When I arrived at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, I felt as though I’d stepped into another world. Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, this all-inclusive five-star resort wasn’t just a holiday destination—it was an experience of pure indulgence and serenity. From the moment my seaplane touched down on the almost unbelievably turquoise waters, I knew I was in for something extraordinary.
The journey itself set the tone: a scenic 40-minute seaplane ride from Malé offered breathtaking views of endless blues and coral atolls below. It’s a very fun way to start your holiday and adds a touch of adventure to the commute. On arrival, I was greeted by the beaming smiles of the staff. Their hospitality and friendly nature were unmatched.
I stayed in the Dolphin Ocean Villa, and let me tell you, it was the epitome of luxury. Picture this: a private infinity pool overlooking the vast ocean, an expansive terrace for sunset cocktails, and direct sea access for a refreshing morning dip. Every detail, from the interiors to the stunning natural surroundings, made me feel like I was living in a dream. This place really is paradise and feels a million miles away from the stress and rush of life back home.
One of my most unforgettable experiences was a massage in an over water spa villa. Beneath the glass-bottom table, I watched a kaleidoscope of marine life, including a small shark, gliding gracefully through the clear waters. It was surreal—relaxing and exciting all at once.
Away from the spa, I discovered my favourite relaxation spots: the hammocks scattered around the resort. Whether suspended over the turquoise waters or tucked under shady palms, these cosy retreats were my go-to for quiet afternoons with a good book or simply soaking in the beauty of my surroundings.
One morning, I was treated to a floating breakfast: a decadent tray of tropical fruits, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee delivered straight to my infinity pool. This one-time bucket-list indulgence felt utterly luxurious and was a memory I’ll treasure forever.
For something more adventurous, I took full advantage of the snorkelling opportunities included in the all-inclusive package. The vibrant coral reefs around Iru Veli teemed with schools of colourful fish, rays, and even a curious sea turtle. It was a magical glimpse into the underwater world.
What truly sets Sun Siyam Iru Veli apart is its exceptional all-inclusive package, which is among the best out there. Beyond unlimited food and beverages—including a daily refilled mini-bar—you’ll also enjoy a range of exclusive experiences. These include three excursions: a dolphin-spotting cruise, a guided snorkelling adventure, and a visit to a local island. Thrill-seekers will appreciate the jet-ski credit, while relaxation lovers can choose between spa credit or three scuba dives (for certified divers). It’s all designed to make your stay as carefree and indulgent as possible.
I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I like to keep my gym routine ticking over no matter where in the world I find myself, and the small but well-equipped fitness centre became a regular stop of mine in the late afternoon. Sun Siyam Iru Veli also has sports courts and a program of activities to keep even the most active of people busy.
Every meal was a celebration of flavours. From the freshest seafood at Grouper Grill to Italian favourites at Roma, I felt spoiled for choice and feasted like a king. The staff, always warm and accommodating, went above and beyond, surprising me with a candlelit dinner under the stars that felt as personal as it was special.
Sun Siyam Resorts has five private island resorts in the Maldives and a boutique beach resort on the east coast of Sri Lanka. At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, prices start from 0 / £576 per night for two adults sharing a Beach Villa with Pool on an all-inclusive basis. Book at sunsiyam.com to unlock exclusive offers.
Qatar Airways flies from London with return fares starting from £660 in economy and £2,606 in business, subject to availability and change. Business class passengers have access to a choice of world-class lounges at Hamad International Airport, Doha, recently ranked ‘Best Airport in the World 2024’ by Skytrax. This includes Qatar Airways’ newest The Garden lounge.
Whether you’re planning an adventurous retreat or a serene holiday, Sun Siyam Iru Veli promises memories that will last a lifetime. This Maldivian paradise invites you to leave your worries behind and embrace barefoot luxury at its finest.
Tempted? Book your stay at Iru Veli and explore the resort further at sunsiyam.com.
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