For what it’s worth, your desire to book that trip is always justified. But the new autumn season ushers in a wealth of seasonal travel opportunities, so there’s arguably no better time for a much-needed vaycay. First up on the good ol’ vision board: overwater villas, bikinis, bucket hats, and a total well-being reset.
Few Maldivian resorts embody paradise quite like RAAYA by Atmosphere. Primed to welcome just about any type of traveller, the beauty of RAAYA lies in its embrace of the true island experience. If you’ve been looking to set off somewhere far-flung to disconnect, this resort is *quite literally* built on a castaway feel. The RAAYA experience truly lends itself to the story of its discovery – a shipwrecked fisherman named Seb was stranded on the island alone for 8 whole years, and turned it into his own artistic paradise. Seb’s misfortune led to the discovery of a tropical oasis that now stands as one of the finest 5-star luxury resorts in the Maldives. Unlike some other up-scale Maldivian resorts, this one is almost entirely secluded, with no other island in sight. RAAYA is a castaway’s dream come true, merging an authentic Maldivian experience with all the trimmings of a luxury destination.
It’s not often that you get to visit a place that is not only a literal paradise, but also an insanely tranquil place for your mind, body, and soul. And so, without further ado, here’s how to do your trip right.
Stay
Hello…this is the Maldives…of course we’re making an entrance. The exhilarating 45-minute seaplane prelude is perhaps the biggest highlight of the trip, gliding over the Madlives’ iconic turquoise atolls and landing on the crystal-clear shores of lush, tropical greenery.
The resort is already immersed in one of the most beautiful settings in the world (remember: MALDIVES), but the entire retreat was also built with the concept of blending architecture with nature in order to achieve that castaway feel. So because of that, RAAYA has infused the property’s design with the spirit of its surroundings. Around the resort, the transition from inside to outside was always subtle: natural materials, like wood, straw, and stone, seamlessly blend indoors and out, while high ceilings and shack-like designs create an open-air space.
While beach villas are available to book, the Water Villa with Pool is pure paradise—a private haven perched above the magically turquoise lagoon. The villa itself was impeccably designed, blending sleek modernity with subtle Maldivian charm.
With over 100 luxurious villas across seven categories, RAAYA is an island paradise that puts nature first. Its lush greenery, white-sand beaches, and thriving tropical forests create a haven for wildlife and a dream destination for serenity and luxury in equal measure.
Play
In the Maldives, as the saying goes, there’s a thousand ways to do nothing. Fortunately, ‘nothing’ at RAAYA looks a bit like this…
Water-based fun:Â For active vacationers, there are more options than a choose-your-own-adventure comic. Most of these are water-based, and range from paddleboarding to sunset cruises.
Diving excursions:Â The PADI-certified Diving School and Water Sports Centre had us diving into adventure, with easy access to a lively house reef teeming with vibrant marine life. Even for non-divers, snorkelling from the villa was an effortless plunge into the Indian Ocean’s wonders.
The Village: At the heart of the resort lies The Village—a vibrant hub brimming with dining, shopping, wellness, art, and entertainment options. The art and craft studio was a charming surprise, with creative workshops that brought joy to both kids and adults.
Eat
Sustainability is a focus for every resort in Maldives, not just out of principle but also out of logistics. Everything is imported, and any trash that is created on the islands must be shipped away. I didn’t see any single-use plastics during my stay—any packaging used was compostable, and RAAYA grows its produce on the island whenever possible.
Breakfast at RAAYA Life:Â Open for all-day dining, this open-plan dining space has delicious food and a breezy, airy vibe. The menu includes a range of dietary preferences, various cuisines and even traditional Maldivian options, too.
Dinner with a view:Â AMPERS&ND is the beachside restaurant of your dreams. Exceptional Pan-Asian meals, featuring the freshest locally sourced seafood, are the perfect way to end your day at RAAYA. And don’t sleep on the cocktails: They have tons of them, and they are all delish.
Seb’s Shack: Drinks in a bohemian beach shack at sunset? Yes, please. Sundownders doesn’t get much better than this famous spot on the island, with a laid-back vibe that’s best paired with an Instagrammable sunset, ofc.
Yes, they have a spa. Glad you asked.
R&R takes true form in ELE|NA, the on-site heaven inspired by the elements of nature. Healing massages? ✅ Spa treatments? ✅ A relaxation room surrounded by healing water to clear your mind and unwind to the sounds of nature? Don’t mind if I do.
Your stay at RAAYA includes complimentary treatments – the number and length depend on how long you stay at the resort. But your everyday woes and stresses are truly left at the door as you enter ELE|NA, only to leave feeling a sense of calm and weightlessness that’s true to the island experience.
Luxury takes true form in RAAYA Residence
Girls trip? Upgrade your stay to experience the magic that is RAAYA Residence – your own private corner of the island with a palatial suite boasting two expansive master bedrooms. Oh, and there’s a private infinite pool and beach just for you. Don’t say we didn’t tempt you.
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