The Magical Maldives
7 nights at the Constance Moofushi resort
Date Visited : March 2014
Moofushi..
This wasn’t our first trip to the Maldives, but it was by far the most spectacular and memorable!
Our flight out to Male was with Turkish Airlines in business class, and not knowing what to expect, it was actually a fantastic surprise (see airline review section). During the flight they even had the starters and desserts wheeled out on trolleys adorned with white linen table cloths, it was a wonderful and comfortable experience.
After arrival into Male airport we made ourselves known to the Constance representative, and were duly shown to their own private reception area near the sea plane terminal. Cold refreshing towels and drinks were served while we sat in the shade waiting for our transfer. We were a bit warm to say the least considering we were sat in our UK winter clothes and shoes! In hindsight it would have been a good idea to take a pair of shorts and a t-shirt to change into, hindsight, such a wonderful thing..
After a short wait we were called for our seaplane transfer to the island. We have been lucky in the past to travel by seaplane, and it’s such an amazing experience. Gazing out of the window at all the coral fringed atolls from the sky as you fly over, ringed with turquoise waters, is something you will never forget. The Maldives are truly a paradise on earth, and for escapism they just can’t be matched.
It wasn’t long before the plane descended and we caught our first glimpse of Moofushi, and what a breath-taking sight. A small palm fringed atoll with water bungalows stretching out into the stunning lagoon, pure white talcum powder like beaches, it really is a picture postcard of a place. We had a lovely greeting from the hotel reception, and then were delivered to our overwater bungalows where we completed in room check in. After the usual introduction to every aspect of the room, we kindly thanked the gentleman before politely shooing him out of the room, desperate to get our winter gear off and jump into the crystalline water only steps away!
Our bungalow was a standard water bungalow close to the main island (number 40), it was of a thatched design, with a lovely big deck and a couple of sunbeds, steps down into the Indian Ocean, and an outdoor shower. We all agreed we felt like we had died and gone to heaven! The bed and pillows were super comfortable, and it was very spacious and private too. A nice touch was the inclusion of a minibar in the room containing wine, beer, chocolate etc which was all included as the island runs on an excellent all inclusive package basis.
Each day we would take a stroll under the line of neighbouring water bungalows to the most magnificent lagoon we have ever encountered. It was truly spectacular. You could literally walk for what seemed miles out in waist deep translucent warm water, with the softest white sand beneath your feet, and a myriad of colourful fish swimming by. I can’t begin to explain how magical these moments were, absolutely surreal.
Now if you’re a thrill seeker or love shopping, bungee jumping and white water rafting then the Maldives may not be for you! The motto of the Islands is ‘no news no shoes’ and this is certainly the case in Moofushi. You literally take your shoes off on arrival and that’s it, barefoot for the rest of the holiday. Sandy floors throughout make it feel what it is, a real tropical retreat. If you are looking for a completely relaxing holiday, forced relaxation really, then this is the place for you..
Back to the blog…
The food! The resort operates on a buffet basis, so you can choose what you want, it’s all very relaxing. The Executive chef during our visit was an English gentleman, and the salads he prepared were amazing. There was always a delicious selection of dishes to choose from, including European fare & traditional Maldivian curries, which were absolutely delicious. We were very impressed every time we went to the restaurant to dine, and considering we were on a tiny island in the middle of nowhere it was nothing short of amazing! The all-inclusive wine list was extensive too, 80 bottles to choose from, and included with the package. There was a sommelier on hand to advise you on the different wines, not the usual ‘all-inclusive’ type package at Moofushi!
Christina made use of the terrific spa which was situated on stilts over the lagoon, and had a wonderful massage. I told her it was a waste of money as she was asleep 10 minutes into it! Ha ha. All very tastefully done though, and she said it was a wonderful experience.
Walking around the island before dinner with the sun setting and the warm breeze enveloping you is a sublime experience not to be missed. It really is paradise on Earth. Moofushi has such a lovely laid back vibe to it, totally relaxing, hard to beat.
Sadly our week at Moofushi flashed by, and after packing up our belongings we made our way to the pontoon for our seaplane transfer back to Male and our flight home. We were very sad to leave and have promised to return..
Further information…
Sea plane transfer took approximately 45 minutes, with a touchdown en-route
All-inclusive basis at the resort so literally nothing to spend your money on, apart from a few extras such as deep sea diving classes, and a small gift shop on site. All Inclusive included top shelf brands in the bars and an extensive wine list.
Time Zone : GMT + 5
Currency : Maldivian Rufiyaa (in addition the islands usually accept USD $)
You can walk round the Island in about 10 minutes!
