How to Visit the Maldives and Dubai in Style
Plus, the most important part: what to pack.
By Gena Kaufman
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year: Time to hop on a plane and go somewhere warm—and avoid snow, family drama, and that post-New Years office drag. My recommendation? Head to a waterfront villa in the Maldives—but make a short stop in Dubai on your way. Here’s exactly what to pack for every adventure on your tropical getaway.
On the Plane
You’re settling in for a long flight, so comfort is essential. But no actual pajamas, please! A pair of cute joggers in a tropical pattern will set the vacation vibe before you even take off. And don’t forget to pack a few on-the-go shower sheets in your carry-on to arrive fresh and ready for adventure.
Yuni Shower Sheets, $15
Scotch & Soda Souvenir Print Jogger Pants, $98
Dubai: The Dubai Mall
The malls in Dubai are epic—packed with enough entertainment to fill an entire vacation, from aquariums to indoor ski resorts. Throw on a lightweight dress and some heels to stroll down The Dubai Mall Fashion Avenue, which has more than 80 luxury brands where you can pick up something new to wear on your next leg of the trip.
Parker Kam Floral-Print Ruffled Silk Midi Dress, $398
Robert Clergerie Abrice High Heel Platform Slide Sandals, $550
Dubai: Old City Walk
Dubai may be a modern metropolis, but there’s still a lot of Middle Eastern history and heritage to be found. Grab a traditional Arabic breakfast, hit the spice souk for some saffron or garam masala, and walk the Al Fahidi neighborhood. It’s going to be hot, but you’ll want to be dressed conservatively out of respect for the local culture—a pair of white jeans and a loose, lightweight blouse are perfect.
Everlane The High Rise Skinny Jean (Ankle), $68
Parker Laureena Off-the-Shoulder Chambray Top, $258
Dubai: The Traditional Hammam Experience at the One & Only Royal Mirage
With the many luxury hotels of Dubai come many luxury spa treatments to indulge in before you hop on another plane. Try a traditional hammam treatment for a full body exfoliation followed by a relaxing massage that will leave you glowing. No need to get dressed up today! A pair of cutoffs and some slip-on sandals will do the trick.
Sigerson Morrison Aoven Woven Leather Pool Slide Sandals, $395
7 For All Mankind High-Rise Destroyed Denim Cutoffs, $179
Dubai: Night Out
Once you’re over the jet lag, it’s time to check out the nightlife before you head to paradise. A simple jumpsuit is perfect because it can be dressed up or down with accessories. Tonight, add a pair of fringed earrings for drama.
AQUA Mixed Drop Earrings, $32
Milly Maxime Off-the-Shoulder Belted Jumpsuit, $595
Maldives: Beach Day
This is what you came for: the beach! Prep before you hit the sand with a self-tanner (and then wear all the sunscreen once you’re under the sun). A lightweight coverup dress is the perfect thing to wear over your suit and to the beachfront bar. Sit back, relax, drink a frozen cocktail, repeat, repeat, repeat.
La Mer The Face and Body Gradual Tan, $100
Muche et Muchette Gavin Embroidered Off-the-Shoulder Ruffle Dress Swim Cover-Up, $89
Maldives: Snorkeling at Cheval Blanc Randheli
Venture out to spot colorful fish and giant sea turtles. A sporty striped suit is all you really need—but throw in a wide-brimmed straw hat for sun protection for when you’re lounging in between swims.
Eric Javits Packable Squishee IV Short Brim Sun Hat, $198
Splendid Blue Stripe One Piece Swimsuit, $106
Maldives: Private Sunrise Sandbank Yoga at One & Only Reethi Rah
Namastay here forever? (Sorry.) Get centered and meditate on your vacation blessings with sunrise yoga, because sun salutations just feel right here. Toss your mat and a bottle of water into a tasseled straw bag, and don’t forget sunglasses for when you’re ready to open your eyes again after shavasana.
Ray-Ban Brow Bar Round Sunglasses, $178
Eric Javits Squishee Mita Tote, $375
Maldives: Sunset Cocktails at Blu Bar, Four Seasons at Landaa Giraavaru
Pair a tropical sunset with a glass of rosé or a Mai Tai. A simple tank and a pair of lace-up pants look special, but won’t blow up in the ocean breeze and ruin your Instagram. Keep your makeup simple: Add a touch of shimmer to accentuate your new tan.
Lancôme Dual Finish Highlighter, $40
Pistola Lace-Up Skinny Jeans, $108
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