When the opportunity to revisit paradise presented itself, I could not jump on a plane fast enough. Amidst the vivid blue waters of the Indian Ocean, there is a cluster of islands, known as the Maldives. Perfect weather, wonderful beaches, and crystal-clear water make this a dream destination. I received an invitation to visit a new development called The Crossroads in the Maldives and witness first-hand some of the changes and additions that the country has made over the past several years. 

The Vibe at The Crossroads

A 15-minute boat ride from Male’s Velana International Airport, lies The Crossroads, Maldives’ new nine-island, one-stop lifestyle destination. Strictly following the principles of sustainability, The Crossroads was built on manmade islands of reclaimed land nestled among a breathtaking natural atoll and lagoon. The development officially launched in late September 2019. It hosts Maldives’ first luxury marina, complete with a beach club, well-known restaurants, shops, and a marine discovery center. You can shop, sail, spa, dive, dine, and discover at this integrated and sustainable destination. Currently, The Crossroads houses two resorts: The SAii Lagoon by Curio Collection, Hilton and The Hard Rock Resort, with expectations of adding more resorts soon.

Overwater bungalows and beachfront rooms, complete with indoor and outdoor showers, are some of the best room categories. Both properties offer wellness programs and activities, spas, and unlimited watersports, including exceptional scuba diving. Extensive Kids Clubs with hands-on creative and educational activities can turn your five-year-old into Claude Monet, Jimmy Hendricks, or even Jacques-Yves Cousteau! An added plus at both resorts is a team of staff catering to your every need with the utmost care during your stay, making your vacation truly unforgettable!

It’s hard for me to choose a favorite between the chilled, laid-back comfort of The SAii Lagoon and getting your groove on with The Hard Rock Resort. However, since they share amenities, you can have the best of both!

Dining at The Crossroads

There are four rate plans to choose from:

• Breakfast Only
• Half Board (breakfast and dinner)
• Full Board (three meals per day)
• the ever-popular All-Inclusive Plan (meals and drinks)

Your dining options are broad between the two resort properties, plus you have an array of dining options at The Crossroads Marina. Currently, you will find 12 restaurants (soon to be 15), including two by Chef Dharshan Munidasa – the famous Ministry of Crab, ranked as one of the ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants,’ and Nihonbashi Blue, Japanese cuisine ranked in Asia’s Top 50. One should never leave Crossroads without dining at Carne Diem Steak Restaurant or tasting authentic Thai cuisine at Kinkao, and it is a must to stop in and savor the multitude of spices at Kebab & Kurry! You can expect a generous credit to your bill while dining at any one of these Marina restaurants should you opt to include a meal plan during your stay. Now that, my fellow traveler, is definitely a delicious deal!

Getting to the Maldives

Getting to the Maldives is a breeze from most major airports across the United States. A one-stop connection via Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul will get you there sooner than you think. You only need a valid passport and a negative PCR C-19 test taken 72-hours before arrival. You’ll get a no-cost, no-hassle 30-day visitor visa on arrival. Oh, don’t forget lots of sunblock (reef-friendly SPF, please) a sun hat, and your bathing suit. Some airlines include medical coverage for the duration of your stay, regardless of your ticket price, which certainly helps any traveler’s peace of mind!

Why Maldives?

With the ever-changing travel restrictions during what seems like a never-ending pandemic, the Maldives is a welcome and feasible escape. The islands are often visited by honeymooners or thought of as a special once-in-a-lifetime vacation getaway. With many islands surrounded by coral reefs and colorful marine life, the Maldives deserves a spot on every scuba diver’s and beach lover’s bucket list!

Can a destination coveted by many and often thought of as a dream destination be a possibility? Yes!! Now, it most certainly can and you can bet, The Crossroads can expect to see more of me!

Szea specializes in international travel at Covington Travel.