Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives Hotel

The staff were a real highlight, especially Ali in the restaurant and Anas at the bar. They were warm and attentive throughout. The sea was incredibly clear, with lots of fish and other creatures, and there were several diving trips available, as well as a spa. We stayed in a Sunrise room and were glad we hadn’t paid extra for sunset, since our deck got more sun during the day. The room was spotless and the fridge was replenished regularly. I only wish the wine fridge drinks, including mini bottles of wine, had been included. The food was plentiful and varied. For my husband’s birthday the chef made him a special dessert, and the waiters sang Happy Birthday and brought out a lovely cake. The boat trip here was smooth, too. We had a wonderful time.

The resort is beautiful and peaceful, and the staff made us feel cared for from the start. When an unexpected flight delay cost us the first night, they refunded it and kindly upgraded us to a seaplane transfer. That turned into an unforgettable part of the trip. Everything else went smoothly, and we enjoyed every moment. We’d love to return to Cinnamon Velifushi.

The excursions and activities were fantastic. We snorkelled with sharks, turtles and plenty of other sea life, watched dolphins, and went diving. The spa was amazing, too. Our bungalow stood over the water and was spacious and clean. The all-inclusive food was great, and the staff were wonderful. Mujey, Maan and restaurant manager Earnest were especially kind, as were Mohammad Raji and Hansi in the kitchen, who took our gluten-free needs seriously. Nichole at the diving center also looked after us. Their support made our week at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives a magnificent vacation.

We counted around 11 shades of blue at the beach one day. The sand was soft and the water was beautiful. The food was outstanding, and the restaurants are run by Chamile, a real gentleman, with Earnest as a brilliant supervisor. Mohamed Raj, the sous chef, made us Sri Lankan hoppers for breakfast. Do try them, they’re delicious. The bar staff were attentive and knew our drinks as soon as we approached. Our room, number 202, was right by the beach, just 10 paces from the bed to the sand, with a stunning view. Ihaam from housekeeping kept it in shape and was always polite and nice to chat with. When we arrived, Sheila and Amalshan checked us in quickly. Since the room wasn’t ready, they arranged another room so we could freshen up and change. We visited for two weeks in November. At Male Airport, immigration and baggage collection were quick. We checked in at the Cinnamon desk, waited in a seating area for two other guests, then took a speedboat that reached the island in about 1 hour 15 minutes. Our Emirates A380 flight had brought us in. The island made a brilliant first impression, and it stayed that way. I’ve seen some poor reports, but our experience was superb and we’d gladly return. Much love to everyone, from Peter and Anna xx.