Plus! SPORTING LIFE • LONDON’S FINEST • WINTER MARKETS DUSK TILL DAWN • AMERICAN ROADTRIPS • DAY & NIGHT WINTER /SPRING 2024 • AMAZINGTRAVELMAG.CO.UK Jersey Jaunt A long weekend in the biggest and most beautiful Channel Island Bon Bini Curaçao Why this ABC Island gem should be your next Caribbean destination The Brit List Our pick of inspirational places to stay & play across the UK THE MALDIVES The paradise that you’ve been dreaming of WIN! THE FAMILY TRIP OF A LIFETIME TO FLORIDA
Amazing Destinations 3 Editor & Publisher: Martin Mason Assitant Editor: Holly Cannon Feature Writers: James Glover, Dan Conan, Rose White Sub Editors: Jess Hawkins, Lucy Garron Social Editor: Julie Paice Editorial Planning: Sophie Bailey Primary photography: Antelope Media Solutions Photo license: Getty Images, iStockphoto, Adobe Stock Head of Design: Dave Allworthy Commercial Director: Matt Millbank Amazing Destinations is published by Maysreet Ltd. Jubilee House, 3 The Drive, Brentwood, CM13 3FR [email protected] www.amazingtravelmag.co.uk ISSN: Amazing Destinations 1461-3261 Amazing Destinations is published by published by Maystreet Ltd. Copyright © First Floor, 101-135 Kings House, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4DR. Published quarterly All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at the time of going to press but subject to change. The mail-order protection scheme does not cover items featured editorially. The paper used for this publication is based on renewable wood fibre. The wood these fibres are derived from is sourced from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources. The producing mills are EMAS registered and operate according to highest environmental and health and safety standards. The printed version of this magazine is fully recyclable. CONTENTS WINTER ‘23 SPRING ‘24 9 12 28 42 56 66 92 106 EDITORS NOTE 114 42 134 144
Amazing Destinations 9 EDITOR’S NOTE As spring emerges from winter’s quiet grip, we are delighted to bring you an issue which spans the period between these two wonderful seasons with tales of faraway lands, each boasting unique and wondrous allure. This bridging period is my favourite of the year, as it brings both reflection and transformation; nature awakens from slumber as we bid the cold adieu. To reflect this renewal, our features span the globe and extend you an invitation to dive into new adventures. As the seasons change, so do our travel aspirations. Whether you look for the tranquillity of island paradises, the thrill of untamed landscapes, or you want to keep your adventures closer to home, let us guide you to the extraordinary. For the wanderlust in all of us, American Beauty (page 28) is an open invitation to explore the sprawling landscapes of the United States. From the majestic Rocky Mountains out West to the sunbathed vistas of the Southwest. We provide a roadmap for those after that open-road freedom. Far-flung fans can Immerse themselves in the paradise of The Maldives (page 42) crystalline waters, where time stands still, and overwater bungalows float above vibrant reefs. Think you know the Caribbean? Then think again. On sun-warmed Curaçao (page 92), Dutch architecture intertwines with Caribbean warmth, crafting a relaxed cultural mosaic you just must experience. Closer to home, the jewel of the Channel Islands Jersey (page 12), charms with cliffside vistas historic villages and natural beauty. Here, a rich legacy persists amid landscapes forged from the sea. If pulse-pounding escapades are more your speed, check out Dusk Till Dawn (page 56). This celebrates globe-trekkin adventures that transport you from twilight trails to daybreak peaks. Think eye-popping views - from the massive Himalayas to rugged Patagonia trails. As light fades in these destinations, the earth turns into a canvas of soft hues. So, as we say farewell to winters bite and hello to spring’s warmth, let us all make this journey together – sharing stories, inspiring each other, and turning travel dreams into reality. Over the coming issues you can count on us to be here for the adventure, and we hope to be a little part of your next escape. amazingdestinationsmag To receive a free digital edition of Amazing Destinations, email your name, address and email to: [email protected] www.amazingtravelmag.co.uk Martin Mason Editor
Corbiere Lighthouse. Photos: Antelope Media Solutions
Amazing Destinations 11 Nestled in the arms of the English Channel, Jersey materialises as an engaging blend of antiquity natural splendour, and contemporary magnetism. By Martin Mason JERSEY An ageless haven of rich history, serenity and coastal beauty.
8 Amazing Destinations
Amazing Destinations 9
12 Amazing Destinations Mont Orgueil Castle
Amazing Destinations 17 A History Interlaced into the Land Jersey’s history is a fascinating tale spanning millennia. From the Neolithic burial mounds at La Hougue Bie to the medieval Mont Orgueil Castle, the island proudly wears its history. However, one chapter that left an indelible imprint was the occupation during World War II. Jersey, along with the other Channel Islands, fell under German occupation from 1940 to 1945. The remnants of this period are etched into the island’s landscape. The Jersey War Tunnels, a vast subterranean complex serve as a poignant reminder of the islanders’ wartime ordeals. Originally constructed by the Germans as a hospital, these tunnels now house a museum that chronicles the stories of resilience and endurance during the occupation. Getting there Condor Ferries have four ships in their fleet, connecting the UK, Guernsey, Jersey and St Malo. The Condor Liberation and Condor Rapide are both high-speed passenger and carcarrying ships. They are backed by the all-weather car and passenger service of the Commodore Clipper. We left from the ferry terminal at Poole, in Dorset and Check-in was fast and easy. There’s a good range of food options on board with prices to suit all budgets. The sea was incredibly rough on our journey there, so it helps if you have the sea legs and a stomach for the English channels turbulent waters. This charming isle, with its medieval strongholds, golden shores and echoes of war, summons travellers to explore its diverse landscapes and plunge into a storied past that unfolds like a gripping book. JERSEY Iconic Landmarks Mont Orgueil Castle stands tall and proud on Jerseys east coast, a masterpiece of medieval architecture that’s witnessed a lot of history over the centuries. Originally built to defend against French attacks, the soaring castle towers offer breathtaking views of the ocean. Wander through the postcard-perfect courtyards climb the winding stairs of the turrets and feel like you’ve travelled back in time. The iconic La Corbière Lighthouse perches on the rugged cliffs at Jersey’s southwestern tip, a striking symbol of maritime heritage. Sunset views from the picturesque lighthouse are simply stunning, with the warm golden light of dusk spreading across the Atlantic waters. It’s the ideal spot to capture the quintessential coastal charm of Jersey in all its glory. Beaches & coastline Jersey’s shores are blessed with lovely beaches and hidden coves that seem tailored made to relax and soak up the island’s natural beauty. Popular St. Brelade’s Bay delights beach lovers with its soft sands and crystal-clear shallows, while its lively promenade lined with cute cafes and bistros makes an idyllic setting for a lazy seaside lunch. For an adrenaline rush try coasteering - cliff jumping, climbing and cave exploring - along Jerseys craggy coastline. Navigate rock formations, plunge into refreshing waters and fully immerse yourself in an exciting ocean adventure, with guides to assist explorers of all skill levels.
18 Amazing Destinations The Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust founded by Gerald Durrell, is like a haven for animal lovers. The park focuses on protecting endangered species and lets visitors get up close with animals in realistic habitats. Food & countryside Jersey’s got a great food scene that mixes fresh, local ingredients with creative cooking and you must try the seafood from any one of a multitude of high quality eateries. Since the island is committed to farm-to-table, the food captures the natural richness of this place. And check out Jersey’s countryside if you want to get away from it all. Rolling hills cute towns, and lavender fields make it really peaceful. St. Mary Parish has a wonderful lavender farm where you can wander through fields of fragrant plants and relax. It’s a total retreat for your senses that sums up rural Jersey. Sark You can expand your Jersey adventure with a quick ferry ride to the nearby island of Sark. With no cars, Sark is perfect for biking or horse carriage rides. Find pretty coastal paths, the lovely Sark Gardens and experience the laidback island lifestyle of another of the Channel Islands. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Jersey and her neighbouring islands are a haven waiting to be discovered. JERSEY Sark
16 Amazing Destinations FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.STBRELADESBAYHOTEL.COM
Amazing Destinations 21 Tucked along the untouched shores of Jersey, the St. Brelades Bay Hotel stands as a coastal sanctuary with history tracing back to the 1800s. Initially a private manor house this oceanside gem has developed into a lavish getaway. ST BRELADES BAY HOTEL ST BRELADES BAY, JERSEY Our verdict St. Brelades Bay Hotel is a seaside escape that goes beyond the norm. With its long history, perfect location, timeless yet stylish decor, slick beachside rooms, and excellent cuisine, the hotel welcomes visitors to dive into a world of coastal charm on Jerseys sunny shores. The hotel's seaside location, overlooking the blue waters of St. Brelades Bay, situates it amidst Jersey's striking coastal landscape. Entering the Hotel feels like stepping into a world where elegance persists, though time appears motionless. The interior design honours the hotels storied past featuring classic decor, soft pastel tones, and subtle nautical accents. The lobby, adorned with maritime touches sets an ambiance for a stay blending old-world charm with modern comforts. Rooms The lodging at St. Brelades Bay Hotel epitomizes seaside luxury. Each space is a chic haven with plush bedding, custom furnishings, and captivating vistas of either the bay or lush gardens. Modern amenities integrate seamlessly so guests enjoy not just a stay, but a coastal escape marrying comfort with timeless polish. Our stunning suite had a huge balcony with breathtaking views across the bay. All mod con’s were represented with two smart TV’s, fast wifi and a large bathroom with gloriously high powered rain shower. Food & Drink The menu at Bay Restaurant takes you on a tasty journey using locally sourced ingredients and pulling inspiration from Jersey's food history. A varied menu captures the spirit of the island's flavours and service is friendly and efficient. The Bar Lounge is a beachside oasis where visitors can kick back with signature cocktails against the backdrop of stunning sea views. The bar's chill vibe, filled with a sense of relaxation, makes it a social spot for guests to soak in the coastal atmosphere and enjoy some peaceful moments. A seaside oasis of timeless charm.
18 Amazing Destinations FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.THECLUBJERSEY.COM
Amazing Destinations 23 The Club Hotel and Spa located in Jersey’s capital St. Hellier, offers a peaceful coastal retreat blending luxury with natural serenity. Originally a 19th century townhouse, the hotel has become a refined sanctuary. THE CLUB HOTEL & SPA ST. HELIER, JERSEY Our verdict The Club Hotel and Spa is an escape that’s anything but ordinary. With rich history, perfect location, stylish coastal decor rooms, and a wonderful restaurant, the hotel lets guests dive into a world of chill sophistication on Jersey's picturesque shores. Stepping inside, you instantly feel the coastal elegance. The decor nicely mixes contemporary luxury and nautical charm to mirror the beautiful seascape outside. The lobby's maritime touches set the mood for a stay intricately connected to the island's nature. The Club Spa has five treatment rooms and a Rasul mud room. Our wonderful de-stress muscle massages were so relaxing, we struggled not to nod off. After your treatment, you can chill out in the Relaxation Sanctuary, which has reclining beds with integrated headphones playing calming music, plus magazines and herbal teas. Rooms The rooms celebrate comfort and sophistication. Appointed with plush furnishings in soft hues each room also features great views of either the town or sea. Subtly incorporated modern amenities ensure guests enjoy a relaxing stay paired with contemporary convenience. Mod cons include King size beds with super comfy pillows, Smart TV’s, bright bathrooms and fast wifi. Food & Drink The menu at Bohemia, the hotels Michelin-starred eatery, is a feast for the senses, with talented chefs whipping up masterpieces using Jersey's bounty of fresh local ingredients. We embarked on an unforgettable epicurean tasting adventure reflecting the hotel's dedication to exquisite cuisine. Everything was served with class and flair including an outstanding set of wine matches. The Bar at The Club Hotel and Spa is a classy hangout where guests can wind down with expertly crafted cocktails soaking in the coastal vibe. The bartenders showcase creativity and skill, aiming to make each drink a oneof-a-kind experience complementing the island's mellow atmosphere. A Coastal Retreat of Tranquil Elegance.
20 Amazing Destinations FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.OYSTERBOX.CO.UK
Amazing Destinations 25 Nestled in the beautiful St,Brelade’s Bay lies The Oyster Box, a celebrated restaurant telling the rich story of Jersey's seafaring past through exquisite modern dishes. This gem, with its elegant seaside decor and mastery of flavours, whisks diners on a taste tour merging tradition and innovation. OYSTER BOX ST BRELADE'S BAY, JERSEY Our verdict The Oyster Box isn’t just another seafood restaurant; it's a whole food adventure that captures the soul of Jersey's culture with creative dishes. It brings together classic recipes and new twists in a laid-back, contemporary environment with super seaside vibes. Once an oyster farm echoing Jersey's maritime legacy, The Oyster Box now captivates guests with coastal views as stunning as the food. Strategically positioned to showcase the island's natural beauty through floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurants charming location promises an intimate escape into Jersey's serenity between bites of seasonal delights. Décor Hues of blue and white reflect the island’s coastal spirit, inviting patrons to sail into a culinary journey where maritime heritage flavours modern techniques. Our taste buds were treated to a celebration of Jerseys treasured gems starting with the Jersey Rock Oysters. Served simply with chilli and ginger, these briny oysters were a delightful, invigorating start that encapsulated the essence of Jersey's pristine coastal waters and seafood legacy. Food & Drink We then plunged into two stellar pasta dishes that spotlighted exceptional local seafood - the Crab Taglierini and the restaurant's signature Oyster Box Taglierini. The Crab Taglierini was a harmony of sweet, delicate crab paired flawlessly with cream, garlic, olive oil and al dente pasta, an ode to the island's fresh seafood bounty. The Oyster Box Taglierini married the restaurants namesake bivalve with culinary artistry - plump oysters joining mussels king prawns, squid and tasty chunks of fish in adorning the pasta. Alongside the food, we enjoyed a crisp, refreshing Gavi Di Gavi, expertly selected from the restaurant’s quality-focused wine list that aims to elevate the dining experience.
22 Amazing Destinations AMERICAN BEAUTY
There’s no better way to see America’s vast, stunning landscape and explore its rich history than driving into the heart of it. Here we’ve mapped four classic routes: from NYC up into New York State; the Dakotas; through the magnificent scenery of the south-west to LA; and a music tour of the Deep South... Written By Martin Mason Photography: Antelope Media Solutions, Adobe Stock
1. Nashville, Tennessee, has great bars for country and blues. See the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (countrymusichalloffame.org), and the Ryman Auditorium (ryman.com) to learn about the Grand Ole Opry. Nearby Broadway has bars for real live music till late. 2. Memphis – blues, gospel, country, rock’n’roll, barbecue. Stay for Wild Bill’s Juke Joint, Graceland and Sun Studios, and on Sunday listen to the Reverend Al Green lead the choir in Full Gospel Tabernacle Church on Hale Road. 3. Following Route 61 south you reach the Mississippi Delta region. Stop for dinner at Tunica – which has lots of casinos – or opt for fried chicken or creole catfish at the Blue and White Diner (blueandwhiterestaurant.com) and a ride on the Tunica Queen riverboat. 4. Clarksdale, Mississippi, for juke joints, the Delta Blues Museum in the old train station and a night at the Shack Up Inn (shackupinn.com, from $75), with boutique rooms in old sharecropper shacks, at the Hopson Plantation, which hosts live blues. 5. Dockery Farms (dockeryfarms. org), where blues is said to have been invented by cotton picker Charley Patton in the early 1900s. 6. Lafayette, Louisiana, is one of America’s greatest music towns, where you can hear Cajun, Creole and zydeco music in the dancehalls, or listen out for “swamp pop” . The Blue Moon Saloon and Guesthouse (bluemoonpresents.com, $18 bunks, doubles from $75) has live roots music on the back porch – local bands often record live albums there. 7. Finally, go wild in New Orleans at the dozens of jazz and blues clubs. 776 miles, 14 hours’ driving, one week minimum Badlands geology and American History DEEP SOUTH MUSIC TOUR
Amazing Destinations 25 American Beauty
1,305 miles, 26 hours of driving, 2½-3 weeks minimum New York State and Niagra 1. First spend a few days in New York City, exploring Brooklyn, Williamsburg and the galleries of Manhattan. 2. Montauk, on the east of Long Island, has become a favourite hangout of celebs, with trendy bars, restaurants and places to stay (in summer, try the Ruschmeyers, (ruschmeyers.com), which is a bit like a summer camp for adults). 3. Woodstock (woodstockny.org) has been an artists’ colony since 1902, so spend a day touring the galleries. 4. The Catskills (visitthecatskills.com) are great for hiking in summer, or skiing and snowshoeing in winter – try the town of Hunter for both. 5. Beautiful in autumn (until midOctober), the Adirondacks mountains are full of forests, micro-breweries and bistros; in summer there’s the vintage-style 56 Auto Drive-in Theater (jscinemas.com/56auto). 6. Lake Ontario – there’s a 518-mile Great Lakes Seaway Trail (seawaytrail. com) along its southern rim, but highlights are Niagara Falls in the west and the Thousand Island Park in the east. 7 & 8. The Finger Lakes region (fingerlakes.org) near Ithaca has wonderful vineyards, Amish farms (you might have to brake for the haywagons), craft markets and long blue glacier lakes. 9. Return to New York City. SCENES AND SERENITY
36 Amazing Destinations 1. Fly into and out of Rapid City (with Delta via Minneapolis from Heathrow, around £500). Hiring an RV could be a good idea for this road trip through remote areas with little accommodation, see visitrapidcity.com/ planyourtrip/rentalvehicles. 2. South Dakota’s Badlands National Park is a vast rocky landscape of ridges, layered rock, fossils, towers and ravines. Make a stop at Wall Drug (walldrug. com), a 1930s store and attraction which sells sheriffs’ badges and cowboy boots. 978 miles, 20 hours’ driving, two weeks minimum 3. Then at Pierre (don’t miss the State Capitol Building and Cultural Heritage Centre), at the south of Lake Oahe, get on the Native American Scenic Byway, through Lakota, Dakota and Nakota nations. 4. The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe (lowerbrulesiouxtribe.com) welcomes to the reservation visitors who want to learn about their culture and offers many tours. 5. The byway passes through Standing Rock reservation (standingrock.org) for monuments, Sitting Bull’s burial ground, and places to stay. Its traditional annual powwow is open to visitors. 6. Visit North Dakota’s cowboy town, Medora, to stay at the historic 1884 Rough Riders Hotel (medora.com/roughriders, from $135) and try the Pitchfork Steak Fondue for steak threaded onto a pitchfork and grilled. 7. North Dakota’s badlands have hilly terrain, red rocks and petrified woods. Hire a log cabin and explore on horseback with Badlands Trail Rides (badlandstrailrides.com). 8. In Black Hills National Forest, Custer state park (custerstatepark.info) covers 71,000 acres of prairie, pine, granite, bison and bighorn sheep. Jewel Cave and Wind Cave are worth a stop. 9 & 10. After visiting Mount Rushmore, see the Native American equivalent, the Crazy Horse Memorial (crazyhorsememorial.org), which will be the largest mountain carving in the world when finished, and the Indian Museum of North America. 11. Return to Rapid City. Badlands Geology and American History American Beauty NORTH AND SOUTH DAKOTA
30 Amazing Destinations American Beauty The Grand Canyon: The only one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World to be located in North America
1. Fly into Albuquerque, good for buying jewellery and art, and full of gorgeous B&Bs with palm trees, sun terraces overlooking the desert and Native American folk art and blankets. See bedandbreakfast.com/ new-mexico for a list. Desert Harbour is off-grid, simply stylish, with outdoor fire pits and massages, for $145 a night. 2. State capital Santa Fe is a quirky former mining town with bizarre museums and diners. 3. Hot springs are a big deal in New Mexico. Many have spa resorts built around them, but for a list of natural ones, such as those in the Jemez mountains, see newmexico.org/things-todo/health-wellness. 4. Farmington is a good base for visiting Native American tribes (Navajo, Jicarilla Apache, Southern Ute, Ute Mountain Ute and Hopi, see farmingtonnm.org); the Aztec Ruins national monument has structures built by the Aztecs 900 years ago. Nearby, Kokopelli’s Cave B&B (bbonline.com/united-states/newmexico/farmington/kokopelli, from $260) is carved out of the sandstone cliff and has one bedroom – plus a hot tub. 5. Grand Staircase-Escalante national monument (utah.com/nationalsites/ grand_staircase) just over the border in Utah is 1.7m acres of multicoloured rocks and canyons. 6. Dare to hike Zion national park’s (nps. gov/zion) terrifying Angels Landing, and you’ll need a margarita in the cool sunny town of Springdale nearby. 7. Bryce Canyon’s (nps.gov/brca/index) incredible “hoodoo” rock formations are bewitching. 8 & 9. Before visiting the Grand Canyon stay in a cabin among ponderosa pines near Flagstaff, Arizona (see flagstaffarizona.org/staying_ bed-breakfast for a list), and visit the Wupatki National Monument – an important tribal crossroads for thousands of years – the Museum of Northern Arizona for Native American artefacts, and the Lowell Observatory. 10. Kingman (gokingman.com) is known as the “heart of historic route 66”, with a museum dedicated to the route. You could detour into Mojave national preservefrom here. 1,583 miles, 30 hours’ driving, 2½ weeks minimum 11. Joshua Tree national park to stretch your legs, and a stop in Twentynine Palms, a cool quirky town. The 29 Palms Inn (29palmsinn.com, from $95) has a pool and 1930s cabins. 12. Palm Springs is the sleepy kitsch nostalgic desert city of your dreams, with amazing places to stay such as the new Saguaro (jdvhotels.com, from $170) and a great midcentury modern architecture tour by Robert Imber (palmspringsmoderntours.com). On 20-21 and 27-28 October the Highway 62 Art Tours (hwy62arttours.com) opens studios of 100 local artists. 13. Los Angeles – eat, shop and star-spot for as long as you have left. Weird and Wonderful NEW MEXICO TO LA
32 Amazing Destinations THE MAThe Maldives is truly the stuff of dreams – a destination so picture-perfect you’d think that no real-life encounter could ever live up to the hype. But you would be wrong. This paradisiacal island destination never fails to impress honeymooners and families alike, but with more than 130 resorts all offering access to white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, palms and coral reefs – choosing where to stay can be tricky.
ALDIVES Cora Cora Maldives
34 Amazing Destinations The Maldives
Amazing Destinations 45 And while each of the Maldives’ 1000+ islands look equally alluring, it pays to narrow down your search. We sent Holly Mason to experience three breathtaking resorts which deliver beautiful design, great location and excellent service, alongside having serious sustainability credentials. The world’s lowest-lying nation rises barely three feet above sea level (at its highest point, a mere 10 feet), and fans over the Indian Ocean in wide, flat circles of blindingly white sand. The Maldives are nestled halfway between Indonesia and Africa and attract travelers seriously committed to communing with the sparkling turquoise tides. The Maldives are where people come to experience island life at its most relaxed - and most beautiful. Whether you’re crisscrossing coral reefs in a glass-bottomed boat or dozing off in your private overwater bungalow, the chances of returning home disappointed are slim to none. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect Maldives vacation. When to go Despite the water and weather being warm in the Maldives all year round, November to April is peak season, when it is particularly dry and calm. The humidity is higher from June until August, and rain is more likely in September and October. Getting there British Airways offer direct flights to the capital Malé from London Heathrow and there are good connecting flight options from Singapore, Sri Lanka, the Middle East. The location of your resort will determine whether the next leg of your journey is via speedboat, seaplane, domestic flight – or a combination of these. For those just wanting to slip into their swimmers and make the most of every minute, there are a number of resorts a short boat ride from Malé. On the other hand, those seeking more secluded and exclusive private islands can travel up to 90-minutes from Malé via seaplane and speedboat to reach their accommodation. Broadly speaking the more closely grouped islands of the northern atolls offer a more traditional Maldivian experience as they are the least developed region of the Maldives. Although there are fewer island resorts there is still huge diving and snorkelling potential, with shipwrecks to discover alongside manta ray feeding areas, diverse marine life, and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Why choose the Maldives The southern atolls are less closely grouped together and give a greater feeling of isolation. Pristine dive sites are a major attraction. Many of the newer resorts have opened here and although they may be further from the capital there are good air links via several new airports. Some resorts offer peerless luxury, others focus on charm, character and authenticity, but even the more modest properties will feature multiple dining options and spa facilities, and all-inclusive facilities and meal plans allow full control of the budget. Wherever you choose to stay customer service is universally excellent. Personalised greetings are delivered in beautifully spoken English from staff who, owing to high staff to guest ratios, regularly outnumber guests. The resorts superb water clarity affords some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling. Coral walls dazzle, underwater caves delight, and you can mingle with brightly coloured tropical fish in waters so warm no wetsuit is required. There’s no better place on earth to discover turtles, manta rays, and many species of shark including the magnificent whale shark. With so much natural beauty to observe, indolence can feel remarkably guilt-free. This is a destination that specialises in extraordinary escapism and unrivalled relaxation. The best thing to do is just go with it and enjoy a uniquely unforgettable holiday of a lifetime.
46 Amazing Destinations You’ve read it before in those travel guides — islands strung across the ocean like pearls on a necklace. Blah, blah, blah, you’re thinking, except when you’re writing about the Maldives, the cliché isn’t even close to being adequate. DIVERS GUIDE TO THE MALDIVES Mr. Big Stuff It’s whale sharks and manta rays that have put this island country on the map for divers, so it’s no surprise that in many recent polls, the Maldives is named one of the best in the world for big animal encounters. The Allure of Atolls There’s a reason why Baa, Ari and North Male are renowned for their whale shark and manta encounters. During the southwest monsoon, plankton is herded into the atolls’ bays, and the filterfeeders come to feast on their favourite meal. Treasured Resources Baa Atoll is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, but for many years, it was primarily known only to conservationists who began studying mantas in 2005 in the Maldives. That is, until you consider how pearls are produced. The only gems on earth that come from living creatures, wild pearls are rare and exquisite. Now you’re closer to describing the beauty of this locale. And underwater? Like oysters yielding perfect pearls, the gifts of the sea are extraordinary — whale sharks, mantas, reef sharks, turtles, schooling jacks and clownfish. As for that travel-guide description: After diving in The Maldives, words will fail you too. No Boat Needed The reefs on many of the atolls are only a few fin kicks away from the beach and are home to turtles, sharks and rays and an insane amount of reef fish. Ellaidhoo Atoll and Kuredu Island in the Lhaviyani Atoll have popular house reefs. Location, Location, Location Not all atolls are alike, and not all resorts have house reefs. In general, the northern atolls feature smaller islands and are encircled by “ring” reefs, while southern atolls have deeper lagoons. More than Mantas and Sharks On most dives, you’ll find yourself swivelling your head to take in all the action. Coral pinnacles — known locally as thilas — are home to huge schools of fish such as snapper, jacks and triggerfish.
The Maldives
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.CORACORARESORTS.COM
Our verdict Cora Cora Maldives is a perfect example of why people love the Maldives. Between the breath taking views, outstanding food, relaxing spa, and first-class service it's a bucket list location on every level. For anyone who wants a getaway in paradise, Cora Cora Maldives rolls out the red carpet and makes every second perfect. Located on the flawless island of Raa Maamigili, Cora Cora Maldives is a demonstration of structural artistry and ecological regard. The resort effortlessly combines contemporary extravagance with customary Maldivian constituents, architecting a visual masterwork that complements the enveloping azure waters and abundant greenery. When you first set foot here, the hard-working team makes you feel right at home. From the minute you arrive until it's time to leave, the staff treats every guest like family. This is more than a luxurious resort, Cora Cora is a home away from home thanks to top-notch service levels. ContemporaryVillas and Suites. The 100 modern villas designed in a relaxed, luxurious style leave nothing to be desired and invite you to spend dreamy nights.. The overwater cottages and beachfront suites endow an intimate sanctuary with sweeping vistas of the crystalline turquoise lagoon. The interior blueprint seamlessly fuses modern refinement with a hint of Maldivian allure, proffering a refuge of ease and self-indulgence. Every feature within the spaces reflects a pledge to endowing guests with an unforgettable escape. Culinary excellence for every taste. Dining at Cora Cora Maldives offers a culinary journey taking the eating experience to new heights. The hotel has several world-class restaurants, each with its own flair and menu options. Tazäa® Acquapazza®, Teien®, and Ginger Moon® appeal to different tastes, fusing global flavors into outstanding menus. From the freshest seafood to international cuisine and a coffee and snack bar MYCOFFEE®, the dining choices at Cora Cora Maldives show the resort's dedication to excellent cooking, variety and convenience. Beachside bliss and relaxtion. Adding to Cora Cora Maldives' draw is the MOKSHA® Spa & Wellbeing Center. This oasis of calm uses traditional Maldivian practices to take a holistic approach to health. The spa's peaceful atmosphere and skilled therapists mean every visit restores and renews well-being. From tailored massages to revitalizing skincare treatments MOKSHA® Spa goes beyond the typical spa experience, leaving guests refreshed and reenergized. CORA CORA MALDIVES A laid back luxurious escape in the heart of Raa Atoll. n the extensive spread of the Maldives' Raa Atoll lies a treasure of unmatched elegance and refinement – Cora Cora Maldives. This premium all-inclusive resort, opened in 2021, I entices travellers seeking a harmonious fusion of luxury and a relaxed atmosphere.