My dreams aren’t even this good. 

You research, plan, pack and pray that everything you saw online in reviews and images is as good as it seems. Often times you wind up mildly disappointed or with resort envy.

I was fairly confident that The Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru would deliver. And it did.

But first, how did I find this incredible resort? Well, it started back on the Tere Moana cruise last March.We met a nice group of people and they raved about the Four Seasons Explorer cruise through the Maldives. It was clear that this vacation was the best they’d ever taken– and this group was well traveled, so that said a lot. I think I researched it that night while sailing through the Caribbean.

For the last year, every review, every candid image and every response from the Management on Trip Advisor piqued my interests. After sifting through nearly every resort in The Maldives it was clear, The Four Seasons was the winner. Now, how in the world do I get there?  See that whole experience here.

Arrival

The sea plane drops you off on what feels more like an American Ninja Warrior Challenge than a dock. The FS staff quickly grabs your arm and ushers you and your luggage onto a speedboat. The water was moving so much that they wanted to get you in a seat as quickly as possible. Once we were moving en route to the pier and island, you were given a cold towel and a bottle of water. It was such a nice reprieve from the flying hot-box we arrived in.

The staff is clad in all white and is greeting you with huge smiles and warm waves. You feel an immediate relief of happiness and relaxation. WE MADE IT!!!

Each staff member ushers a guest to the hotel lobby, which is a short walk down a sand pathway through dozens of perfectly manicured palm trees and gardens. You can see the open air reception area in the distance, with its white curtains blowing in the breeze. At first glimpse, you know immediately the rest of the resort will be just as beautiful.

They staff offer you a seat, a cold towel and a coconut filled with fresh, cool coconut water. You’re given a resort map, fill out some brief paper work and then you are off! They load you and your luggage into a golf cart and show you to your suite.

The Room. 

I went back and forth with Beach Bungalow or Overwater Bungalow. I know you’re supposed to love the Overwater Bungalows, but when we were in Tahiti, all I dreamt of ALL NIGHT LONG was tsunamis– probably because you can hear the water underneath you at all times. It’s great in theory, but not so great when you don’t sleep for 10 days. I really considered the ones here at Landaa, and next trip, I may try it out.

We ended up booking the Beach Bungalow with pool and found out upon arrival we had been upgraded to the Beach Villa with Pool! Score! Room 206 was PERFECTION. From the moment you approach the exterior blue door, you know you’re somewhere special. The sandy pathway through your space in completely indicative of an exotic, natural environment in a faraway land. Honestly, it should be called a house, because your whole “room” and “yard”  with pool and beach are all part of your space.

The Villa features a 2 story outdoor pavilion with sofas, chairs, table, and a hammock and day bed upstairs. Each night the staff comes for turn down service and lights all the lanterns and lamps around your space. It’s magical. I truly wish we had used the gorgeous outdoor table and pavilion during a mealtime.  Next time. 

Your beach has an additional set of beach chairs, umbrella and Bali bed. And get a load of our beach! We never once saw anyone but the staff, delivering cocktails or covering each chair, should a rain storm approach.

I highly suggest taking a walk on the beach for sunrise at least one of the mornings. Chances are your jet lag will catch up with you at some point and what better way to enjoy the stunning scenery?

The Villas are every bit as stunning as the outside space. High vaulted ceilings give way to a subtle blue ombre, to make you feel like you’re staring at the sky. The king sized, four poster bed was draped artfully in mosquito netting, although we never once felt like we needed it for anything other than ambiance. The air conditioner in the room was excellent and given the fact that all the pathways at Landaa are sand, we never once had sand in our room. The staff is impeccable when it comes to cleanliness.

Landaa had prepared the room for our arrival with fresh fruit replenished daily, and of course welcome Roederer Champagne and chocolates.

The bathrooms were efficient and well planned, with a deep soaking infinity tub on one side, separate dual sinks, and an indoor AND outdoor shower on the other side. The Four Seasons did an amazing job bringing in the natural elements with all the glass walls in these room.

The Details

Landaa really thinks of everything– they supply you with a beach bag to use during your stay! Who wouldn’t use such a cute bag? They all have different sayings, like “Love Often” or “Live Well”  on the opposite side.

Clearly, it’s ALL in the details– the adorable “clean my room” sign.Your room comes equipped with bikes to use during your stay. How do you know whose bike is whose? Well, Landaa has branded each bike with your initials. Fear not, you won’t lose your bike. And should one indulge in a bit too much vino at dinner, your bike will magically appear back at your suite in the morning.

Don’t worry if your sunglasses happen to end up dirty from a day at the beach– they will be cleaned and placed on micro-cloths each evening on your credenza for tomorrows use.

Should you encounter an pop-up rain shower– don’t fret. Umbrellas are ready and waiting at every corner. And you’re in your bathing suits anyway, so what difference does it make? Time for a dance in the rain!

Some tips

— You cannot go wrong with any of the Landaa Giraarvaru rooms. Don’t sweat it. They’re all amazing.

—  If you like more peace and quiet, ask (in advance) for the rooms closer to the lobby. There is hardly ever anyone on the pier side of the island.

— There are some beach villa rooms closer to the main beach and restaurant. This beach isn’t as private, but would be easily accessible to the daily events.

— The beach Bungalow Rooms are a bit closer together, and overlook the spa and overwater bungalow side of the island.

— Book AT LEAST 7 nights. You’ll wish you had. However, even if you can only go for a few days, do it. It’s worth every moment.

— If you’re considering both the FS Kuda Huraa and Landaa, my suggestion is to start at Kuda and then come to Landaa.

The Part 2 post will dive into the facilities available at Landaa, the restaurants and impeccable service.

Until then, happy travels!