Spa Profile: CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives

Located in the Maldives’ heart-shaped Addu Atoll on its own private island, Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa is an exclusive tropical hideaway with 132 villas that are either over the water or have their own private pools. The luxury resort includes a 9-hole golf course surrounded by pristine beach and unique jungle settings, offering unforgettable dining experiences and entertainment for guests to enjoy.

CHI, The Spa features spacious treatment villas with private gardens and steam rooms in its own spa village within the resort, along with a unique yoga pavilion that overlooks the Indian Ocean. The spa menu offers a variety of Asian massage, Indian Ayurvedic treatments, and locally-inspired treatments for the ultimate pampering experience. We spoke with Jocelyn Morales, Director of Spa at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives, who shared unique spa services and amenities, special bonuses and insider tips, and more:

Spa guests can enjoy massages overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Why You’ll Love It: The ocean view location and the signature Kandu Boli treatment using cowrie shells.

Key Features: 11 treatment rooms (including 6 couples suites, 1 Thai and 2 Ayurveda rooms), yoga pavilion, meditation pavilions, an outdoor Hammam. All rooms have a private changing room, shower room, and steam room.

Bonus: Guests are served a homemade fresh ginger tea. They also receive daily yoga sessions, and a lifestyle consultation with our in-house naturopathic doctor.

The spa menu offers a variety of Asian, Ayurvedic, and locally-inspired treatments.

Insider’s Tip: Book an ocean-view treatment room with infinity views, and enjoy a signature Kandu Boli Ritual or take an Ayurvedic journey in consultation with our naturopathic doctor for long-terms benefits.

The Kandu Boli Ritual uses cowrie shells to relax tired muscles.

Unique Treatment: Kandu Boli Ritual. Our popular massage, Kandu Boli (meaning ‘sea shell’), draws energy from the ocean. A natural cowrie shell is used to massage tired muscles, while warm coconut oil is drizzled across your entire body. It’s not only relaxing but very hydrating.

Insider’s Favorite: Same as above.

One of the resort’s unique relaxation areas.

Splurge Treatment: Luxury Villa Spa Escape for Two (6 hours/$1250). Enjoy our Luxury Presidential Suite for a half-day with unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean. Relax with two 90-min massages performed in the suites’ private spa treatment room. Take a nap in the oversized bedroom or poolside. Take a dip or two in the infinity pool while sipping on champagne and nibbling on healthy snacks as a private butler tends to your extra needs. It’s the perfect way to surprise a loved one with a special day. (Includes two 90-minute massages of your choice, bottle of champagne, seasonal fruits and healthy snacks, and private butler service. Available from noon to 6 p.m. when suite is available.)