ive isles t
he sun-kissed island resorts of the Maldives don’t have much in common with Antarctica. Yet this idyllic honeymoon favourite does
share one attribute with the White Continent – both are uniquely well-suited to an all-inclusive pricing plan. Neither offers opportunities to pop down the road to a local restaurant, save money by self-catering, or get good deals on activities and excursions through stiff competition.
ONE ISLAND, ONE PRICE
All-inclusive hotels in the Maldives have been more common at the lower and mid-range ends of the market – and while budget-friendly properties have their place in the Med, clients who are forking out for long-haul flights to the Maldives tend to have higher expectations. I’d tried an all-inclusive stay in the Maldives before and been disappointed. But the list of inclusions at the two Ozen resorts in South Malé Atoll was reassuring. Champagne on tap, à la carte dining at multiple restaurants, non-motorised watersports, kids’ club, yoga classes, sommelier-led dinners, gin tastings, cinema under the stars, plus boat transfers – all
travelweekly.co.uk
DESTINATIONS THE MALDIVES | INDIAN OCEAN
Can you combine Indian Ocean luxury with the ease of all-inclusive? Joanna Booth puts two Maldivian resorts to the test
as part of the package. Inspiring Travel says these two properties are among its most popular in the Maldives, thanks to the simplicity and comprehensive nature of the product. All guests stay all-inclusive, so there’s no need for wristbands, and the included spa treatments and chance to dine at M6m, Maadhoo’s underwater restaurant, are key selling points.
TRANQUIL MAADHOO As the lift doors opened into M6m, I realised I was holding my breath – and not just because I was excited to be ticking off a signature Maldivian experience. With this restaurant – like all the others at the hotel – being part of the all-inclusive plan, I wondered if it would live up to expectations. I needn’t have worried; there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Every one faces an underwater window and tables are so close to the glass that a passing blacktip reef shark seemed to eyeball my delicious four-course tasting menu – I had chosen the seafood option. I soon realised that all the complimentary experiences at Ozen Life Maadhoo would be of a similar standard. Included spa treatments, often ²
14 AUGUST 2025
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