Unique Underwater Restaurants

I had never heard of the Conrad Rangali Island Maldives Hotel's undersea restaurant, until a few days ago when I was reading, one of my many - travel agent brochures. It sounded impossible, so I began researching and became fascinated with what I learned. This is the first, of two underwater restaurants, I hope someday to visit.

What would it be like to dine sixteen feet below sea level - without getting wet - that is where the Ithaa Maldives Rangali's unique Underwater Restaurant is found. This all-glass undersea restaurant - the first in the world - has a 180 degree view of the reefs and marine life, while one sips champagne and cocktails, and enjoy a sumptous meal of Maldavian and western cuisine.

This, mostly acrylic, undersea restaurant has seating for only 14 patrons - at one time - and children under twelve years are not accepted. Entrance is gained thru a thatched pavilion, on the jetty, then down a spiral staircase - the transparent acrylic roof - provides panoramic views of the sealife around you.

The restaurant is part of the Conrad Rangali Island Maldives Hotel, situated in the picturesque Maldives surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and lagoons. The resort has 50 luxurious water Villas, 79 exotic beach villas and 21 water villas, with private treatment rooms.

The hotel also has another unique underwater place to visit - the Wine Cellar - six feet below sea level it features a selection of 600 fine wines. Guests will have the help of the hotel's Sommellier to select the right wine for each course. Just another way to enjoy ":life below the waves" while staying at the Conrad Maldives.

Note: at present the hotel is closed, it is set to be reopened the end of October, a good time to visit.

The Red Sea Star Restaurant is located in Eliat, under the sea, it's large windows look out on a vista of colorful underwater coral gardens and an endless shifting of marine life. Diners can enjoy, not only, a underwater gastronomic experience, but amazing views of sea vegetation; seen from their own personal windows - one in the wall to which their table is attached, the other in the ceiling above.

At night the underwater garden, surrounding the "Star" is lit, using specific light colors, so as not to disturb the natural inhabitant of the deep. This gives diners a unique - night diving experience - all adding up to an exotic feast, for the senses and the stomach as well.

The Red Sea Star Restaurant has seating for 105 guests to dine on delicious seafood and meat dishes, accompanied by a large selection of drinks and beverage, all in a romantic, peaceful atmosphere below sea level. Located next to the restaurant, is an underwater bar with a large selections of alcoholic drinks, cocktails, soft drinks and hot drinks, definitely different from any other bar you have ever visited. It is open from 10:00am to 3:00am daily.

At the entrance floor of the Red Sea Star is a modern luxurious auditorium - seating 90 people - which can be used by groups - to give lectures and do presentations. On the Roof above sea level is the "Metro Bar", designed as the deck of a ship, it is used for entertaining with the music from the 60s, 70s and 80s. Patrons can indulge in the dancing style from that era, while experiencing a feeling of "sailing at sea" without actually moving from the spot. The "Metro Bar" has seating for -up to - 300 guests and is often used for parties and receptions.

The views from the rooftop of the Red Sea Star are breathtaking -the stunning red sunsets, the Edom mountains, seen in the glowing night lights, of the cities of Eliat and Aqaba, gives a truly romantic and magical atmosphere. The "Metro Bar" is open daily (except Sunday) from 7PM to 3AM

Visiting one of these two - underwater restaurants - and the resorts that are part of them, is a most unique experience. The Red Sea Star has been heraled for it's unique concept and exceptional construction, it's fascinating interior design and the fact that is is considered a Green project, for it's contribution to preserving the coral reef surrounding it.

Then there is the Conrad Rangali Island Maldives underwater restaurant, once voted among the "top ten oddball eateries. When you have seen it all, fly down to the Maldives to see what they have that is different, you'll be surprised at what they have and what they have coming.

Photos and information from www.en.wikipedia.org
http://conradhotels1.hilton.com
http://www.redseastar.com/pictures-en.php