Spotlight On The Maldives – The Luxurious Niyama Experience

Reena Patel explores Per Aquum Niyama, the Maldivian playground island

In just under one hour from Male airport, our seaplane graciously touches down onto the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean to touchdown at Niyama – the hot, hip resort with a bright and luxurious vibe.

As we took in the magnificent views of the resort’s twinkling turquoise lagoons and beachfront, we arrived at the twin islands named ‘Chill’ and ‘Play’, with a wooden decked bridge linking both in between. We were staying at a deluxe beach villa in the ‘Chill’ part of the island, which is more suited to couples who are planning for an adults-only escape, whereas ‘Play’ is ideal for families.

Villas are kitted out with all the mod cons you should usually expect when it comes to luxury living but with some extra treats in store: a gorgeous sun deck with swinging lounge chair and private plunge pool pointing out towards a private palm-tree lined pathway out to breath-taking panoramic views of the infamous Maldivian soft, powdery white sand and glistening turquoise lagoon.

Beach villas also come with elegant, spacious outdoor bathrooms, which feature twin washbasins, a deep bathtub and two showers (one indoor, one outdoor waterfall shower) and depending on the room category, bath products from either British skincare brand REN, Bulgari, or L’Occitane. We were excited by the thoughtful touches of a popcorn maker, large fridge with all the mini-bar usuals plus complimentary homemade ice-cream in cups and a great selection of up-to-date movies to view from the pull-out plasma screen in the corner of the room.

For the ultimate in privacy, The Crescent is the perfect private sanctuary with five villas at the end of a separate pier towards the outer edge of the ‘Chill’ island. We hear this has been frequented by footballer Louis Suarez amongst other famous faces. There are also overwater villas, including a larger pavilion with plenty of space to properly spread yourself out in, including a kitchen, pantry and a cosy sunken sofa.