The Residence Maldives

This is our 6th day on this beautiful Island and as I write a lovely cool breeze is making today, like all others, absolutely perfect...if you are looking for a place that hectically business then this place is not for you...for sun seekers who want to do little more than chill, to escape from the stressed and stains of your crazy western life, then bingo this is the place for you...the hotel staff are delightful, Food, especially in the fine diners excellent...the crystal clear warm sea surrounded by a coral reef is a joy and for those, and I would recommend it, who want to observe the sea life in its natural habitat then snorkelling out to the coal reef is a must...but wear a t shirt or similar because the sun are potent...also note that as a volcanic island there are rocks in the shallows so water shoes are highly recommended...oh yes if you can stretch to a water villa then treat yourselves...they are beautifully appointed and beds oh so comfortable...we did the sunset Dolphin trip and saw loads of these fascinating creatures...so for us its 5 start all around.

A highly professional team, always in good spirits and eager to please their clients. High-quality villas and exceptional diving sites teeming with sharks, rays, and turtles.

A very great experience for our honey moon ! People and staff are amazing, cooking excellent and the island is just paradise.

We stayed for 8 days with my wife in a Beach Villa at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi and it was truly a real five-star experience from start to finish. For us, the Beach Villa is the best accommodation option. It provides much more privacy than other room types, and the private beach right in front adds a wonderful sense of exclusivity and tranquility. Another very important advantage of this resort is that the atoll has its own house reef. You can simply swim directly from the beach and enjoy the marine life without needing to take a boat somewhere else. During our stay we were able to see plenty of underwater wildlife just by snorkeling around the island, which made the experience even more special. Transportation Everything was perfectly organised by the resort. Their representative was waiting for us immediately at the international arrivals exit in Malé, helped us with our luggage, checked us in for the domestic flight, and escorted us to the airport lounge while we waited for departure. Upon arrival at Kooddoo Airport, the resort team was again waiting for us. After a very short speedboat transfer to the resort, we arrived at the jetty and our luggage appeared directly in our room. The departure experience was just as flawless — from the wake-up call, luggage collection, transfers, and domestic flight arrangements all the way to the final airport departure. Everything was smooth, professional, and perfectly coordinated. Accommodation The accommodation itself was absolutely stunning. It is extremely spacious with: a large separate living area a comfortable bedroom a very large bathroom with both indoor and outdoor shower a bathtub and beautiful views toward the beach and ocean. The deck and private beach area were definitely the highlights. Waking up every morning and stepping directly onto the sand is something truly special. Dining We tried all dining options on both islands. This included: the Dining Rooms beach and grill restaurants themed restaurants such as Italian, French and Chinese Every single experience was excellent. Whether it was buffet or à la carte, the food was always fantastically prepared with a wide variety of options. Even during an 8-day stay, there was enough variety in the menus to keep dining interesting every day. Bars The bars were also outstanding. The bartenders were highly experienced and able to prepare any cocktail you can imagine. Service was always friendly, professional, and very attentive. Activities We joined two excursions: Sunset dolphin trip Snorkeling Both were very enjoyable and well organised, and they added a great extra experience during our stay. Housekeeping A very warm and special thank you to our housekeeper Joyhal. He truly went above and beyond every day to make our stay comfortable and perfect. His attention to detail, care for the room, and positive attitude made a real difference in our experience. Our stay at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi was simply exceptional. Everything — from transportation, accommodation, dining, activities, and service — was handled at a truly five-star level. We would highly recommend this resort and would happily return again.

This is our second trip to The Residence and unfortunately we won’t return for a third. Having celebrated my husband’s 50th here last year what was intended to be a once in a lifetime trip had us quickly booking a second. The positives, the staff. Truly exceptional customer service, where the guest experience is paramount. The location and the facilities, understated with a deep respect for nature and Maldivian culture. The optional extras that make up the whole package, rich experiences to suit all wants. The downside, and for us personally it’s a big one is that the once couples haven of Falhumaafushi is now geared to families. Despite the connected sister island of Dhigurah being built to cater to families. The tranquility of the one pool area on Falhumaafushi is no more. Large family parties, babies and tots, abound. The grown up feel gone. I can’t imagine the disappointment of those honeymooners who have travelled here seeking an intimate, adult, experience. On balance there is a lot to offer, and our experience last year is unmatched, but for new guests I think it important that people are clear on expectations. In short, fabulous family holiday for a range of ages, absolutely not a destination of choice for discerning couple travellers.