Skip to content

Rio Ferdinand on Football Escapes: Paradise in the Maldives

Insights
4 min read
Published 11 months ago

When Rio Ferdinand talks about Football Escapes, you can’t help but feel his enthusiasm. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives, Rio shared why these holidays are more than just getaways. They’re unique experiences where luxury, football, and family memories come together in a way that’s unmatched anywhere else.

“This is paradise,” Rio said, gesturing to the turquoise waters and pristine beaches. “This is like a dream. Being here with your family or friends, and the kids making new friends as soon as they arrive – there’s nothing better than football to bring people together.”

Why Football Escapes Stands Out

Rio knows what makes Football Escapes different, and he’s clear about the reasons it’s unmatched. “What separates Football Escapes from all the other camps out there is the quality of the football and the personal touch,” he explained.

Unmatched Football Coaching: “You’re not just getting any football sessions,” Rio said. “The kids are coached by genuine Premier League legends – players who’ve competed at the very top level – alongside UEFA-licensed coaches. It’s not just about playing the game; it’s about learning the game from the very best.”

But it’s not just about the sessions on the pitch. “The legends don’t just turn up, run a session, and leave,” Rio added. “They’re involved throughout the trip – mingling with parents and kids, answering questions, and just being part of the experience.” This hands-on approach creates a personal connection that’s rare in any holiday, let alone a football camp.

Memories That Last Forever

At Football Escapes, the football coaching is just one part of the story. Every family goes home with keepsakes and personalised touches that make the experience even more memorable.

A Signed Football Shirt: “Every family gets a signed football shirt from one of our ambassadors,” Rio shared. “It’s such a special keepsake – something to look back on and remember an incredible holiday.”

A Personalised Video: “Before the trip, each family receives a personalised video message from one of the legends,” Rio explained. “It’s such a great touch – the kids light up when they see it, and it gets everyone excited for what’s to come.”

Personalised Football Kit: For the young players, nothing beats stepping onto the pitch in their own personalised football kit, provided as part of the experience. “The kids feel like pros,” Rio said. “It’s something they keep forever, and you can see how much confidence it gives them.”

Luxury Meets Family Fun

Rio is just as impressed by the luxury resorts as he is by the football. “The five-star resorts we’re at are incredible,” he said, gesturing to the stunning Maldives scenery. “You can’t put a price on this. It’s not just about luxury – it’s about how everything is designed to bring families together.”

Families can enjoy a mix of football, relaxation, and adventure. “We’ve had parents’ games, a match against a local team, and one of the mums smashed it in the crossbar challenge – three hits! Unbelievable,” Rio laughed. “Then there are things like cinema nights on the beach and excursions families can do together. It’s all about making those shared memories.”

The Football Escapes Concierge Service

One of the standout features of Football Escapes is the concierge service, which ensures every detail of the trip is seamless. From booking to departure, the team takes care of everything, so families can focus on enjoying themselves.

“Whether it’s sorting travel arrangements, organising excursions, or recommending activities, the concierge team is amazing,” Rio said. “They make sure everything is personalised to your family’s needs, which makes a huge difference.”

A Holiday Like No Other

For Rio, Football Escapes combines the best of football and family time. “It’s a great holiday with football, where people can make friends and create memories that last forever,” he said.

With expert coaching, luxury resorts, and those special extras – from signed shirts to personalised videos – Football Escapes delivers an experience that goes far beyond a typical holiday. As Rio put it, “What I could say in words doesn’t really do it justice. You’ve just got to experience it for yourself.”

Ready to join the Football Escapes family? Paradise – and an unforgettable family adventure – is waiting.

More from our journal

Insights

Joel Ward Joins Football Escapes: Your Greek Holiday Just Got Even Better

4 min read

Football Escapes is thrilled to welcome Joel Ward as our newest ambassador, joining us for an unforgettable summer escape at IKOS Olivia from 3rd – 7th August 2026.
A Crystal Palace legend,...

Read more
Insights

Why Families Love Cyprus: The Magic of Parklane Resort & Spa

7 min read

On Cyprus’s sun-soaked southern coast, Parklane Resort & Spa captures everything that makes our Football Escapes holidays unforgettable – sunshine, five-star luxury, elite football...

Read more
Insights

Family Luxury Meets Football Magic at IKOS Andalusia

9 min read

On Spain’s sun-drenched Costa del Sol, IKOS Andalusia brings together everything families love about a Football Escapes holiday – sunshine, five-star comfort, incredible facilities and...

Read more
Insights

The Photo, The Memories, The Magic – Why Families Love Football Escapes

7 min read
Wayne Rooney coaching

Every Football Escapes holiday is built around moments that stay with you – the kind of memories that end up framed, talked about, and treasured for years to come. 
From the first kick of...

Read more
Insights

IKOS Porto Petro, Mallorca – Your Ultimate Family Base for 2026

9 min read

Tucked between two serene coves on Mallorca’s southeast coast and a short stroll from the picturesque Porto Petro Marina, IKOS Porto Petro is the kind of place that turns family summer holidays...

Read more
Video

Wayne Rooney Returns to Football Escapes with Michael Dawson!

The sunshine, excitement, and energy reached new heights at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, as Wayne Rooney...

Watch now