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We returned from this, our 5th trip to the Maldives and our first to Kandolhu a couple of weeks back. I’m lucky enough to live just a 4 hour flight from the Maldives, so I’m returning next week for another short trip, I just wish it was to Kandolhu !!! It is a testament to the island and its team that very many of the fellow guests that we spoke to were indeed multiple-time repeat visitors. We have a stayed at some high-end islands in the Maldives, but most have been “normal” in size, but Kandolhu is very small, and I can’t deny having some trepidation prior to our arrival. I shouldn’t have worried. In all respects, the island is exceptional. We stayed in a typical over water villa with pool, and aside from the slightly strange set up with the outdoor bathroom being “disconnected” from the bedroom which requires you to step outside to the loo during the night and which in my view could be improved with some minor construction - I’m no architect or builder though !!) we were very happy with it. The room was kept spotlessly clean, the room attendants very quickly learned when you went for breakfast and dinner so that your service was completed whilst you were out, and the choice of wines in the in-room wine cooler was beyond exceptional, and was kept well stocked. My earlier mentioned trepidation was partially due to the absence of a typical buffet option (understandable in a small island) but I would say that the food is the best I have had in the Maldives. The resort has 5 Al la carte options and all are outstanding. Our personal favourite was Bansai (Tappanyaki) the best Churros I’ve ever tasted at the lunchtime Mexican offering, to the numerous whole fish dishes at Sea Grill to the wonderful lunchtime pizzas at The Market, the food is to die for and the island should be incredibly proud of its amazing chefs. It should also be very proud of is amazing team of “servers” who know your name from day 1, quickly learn what your favourite wine is (mine was the Wither’s Hill - sorry if there’s none left !!!), what you like for breakfast, what your intolerances are and the like. The service is fantastic and incredibly personable. I’ve probably forgotten someone, so apologies, but call-outs to Nasru and Franck who “run” what I suppose you’d say is F&B “Front of House”, Elvira (a rock star) and Kris (who we understand is leaving - keep her at all costs !!), Maan, Sharif and Zinadh. Also shout outs to Finela and Gilbert in Vila Bar who make the best cocktails. Of course, great resorts need great leadership and what we loved (and in my experience is a much underrated aspect of typically hotel management) was the visibility and amiable nature of Guillarme and Monika who can be seen around the resort and in the bar having a drink with their guests, this enables you to raise any minor issues observations, concerns or requests with them personally. We chose the resort partly because I dive, and wanted to experience a new atoll, all r