Why go here? Truthfully, the question that should be asked here is “Why not?” The Maldives offers pristine white sand nearly as fine as baking powder and waters so clear that, on a sunny day with a light breeze, the water sparkles like a Kirakira filter (remember those days?). It’s the epitome of a dreamy beach holiday, but when you combine that with the country’s first dedicated wellness resort, you’re in for a real treat. Centred around four pillars – mind, skin, microbiome, and energy – Joali Being delivers so much more than just a spa.
Here, practitioners specialised in Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, naturopathy, and nutrition are on hand for guidance. An encyclopaedic treatment menu covers the usual suspects along with the less familiar, such as chi nei tsang, a centuries-old abdominal massage rooted in the Chinese philosophy of Qi. It’s also home to many a superlative: the archipelago’s first cryotherapy chamber, the region’s largest fitness centre, a one-of-a-kind sound therapy room.
Needless to say, the bar has been set high, and admirers (or, should I say, competitors) have taken note. What’s the vibe? Following a scenic sea plane ride from the international airport, you land directly at Joali Being’s bobbing jetty, where a welcome committee awaits. Hand to heart paired with the chime of “Marhaba” (Arabic for “welcome”) and a genuine smile, the staff leave an indelible mark of warmth.
Any stressors that may have come with the arduous trip.