Located on Kihavah Huravalhi Island in the Maldives on a UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is a top luxury retreat in the Indian Ocean. While its parent company, Anantara Hotels & Resorts, is based in Bangkok, the resort itself is in the Maldives.
This festive season, the resort is offering something different: a holiday celebration inspired by the four elements: “earth, water, fire, and air,” as noted in a Travel PR News release. The resort, famous for over-water and beachfront villas, a stunning lagoon, and protected coral reef, provides a tropical escape for families and adventurous travelers.
At A Glance
Getting there, requires a 30-minute seaplane trip from Malé. Anantara reveals it was “designed in harmony with nature, where not one tree has been moved.” Interestingly, the architecture combines influences from the Indian Ocean, Arabia, and Portugal.
You may choose from 80 villas and residences. Luxuriously appointed, each provides a private pool, direct beach or lagoon access, and ocean views. Amenities include snorkeling gear, kayaks, bicycles, Nespresso machines, a minibar, and even a “pillow menu selection for a good night’s rest.”
Notably, the luxury resort isn’t ideal for budget travel. However, if you have the funds, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience with special festive activities.
A Celebration Of The Elements
This year’s holiday program is based on a “celebration of earth, water, fire, and air.” Here’s what to expect:
- Christmas Eve & Day: The festivities start with the island’s tree lighting and Santa’s arrival “in true Kihavah style.” Guests enjoy beachfront dinners and sunset cocktails. Children’s activities include gingerbread house decorating, a pirate cruise, and a wall-climbing challenge.
- New Year’s Eve: The theme shifts to a “cosmic” celebration, with “cosmic-inspired cocktails by the sea,” a gala dinner with live cooking, music, and a countdown with fireworks.
- Orthodox Christmas (January 7): The day features “a serene celebration inspired by the element of water,” with peaceful music and dining by the ocean.
Beyond The Holidays
Anantara Kihavah offers year-round indulgence. Enjoy a private sunset wine tasting on a sandbank or dine at SEA, the world’s only underwater wine cellar and restaurant. Additionally, a spa provides wellness rituals inspired by the island. Prefer the outdoors? Well, you could explore the protected reef, known for its manta rays and other marine life.
While many luxury resorts exist in the Maldives, few completely rethink the holiday season. By focusing on seasonal themes, family traditions, and fine dining, Anantara Kihavah makes a December or January visit memorable. The resort calls it “the ultimate destination to celebrate the season in luxury and style.” For travelers seeking a slice of island living with imaginative events, you’ll enjoy a festive season like no other.
A Delicate Environment
Although the luxury of Anantara Kihavah seems impressive, the long-term future of the Maldives faces a fragile future. Future generations may not have the chance to experience it. As a Daily Sabah article noted a few years ago, most of the Maldives’ islands are less than a meter above sea level, making them highly vulnerable to rising oceans.
The future of the place depends on global climate outcomes and the preservation of coral reefs. Therefore, the islands that make these special retreats possible may not be here for future generations. For now, you can book and plan your trip on the Anantara website.
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