Le Meridien Maldives Resort and Spa opened Sept. 1. It is the Marriott-owned brand’s first property in the country.<\/p>\n
The resort, developed by Singapore-based Chiu Teng Enterprises, is located in Thilamaafushi in the southern part of Lhaviyani Atoll. Guests access the property via a 35-minute seaplane ride from Mal\u00e9.<\/p>\n
The 141-villa resort sits on a 22-acre island surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs. The resort offers one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, the Explore Spa by Le Meridien and two infinity pools.<\/p>\n
“We are thrilled to introduce the iconic Le Meridien brand to the Maldives, strengthening our presence in this captivating destination,” Rajeev Menon, Marriott International’s president for its Asia Pacific division said in a statement. “The opening of Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa marks the second Marriott International property that opened in the Maldives this summer.”<\/p>\n
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands opened on June 1.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Le Meridien Maldives has six restaurants and bars. Signature restaurant Tabemasu has a teppanyaki counter and a private open-air pavilion where guests can enjoy an omakase (chef’s choice) tasting menu. Riviera, the resort’s adults-only bar, is bordered by an oceanfront infinity pool and a private beach.<\/p>\n
The Waves Lifestyle Hub includes a fitness studio and yoga pavilion in addition to the Waves Cafe, a creative arts studio focused on local contemporary art that also includes a retail shop.<\/p>\n
Le Meridien Family and Kids’ Hub includes nature trail walks, folklore storytelling and\u00a0 art classes. Additionally, there is a marine program for children that teaches about ocean ecology and environmental stewardship. Guests can also tour a hydroponics farm.<\/p>\n