Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

The Maldives is unique. From the seaplane over turquoise waters and tiny atolls to the abundance of fish on the housereef. However as we know there is a price to pay for this a hefty one so value for money it’s not. We stayed in an over water bungalow as it was our 40th wedding anniversary (which was not acknowledged) though for the price it was disappointing not to get the whole private pool and slide type experience we did feel that the ability to see the variety of sea life from our bungalow a massive bonus. The room was spotless, large and comfortable though feel the jacuzzi area is a waste of space. It was great to have a dedicated restaurant for the water bungalows, staff were always excellent and food always tasty. The sunset pool was stunning and although adults only feel this should also be exclusively for the bungalows. We had a case of sunbed wars were someone had reserved the beds and someone else had moved the towels and it all got a bit heated. None of those guests were in the bungalows. Entertainment was a bit hit and miss, there seemed far too many chairs so the place always seemed eerily empty. They had an exception group once a week called “defnote” I think but everyone seemed to have gone to bed early. So there were a few things I feel needed attention. Be aware when you’re booking for the Maldives (maybe it’s different at other resorts) it’s all about diving or snorkeling. If you don’t do these there is not a lot else. We were advised not to snorkel alone and always wear fins which were charged. It wasn’t until I’d hurt my arm and couldn’t participate that I discovered a snorkelling tour I could have gone on and my husband doesn’t snorkel. I appreciate it’s hard to strike the right balance between scaring customers and safety. ( there is an excellent nighttime viewpoint by the jetty, however tiny kids 3 and 4 year olds are climbing over the steps, peering down with seemingly no parental responsibility, in fact one evening a very small child fell in, luckily in the shallower part a few metres up) Secondly the excursions. So maybe I was just Unlucky but is it really 50/50 chance of seeing a whale shark without diving? Some guy on our excursion had paid 3 times with no luck despite the board claiming 3 had been spotted that morning. Ok so I wanted to see one too but nervous as booked the snorkeling trip which stated experienced swimmers but how else do you see them and it’s a big thing at Vilamendhoo. As we neared the site there were tons of boats the water was very choppy from all the boats and it was very rushed “jump jump” I wasn’t ready and ended up pulling something in my arm. Totally my fault but so feel the whole thing was rushed and not pleasant for the sea life and dangerous. Something needs to be done to improve this major excursion. Finishing on a high note the seaplane ride itself is one of the best things we did. And we did see An awful or of sea life while we were There

Perfect in every way . We had a stand alone beach villa, very clean and comfortable, serviced twice a day. Restaurant were amazing ,staff were also amazing Would definitely return ,loved everything about the island, it's was so relaxed, so nice not to have to wear shoes, lovely that every where has sand 😀

Beach: Lovely beach with plenty of great snorkelling. We saw sharks, turtles, Rays and lots & lots of fish. Only downside was as we stayed in a garden villa we were very limited as to where we could put our deckchairs as unlike other islands, Villamendhoo don’t allow you to put your deckchairs anywhere. Food: Food at both the Asian Wok, buffet and the snack bar was great. The buffet cuisine changes each night so you never get bored of the food. Chefs are great and friendly & we even got one of the curry recipes when we asked. There was also a generous selection of snacks & drinks from the room mini bar if you’re all inclusive. Rooms: We stayed in the garden room which was clean and suited us perfectly as we spent most of the time at the beach. Entertainment: The entertainment was a slight disappointment. One night they had a live saxophonist who was great, and we would have liked to have more of this type of entertainment throughout the week. Facilities: We chose this hotel because of the facilities & activities they had to offer. Padel, Tennis & the gym were great, they also had a games room with a darts board and pool tables. if you are all inclusive you can get involved with the beach sunset yoga which was a treat. Excursions: We went on ‘The Big Six’ boat trip which was run by the hotel. It was really reasonably priced and was a great way to see the sealife. We swam with Sting Rays, Manta Rays, Turtles, Nurse Sharks and Whale sharks. We were also lucky enough to see a dolphin! You need to be a strong swimmer, but if you love snorkelling, I couldn’t recommend this trip more! Staff: All the staff were friendly & helpful but a special mention to the following who made our stay extra special: Ayu ( Sunset bar) Robin Waheed ( buffet) Overall I would recommend this hotel.

Liked the reef, food is great. Need to sort out your meal plans mixing and matching- couldn’t have a post birthday lunch meal with my friend because of this stupid rule