MALDIVES: Gili Lankanfushi
Our arrival in Malé was met with a gusty, grey sky—a far cry from the tropical paradise we were about to experience. But the moment we were greeted by the Gili Lankanfushi staff, any lingering travel fatigue disappeared. They whisked us through the crowds and escorted us to the speedboat that would take us to the resort in North Male Atoll, a short 20-minute ride. As we settled into the boat, we were handed refreshing drinks and stylish canvas bags that read “No News, No Shoes”—a gentle reminder to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. From that moment, we knew we were in for something special.
Arriving at the jetty of Gili Lankanfushi, we were met with yet another warm welcome. The team greeted us with cold, scented towels and refreshing drinks, then escorted us on a buggy tour of the island. Gili Lankanfushi is a small, intimate paradise—only 1.5 kilometers in length—but it feels wonderfully remote, offering the perfect escape.
The Cruso Residence comes with its own dedicated butler, "Mr./Ms. Friday," available 24/7 to cater to your every need. From arranging personalized activities like Ayurvedic consultations and cooking classes to recommending the best spots for snorkelling, no request is too big or small. Need to head to the main island? A private motorized boat is at your service. You can also explore the island on a personalized bamboo bicycle, which is both eco-friendly and charming.
Our home for the stay was the Cruso Residence, a luxurious stand-alone villa. As we walked in, we were speechless. The villa spans 250 sqm, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer uninterrupted ocean views. The wooden floors, tasteful details, and airy atmosphere made it feel both modern and natural. Outside, an expansive sundeck with catamaran nets, sun loungers, and a private water hammock awaited us. The rooftop terrace was a perfect spot for stargazing, and the dining area offered complete privacy for those special moments.
The bathroom was another highlight—a semi-open-air oasis with a deep tub, a glass-walled shower, and direct ocean access. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of luxury and nature, this villa has it all.
While the villa was a destination in itself, Gili Lankanfushi offers plenty of activities to fill your days. From a 24-hour gym and tennis courts to marine biology tours and a jungle cinema, there’s always something to do. For those who want to indulge, the spa offers a range of treatments, and curated experiences like dining under the stars will create memories that last a lifetime.
The food at Gili was nothing short of exceptional. Every meal we had was better than the last, with a mix of Indian, Indonesian, Sri Lankan, and Maldivian delicacies that left us in awe.
But the real highlight? Breakfast. As someone who treasures breakfast above all else, Gili’s morning spread was an absolute treat. The Maldivian breakfast, Mashuni, a fresh tuna salad with coconut, chili, seaweed, and chapati, became our morning ritual. Imagine the lightest, most refreshing taco you’ve ever had—only better!
Each morning, we received a letter detailing the day's special activities, along with fascinating facts about the resort. Our days typically flowed from lazy, sun-drenched mornings to active afternoons with snorkelling and watersports, followed by sunset drinks on our private rooftop terrace, and dinners under the stars.
One evening, we were treated to a private beach dinner, and it was simply magical. With the soft sound of waves in the background, we sat at a candlelit table, gazing up at the stars. The Japanese dinner served was one of the best we’ve ever had—an unforgettable, romantic experience that perfectly encapsulated the magic of Gili.
If I had to choose one standout feature of Gili Lankanfushi, it would undoubtedly be the staff. The team at Gili is the epitome of kindness, knowledge, and professionalism. From the moment we arrived, we felt like cherished guests, and the personalized service was a welcome change from the more generic luxury experiences I’ve had elsewhere. Their warmth and attention to detail truly made our stay exceptional.
In every way, Gili Lankanfushi was a wonderful first stop on our itinerary. Located just a short distance from Male International Airport, it strikes the perfect balance between privacy and convenience. From the stunning villas to the exceptional food and service, it truly was the perfect getaway. For anyone visiting the Maldives for the first time or seeking a conveniently located 5-star luxury resort, this is a great place.
We left with hearts full of gratitude and memories we’ll cherish forever!
If you wish to learn more and book your stay, please contact me right here.