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agoda.com showcases new resorts in the Maldives

agoda.com showcases new resorts in the Maldives

agoda.com, a leading global hotel booking site and part of Nasdaq-listed Priceline Group, today announced the addition of five new properties to its resort listings in the Maldives.

A nation composed almost entirely of paradise islands, it would take a lifetime to explore every perfect beach in the Maldives. With twin chains of 26 atolls - more than a thousand islands in total - it’s impossible to even imagine visiting them all, as incredible as that journey would be. Luckily, the beauty of the Maldives is consistent across the archipelago, from the northernmost atoll of Haa Alif to the far southern reefs of Addu.

An unforgettable island getaway is practically assured - once travelers decide which resort is best for them, it’s just a matter of getting to Malé international airport in time to make their transfer. The following resorts are some of the newest in this spectacular part of the world. Giving travelers more choice of accommodation in the Maldives, each offers its own style of luxury, with great service, plenty of facilities, and, of course, perfect locations.

Opening rates for these new properties are now available through Agoda.com - traveler should check transfer details in the ‘Important Notice’ section of each hotel page.

Dusit Thani Maldives, Mudhdhoo Island
The Dusit Thani Maldives marries Thai hospitality with classic Maldivian landscape: palm fronds, soft sands and blue skies reflected in an even bluer ocean. Here, guests can choose from overwater or beach villas with or without private pool. The location - Mudhdhoo Island in the Baa Atoll - is a 35-minute sea plane ride from Malé airport. Nearby, a UNESCO-protected marine park plays host to a feeding ground for manta rays and while sharks.The Dusit Thani’s villas are equipped with every conceivable luxury: king bed, outdoor rain shower, satellite TV, iPod dock, internet TV, Nespresso machine and Wifi.

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There are multiple bars and restaurants onsite, plus tennis, fitness studio and kids area - not to mention the largest swimming pool in the Maldives. An onsite marine biologist and guest eco-program allow visitors to better understand and preserve this unique environment. Dusit Thani Special: 25% discount! Rates from USD 563 per night Valid from April to August, 2012

Viceroy Maldives, Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll
Less than an hour’s sea plane journey north of Malé, the Viceroy’s 61-villa property inhabits a 17-acre crescent of serene tropical territory. Villas are designed like upturned fishing boats, chalk-white walls and sleek interior design setting them apart from the rustic, spice-colored bungalows common across Southeast Asia. Space and privacy are key at Viceroy, where villas start at 103 square meters and provide an additional 89 square meters of land.

At the top end of the scale is the palatial three-bedroom Royal Villa, which houses up to six people in 400 square meters of living space. Villa technology includes Mac Minis loaded with games, music and movies and full WiFi coverage for those who need to stay connected. Yoga, watersports, diving and spa treatments are all offered on the island. Viceroy Maldives Special - Opening offer: Buy 1 Get 1 Free! Book one night and the next night is free From USD 675 per night.Valid from April to September 2012

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi
Gaafu Alifu Atoll Adding clean contemporary angles to the small fringed blob of Meradhoo Island, the luxuriousness of accommodation provided here by Jumeirah verges on gilding the lily. Villas here - ‘Revives’ - are positioned on the beach or over the ocean facing sunrise or sunset, while two larger Ocean Sanctuaries offer 340 square meters of overwater indulgence.  With 38 villas in total, and no inhabited island within a 10-kilometer radius, exclusivity and seclusion are part of the package. Villas are equipped with iPod dock, full Mac entertainment system and WiFi, plus private pool, sun deck, massage sala and deep marble tub. It’s a 55-minute seaplane flight and a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé to this particular slice of paradise.

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi Special - Autumn and Spring Promotion! From USD 995 per night (minimum 3 nights) - Complimentary return domestic flight and speedboat transfers for 2 persons. - USD 300 USD spa voucher - One Complimentary candle-lit 3 course dinner on the beach with a bottle of champagne for 2 persons. - Complimentary sunset cocktail & canapés for 2 persons - Complimentary sunset cruise with half-bottle of champagne & canapés for 2 persons - USD 200 voucher for the water sports and dive centre. - Departure gifts Valid for stays between May 10, 2012 and September 30, 2012.

Lux* Maldives (formerly Diva) , Dhidhoofinolhu Island, South Ari Atoll
Rarely does pleasure-seeking incur no cost, but - in environmental terms, at least - guests at Lux* Maldives can enjoy a vacation with a conscience. All stays at this resort - a property by the acclaimed Naiade brand - are 100 per cent carbon neutral, with guests enjoying a unique brand of luxury, with less buttoned-up extras such as an outdoor cinema, secret moving bar, home-grown coffee and phone booth that offers free calls.

The highlight of Dhidhoofinolhu Island is the diving it offers, including UV night diving and free diving. As part of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) it’s within range of more than 50 dive sites, including areas frequented by whale sharks and manta rays. Its onsite Marine Biology Center is an active body in the governance of SAMPA and it provides interactive learning programs to help enrich guests’ experience of the Maldives and its marine life.

Lux* Maldives - Early-Bird Special! Book at least 30 days in advance and enjoy 25% discount! Rates from USD 175 per night Valid from April to October 2012

The Residence , Falhumaafushi Island, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Maldives
Opened in April 2012, The Residence is one of the newest luxury resorts in the Maldives. Positioned in the southern part of the archipelago, it’s on one of the more remote islands, a two-hour journey from Malé airport by sea plane and speedboat. Accommodation is spacious and sophisticated, combining clean-edged Maldivian design with modern comforts, each villa attributed its own private pool and offering panoramic beach and water views.

Outside, wide timber verandahs open onto chalk-white sand, where travelers are free to bask idly, or join the usual round-up of land -or water-based activities. Guests looking for more adventure can join dives, embark on deep-sea fishing trips or launch their own private excursion of the nearby islands.