TRAVEL NOTES
THE AYADA MALDIVES TO OPEN
Not that you need many excuses to visit the crystal blue waters of the Maldives, but now, at least there’s an extra-timely motivation to book a flight. Ayada Maldives is a new resort set to open in autumn (pictured above), a brand spanking new 112-villa extravaganza on Maguhdhuvaa Island in the sensational Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Each of the resort’s luxurious villas, pictured above, will have its own sleek swimming pool. The resort will boast a 3,500 square foot spa for relaxation, 24 hour butler, an array of water sports, a kids club, two a la carte restaurants, a pool bar (most importantly) and a traditional Turkish cafe.
www.ayadamaldives.com
SUMMER LUXURY DEALS
Just the thing for a last minute spot of escapism. Small Luxury Hotels of the World has launched a series of summer offers on its collection of 95 hotels, including extra complimentary nights and 20 percent added value on stays, including a massage and dinner at the Historic Ettikettu restaurant at its lavish Kerala hotspot The Kumarakom Lake in India; ten per cent off the best available rate at its chic Barcelona hotel the ABaC Resort, pictured left, and seven nights for the price of five at it’s spectacular destination the Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Hotel in the Maldives. We’re already packing our suitcases. Info: www.slh.com