Kandolhu Maldives has been voted #14 among the top Indian Ocean Resorts in the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers' Choice Awards, with an impressive score of 95.23, as chosen by votes from hundreds of thousands of readers from across the world.

Nestled in the turquoise waters of the North Ari Atoll, Kandolhu Maldives is a tiny island paradise where laidback luxury meets intimate, personalised experiences. This five-star resort enchants guests with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and exceptional culinary offerings.

With just 30 intimate villas, Kandolhu Maldives offers guests a rare sense of seclusion. Days are shaped entirely by personal choice, whether snorkelling among the colourful house reef, indulging in Varu's Spa signature wellness therapies, dining under the stars, or simply unwinding on soft white sands.  

Known for its Ultimate Inclusions All Inclusive, Kandolhu has superb gastronomy housed across five gourmet restaurants from open-air dining with panoramic views at the island's Mediterranean, Olive to Sea Grill; opening as the sun sets over the island guests are invited to savour fresh seafood, sizzling cuts and experience the unique taste of the tandoor, while for a flavour of the Far East, guests can dine at Banzai and indulge in vibrant sushi and fresh specialties cooked with flair on the teppan, under the starlit sky.

Ata-Roa serves authentic, simple and light street food with classic and unique takes on ceviche and tacos.

This year's Reader's Choice Awards recognition comes as Kandolhu Maldives unveils its most luxurious villa yet: the Deluxe Ocean Pool Villa. Tucked away in a postcard-perfect corner over the island's lagoon, this stunning new room category elevates the guest experience with panoramic ocean views, a private pool, and bespoke living spaces designed for ultimate relaxation and privacy.

We are deeply honoured to be recognised among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler,” said Claudio Stupan, General Manager of Kandolhu Maldives. “This award is a reflection of the heartfelt dedication of our entire team, who strive every day to deliver exceptional and truly personalised experiences to each guest. At Kandolhu, we take pride in creating an atmosphere where laidback luxury meets authentic Maldivian hospitality, and we are grateful to our guests from around the world for their continued trust and support.”

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, now in their thirty-eighth year, are among the most respected accolades in global travel, shaped by the voices of discerning travellers. With over 750,000 votes across this year's awards, this recognition celebrates Kandolhu Maldives' ability to combine intimate luxury with the kind of experiences that leave a lasting impression. The Maldives continues to be an outstanding island destination for discerning travellers, voted #1 in the Top Islands: Readers' Choice Awards 2025 Africa & The Indian Ocean with 92.31 of the vote.

-ENDS-

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About Kandolhu Maldives | www.kandolhu.com

Kandolhu presents the brilliance of authentic hospitality paired with raw luxury and intuitive service. Fringed by a house reef offering endless underwater adventures and a plethora of dining options, this tiny island makes for that perfect haven.

Kandolhu Maldives - Intimate luxury, genuine people.

About Universal Resorts | www.universalresorts.com

For over half a century, Universal Resorts has curated unforgettable Maldivian stays, elevating the experiences of discerning travellers while championing the vibrant local community. As a family-owned enterprise with a deep-rooted passion for the Maldives, it aims to continually redefine the standards of travel in this extraordinary destination.  Universal Resorts' portfolio of eight distinctly natural-island resorts caters to every desire, from relaxed luxury to adventurous escapes. The dedicated team ensures seamless service and flawless execution, so guests experience the Maldives as it should be.