Holiday Grand Thoddoo

The outdoor shower was a real highlight, it made the tropical setting feel even more real. Our room was spacious and clean, with a safe. Ali and Assan, the manager, made room for all our requests, and helped turn the holiday into something memorable. Ali and Hassan welcomed us with lots of fruit and coconut milk, so we felt at home straight away. Assan always checked whether breakfast was okay or if we wanted a different kind, and the local breakfast was great, with fresh fruit every time. Dinner changed each night, and we especially enjoyed the fresh fish with vegetables. I’d recommend this hotel to anyone wanting to get a feel for the island. We hope to come back soon.

Ali, the owner, was so kind and helpful, and would go out of his way to make us happy. My wife and I spent 6 nights at the cottage. The room was cozy and really nice. Big thanks as well to Asshan and the chef for all the delicious meals and variety. Thanks so much, guys. We won’t forget this holiday.

The island stayed interesting even after 5-6 days. It’s beautiful and memorable, and the people are welcoming. There’s a school and a few small restaurants to try, and nobody bothers you trying to sell things. It has the relaxed feel you want from a tourist place. Holiday Cottage sits roughly in the middle of the island, with the beach easy to reach by bike or on foot. The tourist beach is private and quiet, so pack lunch if you want to spend the day swimming or snorkeling. There’s a scuba shop right in front of the cottage, though the services, like many things in Maldives, are expensive. Aquatic life is dwindling, but diving is still a great activity. You could also try a lunch trip to another uninhabited island, and ask the host about seasonal activities. The people managing the hotel are genuine, helpful, and resourceful, and they really try to meet every need. They gave us a free cake and a lovely candlelight dinner on the beach. Rooms and the cottage were well maintained, comfortable, clean for a beach resort, and private. Food was fresh and well prepared. There isn’t a lot of variety, but the host will make things for you, so you won’t get bored. Bikes and snorkeling equipment are free to use, just take care with them. Water was free and plentiful. I’m from India and was a little unsure about the place beforehand, but it turned out to be the best thing I’ve done. This has been my best vacation ever, thanks to Holiday Cottage!

The island was lovely to explore, and we felt safe walking through the village, meeting locals, or stopping for a coconut by the harbour. Bring a few dollars if you want to sit at the local cafe. Everyone we met was friendly, and the kids smiled and waved as we passed. Hearing prayers from the local mosque morning and evening was a beautiful way to start and finish each day. The tourist beach was an easy 10-15 minute walk and never seemed too crowded. There’s a good reef right off the beach, and we saw a sea turtle while snorkeling. We’d read that mosquitoes could be a problem, but they barely bothered us. Holiday Cottage has bug spray at the front desk if you need it. My mom and I stayed two nights, and the brothers who own the guesthouse arranged speedboat transport to and from Thoddoo, kept in touch with our hotel on Male, and got us back to the airport on time for our flight. They greeted us with fresh coconut water and papaya, then lent us snorkeling gear and walked us to the tourist beach on our first day. Their hospitality and attention to detail were incredible, from flowers on arrival to fresh water and beach towels each day, plus tea or coffee at midday if we asked. The beds were very comfortable, and the outdoor bathroom and shower were great. We ate all our meals at the guesthouse, and everything was delicious, especially the tuna pancake at breakfast and the fish curry. They also offer excursions and other activities. Since we had limited time, we chose the agricultural tour one evening and really enjoyed it. Two of the brothers took us around on their mopeds to see their family farming plots, and we learned a lot about Maldivian people and farming. I definitely recommend doing the tour. Holiday Cottage deserves its five star rating, and we’d happily recommend staying here.