In the serene waters of the Maldives, where luxury resorts dot the horizon like pearls on a necklace, time seems to take on a different rhythm. Here, at properties like the JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, and Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, a unique practice known as “island time” unfolds.
Unlike the standard GMT+5 time zone of the Maldives, these resorts deliberately move their clocks forward by an hour. This adjustment isn’t just a quirk; it’s a thoughtful enhancement aimed at enhancing the guest experience.
Mohit Dembla, the general manager of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, explains, “Island time is tailored to meet the diverse needs of our international visitors. By aligning our clocks one hour ahead, guests can make the most of their daylight hours, enjoying more activities and sunset dinners.”
For travelers, this shift means sunrise at 7 a.m. instead of 6 a.m., extending daylight for leisurely beach walks, water sports, and relaxing by the pristine shores. Many of these resorts, situated on secluded private islands far from the bustling mainland of Malé, operate under their own rules, ensuring guests can fully immerse themselves in the Maldivian paradise without the constraints of standard time.
Zhilah Vego, director of sales and marketing at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, elaborates, “Being on island time allows travelers to indulge in an extra hour of daylight each day. This simple adjustment transforms the guest experience, offering more opportunities to explore and unwind.”
This practice reflects the Maldives’ commitment to hospitality and luxury, where every detail, even the ticking of the clock, is meticulously tailored to create unforgettable moments in one of the world’s most stunning destinations.
As travelers continue to seek unique and immersive experiences, the concept of island time in Maldives resorts stands as a testament to innovation in hospitality, blending relaxation with the beauty of nature in perfect harmony.
