Hotel of the week: Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives

There’s more to the Maldives than snorkeling, said Claire Wrathall in the Financial Times. Though the island country is admired for its crystalline waters and white-sand beaches, most travelers learn little about everyday life on its nearly 1,200 islets. The Villingili Resort and Spa, which opened last month, offers an “unprecedented insight into Maldivian local life.” Just south of the equator, the resort constructed a 10-mile bike path that links the islands of Feydhoo, Maradhoo, and Hithadhoo, so guests can ride through remote villages, “pausing to watch fishermen unload the day’s catch, picnic on secluded beaches, even shop for local crafts.”
Contact: Shangri-la.com