Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific has confirmed plans to develop a Regent resort in the Maldives, in partnership with Maalefushi Investment Co. The Regent Maldives, which is due to open in late 2008, will be a 50-villa luxury resort on a secluded coral island, just 50 minutes by seaplane from the capital city of Male.

The Regent Maldives will occupy the entire Maalefushi Island, an unspoiled 8 hectare island paradise with lush tropical vegetation fringed with flawless white sand beaches.

Paul Kirwin, president and managing director of Carlson Hotels Worldwide - Asia Pacific said, "Everything about this resort – from the breathtaking location and distinctive architecture to the spectacular beautiful spa – will be the embodiment of The Regent Experience.”

Maalefushi Island sits at the heart of the Thaa Atoll, a natural wonderland of crystal clear waters, coral reefs, brilliant white beaches and spectacular sunsets. The Regent Maldives will feature 23 beach villas and 27 over-water villas, including two presidential villas, which will allow guests to observe the abundant marine life directly beneath their rooms. All villas are designed with private plunge pools and expansive timber decks offering breathtaking views across the turquoise lagoon.

The individual villas are designed to maximize privacy and comfort, and combine traditional Maldivian architecture with internationally-sourced materials and contemporary fabrics and furnishings selected by renowned interior designers Hirsch Bedner Associates. The bathroom of each villa opens to either a lush private garden area or ocean vistas and features indoor and outdoor showers. The two exclusive Presidential villas set over the coral lagoon include extra indulgences such as a luxurious dining pavilion with a viewing and relaxation platform, spacious bedroom suites with walk in wardrobe and private sun decks.

Integral to the theme of indulgence is the 850 square-metre Spa which resides over the lagoon, with the eight private treatment pavilions open to the ocean breezes. Specializing in innovative spa treatments, each pavilion will feature a plunge bath, outdoor shower and relaxation deck.

Dining options at The Regent Maldives will include the Maldivian Chic over-water signature grill restaurant/bar, showcasing local seafood prepared using variations of grill cuisine from nations surrounding the Maldives. Complemented with spectacular views over the water and to the sunset, The Café will offer continental style buffet for breakfast and a wide range of a la carte dishes while a more casual dining experience by the pool is available at the Ocean Terrace and Lounge. For private dining each guest villa features both indoor and outdoor dining facilities.

For recreation, a myriad of water sports and activities will be available such as scuba diving, with a fully equipped dive school and qualified dive masters, snorkelling on the reef, wind surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing or romantic picnics on nearby uninhabited islands. There will also be a fitness centre with state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

On the beachfront is a 38 metre infinity pool, while the lush sculpted gardens include a tennis court, volleyball court and yoga pavilion. Those with a taste for adventure can explore the remote and seldom-visited atolls of the Maldives in the comfort of the resort’s luxury motor launch. A library and lounge will also provide a full range of business services.