Highlights
- Large yet peaceful island resort
- Huge dining choice, gym, spa, tennis, yoga
- Adrenaline water sports e.g. hover boarding
- Snorkelling, diving, kite surfing, jet skis
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EnquireLUX* South Ari Atoll is a delightful paradise getaway accessed via a 25 minute seaplane flight from Male. Despite its large size, the resort has a peaceful and welcoming feel and offers a wealth of activities for all age groups.
There are no fewer than 193 private villas, some of which line the pristine beach, while others are set on stilts above the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon. There are over half a dozen options for accommodation, ranging from the Beach Villa and the Family Lagoon Villa, to the Temptation Pool Water Villa and the LUX* Villa. All options are specially designed to make the most of their enchanting and unspoiled surroundings; they offer generous amounts of space and are decidedly light, bright and airy. The contemporary decor is minimalistic yet very comfortable.
There are no less than eight different places to eat. Japanese dishes are prepared out in the open, and there’s a range of cuisine from delicious Mediterranean favourites to Middle Eastern classics served up at informal dinner buffets accompanied by live entertainment shows. The bars offer an array of refreshing drinks in picturesque spots dotted across the resort. The Veli Bar enjoys a stunning poolside location, while the Lagoon Bar with its beachside setting is a top choice for watching the sunset. The East Bar is a unique over-the-water bar with double-sized loungers on the decking, as well as swinging double seats.
The dynamic range of water-based activities include stand-up paddle-boarding, windsurfing, jet skiing and kitesurfing, to name a few. For adrenaline junkies, fly boarding and hover boarding are strongly recommended. Those who want to explore the lagoon’s rich marine life can do so by going snorkelling or scuba diving from the 5* PADI diving centre. Luxury catamaran excursions are a top choice and are a great option for families looking for something all age groups can enjoy together. There are also many activities for those who prefer to stay on dry land. Yoga classes are worth signing up to and the spa is definitely worth visiting for those keen to enjoy soothing massages and relaxing treatments. Scattered across the island are a fully equipped gym, tennis courts and two infinity pools.
This all-inclusive resort is very welcoming, especially to families. PLAY is the resort’s designated kids club, which is open to children aged 3-12; for those aged 13-17 there’s Studio 17. Both offer a range of engaging, age-appropriate activities, along with several meal options. Parents are reminded that children must remain under constant adult supervision.
I would like to say a massive thank you for organising our Vietnam trip. The itinerary and execution were superb, as was the attention to detail. I would also like to thank the agent who was on the end of my whats app chat (I have no idea who they were!) – always available, always quick to respond, and kept me updated regarding times etc. Also, the guides Dan (north) and Tien (mid) were just excellent, and we really enjoyed their company. The lady (whose name I have forgotten) who was our additional guide for the DMZ day was exceedingly good and made that day very special.
fiona g reviewing Complete Vietnam For Families on 15 April 2024
Trip was great and all the arrangements were excellent so thank you for all the help!
Drivers and transfers were all good - on time and very good service on each trip.
Accommodation was lovely - Douar Samra was amazing (weather could have been better but lovely regardless). Riad in Marrakesh was also great!
All in all a great trip and we loved the variety of the mountains, Marrakesh and the coast.
Thanks you once again!
Hardeep S reviewing Boutique Marrakech & Atlas Mountains on 15 April 2024
I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.
Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.
El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.
Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.
So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last
Juhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024