Keeping ahead of the game is essential to keeping afloat in the Indian Ocean’s cutthroat tourism industry. People have been hopping on and off Dhonis and seaplanes for decades now, and with the level of refined luxury pushed to the finest of levels, setting up anew, comes with a level of adaptation.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands, opened its doors post-pandemic with a fresh approach that attempts to bridge its global reputation for ‘classic luxury’, with the elevated barefoot luxury experience that is now expected from a five-star Maldives property.
Typically, a Maldivian island resort is normally awash with loved-up honeymooners and couples on relaxing getaways, but more and more the (is)lands of luxury have been evolving
into surprising-apt family retreats. Offering unmatched quiet, calm and hospitality that even a four-month-old sleep regressed baby cannot ruin. Despite their best attempts.
Convenience is king when it comes to selecting your family-friendly Maldivian accommodation. After a short flight from Dubai, the greeting at the airport is like you have stepped off a long-haul flight. A private escort takes you to your yacht, and a quick 50-minutes later, you arrive making The Ritz Carlton one of the most accessible resorts in the Maldives. The hotel is the second of three resorts to open in the Faro-Islands (following Patina resort and soon-to-open Capella resort). The concept is that guests can enjoy all three resorts, each offering a unique twist and with more than 30 restaurants to choose
from between them. But fear not, despite its close distance to the international airport and neighbouring resorts, once transported to the island you feel completely off grid.
The restrained and minimalist design is what really sets the Ritz Carlton apart from many of its neighbours. The architecture is the vision of the late, highly-renown Australian designer, Kerry Hill. Pretension-free, simplistic and highly modern, a rarity in luxury accommodation and traits that add to the paired-back elevation.
And then, there is the attention to the finer details. This property is no exception. Hand-picked staff from the best resorts across the world make going above and beyond a part of your day-to-day experience with your personal butler only ever a WhatsApp away. The overwater or beachside villa choice is never easy, but beachside is prefered for family accommodation.
Boasting ocean views, minimalist, fuss-free design, floor to ceiling windows, teardrop plunge pool, indoor marble bathtub, indoor and outdoor showers and a limitless supply of British brand Bamford products for all your grooming needs.
The standout facility at this resort is the iconic timber-clad spa in the middle of an ocean lagoon—the first picture you will see if you google the hotel. Water crashing below you as you get a local specialist treatment makes you question how many massages is too many for a week’s holiday? The kid’s club on offer is another family holiday essential. Like the rest of the island, the staff are warm and parents feel instantly calm and comfortable with leaving their children in the safe, capable hands-on offer.
Being stranded on a luxury desert island has its obvious pros, but an often-overlooked con is the limited food options. Thankfully, there is enough variety to keep you and your family happy, whatever your tastes. There were tacos and fresh seafood at Beach Shack, Middle Eastern classics mixed with Indian fusion at Arabesque (based on Fari Island – a complimentary ferry runs hourly), Italian dishes (and buffet breakfast) at La Locanda, laid-back all-day dining at Eau Bar and elevated Chinese food at Summer Pavilion.
The star of the show is IWAU, destination dining under the stars. Looking out over the ocean whilst sat at a counter where the head chef preps all courses in a traditional Japanese omakase setting.
Globally, Ritz Carlton may be known for classic luxury, but its Maldivian interpretation gives it a welcome modern update. One that you’d be happy to take then entire family along with you.