Stars in Your Eyes

Gazing up at the night sky and having an awe-inspiring view of the stars, constellations and planets above is one of the most remarkable and humbling experiences we can have. How insignificant we feel, but how soul-stirring it is knowing there is almost nothing between us and the astral objects transmitting their illuminating presence. And all the while, as we try to discern Cassiopeia from Orion’s Belt, we can only marvel at the celestial bodies which have been there longer than the very definition of time itself.

For thousands of years, this bewitching obsession with the seemingly unfathomable expanse above us has defined the human story. From the first ancient civilisations and cultures that viewed them with mystical reverence and the early seafarers who used them as navigational tools, through to the interrogative astronomers of the Renaissance and the scientists, astronauts and astrologers of today, mankind has never lost its fascination with what lies above and beyond the final frontier.

For those of us who live in or near cities, however, the increase in light pollution and construction of high-rise buildings has meant that we rarely get to see these sublime celestial displays, meteor showers or once-in-a-lifetime planetary events.

It’s for this reason that the Maldives is perfectly positioned to give stargazing visitors (and star-crossed lovers) the best shows on Earth.

Of course, the islands themselves are blessed with inordinate amounts of natural beauty during the day, with exquisite white sandy beaches, pellucid seas and sealife. But it’s when the sun goes down that the real action begins. Take the views from the purpose-built stargazing platforms or the inspiring sights of marine life and phenomena in the ocean, for example. There are so many opportunities to witness unforgettable after-dark moments in this part of the world, it gives new meaning to the word “nightlife”.

There’s no doubt that the Maldives is already a special location, with strings of islands and atolls, many of them situated with designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. Thanks to luxurious resorts, pristine beaches and access to some of the world’s rarest marine life, you wouldn’t think it could get any better. But the area still has one of the most unique aspects left for visitors to experience: the ne plus ultra of stargazing opportunities at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas’ SKY cocktail bar. At this dream location, you’ll find the purpose built 3.8 metre ASH dome of an overwater observatory. In the evening, when the sun has disappeared beyond the horizon, you’re invited to lay back on one of its comfortable seats or daybeds, with a carefully mixed cocktail or glass of Champagne in hand, and peer towards the heavens.

Once you’re comfortable and engrossed, the resident SKY Guru astronomer will be on hand to explain their histories and share stories concerning the stars above, and provide you with captivating insights about these one-of-a-kind celestial events. Be prepared to be awe-struck as the local expert, armed with a laser pen, points out everything from solar and lunar eclipses to meteor showers and rare planetary positions, often as they unfold before your eyes. Guests can then take turns to look through the observatory’s state-of-the-art super-powerful telescope. With a viewing range of 30 million light years away, when they say “you ain’t seen nothing yet”, you know what they’re talking about.

What also makes the Maldives such a mecca for stargazers is its geographical position. As the islands are situated in a remote sui generis setting on the equator, it means people are afforded a rare view of both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, and can witness things that many European and North American countries hardly ever see.

Something you must make time for in the Maldives is a personalised dining experience. At Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, you are invited to go one step further and choose a private island of very your own to enjoy a meal with a friend or loved one. First, you’ll be taken to a location even more secluded than the resort itself. From there, you will be shown to your table, or possibly a specially constructed dining area on the beach.

Then, with gossamer-soft sand encircling your toes and the gentle waves providing the perfect soundtrack to the night, your private chef will be on hand to prepare and serve you a freshly cooked lobster and a glass (or two) of something suitably thirst quenching. And just when you think the evening can’t get any better, you can look up to see Saturn’s pale yellow rings, the captivating belts of Jupiter, or perhaps the Antares constellation shining across the galaxy. In this exclusive eatery, you can see more stars than in all of the Michelin Guide books put together.

Another way to combine entertainment and the stars – in a celluloid as well as a celestial sense – is to watch a movie under the glorious night sky. This is an option at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort with its Cinema Under the Stars evenings. From the comfort of giant bean bags on the beach, guests can choose from Hollywood blockbusters, all-time greats and family favourites for the ultimate in al-fresco movie nights.

Of course, nighttime in the Maldives doesn’t always have to revolve around the stars. Like much of the region, it makes the most of its proximity to, and abundance of, the marine life that surrounds it. With fantastic coral reefs, playful dolphins, gentle turtles, graceful manta rays and even the odd whale shark, the waters are a true diver’s paradise. When the sun goes down, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort ensures that this vibrant and unique environment can still be explored thanks to its 45-minute nighttime snorkelling expeditions.

Under the instruction and assistance of trained guides, you’ll be able to gain a whole new perspective on an underwater world that few have ever seen. Because much of the sealife here is nocturnal, the likes of parrotfish and groupers only appear once the sun goes down. The thrill of entering the water after dark and exploring the depths of an ocean bursting with energy and eager to reveal its secrets is something you’ll want to dive into again and again.

It’s not just in the sky where you can observe a galaxy or two. Depending on the time of year you visit, you might even catch a glimpse of an ephemeral event, which occurs ex nihilo across some of the islands’ beaches: the “Sea of Stars.” This phenomenon, which has long fascinated travellers, looks like someone has sprinkled the streaks of the Milky Way along the water’s edge.

This brilliant experience is actually the effect of a specific species of bioluminescent plankton that lives in the clear Maldivian waters. The more it is disturbed, the more bright blue light it emits. As the incoming waves split the seas asunder, the plankton crashes against water and sand to create a lucent covering of a shoreline nebula. Demystifying this magical occurrence doesn’t take away any of its wonder, however, and it remains one of the Maldives’ true standout natural sights.

Finally, what are the Maldives for if not for relaxation and self-care? It’s why the best resorts offer exceptional wellness and spa treatments that are designed to help you drift off into the best nighttime state of your life. Sleep, as we know, is essential to our mental and physical health, as we use the time to rejuvenate ourselves and enter the dream-like conditions that allow our minds and bodies to reset. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has a 90-minute Slumber Ritual that takes place in the evening as the stars start passing overhead. First, an essential oil bath primes your body for relaxation, which is followed up by a soothing lavender massage, before you climb into a luxurious 1,000-thread-count bed for the ultimate night’s rest.

Whatever you come to the Maldives for, whether it’s the islands’ idyllic natural setting, unique marine environment, or next-level resorts, you can always find unexpected celestial experiences that are, by their very nature, out of this world.

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