NIYAMA by Per AQUUM

Niyama is where we stayed for 4 days during our vacation to the Maldives. Since we never go anywhere in the Maldives except for the resorts, I feel that I should include an article on Niyama.

From the creator of exceptional Huvafen Fushi, comes its little sister NIYAMA, officially opened in  February 2012.

My first glance of Niyama from the seaplane

Situated on the south western atoll of Dhaalu, NIYAMA is accessible by 40 minutes seaplane flight from Male. Spanning two idyllic islands of Embudhufushi and Olhuveli, NIYAMA offers more than a plain vanilla romantic Maldivian escape. Is is designed for the young, or at least young at heart. But most of all, for fun, indulgence and pampering to the next level. Incorporating traditional Maldivian elegance in naturally modern aesthetic, NIYAMA is set to the the next hottest resort in the Maldives following the footstep of it's sister resort, Huvafen Fushi.

The jetty

The reception

NIYAMA features 86 studios and pavilions. The uniqueness of these studios and pavilions is the Deli In, whereby each Studio and Pavilion will be stocked with a fridge brimming with gourmet deli items, cheeses, olives, cold cuts, wines to name a few. What a thoughtful way to merge the timelines in between meals.

The row of water studios

Walk way leading to the water studios

The walk way leading to the entrance of our water studio

The interior of Water Studio with Pool. The difference between Deluxe Water Studio is that Deluxe  Water Studio has an additional jacuzzi next to the infinity pool. 

The bath tub with a view into Indian Ocean

The bathroom excluding outdoor shower and toilet

Deli In. Some of the items are free. Pop corn machine provided.

The fridge form part of the Deli-In. There is smoked salmon, salami, cheese etc.

Deck chairs

The view from our bed

The infinity pool

The water studio exterior

Edge, NIYAMA's signature restaurant appears to be floating on the ocean 500m offshore, accessible only by boat. 8 metres below is the world's first underwater music club, Subsix. International DJs. Glass walls overlook a spotlit sea. Modern moods with a flair for the marine. Just imagine partying the night away beneath the waves. Now, you see why NIYAMA is for the young or young at heart traveller! For pure indulgence in food, NIYAMA challenges the conventional with its culinary exhibitionism. Starting at Epicure for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Unwind at Fahrenheit, with a glass of champagne in hand, watching the Maldivian sunset from the rooftop is beyond words. Tribal, a modern day campsite look alike with culinary offerings influenced by the cuisines of South and East Africa, the Middle East, Asia and South America. What makes it interesting is that Tribal allows guests to observe and maintain close interaction with the Tribal Chefs. Unusual cooking preparations include hot rock grills, Asado grills and open fire. As for the wok, it is nothing unusual for me, being a Malaysian Chinese.

Tribal

Epicure at the bottom and Fahrenheit on top

Dune

Fancy a massage at 2am, anyone? Not a problem at NIYAMA. Another first in the Maldives is the Lime Spa, which is open 24 hours each day offering bespoke treatments utilising and infusing indigenous holistic components from around the globe, to well, create an unique experience. Lime also include his and her beauty salons. For just in case, the nail chip, hahaha.

PADI dive courses and numerous water sports are available at Float. A marine biology lab for coral rehabilitation and education, guided snorkeling to the house reef and coral garden.

This is one resort not to be missed in the Maldives. Indulge in the vast variety of food, especially the well stocked fridge, guilt free. Pamper yourself in the 24 hour spa or engage in the watersport, NIYAMA has everything for everyone.

I shall leave you with the view from the sunrise water studio.