Dusit International celebrated the grand opening of its new flagship resort, the very luxurious Dusit Thani Maldives, on September 8th. The opening ceremony was attended by His Excellency Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik, the President of the Republic of Maldives.

Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International said, "It has always been the dream of Dusit International to establish a hotel property on this beautiful island destination. To realize this dream is a source of tremendous pride and achievement for the entire Dusit group."

Photo: Dusit Thani Maldives

Located on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives is just 35mins by seaplane from the capital Malé and only 10 minutes by speed boat from the new domestic airport opening in late 2012. It's also just a short boat ride away from Hanifaru Huraa, the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

If you've ever dreamed of staying in an overwater bungalow, this is the place to go. The resort has 100 villas and residences, including Beach Villas, Beach Villas with Pool, Lagoon Villas with Pool, Ocean Villas with Pool, and the exclusive Ocean Pavilions and Beach Residences.

Photo: Dusit Thani Maldives

No daggy floral prints here. The resort decor is a chic fusion of contemporary Thai and traditional Maldivian styles. Each guest room features modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, Internet Protocol TV with 46" plasma screen and Bose surround system, plus in-villa wine coolers.

Elevated in a grove of coconut palm trees, Dusit's signature Devarana Spa is one of a kind in the Maldives. Devarana Spa features six tree-top treatment pods nestled in to enhance the spa journey.

Photo: Dusit Thani Maldives

For those who want to be a little more active, Dusit Thani Maldives offers guests diving; snorkelling; a 750 square metre swimming pool - the largest in the Maldives; a fitness studio with personal trainer and yoga instructor; resident marine biologist; children's play area and club facility.

Photo: Dusit Thani Maldives

Dusit Thani Maldives offers a variety of dining experiences. Market, bringing the culinary world to the Maldives, offers an international array of à la carte selections and an international buffet breakfast and dinner. The signature Thai restaurant, Benjarong offers exclusive dining with flawless service, paired with the finest wine.