VIP SERVICE
Many people think that 5 star hotels in Maldives are affordable only for a select few. That might’ve been the case until LUX opened a their first resort in Maldives a few years ago. Now Maldives has become an affordable destination for most of us without compromising on quality.
Another misconception that I am often faced with is that Maldives is a strictly honeymoon destination. For all the families out there let me tell you that Maldives has a lot of activities for the children and teenagers and LUX is one of the very family friendly and family oriented resorts.
Lux South Ari is a relatively large island located a 30 min seaplane flight away from Male, the main airport.
You often hear me talk about the natural beauty of Maldives – turquoise waters, white sand, incredible beaches – all of these magic ingredients are awaiting you in LUX South Ari.
Accommodation
Guests in LUX* can choose from either – overwater villas or beach bungalows. Premier accommodation is Overwater villas – spacious water villas on stilts come with never-ending sea views and lagoon access. These are our favourite villas and our choice for families as they come with a king bed and a sofa bed.
Beach pool villas are a more economical option. The beauty of these villas is the outdoor bathroom and a completely private swimming pool in the garden.
Facilities
Main reason why we loved LUX South Ari is plentiful activities and ample space that allows guests to spread on the island so you never feel crowded. Island has three main daytime relaxation areas – beach side bar at the tip of the island with delicious BBQ style lunch and comfortable day beds and two swimming pools on either side of the island – each with cabanas, day beds and a beach restaurant.
If lying on the beach isn’t relaxing enough, head to the LUX* Me Spa – an island relaxation sanctuary offering massages, facials, scrubs – everything necessary to pamper and nurture your body. Spa also offers daily yoga lessons so you could improve your flexibility and posture.
Of course there is a good gym at the resort as well as tennis courts.
Activities
LUX* organizes fantastic excursions every day of the week and all of them are well worth trying. We went on a Whale shark safari and managed to find a whale shark to snorkel with. These incredible gentle giants can be up to 30 meters long and often travel in a pack and we were fortunate to snorkel above them with a whale being mere meters underneath us.
Another spectacular trip you can’t afford to miss is manta ray safari – however manta viewings are seasonal.
I also highly recommend watersports in LUX – during dry season the sea is flat which makes it perfect for waterskiing, wakeboarding or banana water rides for the kids. It’s always a lot of fun and for the beginners LUX provides a knowledgeable instructor. Great activity for the teenagers.
Dining
Dining is also fabulous in LUX. Most guest plans include breakfast and dinner and guests have ample options to choose from. For breakfast there are two buffet restaurants to choose from – both fantastic – offering indoor and outdoor tables on the terrace with turquoise water all around you. The choice is wonderful, true five star selection of health foods, tropical fruit, yogurts, cereals, European and local hot dishes. We loved strolling to breakfast after a good sleep and taking our time enjoying a chat and a long breakfast.
For dinner one of our favourites (and very child friendly) is Japanese Umami. Don’t be surprised if your child gets invited to become a chef during the evening and make sushi for your table. Chef likes the children and tries to make it a fun evening for them. The menu features Kobe beef, Australian lamb and an entertaining teppanyaki experience.
Other great options are Mediterranean Allegria or Middle Eastern Senses. Between eight resort restaurants there is something for everyone.
For lunch we loved the casual beach BBQ where you can eat on your comfortable deck chairs in hop in and out of the warm Indian ocean in between courses.
The Lux Traveller Loves
Splitting Hairs
LUX* is a great and affordable five star resort but don’t expect utmost luxury like in One & Only or Jumeirah. Those resorts are on a different level with service, but at LUX* you will certainly receive your money well worth.
All In All
Excellent five star ‘value for money’ resort in stunning Maldives. If you are searching for a resort that is fun for a whole family and won’t break your budget choose LUX* South Ari.
