Martin van der Reijden talks about Cora Cora Maldives

What’s the thinking behind Cora Cora’s “Freedom” concept?
The Freedom concept was built around the idea that what guests are looking for most is to reclaim some level of freedom, but also to reconnect with their families and be playful again. We have all sorts of fun games, from ping-pong and a big chessboard to a volleyball field, but there are also quiet spots for people to read books around the island, such as hammocks and hanging chairs.

One of the resort’s unique selling points is its heritage museum. How strong a selling hook is this?
The museum gives guests insider insight into the history and culture of the Maldives. Information like this is displayed only on our island and adds an educational level to a stay, which seems to have resonated very well with our guests. We believe our restaurants are unique in concept too, and with our Moksha Spa we provide wellbeing elements, such as a residential yogi and a wellness practitioner we are proud of.

What makes your accommodation stand out from other Maldivian resorts?
Guests say our rooms are stylish, cute and fresh, and that’s what we were aiming for. There’s original artwork and books in the rooms, and the design is youthful. Having a good 50/50 split of overwater and beach villas has worked out very well.

Tell us about Cora Cora’s “Premium All-Inclusive” dining plan
We wanted to offer freedom of choice, so our four restaurants and the cafe are bookable via the Cora Cora app. We are probably the only resort that has a grab-and-go corner too, where guests can order their food to take away, and the minibar is also included in the plan.

Which are the most popular activities and excursions?
Our sunset cruise is included in the price of a stay so that makes it popular, but we have an interesting Tsunami Ghost Island visit and dolphin cruise, plus fishing. I can personally vouch for snorkelling – it’s amazing on our house reef and we see many guests enjoying this both on their own and as a guided activity.

What does Cora Cora offer to the weddings and honeymoons market? 
We have a whole array of celebration offerings. These include underwater and parasailing proposals, a renewal of vows on the beach with a master of ceremonies, and a romantic four-course dinner. We can also cater for baby showers and birthday parties – any reason for a party!

Would you say Cora Cora is a family-friendly resort?
Yes, as all the main facilities are in the centre of the island. There are wide-open areas for kids to roam around in and this makes it easy for parents to supervise them – or drop them off at the kids’ club while they enjoy a lunch next door at Aquapazza Beach Club.

What’s your recommended length of stay?
I just had my sister and her husband stay here for 14 days, and they would agree 10-12 days is probably the minimum recommended length of stay. It takes a few days to absorb the beauty and calmness of the island, and most guests have a lengthy trip planned when they arrive here.

How do you plan to work with and support agents this year?
Speed, in terms of enquiry turnaround and helping to check availability, is important. But what travel agents are normally most keen to achieve is happy guests, for the same reasons we want happy guests – so they will come back and become a Cora Cora ambassador for their friends and families. 

Read TTG’s review of Cora Cora in the Spring issue of TTG Luxury, out in late March.