text: The Maldives has its first Radisson Hotel Group property with the launch of a spectacular new Radisson Blu resort featuring 128 beachfront or overwater pool villas, all within easy reach of Malé’s Velana International Airport.
  Located on the Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Radisson Blu Resort Maldives is now open for visitors. We explore what this idyllic tropical scheme has to offer.
  A spectacular collection of pool villas
  The Maldives has a new dream destination with the opening of Radisson Blu Resort Maldives. Each villa comes with outstanding creature comforts, including private pools, ocean views and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests arriving at the nearby Velana International Airport can take a scenic seaplane journey straight to the resort, or a short domestic flight followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride.
  Andre de Jong, Radisson Hotel Group’s vice president of operations for South East Asia and Pacific, said: “We are thrilled to open our first resort in the Maldives, one of the world’s most idyllic and iconic tourist destinations. Radisson Blu Resort Maldives is a truly spectacular property; its collection of pool villas, diverse dining, world-class leisure facilities and event space, all underpinned by Radisson Blu’s unique ‘Yes I Can!’ service ethos, will suit all types of travellers. We look forward to introducing a new era of authentic and inspiring hospitality to the Maldives.”
  Incredible views and memorable experiences
  The resort features 128 villas ranging from 215 sq m to 790 sq m, each with private pools and one, two or three bedrooms. For the ultimate experience, the Presidential Suite offers two floors of indoor and alfresco living, with glorious views of the crystal-clear ocean.
  Guests can experience marine life at the diving and water sports centre, relax at the overwater spa and yoga pavilion or keep fit at the sports court and fitness centre. A family-friendly destination, the resort features kids’ club and games room for younger guests.
  There’s an impressive range of restaurants and bars, from casual all-day eateries to fine-dining experiences, as well. These include Mediterranean and seafood grill Alifaan; high-end Japanese restaurant Kabuki; poolside bar Eats & Beats; and Crusoes, a Robinson Crusoe-inspired adults-only bar overlooking the beach. Alternatively, guests can eat in the privacy of their villa with the help of the 24-hour dining service.
  The resort is located on Huruelhi Island, just 105 kilometres from the airport, making the property easy to reach and a viable option for short holiday breaks. It also makes an ideal location for weddings thanks to the glass-walled Event Hall, suitable for oceanfront marriage ceremonies with up to 50 guests.
  According to the TOPHOTELCONSTRUCTION online database, Radisson Blu’s hotel pipeline currently contains more than 70 active projects:
  Radisson Blu is an upper-upscale hotel brand that delivers a positive and personalised service in stylish spaces.