Kuda Huraa, Maldives: ChichiChic Top 10 Highlights

The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is a South Asian island country, located in the Indian Ocean. According to Wikipedia, it lies southwest of Sri Lanka and India comprising a territory spanning roughly 298 square kilometres (115 sq miles).  The Maldives is one of the world’s most geographically dispersed countries, as well as the smallest Asian country by both land area and population, with around 427,756 inhabitants. Malé is the capital and most populated city.

The Maldives remained largely unknown to tourists until the early 1970s. Only 185 islands are home to its 300,000 inhabitants. The other islands are used entirely for economic purposes (mostly tourism and agriculture). According to Wikipedia, tourism accounts for 28% of the GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives’ foreign exchange receipts. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes.

The number of resorts increased from 2 to 92 between 1972 and 2007. Visitors to the Maldives do not need to apply for a visa pre-arrival, regardless of their country of origin, provided they have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and the money to be self-sufficient while in the country. The Maldives is one of the best vacation spots in the world—it is actually ranked #7 out of 20 of the best honeymoon destinations by US News and World Reports. This was a dream vacation for me—true paradise on Earth.

So here they are, the top 10 highlights of my trip to Kuda Huraa, Maldives

1. The Four Seasons Resorts Male Airport Lounge: When we landed in Male and cleared custom, we came out to the main façade of the airport that was not air-conditioned, so it was quite hot. Spotting the Four Seasons Maldives Airport lounge was akin to spotting an oasis in the middle of a Desert (dramatic much? LOL!) For real though—the lounge was so comfortable. It is has air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, complimentary snacks and beverages, and comfortable seating. The wait for the boat to the different resorts was not long at all and the staffs immediately handle your luggage and ensure it is tagged appropriately and arrives at the correct destination. The only thing missing was a bathroom—but the airport bathroom (though not the best) is not far from the lounge. This was an amazingly luxurious welcome to the Maldives.
   

   Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Airport Lounge at Male Airport

2. Boat ride to the Resort: This was a fun ride—the wind blowing my hair, fresh sun on my face, and the boat speeding through the waves–it was all so exhilarating. We were served water on the boat and there was also Wi-Fi on board. We paid $250 for transportation by speed boat from the airport to the resort (round-trip).

• 3. The welcome to the Resort: The Staff lined up at the dock entrance to the resort and we were greeted with traditional Maldivian music, warm smiles and cheers. We also got chilled ginger-based non-alcoholic cocktails that were so refreshing. The beauty of the resort, the wonderful island breeze rich with the fragrance of Bougainvillea, Hibiscus and Frangipani, and the fact that we were on an Island that can only be accessed by boat just led to immediate relaxation.

4. The Spectacular Staff at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa: The staff at Kuda Huraa are mostly locals which made the experience so much richer and more authentic. They took such pride in ensuring that we had a fantastic time. It was no surprise when I heard about the Four Seasons Resort Maldives Apprenticeship Program – a vocational training scheme for young and dynamic Maldivians looking to enter the hospitality industry. Since its inception in 2001, the year-long program has equipped more than 200 young Maldivians aged 17-21 with the skills necessary to thrive in the demanding hospitality industry. Awarded the ‘President of Maldives Award for Human Resource Development in the Tourism Industry’ in 2001, 2002 and 2004, it again hit headlines in 2010 when it became the country’s first TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) – certified Apprenticeship scheme, with a government-accredited curriculum and nationally recognized and certified competency standards and qualifications. It is so prestigious and well-known that virtually all apprentices get a job upon graduation. Well done, Four Seasons Resort Maldives!!!

Four Seasons Resorts awards certificates to graduates of apprenticeship programme Photocredit: Four Seasons Resort Maldives

5. Delicious (FRESH) Food: Every single meal we ate was so delicious—from the breakfast buffet to the freshly grilled catch of the day at dinner, it was a foodie’s paradise. I was too busy relishing every meal to take great photos of them (my bad!!! LOL!) The fruits and veggies were all so Tropical Island fresh—making it so easy to eat well and stay tastily nourished. With the rich Maldivian flavors, as well as spices and dishes from all over Asia and many other parts of the world, I could go on and on about this truly international flavorful and delightful culinary journey.  
   

   The freshest Ceasar Salad ever!!

6. World Class Facilities: The Four Seasons brand is known for luxury and opulence—the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, Maldives Resort did not disappoint. From the beautifully decorated over-water bungalows to the magnificent lay out of all the restaurants and the truly 5 Star Spa (only a short boat ride away within the resort), this respite was worth every dollar spent.

Photocredit: Four Seasons Resort Maldives

Photocredit: Four Seasons Resort Maldives

7. The best Sunsets in the World: If you love sun and water, the best place to go is to the Maldives. The stunning and pristine turquoise water in the daytime is one thing, but the multicolored intensity of the awe-inspiring Maldives sunset creates such a mesmerizing experience that will consistently take your breath away.

Maldivian Sunset

8. Sunrise Yoga: I attended a Yoga class at Sunrise in the resort and it was a truly wonderful experience. The fresh Island morning breeze coupled with the calming voice of the instructor was truly an exceptional experience that came at no extra cost.

En Route to Sunrise Yoga class

Maldivian Namaste: Sunrise Yoga at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa

9. Water water everywhere: There was no water sport or activity that you could not indulge in at Kuda Huraa. From pool lounging, to snorkeling, marine discovery, surfing and to diving, they offer a limitless range of water-based activities.

10. Tranquility: This was the most relaxing vacation I have ever had. I truly felt rejuvenated and reset after my experience at Kuda Huraa—I did not want to leave but had to go back to my husband and kids 😉

Please share your thoughts and other Maldives faves in the comment section below.

Love,

Chichi