South Palm Resort Maldives

The staff made us feel so well looked after, especially Solhi, who was incredible. Ali also really stood out. We stayed in a water villa, with steps leading straight down into the sea, and the water was warmer than a bath. It felt safe and comfortable. We had the best time away together. Clear green water, turtles, stingrays, sharks and dolphins made the place feel like paradise. We'll definitely return.

The beautiful surroundings and snorkelling were the saving grace. The resort itself needs upkeep and doesn't feel like a four-star place. The staff were friendly enough, but travel reps should come out and check how the resorts are being maintained. The à la carte restaurant and spa stayed closed throughout our visit. The floating spa boat and its facilities were disgusting and not fit for use.

The beach was the best part for us. Our villa opened onto it, the scenery was lovely, and there was plenty to see with a snorkel. Since it's coral, beach shoes are essential. The sunsets were fantastic. We skipped the pool because the few sunbeds and parasols were packed close together, and stayed in the shade of a palm by our part of the beach instead. The room itself was clean and spacious, with an outdoor shower. Norman did a great job cleaning every day, leaving fresh towels and replenishing the water bottles. But the TV didn't work, the pillows smelled stale, and the air conditioning never got below 29 degrees. We reported it and suspected the filter needed cleaning. The fridge was also poor: drinks stayed tepid, there was no ice maker, and it wasn't cold enough for essential medication. Minibar prices were extreme, US$ 10 for a small diet coke. They preferred guests not take bar drinks back to their rooms, but we did and returned the glasses. Getting there from the UK takes a long time, with two flights and a boat, and you may wait for connections. On arrival we were given a wet flannel and iced lemon tea. I asked for water, but reception said they had none. It was 32 degrees and humid, and all I wanted was cold water. For what was the most expensive and disappointing holiday we'd had, the place felt like three stars at best. The bar manager was rude and unfriendly. The all-inclusive cocktail list was limited, with no proper cocktails or rum. Coffee was only instant, even though there was a barista machine. When we asked for coffee, we were told it wasn't included. On a £5K holiday, that seemed crazy. Loud music from the bar went on until midnight, louder than music I've heard at rock concerts. We complained and were offered a different room in a less nice spot. We stayed where we were, but it spoiled a lot of the holiday. Food was mediocre and much the same most days. The open cooking stations left food exposed to flies, which concerned us. For the first two days, the only fresh fruit was watermelon and bananas. The yogurt was like curdled milk, and most teapot lids were broken. Our waiter Viraq was helpful and found me one with a lid. The restaurant team were friendly and helpful, though there was a hierarchy and you had to ask the staff member assigned to you. There were a few paid trips, including snorkelling, shark-feeding and dolphins. A tour of the neighbouring island was included, but it felt like walking around a derelict housing estate, with little to see. We did find a supermarket there selling pots of long-life Greek yogurt. Dinner is very casual, so pack light clothes that are loose and cool, especially because the restaurant is warm. Ten days was enough for us, and we were glad to have seen the Maldives, but we left with upset stomachs. Given the food hygiene we saw, that was hardly surprising. Think carefully before choosing this resort.

Our beachfront villa has a good room and decent air conditioning, plus a small deck. The sand starts about 10 meters away at low tide, or 20 meters when the tide shifts a little. It's scattered with dead coral, so walking barefoot is painful. Bring swim shoes. The island is beautiful, somewhere between untouched and prepared for visitors. On a walk I came across baby black tip reef sharks swimming by. I moved and they darted away, then I saw more. It seems to be a nursery area for several species. The staff are very friendly, and the food has been nice and more than enough for my wife and me. On arrival a lad offered us a cool towel, and we were told our bags would be taken to our room. It did feel like a four-star welcome. There are three bars, though one is closed for refurbishment. Another charges for everything, while the regular one beside the restaurant includes beer, wine and cocktails. It's lovely, roomy and not crowded, so we don't see why you'd pay £10 for a drink elsewhere. The water sports desk says the jet ski is broken, but nobody can say how long it's been out of service or when it'll be back, so water skiing is off the table. Scuba diving is on my list, though about $145 per dive is sobering. There's only one company here. I'm still in the middle of my trip, but it's a lovely spot and I'd be happy to return.