8 Nights. Four Islands. One Very Big Surprise.

Our first stop...

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives

The Perfect Introduction to Paradise

There are moments in travel that stay with you forever.

Stepping onto Cinnamon Dhonveli was one of them.

The warm Maldivian welcome began the moment our boat arrived. Friendly smiles, refreshing cold towels after the journey and an engaging introduction to the island instantly made us feel relaxed. It wasn't formal or scripted—it simply felt genuine.

Then came the moment that completely caught me by surprise.

As I arrived at my villa, I noticed a small wooden plaque outside the door.

"Villa Charlotte."

It was such a simple gesture, yet it immediately transformed an already special arrival into something genuinely memorable. Those thoughtful little touches often become the moments guests remember long after they've returned home.

A Villa You Never Want to Leave

I stayed in Overwater Suite 701, and if you've ever dreamed of waking up surrounded by nothing but endless shades of turquoise, this is exactly that experience.

The suite itself was incredibly spacious, beautifully designed and wonderfully equipped. Everything had clearly been thought through—from the luxurious bathroom to the generous outdoor living space.

But it was the deck that stole the show.

A private hammock suspended above crystal-clear water quickly became my favourite place to unwind. Whether enjoying a morning coffee, watching reef fish glide beneath the villa or simply listening to the gentle sound of the Indian Ocean, it was impossible not to slow down.

It's exactly the sort of accommodation people picture when they imagine the Maldives for the very first time.

The Maldives Doesn't Have to Cost a Fortune

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that the Maldives is only for ultra-luxury travellers with unlimited budgets.

Cinnamon Dhonveli proves otherwise.

Yes, you're still enjoying overwater villas, white sandy beaches and impossibly blue lagoons—but at a price point that offers exceptional value compared to many neighbouring resorts.

For couples celebrating a honeymoon, families wanting that once-in-a-lifetime holiday or anyone experiencing the Maldives for the first time, I genuinely think Dhonveli is one of the strongest value-for-money options available.

Better Than I Ever Expected

As someone who spends a lot of time in luxury hotels, buffet restaurants don't always excite me.

Cinnamon Dhonveli completely changed that perception.

Breakfast was honestly one of the best buffet breakfasts I've experienced anywhere.

Fresh tropical fruits, made-to-order dishes, excellent pastries, healthy options and plenty of variety meant every morning felt different. Everything was beautifully presented and consistently fresh.

The all-inclusive drinks offering was equally impressive, with plenty of choice throughout the day.

One thing I particularly liked was hearing about Cinnamon's plans to continue refining its all-inclusive concept. It shows a brand that's constantly looking to improve the guest experience rather than standing still.

Adventures Beyond the Villa

Of course, no Maldives holiday is complete without getting out onto the water.

One of my highlights was joining the snorkelling excursion, where the underwater world completely lived up to expectations. Colourful reef fish, crystal-clear visibility and an incredibly knowledgeable crew made it a fantastic experience.

The sandbank excursion was equally memorable.

Imagine standing on a tiny strip of pristine white sand, surrounded by nothing but endless shades of blue in every direction. It's one of those moments where photographs simply don't do it justice.

The excursion team were exceptional throughout—professional, friendly and clearly passionate about showing guests the very best of the Maldives.

The People Make the Difference

Beautiful beaches are easy to find in the Maldives.

What makes guests return year after year are the people.

Throughout my stay, every single member of the Cinnamon Dhonveli team made us feel genuinely welcome. Conversations never felt forced, smiles were natural and there was an authenticity that can't be taught.

It's this warmth that transforms a lovely holiday into one that people talk about for years afterwards.

Charlotte's Verdict

Every island in the Maldives has its own personality.

For me, Cinnamon Dhonveli is the island I would confidently recommend to anyone looking for their first Maldivian experience.

It offers everything people imagine when they think about this incredible destination—overwater villas, turquoise lagoons, fantastic snorkelling, warm hospitality and excellent all-inclusive value—without entering the eye-watering price bracket many people assume the Maldives demands.

It's equally suited to couples seeking a romantic escape, honeymooners wanting luxury without excess, families looking for quality time together and anyone wanting to discover why so many travellers fall in love with the Maldives.

Perfect For

• First-time visitors to the Maldives
• Couples
• Honeymooners
• Families
• Guests looking for excellent all-inclusive value
• Travellers wanting an authentic luxury experience without paying ultra-luxury prices

As I boarded the boat to our next island, I genuinely thought I'd seen the very best Cinnamon had to offer.

I couldn't have been more wrong.

Next stop... Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, home to one of the finest house reefs I've ever had the privilege of snorkelling.

 

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

Where the Ocean Steals the Show

If Cinnamon Dhonveli is the perfect introduction to the Maldives...

Then Ellaidhoo is where you truly fall in love with it.

Some islands impress with their luxurious villas. Others with impeccable service or exceptional dining.

Ellaidhoo has something far more powerful.

Its reef.

I'd heard people rave about Ellaidhoo's famous house reef before arriving, but nothing prepares you for experiencing it yourself. Within minutes of slipping into the warm Indian Ocean, I completely understood why so many divers and snorkellers regard this little island as one of the Maldives' hidden gems.

In fact, I snorkelled six times during our short stay.

Not because I had to...

Because I simply couldn't stay out of the water.

The House Reef That Lives Up to the Hype

As a travel specialist, I often hear phrases like "the best snorkelling" or "an amazing reef."

They're sometimes overused.

Not here.

Ellaidhoo's house reef genuinely exceeded every expectation I had.

Every time I entered the water, I discovered something different. Schools of vibrant tropical fish danced effortlessly through the coral gardens, reef sharks cruised quietly in the distance, and the sheer abundance of marine life meant every snorkel felt like a new adventure.

The visibility was exceptional, allowing you to appreciate just how alive the reef really is.

One evening, I joined the night snorkelling excursion.

It's difficult to put into words just how magical it was.

The reef transforms after dark. Marine life behaves differently, familiar surroundings take on an entirely new atmosphere and suddenly you're experiencing a side of the Maldives that relatively few visitors ever see.

It remains one of the highlights of my entire trip.

Beach Villa or Overwater Villa?

This might surprise you.

I stayed in one of Ellaidhoo's Overwater Villas, and it was exactly what you'd expect—comfortable, peaceful and wonderfully relaxing.

One of my favourite memories was sitting on my deck after sunset watching reef sharks glide silently beneath the villa. It's one of those moments where time seems to stand still.

Yet despite staying over the water...

If I were booking many of my own clients, I'd actually recommend the Beach Villas.

Why?

Quite simply because of the reef.

The Beach Villas sit right on the shoreline, allowing you to walk directly from your terrace into one of the best house reefs in the Maldives. For keen snorkellers, that's an enormous advantage. No long walks. No boat trips. Just step outside your villa and straight into an underwater paradise.

Sometimes the best room isn't the most expensive one.

It's the one that perfectly matches the experience you're looking for.

Barefoot Luxury at Its Most Authentic

One thing became very clear within minutes of arriving.

Ellaidhoo doesn't try to compete with ultra-luxury Maldivian resorts.

It doesn't need to.

Instead, it embraces everything that makes the Maldives so special.

There's a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere here. Shoes quickly become optional, days are measured by the tides rather than the clock, and life slows to a beautifully comfortable pace.

It feels authentic.

Unpretentious.

And refreshingly genuine.

In a world where many luxury resorts compete to be bigger, newer and more extravagant, Ellaidhoo quietly focuses on what really matters.

Nature.

Hospitality That Feels Genuine

Every member of staff I met shared the same warm, welcoming attitude.

Nothing ever felt rehearsed.

Every conversation was natural, every greeting sincere and every interaction left me feeling as though the team genuinely wanted us to enjoy their island.

A particular highlight was spending time with the dive centre team.

Before heading into the water, they patiently showed us how to properly fit and use our snorkelling equipment—something surprisingly few people are ever taught correctly.

It may sound like a small detail, but it made an enormous difference to both confidence and enjoyment in the water.

It's that level of care and professionalism that stays with you long after your holiday ends.

Dining With Your Feet in the Sand

Although I didn't have the opportunity to experience the main buffet restaurant, I thoroughly enjoyed dining in the à la carte restaurant.

Fresh seafood, beautifully prepared dishes and attentive service made every meal a pleasure.

One evening stands out above all others.

The General Manager's hosted dinner.

Lobster.

Perfectly cooked lamb chops.

Wonderful company.

Watching the sun disappear below the horizon.

It was one of those evenings that reminds you why travel creates memories no photograph can truly capture.

The Island That Captured My Heart

Every resort we visited during the trip had something unique to offer.

Yet if there was one island that surprised me the most...

It was Ellaidhoo.

Not because it had the biggest villas.

Not because it had the most luxurious facilities.

But because it stayed true to itself.

It reminded me that the Maldives isn't always about infinity pools, Instagram photos or extravagant overwater villas.

Sometimes it's simply about reconnecting with nature.

Watching sharks glide beneath your deck.

Discovering extraordinary marine life just metres from the beach.

And spending your days in one of the most remarkable underwater worlds on Earth.

I'll admit something.

When it came time to leave, I half-jokingly tried hiding behind a tree in the hope everyone would forget me.

Sadly...

They found me.

Charlotte's Verdict

If one client asked me,

"Charlotte, I want the very best snorkelling you can recommend..."

I honestly wouldn't hesitate.

I'd send them to Ellaidhoo.

The house reef alone makes this island something truly special, but combined with its authentic atmosphere, genuinely warm hospitality and outstanding diving facilities, it becomes an unforgettable Maldivian experience.

This isn't about polished glamour.

It's about experiencing the Maldives exactly as nature intended.

And sometimes...

That's even better.

Perfect For

• Snorkellers and scuba divers
• Marine life enthusiasts
• Couples seeking a relaxed island escape
• Repeat visitors to the Maldives looking for something authentic
• Guests who value experiences over extravagance
• Nature lovers wanting one of the Maldives' finest house reefs

As incredible as Ellaidhoo was, our journey through the Cinnamon collection was only just beginning.

Our next stop would take us to an island where time seemed to slow down completely...

Hakuraa Huraa Maldives by Cinnamon—a peaceful sanctuary where barefoot luxury, heartfelt hospitality and unforgettable moments would leave an equally lasting impression.

 

Hakuraa Huraa Maldives by Cinnamon

The Island Where Time Slows Down

After the vibrant marine life of Ellaidhoo, I wondered how another island could possibly leave such a lasting impression.

Then we arrived at Hakuraa Huraa.

From the very first moment, the atmosphere felt different.

There was no rush. No noise. Just a warm Maldivian welcome, genuine smiles and an overwhelming sense of tranquillity.

Some destinations encourage you to fill every minute with activities.

Hakuraa Huraa quietly reminds you that sometimes the greatest luxury is simply doing... absolutely nothing.

A True Escape from Everyday Life

As our boat approached the island, I was immediately struck by its natural beauty.

The turquoise lagoon seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon, the powder-soft white sand looked almost untouched and the lush greenery created an unmistakable feeling of arriving somewhere wonderfully secluded.

The welcome from the team was warm, sincere and effortlessly organised. There was no sense of formality—just genuine hospitality that immediately made us feel at home.

It was impossible not to relax.

Within minutes, watches became irrelevant and emails felt a million miles away.

Waking Up Over the Lagoon

During my stay, I was fortunate enough to experience one of the resort's Water Bungalows.

Bright, spacious and beautifully positioned over the lagoon, it offered exactly the peaceful retreat you imagine when dreaming of the Maldives.

Stepping out onto my private deck each morning became a little ritual.

Coffee in hand.

Nothing but endless shades of blue.

The gentle sound of the water below.

It's amazing how quickly life slows down when your biggest decision is whether to swim before breakfast or after.

The villa itself was thoughtfully designed, comfortable and incredibly relaxing. Everything you needed was there without ever feeling overdone.

Sometimes simplicity is luxury.

Hospitality from the Heart

Across every Cinnamon resort I visited, one thing remained wonderfully consistent.

The people.

At Hakuraa Huraa, the team made every guest feel genuinely valued. Every greeting came with a smile, every conversation felt sincere and every interaction reflected the warmth that Maldivian hospitality is so well known for.

One person, however, left a particularly lasting impression.

Ahmed from the Dive Centre.

What I expected to be a quick conversation turned into almost an hour discussing the Maldives, its incredible atolls, marine life and everything that makes this destination so unique.

His passion was infectious.

Before we left, he surprised me with a beautiful hand-painted gift.

It was completely unexpected.

If I'm honest, I almost cried.

It wasn't about the gift itself—it was the kindness behind it. Moments like that can't be manufactured. They're the reason certain holidays stay with you forever.

More Than Just Beautiful Beaches

While Hakuraa Huraa is undoubtedly a place to unwind, there's still plenty to discover for those wanting to explore.

During our stay, we joined several excursions, including a snorkelling trip and an unforgettable afternoon shark experience.

Swimming alongside sharks had been firmly on my travel bucket list for years, and finally ticking it off was something I'll never forget.

Watching these magnificent creatures glide effortlessly through the water was both exhilarating and strangely calming.

I did leave with mixed feelings about the practice of feeding sharks to attract them closer to the boats. While the experience itself was extraordinary, it also reminded me of the importance of protecting the natural behaviour of marine life.

It's a conversation that's becoming increasingly important throughout the tourism industry, and one worth considering as destinations continue to balance unforgettable guest experiences with responsible wildlife encounters.

An Evening I'll Never Forget

One of the highlights of our stay was the General Manager's hosted dinner.

Unfortunately, the weather had other ideas.

Rain clouds rolled in, forcing a change of plans.

Yet if anything, it made the evening even more memorable.

The team adapted seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that felt warm, welcoming and incredibly special despite the conditions.

The food was exceptional, with beautifully prepared local dishes, excellent presentation and some truly outstanding desserts.

It became one of those evenings where the people around the table mattered far more than the weather outside.

Sometimes travel memories are created not because everything goes perfectly...

But because wonderful people make the unexpected feel magical.

Authentic Maldives, Without the Fuss

One thing I loved most about Hakuraa Huraa was its authenticity.

There was no attempt to overwhelm guests with endless entertainment or extravagant facilities.

Instead, the island embraces exactly what so many travellers come to the Maldives to find.

Peace.

Space.

Nature.

Whether walking barefoot along the beach at sunrise, reading beneath the shade of a palm tree or simply listening to the gentle sound of the waves, there was a sense of calm that became almost addictive.

This isn't the Maldives for those wanting nightlife or a packed daily schedule.

This is the Maldives for people who simply want to breathe.

Charlotte's Verdict

Every island tells a different story.

For me, Hakuraa Huraa is all about slowing down.

It's where I would send couples celebrating a honeymoon, anyone recovering from a busy year, or travellers who simply want to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with each other.

The peaceful atmosphere, beautiful lagoon, warm-hearted team and authentic island feel combine to create something wonderfully understated.

Luxury here isn't measured by extravagance.

It's measured by how you feel when you're there.

And by the time I left, I felt completely relaxed.

If that's not the greatest compliment I can give a resort...

I don't know what is.

Perfect For

• Couples seeking complete relaxation
• Honeymooners
• Adults looking for peace and tranquillity
• Guests wanting an authentic Maldivian escape
• Those celebrating a special occasion
• Travellers who value heartfelt hospitality over glitz and glamour

As our week of island hopping drew towards its conclusion, there was one final Cinnamon resort still waiting to surprise us.

Our last stop would be Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives—a contemporary island of sleek overwater villas, spectacular lagoons and modern luxury, where first impressions weren't quite what I expected... but where the experience that followed certainly was.

 

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

Contemporary Luxury with Endless Shades of Blue

Every island tells a different story.

After experiencing the authentic charm of Ellaidhoo and the peaceful tranquillity of Hakuraa Huraa, our final stop was Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives—a resort that immediately felt different.

Modern.

Stylish.

Contemporary.

If Hakuraa Huraa is all about slowing down, Velifushi is the island that greets you with sleek architecture, overwater villas stretching into an impossibly blue lagoon and a more sophisticated, modern feel.

It was the perfect finale to an unforgettable week exploring the Cinnamon collection.

First Impressions Matter

I'm a great believer that every memorable holiday begins with the arrival.

Whilst the welcome from the team was warm and genuinely friendly, I have to admit my first impression wasn't quite as polished as the other Cinnamon resorts.

As our boat approached the island, a maintenance vessel was visible close to the jetty. It's only a small detail, but first impressions matter, particularly when guests have travelled halfway around the world to experience the Maldives for the first time.

Thankfully, that initial impression didn't last long.

Stepping into the beautiful reception area immediately changed the atmosphere. Contemporary design, stunning ocean views and smiling staff quickly reminded me why people fall in love with resorts like this.

Sometimes first impressions aren't the lasting ones.

Waking Up Above a Blue Lagoon

I stayed in a Sunset Overwater Villa, and what a beautiful space it was.

Modern, spacious and flooded with natural light, it offered everything you could possibly need for a relaxing Maldivian escape.

But the real star was waiting outside.

The lagoon.

I've seen countless photographs of the Maldives over the years, yet standing on my private deck watching every imaginable shade of blue stretching towards the horizon was still breathtaking.

Whether enjoying an early morning swim, watching fish dart beneath the villa or simply sitting quietly as the sun disappeared each evening, it was impossible not to appreciate just how spectacular this location really is.

It perfectly captures the contemporary side of the Maldives.

Hospitality That Never Missed a Beat

One thing remained wonderfully consistent throughout every Cinnamon resort we visited.

The people.

Velifushi's team were exceptional.

Every interaction was warm, professional and genuine, whether in the restaurants, bars or simply walking around the island.

You never felt like just another guest.

The team always had time for a smile, a conversation or simply making sure everything was exactly as it should be.

For me, great hospitality is rarely about grand gestures.

It's the hundreds of small moments that quietly make you feel looked after.

Velifushi delivered those effortlessly.

Dining with Room to Grow

One thing that impressed me throughout the trip was the quality of Cinnamon's food, and Velifushi was no exception.

The buffet offered an excellent variety, beautifully presented dishes and plenty of choice to suit different tastes.

One evening we enjoyed a traditional Sri Lankan dinner hosted by the General Manager.

The authenticity of the flavours was unmistakable.

As someone who enjoys trying local cuisine whenever I travel, I loved the opportunity to experience something genuinely Sri Lankan.

I will admit, though...

The spice levels certainly caught me by surprise!

For guests unfamiliar with authentic Sri Lankan cooking, a slightly milder option alongside the traditional dishes might help everyone enjoy the experience while still celebrating the incredible flavours.

One area where I believe Velifushi has even greater potential is its dining spaces.

The food itself was consistently excellent, but parts of the buffet restaurant and some of the exterior decking are beginning to show signs of wear.

Nothing major.

Nothing that detracts from the holiday.

Just small cosmetic improvements that could elevate the overall experience to match the outstanding quality found elsewhere across the resort.

A Hidden Opportunity

During our stay, one particular venue really caught my attention.

The overwater karaoke bar.

Our group had enormous fun there.

But I couldn't help wondering whether the space could become something even more special.

Imagine replacing it with a contemporary overwater restaurant.

Floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the lagoon.

A stylish cocktail bar.

Perhaps an intimate Japanese teppanyaki restaurant or premium steakhouse.

It has all the ingredients to become one of the resort's signature experiences.

Sometimes the greatest opportunities are hiding in plain sight.

A Resort Looking Forward

One thing I admire about Cinnamon Hotels is their willingness to listen.

Throughout our visit, feedback wasn't only welcomed—it was encouraged.

As a travel professional, that's incredibly refreshing.

No resort is ever perfect.

The very best hotels are those that continue evolving, investing and finding new ways to improve the guest experience.

Velifushi already has so many strengths.

Exceptional staff.

Beautiful accommodation.

A spectacular lagoon.

Excellent food.

With a few thoughtful enhancements, I genuinely believe it has the potential to become one of the standout contemporary resorts in the Maldives within its category.

Charlotte's Verdict

If you're looking for sleek overwater villas, modern surroundings and an island with a contemporary feel, Velifushi is an excellent choice.

It offers a different experience to the other Cinnamon resorts.

Where Ellaidhoo is all about the reef...

Hakuraa Huraa is about tranquillity...

And Dhonveli is the perfect all-round introduction to the Maldives...

Velifushi is about modern island living.

Would I recommend it?

Absolutely.

Not because it's flawless.

But because the things it does well, it does exceptionally well.

Combined with a team who genuinely care about their guests and a company committed to continual improvement, I left convinced that Velifushi's best days are still ahead.

Charlotte's Final Thoughts

After spending a week exploring four very different Cinnamon resorts, one thing became crystal clear.

There is no such thing as the "best" island.

Only the island that's best for you.

If you're dreaming of your first visit to the Maldives, I'd happily recommend Cinnamon Dhonveli.

If your idea of paradise involves slipping into crystal-clear water above one of the Maldives' finest house reefs, Ellaidhoo is hard to beat.

If peace, tranquillity and heartfelt hospitality are at the top of your wish list, Hakuraa Huraa will steal your heart.

And if contemporary overwater luxury and endless turquoise lagoons are what you've always imagined, Velifushi deserves a place on your shortlist.

As a luxury travel specialist, that's exactly what I love doing—helping clients find the island that feels as though it was made just for them.

After all...

The Maldives isn't one destination.

It's hundreds of different islands, each with its own story.

This was mine.

I can't wait to help you discover yours.