Maldives: A Perfect Paradise

Luxury Resorts: One of the world's most luxurious getaways is located in the Maldives, far from civilization as we know it. A set of two private islands, linked by a bridge, house the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island which sits about 750 kilometers from Sri Lanka. With wildly exotic waters and unspoiled reefs, white sand beaches and palm fringed islands, this private oasis exudes an atmosphere of complete tranquility.

In this barefoot paradise, you'll hardly think twice about turning it down a notch as you stroll on the picture-perfect beaches and swim in the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. With so much or little to do, you can plan a romantic picnic on your own desert island, unwind with a spa treatment, or simply recline on your terrace gazing out over the pristine blue waters. Snorkel or dive the dramatic coral reefs that offer up spectacular underwater views, or work up an appetite with Thai kickboxing, tai chi, pilates or private yoga. Or, go night fishing and save your catch to eat for lunch.

With three bars, seven restaurants and a wine cellar boasting 5,000 bottles, gourmet food choices range from Sunday brunch to a champagne and lobster barbeque. Visit the world's only all-glass undersea restaurant, Ithaa, which sits five meters below the waves at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Surrounded by vibrant coral reef, the curved transparent walls give a feeling of being completely submerged underwater. With a 360-degree stunning panoramic views of stingrays, sharks, and other marine life, the experience is absolutely breathtaking. Second to none, the contemporary Maldivian cuisine features local spices and traditional flavors with a western twist.

Resort accommodations include the Water Villa, a thatched roof cottage built on stilts over pristine waters and complete with a private teak sun deck and an ocean-view bathtub. The Spa Villa, also an over-water bungalow, boasts ocean views from all angles, a private spa treatment room, and a magnificent over-sized outdoor bath tub and sun deck. The Beach Villa offers a private landscaped garden, a personal plunge pool with jets. Simple touches add to the islands elegance: sunglass cleaning, cold face towels, Molton Brown toiletries, fresh fruit set by the pool, and most importantly, an outstandingly attentive staff.

If I could paint a picture of the perfect paradise island, this would be it! I promise you'll want to return over and over again.

For LxM Sherry Martin

Destination: Maldives
Resort: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Website: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Address: Rangali Island, Maldives
Telephone: 960 668 0629