To say this place is amazing is an understatement. We didn't read a ton of reviews before we visited The Westin for, we wanted to have our own experience and not be bias or jaded.
After 6 days in the overwater villa, I can confirm all the positive reviews and statements below and above are 100% accurate. From the moment you leave customs at Male International airport, you are immediately greeted with excellent customer service and respect. I have traveled all over the world and have never received such a consistent level of top-notch customer service. This is the 1st place that I have gone where I have nothing negative to say. At every step (airport, seaplane lounge, seaplane ride, being greeted by the entire management staff upon arrive, housekeeping, maintenance crew, restaurant staff and even the local wildlife) you are greeted with a smile and genuine sense of family.
The Rooms:
We stayed in an oceanwater villa on the sunrise side. The exclusivity you feel, and the views are incredible. Worth the premium in price compared to the beach villas. Also, the bed and bedding will blow you away, some days it was hard to get up! Everything in the room was tidy and constantly refreshed- towels, toiletries, and water. We saw dolphins, tropical fish, and baby sharks and the most beautiful sunrises all fun the comfort of our balcony with an infinity pool. Turndown was twice a day and housekeeping were always attentive and professional. I am bad with names but the gentleman that cleaned our room, 142, was excellent.
The Food:
We ate at the island kitchen most days even though there were other options available. We had the full board package, and it was worth every penny. The food was fantastic and again, the chef personally told us he would make anything we would like. The entire wait staff was so nice and humble. Our dirty plates never stayed on the table to long, our glasses were always filled and any request we had was always met.
The Amenities:
Unfortunately, we were so comfortable in the villa that we didn't take advantage of all the amenities. The only things we tried were scuba diving and the fitness center. My scuba diving instructor was so patient and kind. He made me fell so comfortable in the water and took some amazing photos on our dive.
I hate I waited until the last day to try the fitness center. The staff was so welcoming and friendly. For 2 hours we played almost every game they had to offer, and it was so much fun.
The Staff:
In 6 days, not one person missed the opportunity to say hi to us. We became very close with all of the staff we interacted with.
I want to especially call out Laurent the hotel manager. At what hotel does the Hotel Manager speak to you every day? None except this one. His first question was always “how is your stay” and his second was “is there anything we can do for you?” You can tell where the staff gets their level of care and professionalism, straight from the top!
I also wanted to call out our deal friend the maintenance manager, Fikree. Each day on the island was not complete without our daily conversation with Firkee. One of the best humans you will ever meet. He is kind, funny, honest, down to earth, and patent. He always greeted us with a smile and story. Every day was a different conversation and discovery of new knowledge about the island, Maldives and its people. Fikree loves watching moves, horror to be exact. When you see him, ask him what's his favorite scary movie. LOL We loved the entire staff, but Fikree assumed the “favorite” title!
I cannot express enough how much we enjoyed our stay. It was excellent service and it never stopped. There is 100% chance that I will be returning next year with several of our friends and family.
