We did the hotel check-in at the Soneva Fushi Maldives airport lounge and had refreshments before boarding the seaplane. The highlights of the seaplane journey that followed included fantastic views (the pearl-white atolls floating in the sparkling-blue expanse of the sea…), and the final arrival at the island’s “International Airport.” Which, as far as airports go, is the cutest. It’s hardly more than a small wooden platform, bobbling on the waves offshore from the resort.
Alternatively, book Soneva Fushi via
Tablet Hotels | Mr And Mrs Smith | Expedia or check TripAdvisor.
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All photos in this post are by Laskowski & Zadros. © TravelPlusStyle.com.
As we stepped on the boat for a ride to the jetty, we were presented with welcome drinks in the way of two coconuts, and our shoes were “confiscated,” in compliance with the No News No Shoes policy. True vacation means forgetting the goings-on in the world beyond the island’s shores, and embracing the “barefoot luxury.”
“Each villa comes with bikes, and cycling around the island (which is not small) was one of our favorite activities.”
— From our review of Soneva Fushi
Soneva Fushi is the original “luxury desert island,” and its trademark castaway theme permeates the resort experience. The butlers are called Mr. (or Ms.) Friday, the dress code is casual (and barefoot), and one of the activities on offer is an intimate “desert island picnic”, set up on a tiny private islet… which is as close to the real Robinson Crusoe experience as you’d ever want to be.
The resort occupies one of the largest islands in the country and the villas and common areas are well spread out, which helps to create a sense of isolation and privacy. The sixty-or-so villas of Fushi are tucked away amid a tropical jungle and all villas have direct access to the beach. They truly feel as if each was set up on its own desert island.
“The over-water bar is a great sunset hangout. We loved the seating arranged on nets, hung above the waves.”
— From our review of Soneva Fushi
Soneva Fushi Maldives practically invented the “castaway chic” aesthetic. The “Robinson Crusoe” feel of the thatched roofs, organically-shaped floor plans, and naturally aged wood have timeless appeal. They have rustic, sun-kissed aesthetics, and the accommodation experience is underscored by an eco-aware philosophy.
This is certainly not the place you should pick for your vacation if your idea of luxury means glittering gold, red carpets, and white-glove waiters. Soneva Fushi epitomizes barefoot luxury with a laid-back vibe.
“Like at other Soneva resorts, the Fushi has the al-fresco Cinema Paradiso, where classic movies are screened under the stars (to the complimentary ice cream and popcorn).”
— From our review of Soneva Fushi
In the true Soneva fashion, the Fushi experience is infused with the atmosphere of a fairytale playground. This is especially true for families with children. The Den, Soneva’s concept children’s club is out of this world. Surrounded by tropical jungle, The Den at Fushi is packed with creative ideas, cool surprises, and spaces to play and explore, including a “pirate ship.” Ah, and there are bunnies on the island (!), just casually hopping around.
There are other magical places here. The resort has its own, fully-fledged stargazing observatory (all Soneva resorts do). There is also the bar with sitting on nets above water, and the spectacular wellness facility, Soneva Soul. Snorkeling and diving are fantastic, too, and the resort has a certified dive center. Our favorite activity was also the simplest: taking long walks on the island’s deserted, wild beaches.
Having visited the Maldives a few times now, we are partial to the opinion that any other beach holiday experience pales in comparison. Soneva Fushi Maldives is the proof of that. In addition to the design, the castaway chic, and the fun ideas, the food here is heavenly. Breakfasts were our favorite part of the day, and evening meals were some of the best we had in the Maldives. The free chocolate & ice cream parlor had us popping in frequently throughout the day.
The most important part of the resort experience was the honed-to-perfection service. Thanks to the professional but relaxed approach, each member of the staff made us experience a sense of relaxed luxury, with genuine warmth, as if we were long-missed members of the family.
Where to stay in Dubai
Soneva’s luxury yacht, Soneva-in-Aqua, deserves a separate mention. The boat has a distinct, bulky shape, inspired by Chinese junk boats. Its less-than-elegant form becomes an advantage once you board it, as the cabins are much more comfortable and spacious than you’d expect in a small vessel.
The boat often sails between Soneva Fushi Maldives and its sister property Soneva Jani, where we stayed and loved every minute of it (don’t miss our Soneva Jani review!). A great idea is to combine the two resorts in your vacation, with the chance to sail on the Soneva-in-Aqua.
Alternatively, book Soneva Fushi via
Tablet Hotels | Mr And Mrs Smith | Expedia or check TripAdvisor.
*All photos in this post are by Laskowski & Zadros. © TravelPlusStyle.com.
Getting there: The flight-comparison sites such as Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.com) or Kayak (www.kayak.com) will help you find the best flights and deals.
*This post contains affiliate links and we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Author: Daniel Laskowski. Last updated: 31/08/2024
