For many British travellers, the Maldives sits atop the bucket list, a shimmering promise of perfection. Yet with sunny European alternatives just a few hours away, the 10 to 14-hour journey to the Indian Ocean archipelago prompts a serious question: is it truly worth the effort? After years of increasingly adventurous travel, my wife and I decided to find out, choosing the Nova Maldives resort on Vakarufalhi island for a very special occasion—renewing our wedding vows.
First Impressions: From Long Haul to Island Calm
Our adventure began with an epic 17-hour journey involving planes, airports, and boats. The fatigue was real, but upon landing in Malé, the seamless handover to the Nova resort team erased any stress. Their efficient care guided us through the final leg to the South Ari Atoll. The tiny, palm-fringed island of Vakarufalhi, just 100km from Malé, is a circle you can stroll in a mere 15 minutes. Yet, Nova has masterfully woven its facilities into this natural canvas, where lush foliage offers a welcome respite from the sun.
Jet-lagged but excited, we were whisked through the open-air reception hub and along a jetty to our Aqua Villa. Social media images don't do these iconic overwater bungalows justice. Seeing the thatched-roof structures standing proudly in the turquoise lagoon is breathtaking. Our villa was a sanctuary of space and light, featuring a vast bedroom-living area with sliding doors that opened onto a private deck with an infinity pool. An open-plan design led to a luxurious bathroom with sea views, stocked with robes and a thoughtful array of toiletries. The personal touches—a hand-drawn note in the sand, a bowl of fresh fruit, chilled Champagne—immediately made us feel cherished.
Culinary Journeys and Island Rhythms
Nova’s layout ensures everything is within easy reach. At the foot of our villa jetty, the Solis poolside bar served drinks all day, its vibe shifting in the evening with a DJ and gentle dance music. A short stroll away, The Wink bar near the hub became our pre-dinner cocktail spot, offering stunning beach views and live music.
The resort boasts three distinct restaurants. We took breakfast and lunch at the expansive Soul Kitchen buffet, which catered brilliantly to all tastes. For dinner, we explored the speciality venues. The Flames Grill House presented exquisite degustation menus, from Lobster and Champagne to Surf and Turf. However, the showstopper was Mizu, an overwater Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant. Here, a skilled chef cooked seafood, wagyu beef, and vegetables right at our table, combining culinary artistry with theatrical flair for a truly memorable night.
Wellness, Adventure, and a Soulful Send-Off
With just a few days, we balanced relaxation with activity. Before our vow renewal, we indulged in a couples' massage at the EsKape Spa. The treatment began with hibiscus tea and a steam room, followed by an hour-long massage in an overwater room with viewing panels to the sea below—a sublime way to shed the stresses of home.
For the more active, Nova is a playground. The Aquaholics Dive Centre offers everything from beginner snorkelling to advanced diving, alongside thrilling watersports like jet skiing and parasailing. Their famous Manta Quest excursion allows guests to swim with these majestic rays. The island also features a 24-hour gym, yoga sessions, and an 'Awesome Stuff' shop for essentials and souvenirs.
So, did the Maldives—and Nova—live up to the hype? Unreservedly, yes. While the amazing weather, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear sea are the postcard backdrop, it was the nuanced experience that crafted a holiday of a lifetime. What set it apart were the details and the genuine warmth of the Nova 'Soul Mates' team. For those few days, we didn't feel like guests; we felt like part of the island's community. The journey is long, but the reward is a unique, deeply personal slice of paradise that stays with you long after you leave.
