The Naladhu transfer boat whisks you to the resort in around 40 minutes from the airport so it’s very convenient. Boats run 24 hours so they will pick you up even if you arrive very late (as we did)...
The boat is very luxurious with armchairs on board that would not be out of place in a living room. The boat seating is entirely inside so no chance of your hair being ruined by the wind with this trip.
On arrival the resort manager will greet you and you’ll be taken to your house – there is a choice of beach house or ocean house – the description is not all that clear on the website so it’s worth pointing out that the Ocean Houses are on the ‘deep sea’ side of the island where the waves come in – this side is breezier and you get some fantastic waves crashing in with a deck over the water, but there is no beach access. The beach houses on the other hand are on the lagoon side of the island bordering the beach so are more tranquil but less refreshing and exhilarating, so take your pick…
Rooms have their own steam room (a unique feature) and a wealth of L’Occitaine toiletries to pamper yourself with, so you can leave most of your wash kit at home.
All rooms have the services of a staff housemaster who is allocated to meet all your requirements at the press of a button on the phone, and all meals can be taken in your room for the same price as in the restaurant, so if you’re looking for a hideaway retreat where you really have no need to leave the comfort of your room this will fit the bill perfectly, and the rooms are so large that there is no chance of getting claustrophobic. The private pools are very generously sized and the deck in the ocean houses is huge so you can take a mini stroll along the water edge to view the wildlife if your legs need a stretch.
For ultimate relaxation the spa treatments are top notch and can be tailored to your tastes/needs by means of a simple but very effective spa preferences card. The massages can be done on your own private deck with the waves in the background – not to be missed.
There is a great quality Bose ipod dock and speakers in the room, a set of magazines and a TV/DVD player, although with the great sea views and an amazingly comfortable swinging sofa for two outside on your deck entertainment is not really a problem here!
Naladhu Maldives exceeded all expectations – very difficult to find any faults...
With only 19 villas/houses, the island is not overcrowded and the Ocean Houses (our accommodation) are not overlooked and are very private. Leave the curtains open 24/7 if that’s what you want, if ‘skinny dipping’ is your penchant, no one is there to disturb you. However if you do need something, just push the one button on the telephone and the ‘House Master’ (butler) emulates the ‘Genie in the Lamp’! Nothing seems to be too much trouble – he’ll organize any restaurant reservations or meals in your house, spa reservations and a whole host of activities associated with the sea – sailing, diving, fishing etc.
The Ocean Houses are large, airy and very comfortable. The bedrooms are exquisitely furnished with a personal touch provided by the manager. Everything seems to have been thought of – books, magazines, DVDs, a large satellite TV, an iPod and WiFi (if you can’t do without the internet). There’s ‘flip-flops’ and slippers, there’s a torch, a beach bag, a shawl (should you need it) and a large sun hat. Then there is a very well stocked minibar, a selection of quality teas and a Lavazza espresso “pod” style coffee maker with a selection of coffee capsules. Also a large fruit bowl, homemade biscuits (cookies) and nuts. And if that is not enough, just ask Ali and I’m sure your wish will be answered. In the late afternoon he will bring you a refreshing cold drink and a plate of canapés. If I could have brought just one thing home – it would have been Ali!
Each of the Houses has a good sized pool (not a plunge pool) but adjacent to the very well equipped gym, at the centre of the island, is a much larger pool beyond which is the pristine beach and the turquoise lagoon.
On arrival, the chef introduced himself saying “…..if there is anything you want, let me know.” – not necessarily a good thing if you are trying to keep your weight down! On our final day I asked if lobster was available? Not one but two, cooked to perfection, were on my plate that evening. The ‘wine cellar’ has a very good and comprehensive wine selection, also available by the glass. All in all I would have no hesitation in recommending the ‘Living Room’ for a Michelin Star, or even two! However, if you feel you want to venture further afield, there are a number of restaurants (including an excellent Thai restaurant) on other islands in the lagoon which are available to Naladhu guests.
Naladhu is very tranquil and very private. Guests can be as sociable (or not) as is their want, hence the long list of ‘A List Celebrities’ who holiday here. If you really want, there is no need to go beyond the front gate of you own House – everything will be brought to you. Should you wish to visit the other islands in the lagoon (operated by the same group) a boat will be provided. (Naladhu is for the exclusive use of its own guests.) Be warned though, once you have visited Naladhu, you will want, no, have to return.