Club Med’s founder, Gerard Blitz lived by a pretty good philosophy: “The aim in life is to be happy, the time to be happy is now and the place to be happy is here."
With 80 resorts worldwide from the balmy tropical climes of Southeast Asia to snow-dusted peaks of Mont Blanc, each resort exudes its own personality, yet injects that familiar Club Med sparkle that entices guests. From loved-up pairs to extended families, many return year after year, adding to their prized collection of Club Med's signature 45 and 88 t-shirts.
Happiness comes easily no matter which resort you choose, though the 'club' especially excels in sun-soaked settings.
Home of happiness in the Maldives at the all-inclusive Club Med Kani. Image: Club Med
Club Med presents the ultimate all-inclusive holiday – best enjoyed over seven days – where happiness means not having to lift a finger. Unlimited drinks and cocktails flow freely and a mouth-watering array of local flavours can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
It’s quite easy to get swept up pampering yourself or simply lazing around, but Club Med has all the trappings if you’re looking to get active.
You'll be spoiled for choice with endless activities run by professional instructors who make the impossible seem easy, with lessons for kayaking, windsurfing, golf, trapeze and more. Pint-sized guests can run amok with the world-famous Gentiles Organisateurs (G.Os) at Mini Club Med.
The dedicated G.Os often double as your night-time entertainers – their skill sets extend far beyond changing nappies and mixing drinks. I imagine the G.O recruitment process would be likened to a talent show audition such is the rhythmic and athletic prowess of the nightly performers.
Club Med constantly strives to improve guests' experience and breathes life into resorts by adding new and exciting resort extras.
Club Med Bali recently unveiled The Deck, a contemporary gourmet seafood lounge serving a variety of a la carte specialties, as well as the aptly named Zen pool, an adults-only multi-level hideaway that perfectly captures the resort's tropical tranquility. Both tried and tested by yours truly.
Surf's up over in the Maldives at Club Med Kani. Luxury overwater lodging is complemented by a brand-new surf excursion to the area's best breaks, including 'Jail Break', 'Sultan', 'Chicken' and 'Honkeys'. Though the two-hour excursion comes at an extra cost, keen surfers are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
The aptly named 'adults only' Zen pool at Club Med Bali. Image: Club Med
Bintan Island also offers plenty of memorable moments. Located a short distance from Singapore, this waterfront Club Med resort is located on one of Asia's best beaches and provides an idyllic escape from city life.
Though the squeaky white sand and sparkling ocean beckon, it's one particular land-based pursuit that draws guests. Golfers descend on Bintan Island to perfect their swing (extra cost) on Ria Bintan, an award-winning 18-hole course designed by Greg Norman.
Gerard Blitz was certainly only a winner with Club Med and the way he lived his life. He had me at happiness and I can't imagine I'm the only one. Join the club.
