The Maldives is often spoken of as a paradise on Earth, a destination where turquoise waters stretch as far as the eye can see, fringed with white sandy beaches and palm trees swaying in the breeze. But there’s something deeper, more intimate, that takes shape at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. It’s a sanctuary for the soul. 

It is a place where the rhythm of the island mirrors the gentle ebb and flow of the sea, and every experience, like a wave, builds upon the last, carrying with it the formation of memories that will last a lifetime.

The journey to the resort begins with a relaxing 30-minute boat ride from the airport. Gliding along the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean is the perfect stress-reducing palette cleanser and starts the holiday off on the right foot. Speaking of which, after a warm welcome from the staff waiting at the dock, the offer of a relaxing foot massage while check-in is done is a delightful, and much-appreciated, surprise. Almost instantly, everything starts to slow down, and ‘island time’ begins to take hold. 

There is a sense of easy flow to the resort, with everything moving at a leisurely pace. Why rush when at every turn there is a breathtaking view to take in, a delicious meal to be had, or an underwater world to explore? For those fortunate enough to be staying in one of the over-water villas, the rhythmic motion of the ocean underneath has the added benefit of gently rocking visitors to sleep after a day filled with scuba diving, fishing, or the simple pleasures of reading a book on the beach.

As our personal butler for the trip gives us a tour of the island, it becomes apparent how seriously the resort takes its commitment to the environment, living sustainably and in harmony with the surroundings. That the resort has a state-of-the-art Hydroponics Garden – which uses soilless cultivation to produce a variety of fresh lettuce, kale or basil to be used in meals at the hotel and on neighbouring island resorts – is impressive to behold and shows a true generosity of spirit. 

Later, after a magical swim with stingrays and turtles alongside Núria Camps, one of the resort’s marine biologists, we are regaled with inspiring stories about how the resort is helping to rebuild the coral reefs around the island. It is clear that OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is driven by the idea of giving – be that to its natural surroundings or to the people staying on the island. 

Part of that desire to be of service is manifested in the different activities and experiences the resort offers visitors. Not-to-be-missed moments include a romantic dinner by candlelight under the sea at the resort’s famed M6m restaurant that resides far below the ocean’s surface. Watching colourful fish and swishing sharks glide by while dining is a definite core memory moment. 

Meals at the Tradition IndoCeylon and Tradition Peking restaurants on the island are also a savoury experience in regional dining. Each offers a unique celebration of flavour, from gourmet seafood to international cuisine, all presented with elegance and precision. This diversity of culinary offerings is a testament to the resort’s commitment to creating a rich and cultivated holiday for its guests.

And what island vacation would be complete without a spa designed to indulge? OZEN LIFE MAADHOO definitely delivers on this front. At its ELENA Spa, wellness is more than just a buzzword. Personalised treatments are designed to meet every visitor’s individual needs and blend ancient healing traditions with modern techniques to generate the best results possible for each guest. From a massage to revitalise the body to yoga or meditation classes to help guests restore a sense of inner peace, the spa is all about bringing guests back into balance. 

Its serene setting, with rooms looking out onto the open ocean, only helps to amplify its message of making health and wellbeing an integral part of everyday life. 

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the waters around the island offer a world of wonder. Diving into the vibrant coral reefs reveals a kaleidoscope of life, with impossibly vivid colours and marine life in abundance. Whether an experienced diver or a first-time explorer, the underwater excursions showcase the unique beauty that lies beneath the surface. Alternatively, a private yacht cruise offers a luxurious escape, sailing into the sunset as dolphins play in the distance.

In the end, as much as a trip to OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is designed for guests to rest and relax, the knowledge that the resort is just as committed to helping the environment – through its coral restoration initiatives and eco-conscious practices – gives it an added gravitas. 

It subtly instils in visitors the feeling that, as much joy as they are taking away from their time on the island, they are hopefully also helping, in their own small way, to pay it forward to a place that has given them so much. Thus, the trip takes on a broader meaning, connecting each guest to something greater. A legacy of care and responsibility that will long outlast a holiday getaway.

theozencollection.com