Located in North-West Malé Atoll, VARU by Atmosphere is a 5-star resort blending Maldivian culture with modern luxury. It features 108 beachfront and overwater villas and offers the VARU Plan™, an all-inclusive package covering dining, drinks, excursions, and activities for a seamless island getaway.
Here’s why Jo chose Varu by Atmosphere:
“Last summer, I visited several hotels in the Maldives, with Varu by Atmosphere being a standout. This premium 5* fully inclusive resort offers authentic Maldivian experiences, rustic-style accommodation, and exceptional service. Villas, whether beach or water, are spacious and cosily decorated with rustic charm. Snorkelling is fantastic, with trips to the best spots just 10 minutes away by boat, though vibrant marine life can also be found right off the beach. The resort is actively developing coral gardens to support marine conservation. Excursions such as stargazing and sunset fishing are often included, and stays of four nights or more come with a complimentary spa treatment. A major highlight was the food. The buffet at Lime & Chilli offered incredible variety, with a fantastic Tuesday brunch. The resort also features the overwater Mediterranean restaurant Nu with a rooftop bar for sunset drinks, the beachfront grill Charcoal, and Bay Rouge, a poolside bar with live music. Kaage, the traditional Maldivian restaurant, served some of the best food I’ve ever had. Everything about this resort was exceptional, and I’d highly recommend it.”
Plataran Menjangan Resort & Spa invites you to a stunning escape in West Bali National Park, where you can enjoy ocean-view villas, jungle adventures, wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and diving. Dine on fresh seafood at The Octagon Ocean Club or enjoy Balinese cuisine at Wantilan Open Kitchen. Unwind at Padma Spa, set among mangroves, or explore vibrant marine life in the nearby reef. A perfect retreat for nature and adventure lovers!
Here’s why Katy chose Plataran Menjangan Resort & Spa:
“Plataran Menjangan Resort and Spa is a peaceful hideaway located in the spectacular West Bali National Park in Indonesia. Here you will be surrounded by rainforests, mangroves and crystal clear waters. It is all about the location – you can soak in the surrounding wilderness, with beautiful ocean and mountain views, opportunities for hiking, kayaking to snorkelling or diving among colourful coral reefs. There is the chance of seeing wildlife such as Menjangan deer, forest monkeys and Bali starlings. As an eco-retreat, Plataran Menjangan Resort and Spa is internationally recognised for its environmentally responsible efforts also. The accommodation consists of traditional Joglo villas, nestled in the natural landscape, either in the forest or right by the ocean. This is a great addition or alternative to a Bali beach stay – a perfect retreat for those seeking untouched nature and adventure.“
Set on the edge of Yala National Park, Wild Coast Tented Lodge offers a unique blend of adventure and luxury. Its Cocoon Suites feature copper bathtubs, four-poster beds, and panoramic jungle views. Dining is an immersive experience, with beach dinners, bush lunches, and oceanfront meals, all inspired by Sri Lanka’s natural bounty.
Here’s why Nathan chose Wild Coast Tented Lodge:
“This is probably the most unusual safari lodge in Sri Lanka and it’s just wonderful. The Cocoon Suites are a bit like space pods in the jungle, protecting you from the wandering wildlife outside as you sit and watch with a nice Ceylon cuppa (or something stronger as it’s one of the few all-inclusive-only properties in the country). The pods themselves are exquisite with a design that seems part sci-fi and part Victorian hunting tent, but somehow works – and total privacy where you can’t see any of your neighbours, so you get a real lovely intimate jungle experience. The whole place is just beautiful – the main bar and restaurant are a bit of an architectural marvel, and the wild coastline which gives the lodge its name is stunning and dramatic with waves crashing against the rocks. It’s the perfect place to come back to after a day’s safari.”
Set in a 126-year-old coffee and spice plantation in India, Tranquil Resort offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Guests can stay in treehouses or colonial-style bungalows and explore 10 scenic walking trails. Meals are farm-to-table, with South Indian cuisine made from organic, homegrown ingredients. A perfect blend of heritage, comfort, and nature.
Here’s why Gary chose Tranquil:
“I had the pleasure of staying at Tranquil in Wayanad during a work trip in September, and even though it was just for one night, it turned out to be a real highlight. Ajay, Nisha, and the wonderful team make you feel incredibly welcome. After a busy day, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a cheeky G&T in the charming outside bar area to unwind. The pool area is fantastic, providing a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. Accommodation options at Tranquil are varied and cater to different preferences, whether it’s the spacious suites, unique Treehouses, or for a family, a luxurious three-bedroom pool villa. For those seeking an adventure, the Braveheart trek is a must-try. This lovely plantation walk leads you up into the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views from the summit. Tranquil truly lives up to its name, offering a serene and memorable stay.”
