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Dream with eyes open: why Four Seasons Maldives Voavah is the ultimate private island escape

Disembark from a private seaplane and cross a cerulean lagoon in the Maldives’ only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to the blindingly white sands of one’s own five-hectare (two-acre) wonderland where every moment of every experience is customised to one’s preferences.
At Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa atoll, limitless island living beckons. This exclusive-use private island accommodates a single group of up to 22 guests across two vast villas and a Beach House – seven bedrooms in total – plus a dive and water sports centre, Ocean of Consciousness Spa, and exclusive use of Voavah Summer, the island’s 19-metre (62-foot) luxury yacht.

Since opening in December 2016, Voavah has received many accolades: Best of the Best in the 2017 Robb Report USA – Five Exclusive-Use Resorts You Can Keep All to Yourself; Conde Nast Traveller Gold List 2018; Conde Nast Traveller World’s Most Incredible Private Islands; Conde Nast Traveller China Gold List 2018; Forbes Travel Guide 2019 — The World’s Most Spectacular Private Island Escapes and Robb Report Arabia 2019 — Best Private Island Getaways, and it’s not hard to see why.
Privacy
Voavah redefines the notion of getting away from it all. Only accessible by seaplane, in the middle of the Maldives’ most protected waters, there are no adjacent islands, other guests, prying eyes or paparazzi. Protected by endless ocean and a 24/7 security team, suddenly anything is possible – and the mesmerising beauty of the surrounding natural wilderness only heightens the pervading sense of freedom and possibility.


Bespoke experiences
Fancy flying in one of the world’s best DJs for an all-night pool party complete with ice luge, oyster and vodka bar? Or hosting a beach festival, with local bodu beru drummers and dancers? How about spending days aboard a private yacht, Voavah Summer, identifying turtles, dolphins and manta rays with expert marine biologist guides? Or learning the latest hydrofoil water sports before dining around the world with a different cuisine at every mealtime?
Voavah is the canvas: the itinerary is each guest’s to craft.

Breathtaking nature
Voavah places guests in the heart of the Baa atoll, the Maldives’ only UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, home to whale sharks, the world’s largest known population of manta rays, and some of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the world. Step from a pristine beach into an ocean of colourful corals, thrilling thilas, turtles, rays and schools of beautiful fish for a dawn dive with a difference.
One doesn’t even need to take a break from lounging in the Beach House to spot dancing dolphins, resident water hens and herons. With a private yacht and a team of the country’s most experienced boatmen, marine biologists and scientists at one’s disposal, sunset dolphin cruises, night snorkels, and seasonal manta and whale shark safaris can be arranged at a moment’s notice.


Service
At the core of every Voavah experience is truly heartfelt service. Warm, welcoming, dedicated and discreet, the team of 28 staff are there to customise every moment of every day. Work with the team prior to arrival to help develop menus, accommodations, beverages and entertainment options – from additional dive instructors, marine biologists and water sports experts for ocean lovers to Ayurvedic physicians, reiki practitioners and more for those on a healing break. Or let the team take care of all the planning and just arrive ready for the most extraordinary experience of one’s life.


Potential to expand consciousness
Perhaps deeper even than privacy and luxury is Voavah’s invitation to step into the truest version of oneself. Here, away from life’s demands and expectations, the sense of expansiveness is as unfettered as the blue horizon.

In a place where anything is possible, the potential for inner change and growth is endless. Honouring personal transformation, The Ocean of Consciousness Spa offers intuitive treatments based on the five pathways of Truth, Wise Action, Love, Peace and Compassion – each designed to elevate awareness, transform actions, and help guests awaken to their power to affect wide-reaching change. According to Condé Nast Traveller, the crystal-singing-bowl experience is “worth the 12-hour flight in itself.”
With beach yoga, meditation and pranayama classes also available, Voavah is the place to connect to the Infinite, within and without.
Featured
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo earns prestigious spot in TripAdvisor’s top 10% global hotels

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has been honoured with a prestigious accolade, being named among the top 10% of hotels worldwide in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. This esteemed recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and earning rave reviews from travellers across the globe.
Selected from hundreds of thousands of listings, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo’s inclusion in the prestigious list is a testament to its dedication to offering authentic, heartfelt experiences for its guests. The resort’s personalised service and its ability to deliver unique, memorable stays have made it a favourite among travellers seeking tranquility and authenticity.
Situated in the pristine Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo is an adults-only boutique resort that blends local Maldivian culture with modern luxury. The resort features 68 beautifully designed villas that offer guests the ultimate in privacy and comfort. Known for its house reef teeming with vibrant marine life, the resort provides an immersive experience in the Maldives’ natural beauty. Guests can explore the coral reefs, enjoy a variety of international dining options, and indulge in a genuine sense of discovery.
With its focus on providing a serene escape for couples and solo travellers, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo has become a cherished destination for those looking to unwind and recharge in an idyllic setting. Its recent recognition from TripAdvisor further underscores the resort’s exceptional reputation in the hospitality industry.
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Americans dreaming of Maldives: honeymoon searches soar in 2025 rankings

Maldives has once again secured its place as one of the world’s most coveted honeymoon destinations, ranking second globally among Americans planning their post-wedding getaways in 2025.
According to a new study by UK-based swimwear brand Pour Moi, which analysed Google search data across the United States, the Maldives received 73,700 annual searches from honeymooning Americans eager to escape to its world-famous turquoise waters and luxury overwater villas.
The Indian Ocean paradise trails just behind Seychelles, which claimed the top spot with nearly 75,000 searches. Greece, Costa Rica, and Italy rounded out the top five.
The research examined over 490 global destinations to uncover where newlyweds are dreaming of heading this year. With its postcard-perfect beaches, serene lagoons, and opulent resorts offering private pools, spas, and gourmet dining, the Maldives continues to stand out as the ultimate destination for romance, relaxation, and indulgence.
“This stunning group of islands remains one of the most sought-after spots for couples who want an unforgettable start to married life,” said Marina Nicoli, Marketing Manager at Pour Moi. “The Maldives offers that rare combination of seclusion, natural beauty, and luxury that honeymooners crave.”
While entire countries were ranked based on interest, individual destinations within these countries also caught the spotlight. Santorini, Greece, emerged as the top individual honeymoon destination, followed by Bali in Indonesia and Italy’s Amalfi Coast. However, the Maldives’ reputation as an all-encompassing destination—offering entire islands as private resorts—cements its appeal to Americans looking for the perfect blend of privacy and pampering.
The Maldives’ second-place ranking highlights a continuing trend among U.S. couples seeking intimate, far-flung getaways. Pour Moi’s findings show a shift away from traditional city escapes toward nature-rich retreats that promise rest, romance, and Instagram-worthy moments.
Top 10 Countries for U.S. Honeymoon Searches in 2025:
- Seychelles – 74,960 searches
- Maldives – 73,700 searches
- Greece – 49,100 searches
- Costa Rica – 47,000 searches
- Italy – 36,900 searches
- Thailand – 25,800 searches
- Fiji – 25,600 searches
- Japan – 24,500 searches
- New Zealand – 18,300 searches
- Iceland – 15,180 searches
With the Maldives already a firm favourite among international travellers, this new data reaffirms its global status as a dream destination—especially for couples ready to celebrate the start of their forever.
Featured
Savour flavours of Asia at Inguru, Kuramathi’s lagoon-side gem

Nestled on the serene lagoon side of Kuramathi and overlooking the vast Indian Ocean, Inguru offers more than just a dining experience—it provides a sensory escape. The restaurant’s contemporary design, featuring elegant wooden accents, open-air seating, and soothing tones, harmonises with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Whether serving a casual lunch or hosting a romantic evening meal, Inguru creates a stylish yet relaxed ambiance that enhances every moment. Between 11:00 and 17:00 hrs, guests can enjoy light and flavourful Asian dishes with a Western twist—ideal for a leisurely midday break by the water.
As the sun sets, Inguru transforms into a refined dinner venue, offering a curated Asian Fusion menu from 19:00 to 22:30 hrs, open to guests aged six and above. The newly introduced dishes celebrate bold, fresh flavours, including Coconut & Pineapple Cooked Shrimp Ceviche, Tarragon-Flavoured Octopus Tartare, and Soy Marinated Salmon Bruschetta. Main courses feature richly spiced Indonesian Beef Rendang, aromatic Mas Kirugarudiya reef fish curry, and Kukulhu Musanmaa presented with a modern twist on traditional recipes.
With its picturesque setting and flavourful cuisine, Inguru delivers a truly memorable island dining experience, whether by day or night.
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