On January 15, JW Marriott, a luxury brand of the world-renowned Marriott Group, unveiled its second resort in the Maldives, the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. With its array of prestigious luxury brand resorts, the Maldives is a hotspot for attention when new properties from major global hotel chains open, and this new addition is no exception. Magazine Voyage had the exclusive opportunity to visit the resort and experience the allure of the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll, which is still a bit of a secret to the public.
Located just 15 minutes away by speedboat from Malé, the capital of the Maldives, which houses the international airport, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll offers remarkable accessibility. The Maldives, though a long-haul destination from Korea, takes over 10 hours of flight time with no direct flights available, the travel time often exceeds 14-15 hours when including layover. After such a lengthy international journey, the 15-minute boat ride across the crystal-clear Maldives waters feels more like a rejuvenating break than an another transfer. The fresh sea breeze revives both body and soul, making it a refreshing prelude to the tropical paradise awaiting ahead.
Cruising over the ocean breathing such fresh air, at some point, you will see a sea of brilliant Turquoise, reminiscent of the cocktail “Blue Lagoon.” This is JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort.
JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort Ocean Pool Villa
JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort consists of 80 private villas, 47 of which are overwater villas that allow guests to immerse themselves in the Maldives’ stunning turquoise blue lagoon. These overwater villas all feature private pools, and the resort offers two entry categories: the Overwater Pool Villa and the Ocean Pool Villa. The primary difference lies in their location and the views they offer, while the size and layout remain identical.
The Ocean Pool Villas span 155 square meters and are set above the beautiful Maldivian lagoon, offering a surreal experience.
The endless expanse of turquoise blue lagoon offers an unobstructed, refreshing view, and combined with the luxury service of JW Marriott brand, it provides an unparalleled, tranquil getaway.
While the private pools in the villas (measuring 4m*2m) might seem small in comparison to those of similar luxury resorts in the Maldives, they come with another trendy feature: the overwater hammock. This unique addition allows guests to relax in a manner exclusive to overwater villas.
The bed is strategically positioned to face the large windows, offering breathtaking views of the Maldives’ sparkling sea even while lying down. And the high ceiling adds a sense of grandeur, and the oriental-inspired design, featuring intricate woodwork, creates an atmosphere of unique luxury.
A dedicated dressing room is located right next to the villa enctrance, connecting bedroom and bathroom. This layout is an example of the thoughtfulness JW Marriott has put into optimizing space for a seamless guest experience, a true testament to the brand’s commitment to comfort and convenience.
Coming back home from outside, you can directly change into indoor clothes and wash before going into the bedroom. It can make your stay experience more pleasant.
The bathroom, with its high ceiling decorated in oriental design emphasizes the unique and luxurious atmosphere exclusive to JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll.
Through the large window next to the bathtub, natural sunlight pours into the space, as if it’s been carefully integrated into the design. The fixtures and accessories in the bathroom gleam under the warm Maldivian sunlight, enhancing the sense of elegance and creating a truly radiant experience.
JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort Beach Pool Villa
The Beach Pool Villas at JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll are similarly designed to offer luxury and comfort. With a size of 155 square meters, these villas are practically identical in layout and design to the overwater villas.
But are positioned right on the beach, offering a spacious private beach area. This placement allows for a more expansive villa experience. The private pool is oriented towards the sea, with a row of palm trees providing shade over the sunbeds and beach umbrellas. This emphasizes the tropical resort feel, perfect for guests who want to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the beach.
And the outdoor shower, located behind the bathroom, is surrounded by towering palm trees and lush greenery, adding a unique touch of nature to the showering experience.
The view from the bathtub also offers a very different charm compared to the overwater villas, bringing the lush tropical garden closer.
Which villa to choose
With its opening just a month ago, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort is set amidst the expansive turquoise lagoon, ensuring that whether you stay in the Ocean Pool Villas or the Beach Pool Villas, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy the Maldives’ stunning beauty.
If you’re someone who dreams of lounging on the waters, surrounded by infinite blue lagoon, the Overwater Pool Villas or Ocean Pool Villas would be perfect. However, if your idea of the ideal retreat involves pristine white beaches and lush tropical gardens, the Beach Pool Villas are the way to go.
But why settle for just one of these experiences? If you’re planning to visit JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll, I highly recommend extending your stay and mixing the villas to experience all the aspects of this attractive property. Given that the price is relatively affordable compared to other luxury resorts in the Maldives, an extended stay will enhance your overall satisfaction, allowing you to make the most of this beautiful, diverse paradise.
