islands were Cocoa Island and Soneva Gili but they wouldn’t suit someone who was going over there to surf or wanted lots of other people around and a bit of nightlife.  If that was the case then I would send you to probably Anantara Resort or Meeru Island Resort as they both have lots going on.
Soneva Gili Resort is the first all-water Villa resort in the Maldives.  The 44 rustic-looking but luxuriously furnished individual Water Villas are built on stilts above the shallow waters of the lagoon. Its crystal clear waters are ideal for diving and snorkelling, directly from your sunbed.
Cocoa Island Resort is inspired by dhoni boats, as used by the local fisherman.  From your room slip into the warm Maldivian waters from the back of the dhoni.  The accommodation is laid out to maximise privacy.  It has a range of facilities to entertain all guests and the location of the island means that diving and snorkelling are ideal.  Dining at Cocoa Island is an experience in itself.  The main restaurant Ufaa is in a perfect setting on the beach beneath an alang-alang pavillion.
Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, as pictured, is nestled on one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives.  62 palm thatched villas – most of them over the lagoon – seemlessly blend into the picturesque surroundings.  The interiors are minimal with a touch of understated elegance. This one is a quiet and romantic island resort highly recommended for couples and honeymooners.
Meeru Island Resort is also surrounded by a beautiful lagoon (do you sense this is a re-occuring theme?) and long stretches of white sandy beach can be found on the remote easternmost top of North Male.  The resort offers a wide range of room types that will suit all levels of comfort and price ranges.  It is popular with all ages and has a nightclub that operates each evening after dinner.  Running out of room – so if you’re interested in the Maldives pop in to see me.
At Travelscene Samford it’s the work we do before you travel that makes all the difference.  Don’t forget that only Travelscene American Express lets you travel anywhere, any time and pay with your membership rewards points, so contact us on 3289 3700 and let us help you turn your American Express membership rewards points into your next trip.