Day One in the Maldives: Jumeirah Vittaveli

PHOTO: The view of the dock at Jumeirah Vittaveli from the welcome reception (c) Sery Kim

Famous for having founded one of the signature landmarks in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab, aka the hotel that looks like a sail rising magically from its own little island, the Jumeirah Hotel Group has built numerous signature hotels throughout the world. Included in their portfolio is the pearl-like string of islands located in the vast submarine mountain range within the Indian Ocean: the smallest Asian nation of all, the Maldives.

Famous for being the penultimate honeymoon destination, a little known fact about the Maldives is it has not one but two luxurious Jumeirah properties. Vittaveli is the more family friendly resort though, in reality, it is still one of the most luxurious and romantic destinations in the world, filled with honeymooners, anniversary-celebrators, and lovers of all kinds, ages, and stripes. Dhevanafushi is, if it even probable, even MORE spectacular and romantic than Vittaveli with a focus more on the individual ocean villas which stand still a few feet above the ocean.

I was fortunate enough to spend 12 hours -- clearly not enough time -- at the Jumeirah Vittaveli property during my first day in the Maldives. After a nearly 19 hour flight around the world (D.C. to Dubai is about 14 hours and Dubai to Male is another 4-ish hours), I was exhausted and completely discombobulated with massive jetlag.

PHOTO: My wraparound pool in my Jumeirah Vittaveli beach villa (c) Sery Kim

Naturally I perked up when I saw my "Beach Villa with Pool." 31 of these villas are on the property and they abut directly to the Indian Ocean, with its sugary sands and crystal clear azure waters, with a pool and massive vegetation providing relief and privacy.

PHOTO: My "backyard" pool, aka the Indian Ocean (c) Sery Kim

Not only did I have this breath-taking view, I also had an open rain shower which could easily fit two, a traditional wooden swing, an outdoor bath (with plastic netting at night to keep away the bugs), a tremendously large bathtub and great amenities.

PHOTO: My outdoor/open rain shower (c) Sery Kim

PHOTO: The other side of my pool (c) Sery Kim

PHOTO: My outdoor bathroom at Jumeirah Vittaveli (c) Sery Kim

PHOTO: Hitting golf balls towards the Ocean Suite Views (c) Sery Kim

I took a long dip in the pool; laid out on the beach; hit some golf balls (I have a pretty good draw swing providing superb loft on my eco-friendly balls); ate the best curry of my entire life; before sadly heading out to my next Maldives property.

I know I will be back! Be sure to read the blog more later for an in-depth review!