For many British travellers, the Maldives sits atop the travel bucket list, a symbol of ultimate luxury. Yet with countless sunny escapes just a few hours from UK shores, a nagging question remains: is the epic 10 to 14-hour journey truly worth it? After a 17-hour trek to renew their wedding vows, one couple discovered the answer at the Nova Maldives resort on the tiny island of Vakarufalhi.
Aqua Villa Serenity and Thoughtful Touches
The adventure began with a marathon journey involving planes, boats, and every mode of transport in between. Upon landing in Malé, the stress melted away thanks to the seamless assistance from the Nova ground crew. Jet-lagged but excited, the couple was whisked to their overwater Aqua Villa after a swift check-in at the resort's central Hub.
The villa surpassed even the most idyllic social media posts. Topped with coconut leaves and standing proudly over the turquoise sea, it offered a spacious bedroom and living area that opened onto a private deck with an infinity pool. The thoughtful layout continued into a vast bathroom with sea views, fitted wardrobes, and a dressing table perfect for pre-wedding preparations.
It was the meticulous details, however, that created a profound sense of welcome. A hand-drawn note in the sand at the door, a bowl of fresh tropical fruit, chilled Champagne, and even complimentary bathroom accessories for forgotten essentials like razors and dental floss transformed the beautiful space into a personalised sanctuary.
Culinary Journeys and Island Ambience
Nova Maldives, a relatively new resort, is carefully designed to cater to every whim. At the foot of the Aqua Villa jetty, the Solis poolside beach bar serves sunseekers by day and transitions into an evening hotspot with DJ sets. A short stroll away, The Wink bar offers pre-dinner cocktails and live band entertainment against stunning beach vistas.
The resort's three restaurants provide distinct culinary journeys. Soul Kitchen serves extensive buffet-style breakfasts and lunches, ideal for varied tastes. For special evenings, Flames Grill House presents degustation menus featuring lobster, Wagyu beef, and surf-and-turf options.
The standout experience was Mizu, the overwater Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant. Here, a skilled chef cooked seafood, meat, and vegetables on a tabletop iron plate, combining culinary artistry with theatrical flair that captivated diners.
From Ultimate Relaxation to Marine Adventures
Whether seeking serenity or adventure, the island delivers. Before their vow renewal ceremony, the couple opted for pure relaxation with a treatment at the overwater EsKape Spa, complete with steam rooms and massage beds featuring viewing panels to watch the marine life below.
For the more active, the Aquaholics Dive Centre offers a full spectrum of watersports and excursions. Guests can try jet skiing, parasailing, and wakeboarding, or join famous trips like the Manta Quest to swim with these majestic creatures. The resort also boasts a well-equipped 24-hour gym, and the Awesome Stuff shop covers any last-minute needs.
The resort's 76 villas, split between overwater and beachfront, are set among the islands of the South Ari Atoll, roughly 100km from Malé. Despite its compact size—circumnavigable in just 15 minutes—Vakarufalhi feels expansive thanks to its intelligent design that intertwines facilities with lush nature.
The Verdict: More Than Just a Beautiful Beach
The conclusion was resounding. While the pristine beaches, crystal-clear seas, and flawless weather were exceptional, it was the holistic experience that defined this as a holiday of a lifetime. What truly set Nova apart was the intangible atmosphere fostered by the staff, known as 'Soul Mates'. Their attentive service and genuine warmth made guests feel like part of a temporary island community.
The Maldives offers a unique sensation of owning your own slice of tropical paradise, from the breathtaking aerial view on arrival to the vibrant underwater world at your doorstep. For this couple, the epic journey was not just worth it—it was transformative. The trip confirmed that some destinations hold a unique magic that closer alternatives cannot replicate, making the long-haul flight a small price for a truly unparalleled experience.
