We stayed here during the first week of August, and I can honestly say it was one of the best trips we have ever taken.
From the moment we arrived, everything was handled smoothly and professionally. We were lucky enough to be escorted directly to the boat, so there was no waiting at all. The boat ride was quite bumpy, but that was all part of the experience — and it was quite funny trying to complete the check-in process while staying in our seats!
We stayed in a water villa on the Manta Jetty, and the location was excellent. Everything was close by, and the views from our deck were absolutely beautiful. We did have a small issue with the electricity on our arrival day, which was not ideal after being awake for nearly 30 hours, but the maintenance team resolved it quickly and efficiently.
Our villa was lovely. The bathroom was spacious and had beautiful views, the bed was very comfortable, the deck was perfect for relaxing, and the minibar was restocked daily. There was no red wine available due to supply issues, but overall, everything was excellent.
The resort itself is compact, comfortable, and very easy to get around. You can walk around the whole island in about 20 minutes, although it usually takes longer because there is always something to stop and admire. The views, plants, wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere made our daily walks extremely relaxing.
There were also plenty of activities available. We went kayaking and snorkeling — which was my wife’s first time ever snorkeling — and we could also have tried paddleboarding, tennis, badminton, and more. Most of the time, however, we simply enjoyed relaxing by the pool, on the beaches, or on our own deck.
The restaurants were excellent. We ate at Lime & Chili, Nu, Charcoal, Kaage, and Teppanyaki Over Water, which was not included in the Varu plan. All were very good, but Teppanyaki Over Water was especially memorable: a great show and absolutely fantastic food. Highly recommended. Among the other à la carte restaurants, Kaage was my personal favorite, while Charcoal was my wife’s.
A special mention must also go to Lime & Chili, the main buffet restaurant. It may be a buffet, but it is an excellent one. The quality of the food was consistently high, and the menu changed every day, so there was always something new to enjoy. I have to say I think Lime & Chili was my favorite restaurant (excluding Teppanaki).
However, the true highlight of this resort is the staff.
From the moment we stepped out of baggage claim, everything was handled with genuine courtesy and always with a smile. Nothing we asked for was ever a problem. Everyone was helpful, attentive, and welcoming. The chefs at Lime & Chili regularly asked how the food was and whether there was anything else we would like.
There are a few staff members we would especially like to mention, although everyone we met was wonderful.
What impressed us most was how quickly the staff remembered our names and preferences. After just one conversation, they greeted us personally the next time they saw us. For example, after giving our room number to Maan at dinner on our arrival day, Barsha remembered it immediately the next morning at breakfast — a small detail, but one that made us feel very welcome.
Maan was extremely friendly, and we had many nice conversations with him at Lime & Chili.
Barsha, from Nepal, was lovely and even knew a few words in Finnish, which was a wonderful surprise.
Yudip was an excellent bartender and made one of the best Dry Martinis I have ever had (and I have had a few).
Rishi was an absolute gem at Bay Rouge and Charcoal — always smiling, helpful, and ready for a chat.
Chiyay — apologies if the spelling is wrong — was also fantastic at Bay Rouge. After a few visits, she already remembered our first drink of the day and often brought it before we had even settled into our loungers.
Neil was a real powerhouse. He seemed to be everywhere at once: speaking with guests, supporting the staff, helping wherever needed, and always doing it with a smile.
All in all, we absolutely loved this resort. If we return to the Maldives, it will be very difficult to choose anywhere else.
