Ambanis to Global A-Listers: Maldives’ Enduring Appeal Continues

When images of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant holidaying in the Maldives recently did the rounds, it once again drew attention to the island nation’s enduring appeal among celebrities and global travellers alike. And it brings up a familiar question many people still ask: beyond the postcard-perfect visuals, what really makes the Maldives so special?

When we think of the Maldives, the image that instantly comes to mind is that of turquoise waters, white sand beaches and water villas stretching into the sea. Almost immediately, another thought follows: but what do you really do there? With no sightseeing circuits, no monuments to tick off and no packed itineraries, the Maldives is often misunderstood as a place where you might get bored.

But maybe that’s exactly the point.

Most holidays today are exhausting. We plan endlessly, move constantly, spend more than expected and return home needing another break. In a world that is always buzzing, quiet has slowly become a luxury. And the Maldives, dotted with some of the most gorgeous properties like say The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort & Spa or Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, understands that better than most destinations.

From the moment you land in the Maldives, things begin to slow down. Visa on arrival for Indians makes entry effortless, immigration officers are warm and welcoming, and before you realise it, you are being guided into a lounge to wait for your seaplane. There’s time to sit, sip a drink and simply watch planes take off over endless blue waters.

The seaplane ride itself feels unreal. For about thirty minutes, you glide above scattered islands and shallow lagoons in shades of blue you didn’t know existed. When you land, there’s a ceremonial welcome that quietly tells you you have arrived somewhere special.

At resorts like The Westin Maldives, luxury is paired with stillness. The villas are expansive and thoughtfully designed, with indoor and outdoor showers, bathtubs and spaces that invite you to slow down. Mornings begin gently, with freshluly squeezed orange juice, barefoot walks along the shore and long swims before breakfast. There is no rush to be anywhere.

What makes this kind of holiday special is the absence of planning. There’s no itinerary to create, no transport to arrange, no daily budgeting for meals or sightseeing. Everything is taken care of once you book your stay. Your luggage stays light, your mind even lighter. It’s the kind of seamless escape that explains why high-profile travellers, including Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant and Bollywood celebrities, repeatedly choose the Maldives to disconnect.

That doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Snorkelling reveals vibrant marine life and coral reefs. There are sports courts, swimming pools, beach games and water activities for those who want movement. But everything happens at your own pace. You do things because you feel like it, not because you must.

Evenings are meant for togetherness. Family dinners by the beach, slow conversations, shared laughter and meals enjoyed without distraction. You speak to locals, learn about Maldivian food and culture, and realise that sometimes understanding a place doesn’t require museums or guided tours.

Many assume all Maldivian resorts are the same, often grouping together names like JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, and others. But each island has its own personality. The Westin, for example, stands out for its focus on wellness, privacy and calm. Adding to the anticipation this year is the much-awaited Bvlgari Resort Ranfushi, which is set to further elevate the Maldives’ ultra-luxury landscape.

 The Maldives is not about doing less because there is nothing to do. It is about doing less because you finally can. It is close to India, easy to reach, visually stunning and effortlessly luxurious. Every corner is beautiful and of course, instagrammable, every moment unhurried.

In a life filled with noise, this is a place where you rediscover silence, connection and the simple joy of being present. Quiet, after all, is the new luxury.