LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Location: South Ari Atoll, Maldives.

LUX* is a newer brand which has re-branded some high-quality resorts in The Indian Ocean. LUX* Maldives used to be known as Diva and is a member of Kiwi Collection, has 193 rooms and is located on the Dhidhoofinolhu Island in the Ari Atoll. My experience started at their beautiful, contemporary seaplane lounge in the Maldives, which is one of the best, if not the single best seaplane lounge in the Maldives.

After a beautiful seaplane journey, I arrived at LUX* for a warm welcome before being escorted to the villa. I stayed in a beautifully renovated water villa with a freestanding bathtub as the highlight. In 2013 I stayed at this property and included it in a top 10 list of the Maldivian resorts I’ve stayed in. The resort is just about as good as I remembered it. LUX* is a unique brand and not your typical experience. I was impressed with the overall experience here. The design, the villas, the local food, the spa, and the attention to detail such as the phone booth where you can call the landline in most western countries for free.

The island is one of the bigger private island resorts I’ve stayed in the Maldives and it means the concept is a bit different. Instead of ordering a private buggy, there is a “public” island buggy. It means some wait time and not what I personally prefer, but with the size of the island, it would be difficult to offer private buggy transfers for all guests at all times. Instead, they provide bicycles.

The food is always important when you stay at a private island resort as you usually have to eat on the island you are staying, instead of having options of local restaurants. There are eight restaurants and five bars at the resort. The food at LUX* is good, with my meal at the cooking class being great. A friendly Sri Lankan did an excellent job and it’s an experience I can highly recommend.

Overall very satisfied with my visit to LUX*. It’s a lovely, unique resort with excellent value for money when you compare your options in the Maldives. Most of the other resorts, on the top 10 list I’ve made, are a lot more expensive. This resort is definitely highly recommended for its value for money and for people looking for a luxurious resort with high standards in the Maldives.

You can visit their official website for more information.