After all that exploring, I was looking forward to sampling the premium over-water dining venue Kanusan that evening. This impressive venue spans two dining areas, has a relaxed indoor dining space, an open lower deck and a vibrant over-water bar surrounded by majestic sights and calm seas. Centred around an impressive duck oven, this open kitchen puts the Asian spirit and classic Cantonese cuisine favourites of Mandarin roasted duck and Larb Gai on centre stage. The newly-created signature dishes of steamed snapper and lobster, black truffle roast duck and sliced blue abalone in Kanusan sauce were absolutely delightful. If like me you enjoy Vietnamese, Thai and Indonesian food, you’ll adore this mouth-watering experience.
Once dinner concluded, it was onto the Baa Baa Beach Club which is the place to be, and is the heart of the Finolhu festivities. The theme for this evening was the uber cool “Rouge” party which had guests dancing until the early morning. Entertainment for the evening was provided by the SRS who were a three piece live band playing an energetic and uplifting set. A powerful vocal performance by singer Katherine Ellis kept the dance floor moving, and a dazzling DJ set followed by Kissy Sell Out that made for yet another memorable day on the island.
My penultimate day was truly sensational and started with a short boat ride across the lagoon to the fabulous and fun Fish & Crab Shack that reminded me of a Robinson Crusoe deserted island, located halfway along Finolhu’s heavenly sand bank. The menu was a variety of sharing platters consisting of luscious soft shell crab tacos, buckets of prawns local fishermen’s catch of the day, coconut rice and tropical fruit skewers all served under coconut trees and accompanied by crisp cocktails from the beach bar. Entertainment was provided by the first-class sounds of DJ Jaffa who played a mixture of cool 80s, 90s and contemporary classics. One of my fondest memories at the Fish & Crab Shack apart from the scrumptious food on the menu was seeing all the guests dancing on tables, chairs, on the beach, in the sea and on the jetty to the infectious Pharrell Williams anthem “Happy”.
This was a magnificent moment that epitomised the true atmosphere and culture of this glittering hangout.
After all the fun at the Fish and Crab Shack, I decided to walk back to Finolhu via the breathtaking long white-sand bank which gave me the opportunity to really soak up and experience the shiny clear waters and fine blue skies.
The evening dining experience was all about the Baahaa Grill restaurant which offered a fine, laid-back, family dining setting. The menu celebrates the very best of North African inspired dishes, rubbed meats and succulent savoury sides. I loved the menu served at this boutique and contemporary eatery which consisted of a selection of mezze, pitta breads, Egyptian hummus, roasted prawns, grilled squid, Harissa riverine grain fed beef medallions, lamb rack, right through to warm sticky medjool date pudding and Pistachio walnut Baklava to name but a few dishes.
The final soiree of this phenomenal three-day opening extravaganza was a themed “50 Shades of Bleu” celebration. Entertainment yet again was first class with legendary DJ Bert Bevans, providing the perfect soundtrack that kept guests singing and dancing to old and new dance floor classics throughout the evening.
In summary, Finolhu’s fun and relaxed vibe caters to all ages and there is something for everyone to enjoy on this small but perfectly formed resort. So, whether you are a single traveller looking to meet new people, a chic couple, a fun-loving family, or a group of friends in search of that dreamy pampering experience combined with an exceptional party atmosphere, then this is the place for you. I am already looking forward to my next adventure at Finolhu and can’t wait to return to this fresh and funky destination.
Finolhu – Where and How?
Elegant Resorts (01244 897515; www.elegantresorts.co.uk) offers 7 nights at Finolhu (www.finolhu.com) from £3,255 per person – saving of £2,080 per couple. The price is based on two people sharing an Ocean Pool Villa on a half board basis, return economy flights from London Gatwick with Emirates, shared seaplane transfers and UK lounge passes. Based on a 28 November 2016 departure.
By Jamie Ndah
You must be logged in to post a comment.