While most of the Maldivian resorts are all about discretion and camouflaging the impact of man on the surrounding nature, SO/ Maldives comes with a refreshing approach. Photo: Courtesy of SO/ Maldives Think of it like that statement dress you wear for a special occasion, when you feel confident and are not afraid to stand out. Under the slogan “Where Castaway Meets Runway” the private island is all about bold colors and a daring sense of style for its decoration, but also even in the loungy, sexy music heard throughout the resort.
The main pool of the property in an assured patchwork of colors perfectly summarizes the spirit of SO/ Maldives, while offering the ideal backdrop for social media triumphs. Only 15 minutes away by speedboat from Malé, the island features 80 beachfront and over-water villas. Floating above aquamarine seas, the latter is generous in space, offering big circular bathtubs in the main room, spacious walk-in closets, and multiple elements of color such as bright headboards in yellow, pink, and white.
Your mood will instantly perk up. On your private terrace overlooking the infinite horizon and the Emboodhoo Lagoon there’s a pool and a hanging hammock, perfect for days of dolce far niente. Photo: Courtesy of SO/ Maldives Although there’s a sense of energy across the resort, this is also the place to relax and connect with nature.
In the spa , right by the sea, massages are heavenly. In the gym connected to the spa, on an outside wooden deck, try a sound therapy session. The treatment starts with breathing and meditation to the sound of waves, followed by exposure to different types of vibrations produced by metallic bowls that aim to heal, restore, and relax.
If you are feeling even more adventurous, ask your Guest Experience Maker (the equivalent to a private butler), to book you a shark or dolphin cruise. Photo: Courtesy of SO/ Maldives Before sunset, a traditional Maldivian wooden boat will take you to a special spot where these species can be found. Vogue spotted two types of dolphins, who proudly showed their jumping skills framed by an unexpected tropical rainbow.
At SO/ Maldives, most of your meals will be consumed at the Citronelle Club, where the menu gathers Asian specialities, grills, and a big variety of fish and desserts. Our favorites: Crisp Szechuan Duck, Grilled Maldivian Lobster in Young Coconut and Koji But er, and Fried Tonka Bean Ice Cream and Salted Caramel – it’s OK, you’re on holiday after all. If you feel homesick, Arabic dishes are served at Habada.
Celebrating Arabia’s love for great food, the set menu ($160 per person) features around 16 dishes, with generous portions. Absolutely unmissable? The tender lamb that will remind you of teta’s home-cooked food. If this alone is not its own reason to travel to this paradise, then you’ll definitely be missing out on SO much.
.. Price per night starts from $610 at so-hotels.
com Originally published in the February 2024 issue of Vogue Arabia by Vogue Arabia.
