On an island of its own: This is the Maldivian resort of your dreams

There are only 51 villas and suites, each with its own pool.

NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort.

By Akash Arora

Updated April 1, 2025, first published September 2, 2024

There are only 51 villas and suites, each with its own pool.

A lot of places around the world claim to be the "new Maldives" but the fact of the matter is there's no other place quite like this island nation, where gin-clear waves lap spotless white beaches and luxury overwater villas seem to float above tranquil lagoons.

The opening of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort - on a tiny island of its own, no less - is making a trip to the country even more enticing. There are only 51 villas and suites, and each of them comes with its own pool and fancy touches such as espresso machines, Bluetooth speakers and outdoor rain showers. An onsite spa along with an exhaustive array of eateries - from Malaa (which specialises in local cuisine) to Sea Spray (which excels in international flavours) - take care of other holiday must-dos. Looking for more between meals and massages? The Indian Ocean is your oyster, complete with a vivid reef and colourful marine life, which you can explore as part of a swim or snorkel, right in your "backyard". world.nh-hotels.com

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Words byAkash Arora

Akash is the Deputy Travel Editor for Australian Community Media. He has lived and worked in four cities around the world – Sydney, London, New Delhi and New York – and, at last count, travelled to 42 countries.

My all-time favourite destination is ... New York. You can drop a pin anywhere in Manhattan and start walking in any direction, and the sights and sounds of the city that never stops will begin to stimulate all your senses in an instant.

Next on my bucket list is … Scandinavia - at the peak of summer, when the sun almost never sets.

My top travel tip is … If you’re flying to Sydney from anywhere in the world, pick a window seat far from the wing on the left-hand-side of the aeroplane. If the weather gods and flight path align, you’ll have the most incredible views of the Sydney Harbour and Opera House.