Leonor's Blog: A Dream Come True - My Maldives Experience

I have recently returned from the Maldives, and yes it is real … almost too perfect to believe ! 

I was invited by Van Isacker Exclusive for a 5 day educational trip to the Maldives, visiting two 5 star resorts along with other travel agents from across the UK. I couldn’t believe when I read the email, a bucket list destination, and I was being offered the chance to visit… it felt like a dream !

I flew with British Airways from Heathrow on a direct flight to Male, my very first time flying long haul, so the adventure began the moment I stepped on the plane !

After the 10 hour journey, we finally arrived at Male airport, where a seaplane was waiting for us to take us to our first resort, Lily Beach located on the private island of Huvahendhoo, just 25 minutes by sea plane from Male City. The seaplane isn’t just a ride, it’s a full-on experience and a surreal introduction to the Maldives, the turquoise waters and islands seen from above are breathtaking, and I was also very lucky to have a window seat !

From the moment we arrived at Lily Beach, we felt incredibly welcomed by Nikki, the resort’s Sales Executive. We were greeted with a delicious cocktail and a relaxed presentation about the resort, which instantly set the tone for our stay. Nikki was amazing, she knew the answer to every single question we had, which gave us so much confidence in what our clients can expect when we send them on their unforgettable holidays. The excitement only grew when I found out I would be staying in a Deluxe Water Villa for the next two nights — truly a dream come true !

Once I had settled into my room, I headed to Lily Maa, the resort’s main buffet-style restaurant, for lunch. Lily Maa offers a different world cuisine each day of the week, taking guests on a culinary journey to different parts of the world. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of options to choose from. Everything I tried was fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavour. Lunch was absolutely delicious, and I was genuinely impressed. It was the perfect way to begin my stay at Lily Beach.

It was then time for a guided tour of Lily Beach, where we were introduced to the different luxury villas and the wide range of activities available across the resort. Lily Beach offers nine types of luxury villas, including Beach Villas, Beach Suites, Beach Suites with Jacuzzi, Beach Suites with Pool, Beach Family Villas, Beach Residences with Pool, Lagoon Villas, Deluxe Water Villas, and Sunset Water Suites — making it easy to find the perfect option for every type of traveller.

The experiences at Lily Beach are just as impressive. Guests can enjoy everything from relaxing spa treatments and incredible diving and snorkelling, to private dining experiences, tennis coaching, and a variety of water sports such as jet skis, jet blade experiences, glass-bottom canoes, and non-motorised activities. Each evening ends on a high note with a DJ playing as the sun sets, creating a great atmosphere. Lily Beach truly is a resort suitable for everyone.

It was then time to relax in the villa before heading out for dinner, and it felt amazing. The water outside was so clear it almost didn’t look real, I could have sat there staring at it for hours. I spent some time dipping my feet in the pool and simply listening to the gentle sound of the waves. The welcome setup on the bed was the perfect personal touch and made such a difference, instantly making the villa feel even more special.

It was finally time for dinner at Lily Maa. On Sundays, they serve a special selection of well-known dishes from around the world, which means you get a little bit of everything in one place. After dinner, we wandered over to the pier to watch the sharks and other sea life that gather around the resort at night. The water was so clear you could see them swimming just beneath the surface, lit up by the soft lights - such a surreal way to end the evening.

The next day started with breakfast at Lily Maa before we headed off for an ocean experience that was completely new to me — snorkelling! I’ve never really felt comfortable with the idea of it, but the staff at Lily Beach were so kind, patient, and reassuring that I actually felt completely safe giving it a try. We took a short boat ride, just about 100 metres from the resort, to one of the best snorkelling spots nearby. The water was unbelievably clear, and the whole experience turned out to be far more magical than I ever expected. Definitely not your average Monday!

Lunch was at the Vibes Restaurant, and it was such a great spot to slow down and enjoy the afternoon. Vibes has a large deck overlooking the ocean, along with two swimming pools, making it the perfect place for guests to relax, soak up the sunshine, and spend quality time together. The atmosphere was laid-back and fun. The food was absolutely delicious — fresh, full of flavour, and exactly what we needed after a busy morning.

After lunch, I decided to treat myself to a spa experience at Tamara Spa. My treatment took place in one of the overwater spa pavilions with a glass floor — an experience I will never forget. Being able to relax while watching the ocean beneath me made it feel incredibly special and peaceful. Tamara Spa has also been recognised as a winner of the World Luxury Spa Awards in 2017, earning the title of Best Luxury Island Resort Spa in the Indian Ocean, and it’s easy to see why after experiencing it for myself.

It was then time for a sunset cruise, which I was really excited about. Sunsets are one of my favourite things to watch — they always make the end of the day feel that little bit better. But a sunset in the Maldives? On another level. Being out on the water, with the breeze and the sound of the ocean, watching the sky slowly change colour was unreal. And being on a boat just made it even more special — I was honestly speechless. One of those moments I’ll never forget.

After the sunset cruise, we headed to dinner at AQVA, which has a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean. AQVA is an adults-only area, designed as a peaceful and relaxed zone for guests aged 16 and over, making it the perfect spot to unwind. Although AQVA is primarily a bar, the team at Lily Beach wanted us to enjoy dinner surrounded by the water and the infinity pool, so they served us the Tamarin restaurant menu at AQVA Bar. It was such a great combination... delicious food in a beautiful, calm setting, and the perfect way to end the day.

The next morning, after breakfast at Lily Maa, it was time to say goodbye to Lily Beach as we boarded a 75-minute seaplane flight to our next resort, Hideaway.

Leaving wasn’t easy, but the journey ahead softened the goodbye. The seaplane ride itself was incredible, offering breathtaking views as we floated above tiny islands and endless stretches of crystal-clear ocean, a truly special way to end our time at Lily Beach and begin the next part of the trip.

We arrived at Hideaway to glorious weather! A delicious lunch was waiting for us at Meeru Bar & Grill, the perfect welcome after the journey. By day, it offers a relaxed poolside dining experience where you can really switch off, and by night it truly comes into its own, with an impressive bar and friendly bartenders that create a great atmosphere.

After lunch, we had some free time to settle in and get to know our room — another overwater bungalow, but each resort really has its own vibe. Even though I’d experienced one at Lily Beach, this one felt just as magical, with the gentle waves beneath and stunning views all around. What more could you ask for?

After some time to relax, it was time for a guided tour of Hideaway and the Signature Collection villas. It was really fun to explore more of the resort and get a feel for how everything is laid out. The Signature Collection villas were seriously impressive — spacious, beautifully designed, and all about privacy. The views alone made me want to move in immediately!

After learning all about Hideaway and its Signature Collection villas, we headed to Matheefaru for dinner, it was American buffet night.

There was so much to choose from, from classic comfort food to freshly grilled favourites, and everything looked, and tasted amazing. The atmosphere was relaxed and unhurried, making it the perfect way to wind down and wrap up the evening.

Breakfast was at Oasis today, and wow... what a breakfast it was!

The restaurant has a relaxed, open vibe with beautiful views over the water, making it the perfect spot to start the day.

The spread was incredible, with everything from fresh fruit and pastries to cooked-to-order favourites — truly something for everyone.

The day was pure relaxation — exactly what you picture when you think of a Maldives holiday !

No rushing, no plans, just taking it easy. I spent some time in the villa, soaking it all in: the unreal views, the crystal-clear water, and the sea life swimming right beneath me that I could watch straight from the pool. It was one of those completely surreal, unforgettable moments that you wish could last forever.

Lunch was at Sunset Pool Café, probably my favourite spot at Hideaway. It has such a chilled vibe right by the pool, with stunning ocean views and a really relaxed atmosphere. The menu had plenty of tempting options, and I went for a delicious octopus dish — honestly, it was so good. It’s one of those places where you sit down for a quick bite and end up staying far longer than you planned.

After lunch, I spent some time exploring more of Hideaway and then relaxed in my villa, enjoying a bit of downtime. Later, it was time for dinner at Samsara Asian Fusion. The restaurant has a modern, stylish vibe with a calm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening. The menu is a mix of Asian flavours from across the continent, and everything we tried was beautifully presented and full of flavour. From fresh sushi to perfectly spiced curries, it was a feast for the senses. After such a delicious meal, it was time to get some rest — the following day was going to be a full and exciting one!

After breakfast at Matheefaru, we set off for a cultural visit to the island of Utheemu.

It was fascinating to step away from the resort and see a different side of the Maldives.

Utheemu has a rich history, I loved seeing the traditional Maldivian homes, the small local shops, and the way of life that has been preserved over generations. Our guide shared stories about the island’s history and culture, which made the experience even more engaging. It was such a nice contrast to the luxury of the resorts, a reminder of the Maldives’ unique heritage.

This was the last excursion of our trip, making it a perfect way to end our Maldivian adventure.

After returning from our excursion, we had some free time to relax before heading out for dinner. For our last meal of the trip, we returned to Sunset Pool Café — as I mentioned before, probably my favourite spot at Hideaway. It was the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed dinner and reflect on all the incredible experiences from our Maldivian adventure.

The next day, it was time for a very early morning flight back to Heathrow.

I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone at Lily Beach and Hideaway for making our stay so incredible. From the warm welcomes to the stunning villas, amazing dining, and unforgettable experiences, it truly was a trip to remember.

Maldives, you were breathtaking✨