In November 2025, my wife, two kids, in-laws (mother-in-law, father-in-law, anIn November 2025, my wife, two kids, in-laws (mother-in-law, father-in-law, and brother-in-law), and I escaped to Alila Kothaifaru Maldives in the remote Raa Atoll for a luxurious family getaway from November 21–26. We booked two villas using World of Hyatt points (165,000 each)—one Beach Pool Villa and one upgraded Overwater Pool Villa for an extra $150 per night. As a Globalist member, we enjoyed perks like complimentary breakfast and exclusive happy hours that elevated the experience. This once-in-a-lifetime trip blended relaxation, adventure, and family bonding, with stunning snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and impeccable service. Here’s our full breakdown.

Getting There: The Scenic (and Adventurous) Seaplane Journey

We arrived at Malé International Airport (MLE), where a friendly Hyatt representative greeted us and escorted us to a comfortable lounge with refreshments while awaiting our seaplane. The 45-minute flight, operated by Maldivian (often via Trans Maldivian Airways), offered breathtaking aerial views of atolls and turquoise lagoons—though the cabin was warm with only fans for cooling.

Round-trip seaplane transfers cost $670 per adult and $400 per child under 12 (slightly varying by season; recent rates hover around $660/adult). Our return flight included stops to pick up other guests and a brief engine delay, requiring a resort swap and wait for another plane—but we still made our Air Asia connection with time to spare, thanks to the Hyatt host’s assistance all the way to the gate.

Accommodation Review: Beach vs. Overwater Pool Villas

Both villas were spacious (over 200 sqm), modern, and private, featuring private pools, outdoor bathrooms, and Alila’s signature lemongrass-cedar amenities.

• Beach Pool Villa: Direct backyard beach access was perfect for kids playing in the sand or quick swims. The pool was refreshing, but evenings brought mosquitoes (a few bites despite repellent—common in beach villas due to vegetation).

• Overwater Pool Villa (our $150/night upgrade for the in-laws): Iconic stairs led straight into the lagoon for effortless snorkeling. Constant ocean breezes kept bugs away entirely, making it ideal for bug-sensitive travelers.

Globalist Perk: Complimentary snorkel gear (masks, fins) for the stay—high quality and readily available.

Pro Tip: Choose overwater for zero mosquitoes and direct reef access; beach for easier family beach time.

Dining Experiences

Seasalt restaurant included daily complimentary Globalist breakfasts with an incredible buffet (fresh fruits, pastries, cheeses) plus à la carte options like noodle soups (our kids’ favorite), rotating specials (dosa, kimchi fried rice, chicken noodles), eggs Benedict, and smoothies.

Globalist happy hours (Tuesdays and Fridays, 5–6 PM) at the yakitori bar featured free cocktails, wine, and skewers—enough for a light dinner.

Other highlights: Private hot pot dining (generous portions with seafood, meats, and broths), room service, and themed buffets. Food quality was consistently high, with fresh seafood and international flavors.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Our 5-night stay (November 21–26) was packed with family-friendly activities, leveraging the resort’s house reef, water sports center (run by Euro-Divers), and curated excursions.

Day 1 (Arrival & Island Exploration – November 21): After the seaplane, we were whisked by golf cart to our villas with a welcome drink. Our dedicated host set up a WhatsApp group for instant requests (bug spray, extra towels, or buggy rides). We spent the afternoon exploring the island by bike and cart—spotting hermit crabs, walking the lush trails, and dipping in the villa pools. Kids loved the beach play, while we relaxed with ocean views. Evening: Globalist happy hour at the yakitori bar, then a casual dinner at Seasalt to ease into island time.

Day 2 (Snorkeling & Dolphin Adventure – November 22): Started with a hearty Seasalt breakfast (kids devoured beef noodle soup). We grabbed complimentary snorkel gear from the water sports center and headed to the overwater villa for easy lagoon access—saw colorful tropical fish, sea cucumbers, and even a resident hawksbill turtle right off the stairs. Afternoon: Dolphin cruise (booked via host, ~20-30 minutes out on a traditional dhoni boat). Pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins leaped alongside us; we spotted a rare whale shark—pure magic! Evening: Private hot pot dinner at a beachside table, with plenty of fresh seafood and leftovers.

Day 3 (Reef Exploration & Buffet Night – November 23): Another fantastic breakfast at Seasalt, then kids hunted hermit crabs near the restaurant while we lounged by the pool. Mid-morning: Epic house reef snorkel from the northeast to northwest side (guided tips from the dive center). We encountered vibrant corals, schools of reef fish, friendly blacktip reef sharks, and more sea cucumbers. Afternoon: Free time relaxing in the villa pools. Evening: Themed buffet dinner at Seasalt (happens a few times a week)—fresh local catches and international dishes.

Day 4 (Cultural Cooking & Fishing Trip – November 24): Breakfast at Seasalt, followed by a free “Secrets of Maldivian Cuisine” cooking class at the resort’s kitchen (hands-on with the chef). We learned to make a traditional tuna dish using local ingredients—delicious and educational! Afternoon: Sunset fishing trip (~5-7 PM, 20 minutes out). We caught snapper and other fish; opted for catch-and-release and headed back for room service dinner. Kids were thrilled with the boat ride.

Day 5 (Rainy Day Relaxation & Wellness – November 25): Breakfast as usual. We booked padel tennis but canceled due to rain. Instead: I hit the gym (compact but with treadmills, ellipticals, weights, and Technogym gear), wife enjoyed a spa treatment at Spa Alila (serene treetop setting with massages). Kids played in the villa pool during brief rain breaks. We snorkeled off the overwater villa when the sun peeked out. Evening: Globalist happy hour, then room service.

Day 6 (Departure – November 26): Early breakfast (restaurant opened 20 minutes early—super thoughtful). Quick villa time before seaplane. The return flight had a short delay, but the Hyatt host ensured we made our connection.

Cost Breakdown (for Our Group of 7)

• Rooms: 330,000 Hyatt points total + ~$750 cash upgrade (5 nights).
• Seaplane transfers: ~$4,000 (4 adults × $670 + 2 kids × $400 + 1 in-law rate).
• Excursions: Dolphin cruise (~$100–150/pp), private dining (~$200–300), fishing (~$150/pp)—total extras ~$1,500–2,000.
• Incidentals: Minimal thanks to Globalist perks and happy hours.

Total cash spend: ~$6,000–7,000 (huge savings via points).

Budget Tip: Redeem points for Category 7 properties like this (standard rate often $1,500+/night). Globalist perks cut food/drink costs significantly.

Packing List & Gear Recommendations

• Reef-safe sunscreen (resort provides mineral-based SPF 50, but bring extras).
• Bug spray (essential for beach villas).
• Water shoes, rash guards, waterproof phone pouch.
• Light rain jacket (brief showers possible).
• Kids’ snorkel gear backups.
• Motion sickness meds for boats/seaplane.

The resort supplies high-quality fins/masks, mosquito coils, and toiletries on request.

This trip was pure magic—pristine reefs, warm service, and family memories we’ll cherish forever. We’re already dreaming of returning, perhaps to Park Hyatt Maldives next! If you’re planning a similar luxury escape, Alila Kothaifaru is perfect for multi-generational families seeking both adventure and relaxation.