“Experience the uninhabited island of Minimenza where you will be whisked away to the blissful intimacy of your own private island where your personal chef and server will greet you upon your arrival with glasses of perfectly chilled champagne,” explained Mr. Waikei Wong, Director of Sales & Marketing at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi Maldives. In an interview, we discussed the origin of the property, luxurious villas and their decor, unique dining experiences and much more.

Tell me a little bit about the history and location of Jumeirah Dhevanafushi in the Maldives.

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi was opened in April 2011 as the first all-suite resort in the Maldives. The resort is hidden away in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, the most southern atoll north of the equator.

In terms of over-water or beach-side seclusion, how would you describe your most luxurious suites in terms of spaciousness, decor, and amenities?

The Ocean Sanctuary Sunset measures an impressive 340 sqm in size, encompassing two bedrooms, separate indoor and outdoor living space and a private pool. This particular suite benefits from direct access into the crystal clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The décor is contemporary with a traditional Maldivian touch equipped with state of the art Apple media center, sizeable marble bathroom and offering a luxurious selection of Aromatherapy amenities.

When it comes to culinary experiences, what kinds of dining options are available on-site, and what would you recommend as signature dishes and cocktails?

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi offers an array of food and beverage experiences for the most discerning of guests from pan-asian at Johara restaurant, located on the Ocean Pearls through to Mediterranean delights at Azara restaurant, located on the main island. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi also offers lavish themed nights from Champagne & Lobster through to traditional Maldivian flavors. Jumeirah Dhevanafushi believes in locally sourced ingredients and as such we offer our guests a culturally connected dining experience. A great example of this concept is one of our signatures dishes, called ‘Maldivian Dhona Riha’, a traditional Maldivian yellow curry dish centered around local reef fish. A signature drink at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi also ensures a traditional experience as we source young coconuts, locally knows as ‘Kurumba’ and make them a centerpiece of our famous ‘coconut mojito’.

The Maldives is known not only for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters but perhaps even more so for its incredible diving areas, snorkeling and a host of other water activities. What kinds of offerings are available at on-site?

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi boasts a 5* PADI dive centre & water sports facility which caters for all levels of water sports enthusiasts from novice divers through to adrenalin seeking jet skiers. Big game fishing is a must on our luxurious private yacht en route across the equator!

For those planning to truly unwind, what signature spa treatments would you recommend for those traveling from afar needing to relax, and for those eager to treat themselves to a luxurious experience?

The award-winning Talise Spa in Jumeirah Dhevanafushi is suspended over the gently rippling waves and ensures a concept of total relaxation. Guests are spoilt for choice after a long flight and we do recommend our signature treatment, “Ultimate Bliss”. The treatment encompasses a head to toe journey that will awaken your senses while pampering your skin. Your body will feel relaxed and rejuvenated, whilst your skin and hair will feel deeply moisturized.

If you were to craft a 3-day weekend itinerary to truly the experience the property and its surroundings, what would the perfect long weekend look like?

Any stay at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi is not complete without experiencing your own private island! Jumeirah Dhevanfushi has an exclusive private island to which you can enjoy:

• One-hour private snorkeling excursion: Experience a truly unique private snorkeling expedition to the hidden treasures of a submerged island in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
• Four-hour picnic at Minimenza: Experience the uninhabited island of Minimenza where you will be whisked away to the blissful intimacy of your own private island where your personal chef and server will greet you upon your arrival with glasses of perfectly chilled champagne.
• Indulge yourself with our Chef’s gourmet picnic hamper that comes complete with fine wines of your choice.
• Gourmet Menu with Caviar, Seafood and Meat Selections, served with Champagne Salon Cuvee ‘ S’ Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs, 1999.
• Two-hour Jet ski: Enjoy the thrill of a jet-ski ride while you explore your own private island.