Visiting Maldives had been in my and my twin sister's bucket list for the longest time. We explored so many resorts online for our first Maldives trip and ultimately booked at Velassaru upon the recommendation of a friend, and it was just the perfect place to celebrate our milestone birthday. Our surreal experience greatly exceeded our expectations, and it was an absolute dream come true!
From the time I booked via their website six months prior to our stay until our departure, everyone was very warm, courteous and professional in every way, and the personal touches made us feel really special. Email communications were prompt and accommodating, and we were thoughtfully offered an extra bed upon learning that we were twins sharing the room.
The warm smile of Samoon who greeted and helped us at the airport was as bright as the weather when we arrived. The welcome drinks and cold towels were a refreshing treat. We were given the first water villa closest to the main reception area and restaurants, which was a very welcome surprise. They are mindful about guests’ flight schedules and long travels, and the early check in upon arrival and complimentary late check out were really considerate gestures for tired travelers like us.
Food was heavenly, from the in-villa dining menu to the diverse spread at the buffets, and the attentive service by Anim, Riya, Zaidhee, and others at Vela Restaurant made the dining experience even better. Chef Arnold Jimenez pulled out all the stops in welcoming us and making us feel at home, preparing us a sushi plate and bringing a birthday cake dessert (and singing happy birthday with others) at the restaurant. We had a great time chatting with him and Chef Christopher, as well as with Ann at Living/Gallery. The spa experience was a feast for the senses; Pem and Mitri pampered us so expertly and luxuriously. The lovely birthday bed decorations by Azhaar and the sparkling wine and greeting from GM Denys Hordiienko were delightful surprises, as were the many greetings we received from different staff throughout the day. The complimentary photography session was a nice offering, and Shai was a very talented photographer. We learned that we were his first twin subjects yet he was a natural in coming up with posing ideas and was a delight to shoot photos with. I had the best solo beach yoga session with Arun under the most breathtaking sunset. We appreciated that they provided complimentary water bottles be it in the room, boat rides, morning cruise, spa or yoga session. Every staff member (those in the boats included) was highly attentive and helpful, and everyone we met along our walks around the island was just so friendly. The way management values and takes care of their staff is very evident in the happy and warm service of everyone at Velassaru.
The room features were well thought-out and gave us a really indulgent stay in our water villa, from the L'Occitane bath products, ironing facilities, hair dryer, magnifying mirror, complimentary drinking water, Nespresso machine and pods, to the home theatre system with bluetooth speakers that I was also able to use with my MP3 player for my favorite resort lounge playlist that added to the heavenly ambiance.
The turquoise waters and vast clean sand were a sight to behold, and the water temperature was perfect for swimming. We had a truly relaxing time soaking in the infinity pool with the ocean as our view. The lush and well-maintained gardens gave a fresh, tropical island atmosphere, and the bean bags, canopy daybeds and sun loungers offered relaxation at every turn. Everywhere, the facilities up to the restrooms were beautifully designed, well-maintained and immaculately clean.
Our experience overall in Velassaru Maldives was impeccable and unsurpassable; we have only good words for every aspect of our stay in the resort, and our beautiful memories will last a lifetime. They mean business when they say that they provide their guests with an unparalleled experience!
Thank you, Velassaru Maldives! Our hearts are full! ♥︎