The dual destination holiday is nothing new, but one resort group is taking it to new heights, says Lucy Cocoran.
If a city breaker and a sun chaser are planning a holiday, you could always try to find a compromise or flip a coin. But why settle for one option when you can have both? The two-stop hop has long been popular with travellers seeking variety. Not only is it cost-effective, but it allows for a more rounded experience, offering the best of both worlds, no trade-offs required.
The Dubai-to-Maldives route is a well-worn path, beginning in one of the world’s most vibrant cities and ending in one of its most idyllic archipelagos. JA Resorts has become a major player in the twin-centre game. Now, the resort group has an exclusive offer that allows guests who spend seven nights at JA Manafaru Maldives to enjoy two free nights in one of its Dubai properties.
For the Dubai stay, JA The Resort encompasses three unique, but equally luxurious hotels in the port town of Jebel Ali, half an hour’s drive from Downtown Dubai. Stretching across more than 128 acres, there are world-class eateries, health and wellness areas, and a generous onsite golf course. Guests can also enjoy the 800m stretch of private beach and marina facilities, should they need to moor their boat. While the city of Dubai has plenty to entertain visitors, it’s entirely possible to never leave the resort’s confines.
Guests are spoiled for choice, particularly when it comes to dining and amenities, which reads like a shopping list of fun for kids and adults alike. Four swim-up bars are spread across seven pools while tennis courts, horse riding stables and a par 35 golf course are dotted around the grounds. Watersports include windsurfing, laser sailboats, and waterskiing, alongside a luxurious spa and multiple gyms to rejuvenate body and mind. There are 25 dining venues spanning a range of cuisines, from spice-led Middle Eastern to laidback, pub-style fare. Exotic flavours are best enjoyed at Kinara, JA Lake View’s Indian restaurant, which ignites the senses.
Headed up by world-renowned chef Vikas Khanna, the venue draws flavour inspiration from India and South Asia. Do yourself a favour and order the tandoori lemon prawns. If you can drag yourself away and venture into town, you’ll be able to marvel at the architecture of the world’s tallest building, indulge in designer shopping or discover old Dubai in the souks. Adventure-lovers can even get some dune-based thrills with a desert driving expedition. Once you’ve had your city – or desert – fix, it’s time to head back to the airport and chase the sun.
JA Beach Hotel - Dubai
This is a popular choice for young families, with plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Balancing a lively yet laidback kind of energy, there is plenty of luscious green space and sun loungers for ample relaxation.
JA Palm Tree Court - Dubai
If you’re seeking tranquility, JA Palm Tree Court is the most secluded of the three properties. Exuding tropical grandeur, around 90 peacocks roam the beautiful gardens, including an elusive white variation. The hotel is comprised of 212 villa suites for privacy, while still offering great beach access.
JA Lakeview - Dubai
The most modern of the three hotels, JA Lakeview offers large-scale luxury with deluxe rooms and junior suites. Accommodation options can include a two-bedroom suite with private jacuzzi, as well as rooms with spacious balconies and terraces.
JA Manafaru - Maldives
Set on a private island in the Haa Alif Atoll, JA Manafaru is a tropical oasis. The expanse of cerulean sea is breathtaking when you first catch sight of it from a 15-seater seaplane. Situated in the most northerly tip of the Maldives, it takes around 80 minutes from Malé, the Maldivian capital, to reach the secluded resort.
Given that 99% of Maldivian territory is water, there is no shortage of marine activities available. Spend a day swimming with diamond-shaped manta rays, try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or simply park your towel on the beach. If achieving zen is the only item on the agenda, you’ll have plenty of time to make that a priority. It only takes an hour to walk the resort’s perimeter, but if you slow down and really take it all in, there’s plenty to be discovered .
First time visitors are advised to book the quintessentially Maldivian over-water villas. Start each morning with uninterrupted views of crystal clear waters and enjoy a floating breakfast in your private pool. Plunging from your private deck into the shimmering ocean is a proper bucket list experience. From some rooms, you can even watch the seaplanes touch down and take off — a scene which unfolds like a moving postcard.
The joyful staff are a big part of what makes JA Manafaru so special, as they really take the time to get to know you. Highly skilled teppanyaki chef Cipriano Basa gives a hilarious dinner performance at White Orchid, which is as delicious as it is entertaining. Tomato, the resort’s chief gardener, is a big hit with guests, beloved for his infectious smile and encyclopaedic knowledge of plants. JA is one of few resorts that really spotlights Maldivian cuisine. Try a traditional breakfast of smoked tuna with shredded coconut and lime, served with steaming dhal and fresh chapati.
Of course, they’re well-versed in the classics, too. Italian-style bistro Andiamo is perfect for a spot of lunch. Here, you’ll find tasty pizza and homemade ice cream, with the restaurant even boasting its own pool among the greenery. Wine aficionados will appreciate a visit to the oldest, deepest wine cellar in the Maldives. Made from volcanic Indonesian rock, the temperature is set to preserve some of the world’s finest wines, as well as other luxury tipples, such as LOUIS XIII cognac. To complete the experience, there is a set menu to match your drinks.
While relaxation sets in almost immediately, a little encouragement never hurt anyone. JA’s wellness centre takes up one third of the island, making it one of the country’s largest spas. Here, age-old healing rituals are brought to life in a collection of aromatherapy massages, facials, body scrubs and soothing wraps. And there’s plenty of opportunity to engage with local culture. Whether it’s cooking a traditional Maldivian curry with the culinary team or visiting the cultural museum, the resort is eager to showcase the lesser known aspects of island life.
On the last night, you’ll receive a wishing stone that you’re invited to drop into the ocean. As the name implies, this is your chance to wish for anything you desire, although you’d be forgiven for wishing on a return visit to Manafaru. Come morning, the 6am seaplane departure is made bearable by the cheerful waves from the JA team. And with that, it’s time to soar away above the blissful blue ocean one last time.
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