From Ice Cream to Island Luxury — Our Next-Level Maldives Adventure

After our unforgettable stay at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, my 10-year-old son Cayden now considers himself something of a Maldives resort specialist. So when I told him we were heading off to the next island — this time a five-star escape — his excitement was palpable.

But before we even arrived at Heritance Aarah, we got to experience a little taste of luxury at the domestic seaplane terminal, where Cayden, stretched out on a swinging chair, fully embraced the VIP treatment. He looked like a mini celebrity, enjoying the exclusive Heritance Aarah lounge as if it were second nature. I caught the expression on his face, and it dawned on me — this is how he will want to travel from now on. Travelling in style definitely resonates with my tween — and it set the tone perfectly for what was to come.

Welcome to Heritance Aarah. Landing on water was — once again — spectacular. Travelling in a seaplane never gets old. From the moment we arrived, the experience felt elevated. Cayden was immediately impressed by the welcome drink and our dedicated butler, who graciously escorted us to our villa. His jaw literally dropped when we walked into the room. And once the butler had stepped out, he turned around with wide eyes and threw himself into my arms. “This is amazing,” he exclaimed, completely in awe.

He wandered into the semi-open bathroom, looked around like a property mogul, and declared: “This is massive.” I just smiled — because yes, it was. Spacious, luxurious, and designed to wow even the most discerning little traveller.

And let’s talk about food. The team at Heritance Aarah actually wins Olympic medals for their culinary excellence. Awards may not impress a 10-year-old — but when a picky eater dives into his meal like he has been starved for a week, you know something special is happening. Cayden quickly became his own little food critic. The new pizza shack was his go-to lunch spot, and the team at Ralu restaurant won his heart (and stomach) with their kindness and perfectly crispy chicken nuggets and fries — of which he devoured two portions.

You might think that’s standard kids’ fare, but let me tell you — this is the same child who refused pizza on an overseas trip (not in the Maldives, of course) more than once. So yes, Heritance Aarah passed the test while I enjoyed my perfectly prepared tuna dish and other culinary highlights.

Later in the afternoon, to Cayden’s absolute delight, we stumbled upon the PlayStation in the recreation area — and I was promptly initiated into the world of virtual fighting games. He taught me all the controls, grinning from ear to ear, and we battled it out like seasoned gamers before heading off to check out the badminton court. A perfect mix of pixels and play — and such a fun bonding moment.

The kids club at Heritance Aarah? Let’s just say, Cayden gave it a very thorough review. It didn’t take long before he confidently declared it “Best Kids Club in the Maldives.” On our last day, just before departure, he asked to go back one more time — high praise from the cool kid who normally needs coaxing to take his eyes off his devices.

He was especially proud of his temporary tattoo — a sugar-based, non-toxic design carefully drawn by the lovely Kids Club Manager. He wore it like a badge of honour and insisted on returning to get the little red crab redone just before we boarded our departure seaplane.

Luxury holiday with kids? Absolutely. Heritance Aarah gets two enthusiastic thumbs up from both of us.

To any parent thinking five-star luxury might not suit children — I am here to tell you otherwise. It’s not just possible; it’s exceptional. At Heritance Aarah, you will encounter thoughtful staff, family-focused touches, and a kids club that truly makes children feel like VIPs. What more could you ask for?

And as for Cayden — he is already planning his return. Maldives, you have created a little island connoisseur. 

For booking inquiries, please contact your preferred travel partner or let us know how we may assist and direct you.