One&Only Reethi Rah

Malé

The Maldives archipelago is a privileged destination for tourists the world over, and upon arriving here, visitors are never disappointed by the splendor of the site, which is often more beautiful than the photos one finds in travel magazines.

Soon after leaving the airport, visitors are struck by the magnificent blue color of the ocean, which is so transparent that one can immediately imagine the underwater treasures that lie below the surface. It’s not surprising therefore that diving is one of the three most popular tourist activities, the other two being swimming and sunbathing! Diving centers with highly experienced instructors can be found at the many island-hotels in the North Malé atoll and also throughout the entire archipelago. Fishing is very popular in the Maldives as well as an ideal way to see the country, since a few hours are needed to reach the sites in a legendary dhoni, the traditional Maldivian fishing boat which is still used today by the local inhabitants. It’s also a chance to come across manta rays, barracudas and the small fins of sharks! Not to worry however, the guides know the sites well and will keep you out of harm’s way. They can even take you to the still uninhabited, virgin sandbars, where you can spend a few relaxing hours basking in the sun.

A unique hotel

Ensconced on one of the largest island in the North Malé atoll, the One and Only Reethi Rah is a truly exceptional hotel. Its 130 villas are immense and among the largest in the archipelago. Their surfaces run from 139 to 240 square meters. However, in order not to deteriorate the surroundings, they were built so as to blend in perfectly with the natural décor. They are all handsome tropical houses with thatched roofs and high ceilings, creating the sensation of a large space. The decorations are tasteful in a simple and elegant style, making visitors feel immediately at home. The bathrooms are very pleasant with large showers and bathtubs that can easily accommodate two peole.

The Beach Villas are of course, on the beach and have large verandas. Some of them have their own private swimming pool. The Ocean villas are on stilts with large terraces on two levels and direct access to the ocean. As a little extra, a net hammock stretched above the ocean invites you to enjoy a delightful nap. The more fortunate will have a swimming and the ocean at their disposition.

The Reethi Rah Spa receives its visitors in a luxurious 1,300 square meter space dedicated to total relaxation. The expert hands of the staff offer moments of intense relaxation, as do the hammam and the Jacuzzi. The hotel’s two swimming pools with their mist spray and the loan of an Ipod add to the luxury of the site.

Two bars and three restaurants are available to guests. The Reethi proposes Asian and Mediterranean cuisine in a refined setting. The Tapasake combines a view of the sea with divine Japanese recipes, and finally, the wonderful Lebanese restaurant, the Fandhita, with its gentle aromas from the north of the island, provides a typical oriental charm.

“For many of our guests, coming back to the island is like coming home. It’s a real pleasure for our entire staff to see the same faces so often and to continue to serve them with the same warmth and enthusiasm!” Michael Payne, former director of the Reetha Rah.