Emirates Captain Travel Blog ~ Maldives

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Greetings from the Flight Deck! I am Captain Tony Benecke and I fly for Emirates based in Dubai in the U.A.E.

My wife and I recently decided to check out the all NEW Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives and give you all a first hand Review & Blog!

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We are both very fortunate living in Dubai as the Maldives is one of our favourite destinations on the planet ... and can be reached in just over 4 hours!

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... suffice to say it did not take Reanna too long to find her favourite spot and favourite view on the island!

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Everything about this resort was 1st class, and after only two days we found ourselves extending our stay!

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Firstly, I would like to commend Cinnamon and the Maldives government on a well-run and responsible approach to the covid-19 pandemic. All facilities and procedures are transparent and user friendly while maintaining a vigilant approach.

If you are considering a trip to the Maldives don’t hesitate, it will for sure help you forget the current world issues!

If you like our Blog and Review of the Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa and want to book the same amazing deal for Airline and Travel Agency Employees we did, simply CLICK HERE or see the link at the bottom of this page. Enjoy!

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First things first! The arrival on our Emirates flight and processing through customs to the Cinnamon desk was seamless and hassle free. We were met by the Cinnamon agent and swiftly checked in for our Seaplane flight.

The flight to Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa was a comfortable 40 min flight with simply breath taking views of the islands and Atolls along the route.

On arrival at the resort, we were met by management and a welcome band, the check in procedure was smooth and efficient and takes place on a stunning reception facility over the water between the two idyllic islands.

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Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives takes romance to another level. You’re looking at one of the largest shallow lagoons amongst resorts in the Maldives – and a prime setting for a photo shoot!

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Passing by the spectacular infinity swimming pool, poolside bar and chill out area in our buggy en-route to our room, very nearly had us stopping to plunge in before even getting to our room...

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Let's Talk Rooms!

Ok so there are basically two choices, Beach Bungalows or Overwater Bungalows. It simply comes down to personal choice. Whichever you choose you are certainly not going to be disappointed. 

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Beach Bungalows and their front row beachfront location allows you to view the beautiful ocean ahead from the cooling shades of the thick foliage. The sun loungers in front of the rooms are all great ways in which to take in the scenery or snooze off an afternoon.

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They check out nicely inside too and are extremely well furnished and equipped. 

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It was a difficult choice between having the sand between your toes and instant access to the beach the moment you set out of the Beach Bungalows, OR to gazing out over the ocean and at marine life below you in the Water Bungalows.

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In the end Reanna and I opted for an Water Bungalow with our own private terrace, hammock and direct access to the sea below.

Choose either sunrise or sunset views in these wistful romantic hideaways.

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A warm message on Valentines Day! 

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Ultimate Privacy!

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View the sea below!

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Stroll to the beach!

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Who's Hungry?

The resort is an All-inclusive resort and offers two packages, Premium all-inclusive and the standard all-inclusive. We chose the standard package and were not disappointed. The package includes buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner and a surprisingly large selection of cocktails, mixed drinks and a selection of house wine and beers. 

The food at “Malaafaiy” was fantastic! A far cry from the other buffet meals you traditionally find worldwide at other resorts. The selection was always varied, fresh and the various chef stations allow individual preferences if needed. The staff were some of the friendliest and attentive I have ever had the privilege of meeting!

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The “Crab” seafood restaurant is an al la carte restaurant, serving a variety of fresh daily specials. It is well worth a visit! The Executive chef was on hand the night we were there and spoilt us with an exceptional 5 course presentation. 

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As an avid seafood lover, I can say with confidence that the Lobster Thermador was easily the best I have ever eaten (my wife even loved it and she does not like lobster!)

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Not Rested Enough?

Mandara Spa at Cinnamon Hakura - Huraa is another of the resort’s focal points, supported by a service style that considers the guests needs for escape, unobtrusive delivery and capitalizes on the dramatic ocean location.

The Spa offers 5 double rooms, a reception, relaxation lounge, retail boutique and a manicure-pedicure area.

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Bringing some Balinese decadence to our humble island is Mandara Spa – specialists in relaxation and indulgent therapies.

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The Sea!

One of the drawcards of the Maldives is naturally the water! The water sports facility “Dive & Sail” is well equipped and staffed by incredibly friendly and equally talented dive instructors and staff to assist in getting every possible level of enjoyment out of your stay.

The dive team lead by Magic and assisted by Kalhey and Julia will fulfil all your dive requirements and the Meemu Atoll will not disappoint.

I had the privilege to go out with Magic and Kalhey to snorkel at the Manta cleaning station on the southern end of the Meemu atoll. It is an experience I will not forget! Up close and personal with such large Manta’s is truly a life experience.

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A few more touches!

For the kids there is a playground and entertainment centre if they tire of the other activities.

The Platinum Island Adults-Only section is a short walk away over the winding path over the water separating the islands. It features private bungalows and a private pool with “Vevu” bar and restaurant. A truly private retreat.

The “Veli Bar” and pool are a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon and Rumesh the head barman is super friendly and attentive and a fantastic addition to the team. Evenings feature a live band, with many couples dancing through the evening.

The well-appointed and modern gym looks over the lagoon and is an inspirational way to keep up your fitness routine.

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And Lastly!


A HUGE THANKS
 to General Manager Arosha Pananwala, Ali Waseem Front office manager, Linfor the front office, Hazel our customer representative, Rumesh the head barman, Magic and his team at “Dive&Sail”, Niyaz our housekeeping attendant with his gift of amazing bed art and decorations. 

To all the rest of the staff, you are a credit to the Cinnamon brand and should be proud of the fantastic customer services you provide. 

All in all, I can highly recommend a stay at the Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa!

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