From SRK to Kareena Kapoor Khan, the who’s who of Bollywood is giving us Maldives vacation cravings, says Bhavana Choudhari.
Covid 19 affected us… and how! Although we did our best to stay indoors, and looked for various ways to entertain ourselves by cooking, binge-watching, or learning a new skill since we were grounded, our wanderlust was waiting to grab the first opportunity for a getaway. As soon as the lockdown was partially lifted, one place immediately started topping the holiday destination list – Maldives.
From Kareena Kapoor Khan to Katrina Kaif, Maldives is a regular hot spot for our rich and famous B-town celebrities who adore the glorious magic of the sea and the sun-kissed beaches. Flocking to this nation of islands in the Indian Ocean, these celebrities gave us major vacation goals as they relaxed on the sand in their bright beachwear. Power couple Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan hit the Maldivian beaches to celebrate Saif’s 51st birthday. They also took their sons Taimur and Jeh on this family vacation. A little before her wedding, Alia took a trip to the Maldives. In her bikini-clad photos, she was seen having a gala time looking relaxed and fresh. Late superstar Sridevi’s darling daughter Janhvi Kapoor also opted for this getaway to spend time away from her mundane routine and live by the refreshing sea breeze. Kiara Advani’s trip with her rumoured boyfriend Sidharth Malhotra took them to this picture-perfect destination. She posed in her bikini and radiated her water-baby soul in all its glory! The list of celebs posting photos of their Maldivian sojourn is endless… and their Instagram videos end up giving people major vacation vibes, enticing one and all to pack their bags!
If you want to know more about the amenities and prices of the exotic resorts your favourite stars holidayed at, here’s a quick list…
Soneva Fushi
Priced at approximately USD 1,282 per night, and famous for sunrise and sunset-facing villas, the property provides a spectacular unbroken sea view. Any wonder then that celebs like Saif and Kareena, Katrina Kaif, Varun Dhawan, Mouni Roy and Shobhaa De have been found holidaying here??
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
At USD 1,000 per night, the Inter-Continental Maldives Maamunagau Resort with its white-sand beaches has become an ideal spot for Bollywood celebs as they seek solace from their hectic city life. Lately, Disha Patani and so-called boyfriend Tiger Shroff were seen holidaying at this fancy destination.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Priced at USD 898 per night, this lovely Taj property is situated on the unique Emboodhu Finolhu Island, which is at the centre of one of the world’s biggest lagoons. Recently, Taapsee Pannu was spotted relaxing on the beach at this picture-perfect Taj Exotica Resort & Spa.
Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences
Priced at a whopping USD 2,565 per night, since opening in 2015, Amilla Fushi Resort has modernized the traditional concept of a luxury island holiday. With its fantabulous architecture and facilities, the resort has become an ideal choice for Bollywood as well as Hollywood biggies. Amilla Fushi Villa Resort has been the chosen holiday destination for the likes of Victoria and David Beckham, Gordon Ramsey, Kate Moss and Kate Winslet. Apparently, the resort has villas that are priced at around USD 25,643 per night too! Now that’s what you call the zenith of luxury!!
OZEN Reserve Bolifushi
Who would not want to know about the vacation destination of Bollywood badshah Shah Rukh Khan? Replete with extensive leisure and wellness facilities, OZEN Reserve Bolifushi is a beautiful island ideal for families who seek super spacious accommodation with an array of facilities in the Maldives. Just 20 minutes by speedboat from Male airport, with private pools in each villa and spacious rooms, OZEN Reserve Bolifushi is truly a luxury getaway where SRK is spotted often. Brimming with traditional Maldivian architecture, the property is ideal for honeymooners with totally private water villas at USD 1,912 per night. The stunning view of white sand, turquoise lagoons and coral reefs will make your heart skip a beat.
While celebs opt for these high-end properties, here are some affordable options too…
Fun Island Resort
This place tops the affordable resorts list in the Maldives with a nightly rate of about USD 231, and can be accessed through a short speedboat ride. Consisting of 67 elegantly furnished rooms equipped with modern facilities, the resort staff makes sure you enjoy a peaceful vacation.
Kuredu Island Resort & Spa
Kuredu Island Resort is reputed for its natural beauty and serene environment. The resort is accessible through a 35-minute seaplane ride. Although the transfer by seaplane costs extra bucks, the price of the accommodation (USD 218 per night) makes up for it. Besides the comfort, tickle your taste buds with Japanese cuisine, or relish Spanish, Greek and Italian food at the property.
Paradise Island Resort
One of the best budget resorts in the Maldives for overwater bungalows, Paradise Island Maldives – accessible through a short speedboat ride of about 20 minutes – is priced at about USD 257 per night. Winner of the World Luxury Hotel Awards, this is one of the best budget resorts in the Maldives, and a fantastic holiday experience for those looking for an affordable stay. Besides a multi-cuisine restaurant, bar and comfy villas, the property offers a variety of sports on both land and water.
Now, if you wish to have as much fun visiting the Maldives as these celebs did, make sure you pack your itsy-bitsy beachwear, shades and a sun hat before heading out on this exotic beach holiday!