Globetrotter: Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa in the Maldives

The adults-only hotel is home to a glamorous getaway.

When you say the word Maldives, a world of luxury comes to mind. A holiday to the country doesn’t have to be costly, however, as there are a range of hotels. What sets the four-star Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa apart is that it’s an adults-only property, and despite its mid-level price tag, it’s still a glamorous getaway.

The Maldives is home to 1,193 coral islands, and the sheer spectacle is best viewed from up high. As the plane descended on the capital Male, island after island came into glorious focus, and secluded spots of green were surrounded by bright blue. Pictures do not do the country justice, as it is filled with more Instagram-worthy moments than an influencer’s feed.

In 1983, the Centara brand was born in Thailand and now has hotels across the world, from Asia to the Middle East. Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa is conveniently close to the airport, and the transfer takes approximately 30 minutes by a speedboat. Despite the rainy weather, the staff bought the sunshine with their smiles and slick service. The check-in took place in the Giraavaru Lobby Bar, and we were served a welcome drink on arrival.  

Rooms and suites

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa is home to 140 villas, which range from oceanfront villas to overwater villas. The overwater villas face the sea or sea and sunset, and the premium places come with a swirl pool on the deck. 

We checked into an overwater villa with a stunning sea view. Spanning 42 square metres, it boasted a contemporary yet cosy aesthetic with dark wooden furniture, and white fabrics contrasted with shades of blue. The room included a table, chairs and a large bathroom, which opened up to the bedroom through a window. On arrival, the king-size bed was decorated with leaves that spelt out a welcome message. 

The highlight is the deck, which has loungers to soak up the sun and stairs leading to the sea. Each day, we could see swimmers and sea life, and on the stormy days, we could feel the villa sway. If you’re feeling adventurous, each room comes with snorkelling equipment, so you can explore the coral on your doorstep. 

Restaurants and bars

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa is home to a range of restaurants and bars. The breakfast is served in Oceans, which is at the heart of the resort. Located in what feels like a giant tent, it offers a buffet with Asian, European, Middle Eastern and South American cuisine. Look out for the live cooking station and the singing waiter, who makes everything from pastas to omelettes on demand.

The General Manager, Francesco Pompilio, explained: “The adults-only concept makes us unique. At breakfast, I tell guests to notice the calmness, and that there are no kids screaming around. We are aiming to be the best adults-only hotel in the Maldives. One of our biggest assets is the staff, and the way they care for guests and ensure they have a comfortable stay. The staff remember things, from your food to seat preferences.”

Suan Bua serves traditional Thai food in a spectacular setting. The live cooking stations are situated on the sand, and we loved the Bua Loy Khai Waan dessert. La Brezza serves classic Italian food, which covers pizzas and pastas. Both restaurants include live music, and romantic songs by a singer with a guitarist.  

Al Khaimah brings Arabian vibes to the Maldives with its Bedouin-inspired décor, traditional carpets, low seats and tables. Settle into the sumptuous red setting and order the grilled meats, which are served sizzling. 

Waves Pool Bar is where most guests visit during the day, and it has a pool and beachfront access. Viu Bar is superb for sundowners and turns up the volume in the evening with dancing, DJs and classic tunes.

Facilities 

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa’s SPA Cenvaree specialises in Ayurvedic and Thai treatments, from facials to massages. The rooms are serene spots, which are dubbed as healing huts. Our room was called Romance and it captured seclusion within seclusion and got us falling in love with the Maldives more. 

The water experiences range from the calm to courageous with fish feeding, kayaking and nurse shark snorkelling. On our visit, the rain meant we had to resort to alternative activities, but the hotel delivered. Expect for karaoke, sports sessions and movie nights. We loved the yoga on the beach and watched the sunset in that special way it only does in the Maldives. 

GO: Visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com for more information.