When most travelers think of the Maldives, romance is usually the first thing that comes to mind. The privacy, amazing beaches, and unbelievable accommodations, not to mention epic amenities, all combine to create an atmosphere that makes couples feel like the only people on Earth. Aside from the wonderful, dedicated staff members who make everything happen, of course.
But the times, they are a changin’, and the Maldives seems to be picking up steam as a family destination. At least that’s the case at Velaa Private Island, where approximately 45 percent of the guests in 2022 have been family and multigenerational bookings, which is a 30 percent improvement from the previous year. Obviously, an inability or decision not to travel in 2020 and parts of 2021 may have inspired more families to go big, but let’s not pretend like it’s a mystery why more parents want to have experiences their kids of all ages will never forget.
Velaa Private Island is a great choice for its family influence, too. In fact, the resort’s newest addition, the Beach Bar, was inspired by the owner’s daughter’s dream of opening an ice cream stand at this destination. And while the frozen treats here are adult-oriented, the snack menu will please every guest with delicious treats like Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls and a Truffle Pizza.
As for those cocktails, we know it might be a while before many travelers make it to Velaa Private Island, so the resort’s mixologists were generous enough to share a trio of recipes to try at home. It’s not the same as sipping one on the sand after a morning of lessons at the Velaa Golf Academy by Olazábal or exploring the dive sites of the Noonu atoll, but it’s a great start.
Fascinating Frosé
Ingredients:
- 60 ml Rosé wine
- 20 ml Grey Goose Vodka
- 30 ml grapefruit juice
- 30 ml pomegranate cordial
- 20 ml sugar syrup
How to Make It:
Blend the ingredients with ice and pour into a wine glass (any style will do, since you’re not expected to have one from the Tavaru Tower at Velaa). Garnish with banana leaves.
The Myntra
Ingredients:
- 8 pieces of kumquat wedges
- 2 pieces of lime ring
- 40 ml soda water
- 50 ml pomegranate cordial
How to Make It:
Blend the ingredients with ice and pour into a high ball glass. Grate the lime over the drink and add rings for garnish.
Love in the Afternoon
Ingredients:
- 40 ml Roku gin
- 30 ml limoncello
- 30 ml pineapple juice
- 20 ml lemon juice
- 10 ml sugar syrup
- 2 tbsp passionfruit pulp
How to Make It:
Combine the ingredients with ice and shake well. Pour into a chardonnay glass and garnish with a banana leaf or flower.
