inspired retreat: “Milky Way from the Maldives”
Luxury boutique private island resort Milaidhoo Maldives has announced the dates for its ‘Milky Way from the Maldives’ retreat. The seven-day retreat, held in partnership with astronomy expert Valerie Stimac, will take place from 15th-21st May 2023 and is designed to allow guests to discover the incredible dark skies of the Maldives and become immersed in the wonder of the universe.
Milaidhoo has teamed up with Valerie, dark sky specialist and author of the Lonely Planet book Dark Skies: A Practical Guide to Astrotourism, to tap into Astrotourism – a new trend which sees travellers choose to visit destinations with low light pollution to enjoy the beauty of the galaxy.
‘Milky Way from the Maldives’ includes a stargazing session on a secluded sandbank, wayfinding beneath the stars on a traditional Maldivian Dhoni, a dinner under the stars, astrophotography and night-sky mythology sessions focused on the history of the night sky from the viewpoints of various cultures in the Maldives, as well as a Healing Space Massage. Those joining the retreat will also have the opportunity to name a star.
Guests can also opt to spend the night as castaways under the stars on their very own deserted sandbank, transformed with all the luxury comforts of a Milaidhoo Villa, a canopied four-poster bed and all, and a private yacht anchored nearby. After indulging in a sumptuous dinner, they are then left to bask in the serenity of their surroundings, encircled by gently lapping waters and the dazzling midnight sky.
“I am delighted to partner with Milaidhoo and look forward to sharing my knowledge of the night sky. ‘Milky Way from the Maldives’ will offer a rare opportunity to truly disconnect from daily life, lose oneself in the vast magnitude that surrounds us, and learn something new. The Maldives is 90% water, meaning there is virtually no light pollution and making it the perfect destination for those interested in astronomy. We will enhance this by ensuring all lights around the resort are switched off during stargazing sessions for an almost pristine ‘dark sky’ experience,” said Valerie.
HOW
- The seven-day retreat will take place from 15th-21st May 2023, and guests can book the package that includes the following:
- Stargazing on a secluded sandbank including a Dinner under the Stars
- Wayfinding beneath the stars on a traditional Maldivian Dhoni
- Astrophotography and Night-sky mythology sessions with Valerie – stories focused on the history of the night sky from various cultures in the Maldives, including the influence of Tamil, Sinhalese, and India
- Healing Space Massage – Milaidhoo’s special massage inspired by space
- Naming a star
- Limited bookings are available for this package
The Astro Retreat package can be added to your booking for USD 5950 via sending an email to astroretreat@milaidhoo.com or call directly at +960 660 77 88. Room rates during that period start at USD 1600 ++ per night.
Milaidhoo can be reached easily by a 30-minute seaplane flight from the international airport in Male’ or a 15-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo domestic airport in Baa Atoll, followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride to the island resort.
ABOUT MILAIDHOO MALDIVES
Milaidhoo is a pristine island paradise proudly rooted in local island traditions. This boutique luxury resort features 50 contemporary Maldivian style pool villas, custom-made and made for comfort designed by a renowned Maldivian architect. Each guest is assigned an Island Host to help create meaningful experiences and cater to the guest’s every need. Activities include over-water spa treatments, sunrise yoga classes and snorkelling excursions to view the incredible house reef.
Dining is a highlight, with Milaidhoo being home to three world-class restaurants, including Ba’theli. This unique Maldivian restaurant reflects the islands’ heritage and is built in the shape of three traditional boats on pillars over a lagoon. The restaurant’s innovative and delicious meals are steeped in Maldivian tradition, with each dish inspired by favourites of the ancient maritime Spice Route.
Milaidhoo is the authentic Maldives, a resort of re-invented luxury, where guests feel they belong, experiencing bare-foot informality within this tropical island’s natural, lush setting. As an adults-only resort, Milaidhoo is child-free and tranquil where any dream can become a reality, from sunset dolphin cruises to sailing to a deserted sandbank for a private beach picnic.
For more information: www.milaidhoo.com
