Escape to Paradise - The Maldives

Escape to paradise - My stay at Oblu Select Helengeli

We all know that the Maldives is a dream destination for most of us, me included, and it certainly exceeded my expectations, with sun-drenched beaches and turquoise seas being just like in the pictures!

As soon as I set foot on this beautiful island, I felt a sense of calm. We had a 50-minute speedboat ride from Male, which was seamless from arriving at the airport and getting to the island itself.

After a warm welcome, we were shown to the ‘Spice‘ Restaurant for our lovely buffet lunch paired with wine, beer, soft drinks, whatever you preferred, nothing was too much trouble for the friendly staff.

We were all staying in Beach Villas at various points around the island, and as it is such a natural island, each view is different from your room, which was the beauty of it somehow. The rooms were spacious and modern with a splash of colour and well-appointed inside/outside bathrooms. They also offer water villas with private pools, lagoon villas which are half over water and beach. For families, they have 2-bedroom family villas with private pools.

The island is renowned for its fabulous house reef, which is on both sides of the island and a mere 20 metres from the beach. You can see sharks, rays, turtles, many colourful fish, as you walk around the seafront, your eyes are glued to the sea, looking for fish! You can hire snorkelling equipment free of charge. You can also do paddleboarding, kayaking, there is a small but well-equipped gym, or get a massage in the beautiful spa.

The island has 2 A la Carte Restaurants - Only Grill and Raga Route - we ate at both and they were wonderful. Top Tip: For every 4-night stay, you get an a la carte meal included, so stay for 8 nights and you can sample both. They also include a spa treatment for every 4-night stay. You also get a free sunset cruise or Sunset fishing.

Helengeli has 2 pools, one is an adult-only infinity pool and is in a very peaceful location looking out to sea, the other pool is for all and has many sunbeds/umbrellas if you don't want to go to the beach. The island has a small shop for knick-knacks and local art, etc.

The large bar area has lots of seating and is situated next to the main pool. They entertain in the evenings, from a DJ to traditional Maldivian dancing. It was a good chance to let your hair down and join in with the dancing!!

Final Thoughts

Helengeli may not be the most luxurious island in the Maldives, but it offers authenticity, you can unwind in the natural surroundings, all greenery, hermit crabs running around your garden area and on the beach, barefoot luxury without sacrificing comfort, combined with a friendly service you would expect. If relaxing, snorkelling, and just enjoying good food is your thing, then this would be the perfect choice.