As the speedboat sliced through the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Maldives, anticipation swelled with each passing moment. My journey was about to unfold across two islands: Maadhoo and Bolifushi, home to The Ozen Collection’s twin resorts. Little did I know that the next four and a half days would not only redefine my understanding of luxury but also immerse me in a world where nature and opulence coexist in perfect harmony.
Ozen Life Maadhoo – A haven of accessible luxury
The journey to Maadhoo set the tone for what was to come. A 45-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport offered glimpses of the mesmerizing blue hues that have made the Maldives a bucket-list destination for travellers worldwide.
Upon arrival, it became clear that Ozen Life Maadhoo, while more accessible than some of its ultra-luxury counterparts, compromised little in terms of comfort and service. I was greeted with a festive Maldivian welcome on the island, with the rhythmic Boduberu drumming reverberating along the jetty lined with the resort’s staff.
As I walked down the jetty to the open-air lobby, I was presented with a glass of crisp champagne and treated to a soothing foot massage while the staff efficiently handled my luggage. This was my first brush with the legendary Maldivian hospitality, and it set a high bar for the rest of my stay.
The air was infused with the scent of lush green trees and lemongrass, underscored by a hint of sea salt carried on the breeze from the beautiful azure waters. It was a sensory introduction to the paradise that awaited me.
Accommodations
My Wind Villa, one of 24 overwater abodes, proved to be a masterclass in spatial design. At 85 square metres, it struck an ideal balance between spaciousness and intimacy. The interiors, awash in vibrant yet tasteful colour schemes, reflected a contemporary interpretation of Maldivian aesthetics.
Polished wooden floors and a concaved wooden panelled ceiling with a statement fan created a sense of tropical luxe. Intriguingly, areas between the wooden planks on the floors were replaced with glass panels, offering a mesmerizing view into the water below. I found myself transfixed, watching iridescent blue fish and graceful stingrays glide past, nature’s own living artwork.
The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the bathroom, featuring an elliptical bathtub positioned to offer unobstructed views of the horizon – a thoughtful touch that elevated the space from merely functional to truly extraordinary.
What truly set the Wind Villa apart was its direct access to the lagoon. The ability to slip from one’s private deck into the warm, crystal-clear waters for impromptu snorkeling sessions added an element of adventure to the luxury experience. For those seeking an extra layer of indulgence, 24 of these villas come equipped with an 8-metre infinity lap pool, blurring the lines between the villa’s edge and the vast ocean beyond.
Food
Ozen Life Maadhoo’s “Indulgence Plan” is more than just clever marketing; it’s a comprehensive concept that allows guests to dine at leisure across the resort’s varied restaurants without constantly reaching for their wallets. While the main restaurant, The Palms, offered satisfactory breakfast and lunch options, it was the speciality dining venues that truly shone.
M6m, the resort’s underwater restaurant, is perhaps what the resort was best known for, however it was fully booked during my stay. The staff did graciously offer me a peek into it while it was closed, and I found myself instantly imagining what it would be like at night, submerged 6 metres below the surface where schools of tropical fish glide by as diners enjoy expertly prepared seafood – a truly sensory experience that is quite hard to replicate elsewhere.
On my first night, I had the pleasure of dining at Peking, the resort’s Asian restaurant on the seafront. I was greeted with a delectable meal that began with lotus flower, a delicacy I had never encountered before but found absolutely exquisite. This was followed by various Asian dishes featuring succulent lamb, tender beef, and perfectly seasoned chicken, as well as plump, juicy shrimp. Each dish was a testament to the chef’s skill in balancing flavors and textures.
The beach gala dinner buffet on my second evening was a testament to the culinary team’s versatility. The spread was vast and varied, catering to a wide range of palates without sacrificing quality. It was refreshing to see local Maldivian flavours given equal prominence alongside international cuisines, allowing guests to go on a gastronomic journey around the world without leaving the beach.
Activities and amenities
Despite a relatively short stay, I managed to sample a range of activities. The house reef, accessible directly from the overwater villas, offered some of the best snorkeling I’ve experienced – and I say this having snorkeled in the Great Barrier Reef many years ago. The diversity of marine life was impressive, with everything from vibrant parrotfish to graceful eagle rays and even docile nurse sharks making appearances. It was like swimming through a living aquarium, with each dive revealing new wonders.
The highlight of my day was undoubtedly the spa experience. The Elena Spa provided a much-needed respite after a day of water activities – and the pent-up stress of my fast-paced life in Dubai. I opted for a traditional Maldivian Sand Compress Massage, inspired by ancient island healing practices. This deeply relaxing treatment uses a warm sea sand compress and virgin coconut oil from the islands to heal the body, executed with such skill and attention to detail that I felt years of tension melting away.
But perhaps the most captivating aspect was the glass floor strategically placed under the massage bed. As I enjoyed the massage, I could watch colourful fish dart back and forth below, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle that added an extra layer of tranquility to the overall experience. It was a unique fusion of luxury pampering and connection with nature that epitomized the Maldivian experience.
For those seeking more active pursuits, the resort also offers a PADI-certified dive centre and a range of motorised and non-motorised water sports. While I didn’t partake in these during my stay, fellow guests spoke highly of the professional instruction and state-of-the-art equipment, with many praising the knowledgeable dive masters who brought the underwater world to life.
Atmosphere
What struck me most about Ozen Life Maadhoo was its ability to cater to different types of travellers. The island was a melting pot of cultures, with guests from all walks of life – many from China, Russia, and the Gulf Arab region – mingling in harmonious luxury.
Honeymooners could find secluded spots for romantic moments, while families had ample space and activities to keep children entertained. The staff struck a fine balance between attentiveness and discretion, enhancing the overall sense of ease that permeated the island. It was as if they had mastered the art of being ever-present yet invisible, anticipating needs without intruding on guests’ privacy.
Ozen Reserve Bolifushi – A sanctuary of unmatched exclusivity
For the second part of my trip, I discovered the Ozen Collection’s other resort in Bolifushi. As my speedboat approached Ozen Reserve Bolifushi after a short ride from Malé, it was immediately apparent that this property aimed for a different echelon of luxury. The traditional Maldivian welcome, complete with the sonorous blowing of a conch shell and the rhythmic ‘Bodu Beru’ drumming, set a tone of cultural immersion alongside opulence.
I was immediately greeted with warm smiles and refreshing coconut water as the staff efficiently arranged for our luggage to be whisked away to our rooms. Little did I know, I was about to be utterly captivated by what lay ahead.
My immediate first impression of the island only improved with each passing moment. The landscaping was truly impeccable, adorned with thousands of trees I had never encountered before, some with aerial roots growing along their trunks – a striking testament to nature’s artistry. There were several resting areas and hammocks tucked away in every corner of the island, each offering a private slice of paradise. I felt as though I had stepped into a carefully curated tropical Eden.
Accommodations
My Earth Pool Villa was a study in spacious elegance. At 228 square metres, it offered more than just a place to sleep – it was a highly-exclusive, private sanctuary. The villa’s design seamlessly blended indoor and outdoor living spaces, with a private pool that elegantly wrapped around the structure and direct access to my very own private beach.
The attention to detail was evident in everything from the carefully curated art pieces to the premium amenities that anticipated every need. A bowl of exotic fresh fruit and the resort’s own branded non-alcoholic champagne, which tasted like liquid gold, welcomed me to my new home.
What truly set Bolifushi apart was the personal Hiyani (butler) service. My Hiyani, who went by the name of Ahu, seemed to possess an almost telepathic ability to anticipate needs before they arose. Whether it was arranging impromptu activities or ensuring my preferred beverages and food were always at hand, Ahu catered to my every whim with grace and efficiency. It was as if the island itself was attuned to my desires.
Food
Dining at Bolifushi was a journey in itself. Each restaurant offered not just a meal, but an experience that engaged all the senses.
After a long day of watersports, touring the resort, and lounging by the beach, the staff thoughtfully arranged a wine tasting for me. This attention to detail, which they caught from casual conversation about my interest in wine, was truly remarkable. They set up a private session with the resident sommelier, who guided me through the resort’s incredible wine collection, which boasted over 2,500 bottles from around the world.
We sampled five wines, each varying in intensity and flavour profile. The sommelier challenged my senses of taste and smell, turning the tasting into an interactive guessing game. We paired the wines with perfectly selected cheeses, creating flavour combinations that danced on the palate. The sommelier’s passion was infectious, and his depth of knowledge transformed what could have been a simple tasting into an educational journey through the world’s most prestigious vineyards. I left the session with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of wine.
The tasting was then followed by a dinner at Origine, the resort’s flagship restaurant. Origine offered a multi-sensory dining concept that engaged all five senses. Each dish was as much about storytelling as it was about flavour, with every course revealing a new facet of Maldivian culture or cuisine. It was a gastronomic narrative that left me feeling deeply connected to the islands and their rich culinary heritage.
On my final night, the staff organised a private beach dinner under the stars that took the concept of “dining with a view” to an entirely new level. The personalised menu, featuring impeccably grilled local seafood, was complemented by the gentle lapping of waves and a canopy of stars – a poignant reminder of the unique beauty of this island nation.
All this unfolded under the glow of a full moon, which bathed the area in ethereal light. It was so picturesque that I couldn’t help but think it would be the perfect backdrop for a romantic proposal. I later learned that resort visitors can book this private beach dinner experience, a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable evening in paradise.
Activities and wellness
Bolifushi’s activity roster is designed to cater to both adventure seekers and those in search of relaxation. The overwater gym, with its panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, transformed morning workouts from a chore into a joy. Watching the sunrise paint the sky in vivid hues while on a treadmill was a surreal experience that made me forget I was exercising.
The spa deserves special mention. Using 100 percent organic products, the treatments were not just indulgent but felt genuinely beneficial, a holistic approach to wellness that left me feeling renewed inside and out. The spa’s design, incorporating elements of water, wood, and stone, created an atmosphere of natural luxury that perfectly complemented the treatments.
As you enter the spa area, you’re greeted by what can only be described as a sanctuary – a meticulously manicured garden so serene that it immediately induces a state of quiet meditation and reflection. In this tranquil oasis, I was offered a small glass of tangy-sweet tamarind juice, its flavour helping to calm my senses and prepare my mind for the heavenly massage that was to come.
But for those interested in marine life, the resort offers more than just standard snorkeling trips. A session with the resident marine biologist, which included participating in a coral planting initiative, provided fascinating insights into the delicate ecosystem of the Maldives and the critical conservation efforts underway. It was a sobering yet inspiring experience that highlighted the fragility of this paradise and the important role tourism can play in its preservation.
I personally opted to go kayaking every day, drawn by the breathtaking views and the chance to explore the resort’s surroundings from a different perspective. Gliding silently across the crystal-clear waters, I was treated to close encounters with marine life, including graceful stingrays that seemed to dance beneath my kayak. I also made time for daily snorkeling excursions, each one revealing new wonders of the underwater world that surrounds the resort.
It was refreshing to see Bolifushi’s commitment to sustainability extend beyond mere lip service. The Chef’s Garden, a verdant patch amidst the tropical landscape, supplies the resort’s restaurants with fresh herbs and produce. This “garden-to-table” concept not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also significantly reduces the resort’s carbon footprint – a crucial consideration in a nation as vulnerable to climate change as the Maldives. Walking through the garden, inhaling the fragrant scents of herbs and flowers, I felt a deep appreciation for this thoughtful approach to luxury that doesn’t come at the expense of the environment.
Reflections
As my Maldivian sojourn came to an end, I found myself reflecting on the distinct experiences offered by Ozen Life Maadhoo and Ozen Reserve Bolifushi. While both resorts exemplify luxury, they cater to different desires and expectations, each offering a unique window into the magic of the Maldives.
Ozen Life Maadhoo offers a more accessible entry point into Maldivian luxury. It’s a place where families and couples can experience the beauty of the Maldives without the sticker shock often associated with high-end resorts in the region. The “Indulgence Plan” adds a layer of ease to the experience, allowing guests to truly relax without constantly thinking about costs. It’s luxury made approachable, without compromising on the essence of what makes a Maldivian holiday special.
Ozen Reserve Bolifushi, on the other hand, is unabashedly luxurious. It’s a resort that doesn’t just meet high expectations – it shatters them, replacing them with new standards of opulence. From the personalised service to the world-class culinary offerings, every aspect of the stay is meticulously crafted to create lasting memories. It’s a place for those who don’t just want to visit the Maldives, but want to experience it at its most indulgent – and with the utmost exclusivity and privacy. Here, luxury is not just about material comforts, but about curating moments of pure bliss.
What unites both properties is a genuine commitment to hospitality that goes beyond the expected. In both resorts, I encountered staff who seemed genuinely passionate about creating positive experiences for guests. This human touch, more than any material luxury, is what truly sets The Ozen Collection apart. It’s the warmth of a smile, the thoughtfulness of a personalised surprise, the genuine interest in ensuring each guest’s stay is perfect – these intangible elements elevate the experience from excellent to unforgettable.
As someone who has seen her fair share of luxury resorts, I can confidently say that The Ozen Collection offers something truly special. These resorts provide more than just places to stay in the Maldives; they offer immersive experiences that capture the very essence of this extraordinary destination. Whether you opt for the accessible luxury of Maadhoo or the ultra-exclusive experience of Bolifushi, a stay with The Ozen Collection promises to be more than just a holiday – it is a transformative journey into the heart of Maldivian hospitality, one that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left the pristine beaches behind.
In the end, what The Ozen Collection offers is not just luxury accommodations, but a gateway to experiencing the Maldives in all its multifaceted glory. It’s a chance to connect with nature, to indulge in world-class cuisine, to find peace and relaxation, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. In a world where true luxury is increasingly defined by experiences rather than possessions, The Ozen Collection stands as a shining example of how to do luxury right in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
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