If you have had the delight of visiting the Maldives, then you know that most resorts have a similar vibe. Picture: all white everything. White crisp bed linen awaiting a peaceful night’s sleep, white sheer curtains looking out to the crystal clear ocean and even the whitest of powder-soft sand, which stretches the entire island. Paradise, for some. Absolutely. But, what about those who want to add a ‘little spice’ as TikTok would have us saying?
Oaga Art Resort has taught me what I need in a holiday, and that is soul. From the moment I stepped from the boat, across the clearest ocean I’d ever seen in my life, to the island which had me singing Moana’s ‘Where You Are’ in my head for the entirety of my stay, I felt at home. For someone who gets a little anxious (at many things truthfully) but especially while travelling, simply being looked after by staff who treat you, almost like family, is the perfect remedy.
One thing Oaga doesn’t lack, which I think seems to be rare in the Maldives, is colour. I don’t know about you, but colour just lifts my spirits. I need it around me to feel good, even if I am in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Inspired by the captivating history and mesmerising folklore of the Maldives, Oaga’s walls are covered in colourful art created by local artists and craftsmen. They’ve taken the tropical oasis that everyone knows the Maldives to be, and married it with a more contemporary feel, overflowing with Maldivian culture. My idea of paradise.
What different types of accommodation do they offer?
When you say ‘The Maldives’ to most people, I guarantee you they picture the stunning villas which sit on pillars above the sea. I did, before visiting Oaga. Don’t get me wrong, they do have amazing Water Villas with brightly coloured slides aiming straight into the ocean, but I was won over by the resort’s Haruge Beach Villa, where I made a home out of for the duration of my stay. They pitch the triangular hut-like villas as the selling point for honeymooners, and I have to say, I couldn’t agree more. With its own small private circular pool and an ocean sunset view, these delightful high-ceiling houses are perfect for anyone celebrating their big day.
Romance has also been injected into their Voyoge Gallery Pool Villas, which have been inspired by a tale of two star-crossed lovers who jumped into the waters of a lake to reach each other, even though they were forbidden. Discovering the ‘Veyo Garden Stream’ which leads into each of the pools in the Voyoge Gallery Villas was just, mesmerising. It’s a little hidden away, so I’ll let you in on exactly how to find the secret haven. Head towards the water villas and you’ll find the Sobi Bar, which has an inviting swimming pool with a deceiving section which leads to the river-shaped oasis. Once you’ve found it you’ll likely be on your own and surrounded by luscious green foliage, vibrant tropical flowers and the melodious sound of the Island’s birds singing their favourite tune. Bliss.
What activities can you do?
Guests can indulge in a variety of activities that blend relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. The resort offers a range of water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs. During our snorkelling adventure, we had the incredible opportunity to swim with Black Tip Baby reef sharks and discovered the most stunning pastel-coloured pearly shells we’d ever seen.
For those seeking relaxation, there are yoga sessions to rejuvenate the mind and body. And for others who are keen to get creative during their holiday, Oaga Art Resort offers a variety of art courses and classes, called ‘Free Flow’ which they say is suitable for both beginners and experienced artists. There’s even a petting zoo with goats and parrots. As an animal lover myself, it was lovely to see cats with their kittens and chickens roaming free.
What about the spa?
Nestled amidst lush tropical garden, Oaga’s Hoba spa offers an array of treatments that blend traditional Maldivian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. You can indulge in soothing massages, revitalising facials, and immersive body therapies, all performed by skilled and friendly therapists, so you can relax knowing you are in the best hands.
The spa offers a wide range of treatments for young guests who want to relax during their vacation. The Hoba Spa's treatment menu includes a 'Kuda Kudhin Kids' section, which offers options such as the 'Kokko & Mamma/Bappa' treatment, aiming to help you and your child reconnect as you both enjoy a side-by-side massage.
How good are the food and beverage options?
The menu offers a wide variety of nutritious dishes inspired by both Maldivian and international cuisines. Fresh ingredients are the focus, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also healthy. One evening, we appreciated the change of scenery when dinner was moved from the main restaurant to the beach, providing a nice change of pace. Guests can enjoy vibrant salads, exotic fruits, and fresh seafood, all expertly prepared by the talented and accommodating chefs.
While providing delicious meals, Oaga has also made dining an experience. We were excited to try their unique 'Float-stagram' floating breakfast for the first time. Enjoying a refreshing swim, we sipped on tangy tropical juice and indulged in sweet pastries and fresh fruit. Later, we joined the 'Learn A Dish' cookery class at the Sobi Bar. Our ever-so-patient chef guided us through the process of making fragrant chicken curry with fluffy white rice and cucumber salad. It was a fun way to learn a new dish and connect with other resort guests.
Is there any entertainment?
One part of the Oaga experience that I found endearing was the way they treated their staff. They encourage them to be themselves and go above and beyond to entertain the guests. For instance, one night we enjoyed incredible Maldivian dancing that almost tempted even me, who's not much of a dancer, to join in. Another evening, a staff member showcased his amazing vocals and guitar skills as we dined on the beach. On our final night, we were treated to a fire-breathing show, while enjoying virgin mojito and a shisha. Honestly though, if you're looking for a place to party hard, Oaga might not be the best fit for you. The entertainment is cool and chilled, much like the resort itself.
