The Maldives is brimming with lush island escapes. Adding to the portfolio, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi opened its doors this year on the largest Maldivian island in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Nestled within pristine waters, this luxury oasis is a one-stop destination for wellness, gourmet dining and stunning nature surroundings. We speak to Angie Tai, the director of spa at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, on her wellness journey, the unique elements of the new hotel and the advice that has led her to where she is now.
Tell us about your life before Waldorf Astoria. I graduated in hospitality and ventured into the spa industry back in 2004 with the most well-known Spa Company in Asia—Mandara Spa. I furthered my career in China where there were opportunities to work on various spa pre-opening projects for different hotels and resorts (Sheraton, Le Meridien, W Hotels, Westin and One&Only) for around ten years. I arrived in the Maldives by joining the award-winning Spa One & Only Reethi Rah and after 18 months, I had the opportunity to work with Waldorf Astoria.
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What was your first healthy holiday experience? My first healthy holiday experience was when I had an Onsen in Osaka, Japan. I learned the special rituals, treatments and cuisine. The most memorable part was the tea cultural ritual session as it calmed my mind. The weather also allowed us to discover more healthy outdoor activities on the journey such as visiting the local organic farms in the country. It was an inspiring and relaxing trip.
Who would this healthy holiday destination suit? Our healthy holiday destination suits all ages, spa and fitness enthusiasts, families and groups seeking a lifestyle transformation.
What sets this resort and the retreats you offer apart from the rest? We provide a vast range of holistic, traditional treatments and results-oriented solutions for our guests. This is also a destination that you may experience with your family and young ones. The wellness area at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is far more spacious than the average size of any other resorts and it offer guests sufficient space to restore, rejuvenate and reset. Unique wellness activities and rituals are included in the tailored spa experiences.
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What are the crucial factors involved in implementing a successful healthy lifestyle change? The crucial factors in implementing a healthy lifestyle include mindset, consistency and believing in it.
What does true balance look like? I think that true balance happens when a person glows within themselves, revealing that they have a balanced life inside out.
What’s your fitness motto and why? It’s important to stay fit wherever you are—not just physically but mentally fit as well. The mind controls everything, so as long as we have a positive mindset, we can overcome life’s challenges.
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What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? I think it’s important to stay positive in every situation, be present and compassionate and flow the way the universe sets.
Where would you go for a detox holiday? I would go to the Himalayan Mountains to be away and connected with Mother Nature.
How do you stay in control internally when you can’t control what’s happening externally or what life throws at you? I try to think positive and I always tune into the motto “Things happen for a good reason. Let go and look forward to better things coming ahead”.
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