This was my first time going to Conrad, Maldives and Lanhali Island and I was truly amazed! As most of you know, we came to the Maldives with my mom last Christmas after a much needed vacation.
This time was a little different. Loanne and I were joined by two blogger friends, Sabrina and Amy, and a great photographer friend, Charlie (self-proclaimed Charlie’s Angel haha!). We spent four days at the award-winning Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. This is an untouched paradise boasting award-winning dining with 12 world-class restaurants and bars, two spas and a variety of locally inspired experiences.
With its island tranquility, unparalleled service and attention to detail, sumptuous cuisine and jaw-dropping surroundings, we must admit that this is the most beautiful place we have stayed. We felt blessed and incredibly privileged to be here. It’s not everyday you experience such unparalleled beauty, and it’s no wonder the Conrad has twice been named the ‘World’s Best Hotel’.
We made the most of our time in the dreamy water villa, which had an outdoor deck/veranda with a private jacuzzi and wooden steps leading down to the crystal clear water.
Now most people would think that the Maldives is only for honeymooners or couples looking for a romantic getaway. Although you are right, I would say that having a friend or sibling with you makes for a more dynamic experience with late night chats, jokes and laughter, and of course a shared wardrobe and common interest in photography! I can say it’s better. Below we’ve listed some of the best things to do with friends on the island.
Massage at a spa retreat
You can’t get a better setting than a spa retreat. Ranhali finolhu Perched above a lagoon at the tip of the island and built on stilts above the turquoise water, the spa retreat exudes an atmosphere of tranquility and zen just by setting foot on its grounds. We were taken to our own private spa room with beautiful sea views and an open outdoor toilet… Very bizarre. We had an hour-long full body massage, which took us deeper into the realm of relaxation. The spa also offers a variety of comprehensive spa and beauty treatments to suit your needs.
Dinner at Coco Grill
It was nearly impossible to resist any type of dish at Conrad. The food was so amazing, each chef was a master of his craft as their attention to detail in food pairing, flavor and presentation was second to none. Not great for bikini shots but ‘hey ho’ we couldn’t resist the sumptuous food presented before us. Koko grill was my favorite restaurant. This open-air restaurant on the beach has chefs preparing 10 gourmet Japanese courses using locally grown produce and the finest ingredients imported from around the world. The fish was so fresh and the sake was the best I’ve ever had! We spent the evening enjoying various flavors, drinking sake, and taking in the stunning views.
personal sunrise yoga
If you plan to wake up and see the sunrise, do this! Loanne, Sabrina and I woke up at 5am for a private yoga session with longtime Keralan yogi Manesh Johny. Manesh Johny tailored his classes to our special abilities. This happened in a quiet pool where we spent 40 minutes perfecting our flows, hatha and vinyasa, and watched the sun creep slowly over the horizon, diluting the sky into a pink and orange blush.
Swim with sharks and manta rays
Typically on a snorkeling trip you don’t expect to swim with anything bigger than a few tropical fish and stingrays if you’re lucky. But Conrad is one of the best places to spot giant whale sharks and manta rays, so it was a bit surreal when we got to swim with them. We were snorkeling with a 10m whale shark right below us! Unless you’re a huge snorkeler, you can always sit out on the deck and soak up the sunshine. We were lucky enough to have our own private snorkeling trip, which made it feel even more comfortable and friendly.
luxury sunset cruise
What a way to watch the sunset! Our small group of about 10 people enjoyed a few hours of champagne, canapés and sunset views aboard a luxury yacht. As the sun slowly set over the horizon we spotted a pod of spinner dolphins gliding and jumping alongside the yacht. It was so magical. This only happens in heaven.
Morning champagne at Underwater Restaurant
I’m sure you’ve all seen the photos of the undersea restaurant on Instagram… Yes, it’s here. We literally couldn’t contain our excitement when we arrived here in the morning to drink champagne 16 feet below sea level. It is the world’s first undersea restaurant with 180-degree panoramic views of the surrounding vibrant coral gardens. We spent the morning sipping champagne and laughing as we watched sharks, manta rays and beautiful tropical fish swim above our heads!
Champagne and stargazing in the hot tub!
One of the best things about having our own water villa was the outdoor deck with our own private jacuzzi. So, at my favorite time of the year, sunset, we opened a bottle of champagne, sat in the jacuzzi, and danced around watching the sun turn blood-orange over the water while playing music on the speakers. We then enjoyed each other’s company and gazed at the stars while taking in the breathtaking scenery!
