But nothing could have prepared me for the sense of place as our boat moored by the jetty. It is difficult to describe the vibrancy of colours and the feeling of tranquillity you experience as soon as your feet hit the sand – words and pictures alone don’t do it justice.
I have always enjoyed Four Seasons properties around the world, so it was an easy decision to stay at the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, a 44-acre island in the Baa Atoll UNESCO biosphere reserve.
At the top of my island paradise packing list was of course a few of our fabulous silk kaftans. The Sapphire Avery Kaftan merged effortlessly with my surroundings, its Swarovski embellishments shimmering in the Maldives sun – an effortlessly stylish cover up, perfect for beach lounging and poolside cocktails.
The shorter, turquoise Lydia Kaftan, with its hand-painted, optic white floral design was perfectly in place in this tropical oasis.
The more remote of two Maldives islands owned by the Four Seasons, Landaa Giraavaru was an uninterrupted expanse of calm. Removed from the hustle and sounds of city life, it is endlessly peaceful. The epitome of pared-back luxury, the resort is so tuned in to its natural surroundings you feel a complete sense of ease. The water villas are exquisitely designed, and it was hard to stop gazing at the perfect horizon. With no cars on the island, body and mind are transported to paradise.
It only makes sense that such a place would also be steeped in the practice of Ayurveda – a holistic approach to balancing mind, body and spirit. The island offers individually designed programs, wellness weeks and Ayurvedic spa treatments.
What ultimately makes Landaa Giraavaru so special is the people – they are the heartbeat of the island. We had the pleasure of spending time with Armando Kraenzlin, Regional Vice President and General Manager, who makes all his guests fall in love with island living, going above and beyond to ensure a change of pace, capturing the essence of island life. Sandeep Mohan looked after my favourite restaurant on the island, the Blue Beach Club. His warmth, hospitality and attention to detail made sure that every experience at his restaurant was nothing short of perfection.
Delicious food, stunning vistas and phenomenal hospitality from a fabulous team made this trip a dream come true. Honestly, if one can’t find happiness in the Maldives, where can you!
