Why Gili Lankanfushi Stole My Heart
Selecting a resort in the Maldives amidst numerous stunning options can be quite the challenge. After weeks of heavy research, including reading tons of reviews on various websites, I ultimately decided to book my vacation at Gili Lankanfushi, formerly known as Soneva Gili and renovated in 2019. Here’s why I chose this resort:
- Close to Male airport: It’s just a 20 minute speedboat ride away, making the journey hassle-free and convenient.
- Accessible by speedboat: This is a safer option than a seaplane, especially in unpredictable weather. It also saves time by eliminating the need to wait for a flight.
- Stunning lagoon: Gili Lankanfushi is home to a stunning turquoise lagoon, just like the ones you see in postcards of the Maldives.
- Spacious villas: Each villa offers ample space, with even the smallest villa spanning a generous 210 square meters across two floors.
- Privacy: The distance between villas ensures privacy, more than other resorts.
- Maldivian design: Gili Lankanfushi embodies the Maldivian vintage style both in the interior and exterior design of its villas, providing guests with an authentic and immersive experience.
- Eco-friendly: Gili Lankanfushi is committed to sustainability, implementing various eco-friendly initiatives such as solar power, desalination plants, and coral reef protection programs.
- Mr./Ms. Friday: They offer personal butlers known as “Mr./Ms. Friday,” who ensure that guests receive personalized service and attention to make their stay truly memorable.
- Sleep Under the Sky: Unlike any other resort, guests have the opportunity to request a special night under the stars on the villa’s second-floor terrace.
Aside from these reasons, Gili Lankanfushi is exceptionally attractive due to its diverse range of villa types, exquisite restaurants, and exciting activities. Allow me to introduce you to each of these highlights in detail.
Types of Villas
- Villa Suite / Lagoon Villa
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
Both the Villa Suite and Lagoon Villa at Gili Lankanfushi boast identical structures, ensuring a consistent level of luxury and comfort for guests. However, the standout feature of the Lagoon Villa is its stunning views of the turquoise lagoon, offering a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, the Lagoon Villa is equipped with a private water hammock, providing guests with a unique and tranquil experience immersed in the beauty of their surroundings.
- Villa Suite with Pool
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
The Villa Suite with Pool at Gili Lankanfushi shares the same structure as the Villa Suite, offering spacious and luxurious accommodations. The key difference is the addition of a private pool, providing guests with an exclusive and indulgent experience during their stay.
- Residence / Lagoon Residence
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
The Residence and Lagoon Residence at Gili Lankanfushi feature generously sized living rooms equipped with air conditioning for added comfort. The main distinctions between the two lie in the surrounding water color and the availability of a hammock. The Lagoon Residence offers access to a picturesque turquoise lagoon and the option of a hammock, providing guests with a unique and tranquil experience.
- Residence with Pool
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
The Residence with Pool at Gili Lankanfushi maintains the same structure as the Residence but elevates the experience with an extended sundeck area. This extension includes an infinity pool, sun loungers, a dining table, a daybed, and a large catamaran net, providing guests with an enhanced and luxurious setting to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
- Sunset Crusoe Residence / Island View Crusoe Residence
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
The Crusoe Residences at Gili Lankanfushi are not connected, requiring guests to take a boat to access both the Crusoe Residence and the main resort area. This provides an exclusive and secluded experience for those seeking privacy and tranquility. The structure of the Crusoe Residences at Gili Lankanfushi is identical to the Residence. However, each Crusoe Residence boasts the addition of a private water hammock, providing guests with a unique and luxurious amenity to enjoy during their stay.
- Family Villa
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
The Family Villa at Gili Lankanfushi is a spacious retreat spanning 350 square meters. It offers two bedrooms: a master bedroom with a king-sized bed and a twin bedroom. The villa features a living room with dining facilities and a pantry, along with a private gym. Additionally, guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace with a daybed and a jacuzzi, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment during their stay.
- Family Villa with Pool
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
Located at the end of the jetty, the Family Villa with Pool at Gili Lankanfushi offers a breathtaking sunrise view and features an L-shaped swimming pool. This luxurious villa is a two-bedroom retreat, consisting of a suite master bedroom and a guest room, ensuring ample space and comfort for guests during their stay.
- The Private Reserve
(Photograph: Gili Lankanfushi)
This extraordinary retreat is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in the Maldives. Spanning 1,700 square meters, it is one of the largest overwater villas in the world. With lavish amenities including 4 bedrooms, a private cinema, spa, gym, infinity pool, water slide, and dedicated Mr./Ms. Friday butler service, The Private Reserve offers an unparalleled experience for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate in privacy and indulgence.
For more information, guests can reach out to Gili Lankanfushi directly or consult their dedicated Mr./Ms. Friday for further details.
Ultimate Travelog 