Water villa of the week: Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa – Maldives

Let’s just cut to the chase here and mention up front that probably the best thing about the Vilamendhoo Resort is that it’s one of the cheapest for water villas in the Maldives, and it’s excellent value. Right now we are seeing the Jacuzzi Water Villas at US$461 per night in December, which is the beginning of the high season. Prices will be higher around Christmas and in January, but this is honestly half the price of many resorts with similar water villas.

Even if they weren’t so affordable the water villas here would be impressive. They are 915 sq ft (85 m²) in area, including a large private outdoor deck and bathroom area. Of course each room has its own private Jacuzzi on the deck, but even the interior space is very large with a separate bedroom and living area.

The bathroom also features a partially open air rain shower, which is ultra refreshing in the tropical climate of the Maldives. There’s also a LCD TV with a DVD player and an iPod docking station in each room, as well as a tea/coffee/espresso machine and personal bathrobes.

Another great advantage of staying in a larger resort is that they can afford to offer far more choices for each guest. As mentioned above, there are 7 different restaurants and bars from which to choose. With the all-inclusive meal plans this means everyone is welcome to dine at any of them so you won’t be tiring of a narrow selection that you might get at an all-inclusive that offers only one buffet.

For activities you have two fresh-water swimming pools, a lighted tennis court, a putting green, football grounds, and beach volleyball. This, of course, is in addition to the excellent scuba diving and snorkeling that is a huge attraction throughout the Maldives.

Those in a pampering mood will want to try out the over-the-water Duniye Spa, which offers a long list of treatments and spa services.

Room rates: Starting at US$461 per night per room, including all meals