Modern travellers seek more than just the thrill of exploring exciting destinations. An increased focus on sustainability has inspired many to keep their travel footprint to be as green as possible. Visiting picturesque towns and cities for selfish gains is not the vibe anymore – and travel destinations have taken note of this. Designing spaces, activities and structures to align with the conscious goals of their patrons has become one of the top priorities. And my stay at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island gave me a bird’s eye view of this eco-mission to make a difference. Their collaborative efforts with environmental organisations aim to help drive change and promote sustainable travel. Additionally, contributing to the local Maldivian community with community outreach programs helps further the mission. The idyllic island paradise houses villas and suites with indoor-outdoor living spaces architecturally designed to blend effortlessly with the environment. With added facilities to rejuvenate one’s body and mind, here are five experiences that green tourists will love!
1. Experience Innovation-Led Underwater Living
CMRI’s vision to infuse your islander experience with genuine nature-led experiences goes beyond logistics. You can encounter being truly one with nature at The Muraka Residence, an exceptional three-bedroom, two-level residence with a master bedroom submerged over sixteen feet below sea level. The term ‘Muraka’ translates to ‘coral’ in Dhivehi, and epitomises how the residents live and thrive in the natural landscape of the Indian Ocean. The striking interiors, designed by Yuji Yamazaki, are inspired by the insides of a luxury car or the ceiling of an aeroplane. The environment inside the underwater villa is controlled, right down to the acoustics, to allow a distinct sense of solitude that is never lonely and always peaceful. When down there, don’t forget to take a peek at the exterior corners; you can see ocean reefs growing on the structure – yet another testament to the seamless existence of CMRI in the nature of the Maldives!
2. Get Unparalleled, But Not Unchecked, Access To Nature’s Best
Nestled in the South Ari Atoll, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is surrounded by lush tropical greenery, amazing diving and snorkelling areas, and unparalleled access to the Indian Ocean. The property is designed to seamlessly interact with the nature around you. You can enjoy a stroll around the twin island property bare feet, without disturbing the natural harmony of the space. A quick dive in the Indian Ocean is easily accessible from the over-water villas. All you need to do is grab your diving gear from the supply room and be mindful of the current. CMRI ensures that the guests’ interaction with nature around them is as sustainable as possible; from snorkelling trips accompanied by marine biologists to complementary sunscreens that are reef-safe and ocean-friendly.
3. Revel In Education-Led Exhilarating Experiences With Ocean Life
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island boasts proximity to forty-two dive sites and private diving excursions by speedboat. Thrill-seekers can swim with whale sharks and manta rays on the South Ari Atoll. The boat tour is preceded with a detailed session on the gentle giants and how to make the most of your daring plunge without being bothersome to them. The resort also offers the opportunity to witness turtles, pods of dolphins and shoals of vibrant marine life in their natural habitat. Patrons are advised on the best way to interact with oceanic life without ever getting in their way.
4. Partake In The Coral Regeneration Program
Fancy yourself a coral pal miles away from where you live? The CMRI team’s coral plantation session became an instant highlight of my trip. The sentiment is shared with patrons as well, especially when informed of the harmful effects of coral bleaching on ocean life. Launched in 2017, the coral regeneration program aims to protect the reefs surrounding the resort. You can accompany marine biologists from the Ocean Maldives team to place coral lines, and maybe even plant them close to coral plantation spots around the island. The best part of this activity? Drop your email IDs with the team and they’ll send you timely updates on how your planted reefs are thriving!
5. Get Inspired By Locally Sourced Ingredients And Food Philosophy
CMRI’s sustainability goals seep deep into its food philosophy as well. Launched in 2014, the Hydroponics Garden Project is growing produce after careful research on the type of crops that can be effectively grown using a hydroponics system, in a tropical climate. The garden is now able to supply the resort’s twelve restaurants and team member cafeteria with ingredients including hot basil, mint, lettuce, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and green capsicum. The use of the garden eliminates the cost of importing these items into the country. It also presents an exciting opportunity for the culinary minds of CMRI to design and execute unique and dynamic menus for elevated gastronomy!
Contact Information:
Email: mlehi.maldives@conradhotels.com
Telephone: +960 – 668 – 0629
Website: conradmaldives.com
Address: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, South Ari Atoll, 20077, Republic of Maldives
Images: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
