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7. Beyond The Blues

Imagine a tropical retreat with adventure, fine dining, and relaxation — that’s OBLU Xperience Ailafushi for you.

Something about the Maldives draws you in—a world where endless shades of blue meet powder-soft sands, and time slows to the rhythm of the waves. It’s almost instinctive to surrender to its effortless beauty. And while the allure of a laid-back escape is undeniable, this time, our journey to the Maldives and straight into OBLU Xperience Ailafushi was about more than just unwinding. It was about diving headfirst into an island experience designed for indulgence and adventure.

Just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Ailafushi — meaning ‘Family Island’ in Dhivehi — welcomed us with open arms and a refreshing absence of formalities. No tedious check-ins, no waiting — just a seamless shift from speedboat to barefoot island life. It was the kind of arrival that set the tone early — this wasn’t just another tropical escape, it was the beginning of an experience.

The Island Comes Alive
Our first stop — X360 Bar, the resort’s main pool bar — felt like the perfect start. Framed by sweeping views of the turquoise lagoon, it carried the perfect balance of casual energy and elevated design. With a refreshing cocktail in hand, we took a moment to soak in the scenery, the sea breeze already working its magic.

Soon after, we were whisked away to our water villa — spacious, thoughtfully designed, and perched above the ocean with uninterrupted views of the endless blue. But the real treat awaited at Element X, the resort’s all-day dining haven. A sensory feast of live stations, freshly baked treats, and global flavours — it was just what we needed post-journey.

The afternoon unfolded slowly, just the way island life should — wandering through quiet corners, embracing the ease of doing nothing, and letting the island set the pace. As night fell, we found ourselves back at Element X. The variety continued to surprise — self-service wine and juice stations, a generous spread of international and local delicacies. Every bit premium, yet refreshingly unpretentious. Day 1 concluded the way perfect beginnings do — content, curious, and ready for what was next.

More Than Just a Beach Holiday
The next morning, we skipped breakfast, opting instead for a leisurely swim — because there’s nothing like starting your day immersed in the Maldivian blues. By noon, it was time for our next adventure — Sunset Fishing. A traditional Maldivian experience that turned out to be as peaceful as it was exhilarating. There was something surreal about watching the sun melt into the horizon while trying our hand at age-old fishing techniques. The Polaroids we took that evening will always sit as some of our favourite keepsakes — simple, candid, and full of joy.

For us, this vacation was all about striking an impeccable balance between adventure, indulgence, and winding down. On Day 3, after two days of blissful unwinding, we were ready to dive back in — quite literally — with a snorkelling trip. The crystal-clear waters revealed a vibrant underwater world and it was the Maldives in its truest form — raw, beautiful, and unforgettable. By afternoon, it was time to slow down again — this time at ELE|NA Ayur Spa and Wellness Centre. Nestled within the island, the spa was an oasis of calm. A luxurious treatment awaited, which melted away the last trace of stress from our bodies. It wasn’t just relaxation — it was a reminder of what it feels like to truly pause.

Dining Under The Ocean
For our final night, the resort saved the best for last — Only BLU, the Maldives’ largest underwater restaurant and a jewel in the crown of OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi resort. Set in a dream-like horseshoe-shaped space beneath the sea, with panoramic views of the marine world around us, we were treated to modern gourmet fare that was as visually stunning as it was delicious. Paired with fine wines and decadent desserts, it was a farewell dinner that captured the essence of Ailafushi — immersive, soulful and truly unforgettable.

What stood out throughout the trip for us was how effortlessly Ailafushi balanced premium experiences with a relaxed, vibrant energy. Whether it was lingering at the restaurants, diving into adventure, or simply strolling the island, every moment at the resort felt well thought out — an invitation to experience the Maldives the way it’s meant to be.