Conrad Rangali Resort, Maldives

In the travel industry there are certain destinations that have rightly earned a reputation for being 'something a bit special'. A destination that warrants saving up for, somewhere that you need to book well in advance so that you get the maximum enjoyment out of eager anticipation of your visit. The Maldives is one of those places........ We book many couples and families to to The Maldives. There are lots of different resorts all offering something a bit different and we as a business have spent a lot of time and effort developing our first hand knowledge of this amazing destination. When I decided to combine a visit to Dubai with eight nights in the Maldives I wanted to find my own desert island, a resort where I really felt like I had discovered 'heaven on earth'. As a result I choose the amazing Conrad Rangali Resort - Maldives, located in the South Ari Atoll - a 30 minute sea plane fight away from the Maldives capital - Male. Travelling by seaplane was another 'first' for me. I have travelled in various forms of aircraft over the years from prop jets to the A380, from helicopters (which I have to say wasn't one of my favourite forms of travel) to light aircraft, but taking off and landing on water...ummmmm - I really wasn't too sure. I needn't have worried! OK, my learnings from my first sea plane experience….. The cabin is tiny – you can see every instrument on the pilot and co-pilot’s instrument board. The two companies that formerly operated sea planes in the Maldives have merged into one bigger organisation - the planes are pretty standard and take approximately 16 passengers. The taxi out to the ‘sea way' (if that's what you call it?)’ takes a few minutes and it all seemed a bit choppy to me! As you leave the jetty the anchor man, not sure of his official title, jumps in at the very last minute – don’t make the mistake I did and think the back door has been left open – I was just about to flip out of the back of the plane to recover the contents of my handbag.  The take-off is quick, the planes are light and the climb is relatively smooth – it’s all reminiscent of my frequent trips out to the Channel Island years ago. By the time you reach cruising height and start to feel quite at home admiring the amazing views the descent has begun in earnest. The landing is so smooth and the short taxi to Conrad's own jetty takes just a few minutes. From the minute you step ashore the team at Conrad can't do enough to ensure that you enjoy every moment of your special trip. Check in is quick, light refreshments are offered and it's time to check out your accommodation. There were several reasons that suggested the Conrad Rangali resort might be the one for me. Number one reason for selection was that the resort accommodation is hugely varied but all of an amazing standard. Guests can stay in an over water villa - there are various categories depending on your budget or choose one of the land based villas options. Depending on availability you could even choose to spend half your time on land with the other half spent enjoying the ocean with direct access to the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. I chose to stay in a Deluxe Beach Villa which was perfect for 'us'. Jacuzzi, amazing views, direct access onto the beach. The outdoor bathroom and exquisite garden with fountain all added to a feeling of this being a really special place. The resort has a reputation for fine dining, there are two main bars and a number of restaurant options. We ate in two of the main restaurants and enjoyed the champagne and lobster experience on the beach. Atoll Market offers a daily buffet, which is extensive and creative - there are local themed evenings, a marvellous selection of choices for starters, mains and desserts and the waiting team here make this restaurant feel like more waiter served than buffet. Dining under the stars (you can eat inside or outside at Atoll Market) is always special but in the middle of the Indian Ocean each night is truly unforgettable.  We also had the most amazing evening at Mandhoo Resturant - the food was exquisite and the service outstanding - a 5* magical evening. The resort is made up of two islands which are linked by one of longest foot bridge in the Maldives. The varied accommodation, spas and restaurants are spread out over two islands - this adds to the feeling of spaciousness. It doesn't feel crowded wherever you are on the islands - it just feels like your own little slice of paradise. There are swimming pools and a spa on both islands. One island even has it's own 'adult only' beach with bar and some great lounging furniture! There are ample sunbeds and plenty of places just to chill and relax. The Maldives is renown for it's superb snorkelling and diving opportunities, The Conrad offers an array of superb water based activities including glass bottom boats, scuba diving, snorkelling plus much more (how about travelling in your very own submarine?). There is a resort yacht, pedalos and even a James Bond type experience where you can hover above the ocean all courtesy of jets using sea water. The children's club is located close to the Atoll Restaurant. Children are welcomed with open arms at Conrad. The are even boxes of sand and beach toys at the gate of each villa - such a practical and thoughtful touch. We also had the most amazing evening at Mandhoo Restaurant - the food was exquisite and the service outstanding - a 5* magical evening. Contact us for more information about special offers, availability and resort information - we will be delighted to help you put together your special trip!