Anantara have several fine resorts in Thailand and are expanding with new properties in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. This hotel group has taken over three resorts that are next to one another on the east side of South Male Atoll. Dhigufinolhu is now called Anantara, Veligandu Huraa is now called Naladhu and Bodu Huraa has retained the same name. These three islands used to be connected by long walkways but these have been removed and a fleet of boats shuttle guests between the islands. Naladhu is an up-market island with only 19 beach/ocean villas. Bodu Huraa is a 4-star property currently in use only by Italians. The resort will receive some refurbishment before the end of 2007 and will be launched to all markets including the UK.
Anantara is a 5-star property and represents yet another entry into the sector of the market with rooms in excess of $500 per night. They have made a fine job and the Beach Villas (70) and Over-Water Suites (40) are luxuriously appointed with everything one could wish for. The resort has four restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Other facilities include a large infinity pool, superb spa, fitness centre and championship tennis court plus well-equipped watersports centre. The Dive Centre is located on an neighbouring island closeby. There are some excellent diving areas closeby with a manta point, shark point and superb caves. There is also a wreck.
The resort has some fine beaches and a wonderful lagoon for windsurfing, kayaking and swimming. Snorkelling off the beach is poor because of the sandy lagoon and guests need to take a trip by boat as the drop-off is too far to reach and open to the ocean.
Like a number of resorts in this category, Anantara is great if you are looking for somewhere with total peace and quiet and you are not worried about evening entertainment or socialising with other guests. The resort is ideal for honeymooners or couples wanting to escape the ratrace of modern life. An impressive selection of wedding package are available.
