The Maldives, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, is nothing short of paradise on Earth. This idyllic destination has always been a top contender on my travel bucket list, and I was thrilled to finally experience it with my parents on their first-ever overseas holiday. Our stay at Sun Siyam Olhuveli turned out to be an unforgettable adventure, filled with moments of joy, relaxation, and awe-inspiring beauty.
Upon landing at Malé International Airport, we were warmly greeted by the Sun Siyam Olhuveli staff. They guided us to their kiosk, where our luggage was tagged, and after a short wait, we boarded the speedboat that would take us to the resort. The 45-minute boat ride offered stunning views of the surrounding atolls and clear blue waters, setting the tone for the paradise that awaited us.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed at the dive center, followed by a quick ride to the reception. Given that my parents are senior citizens, the resort had thoughtfully arranged a buggy ride for them, which was greatly appreciated. At the reception, we received a quick briefing and had the resort app installed on our phones. This app proved incredibly handy, providing information on all the facilities, restaurants, and events scheduled for the coming days.
Our accommodation was nothing short of spectacular. We stayed in a Grand Water Villa, which was both luxurious and comfortable. The bed was plush, the décor soothing, and the bathroom featured a lovely bathtub. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the deck, which offered breathtaking views and direct access to the lagoon for swimming and snorkeling – activities we thoroughly enjoyed over the next few days. My parents’ room was similarly impressive, with the added touch of an anniversary cake, champagne, and a beautifully decorated bed, making their stay extra special.
After checking in, we enjoyed high tea at the Dream Bar, a delightful perk included in our all-inclusive package. While my parents relished the view with their tea and snacks, my sister and I took a dip in the pool, followed by a splash in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. The evening was capped off with drinks at the Lagoon Bar, where we listened to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves, and a buffet dinner at the Sunset Restaurant.
Our days at Sun Siyam Olhuveli were a blend of relaxation and adventure. From early morning strolls on the beach to afternoon dips in the pool, trying kayaking and paddle boarding for the first time, and lounging on sun beds, we savoured every moment. One of the highlights was spotting magnificent manta rays at the dive center, which became a post-dinner ritual for us.
Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a stunning property comprising three islands: the Main Island, Dream Island, and Romance Island. We stayed on Dream Island, enjoying the amenities of our Grand Water Villa and the all-inclusive package, which included buffet meals at the Sunset Restaurant and Malaafaiy (though Malaafaiy was closed for renovation during our visit). While the closure of Malaafaiy was a slight inconvenience due to the distance to the Sunset Restaurant, we found alternative dining options. Namaste, the Indian restaurant, and Siyam Orchid, the Thai restaurant, offered delicious à la carte meals, albeit not included in the all-inclusive plan but available at a discount. The pizza place by the beach next to the Dream Bar pool was another favourite spot.
Our all-inclusive package also included access to non-motorised water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking. Although the Romance Island bar wasn’t part of the all-inclusive package, we could still access its pool. This adults-only island was great for photo ops, but we preferred the vibe of Dream Island and the Main Island. Among the pool bars, the Sunrise Pool Bar and Dhoni Pool Bar were our top picks.
The staff at Sun Siyam Olhuveli were exceptional, displaying genuine warmth and hospitality throughout our stay. They went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable experience.
However, I have a few minor criticisms. The selection of drinks in the all-inclusive package could have been better. For instance, the whiskey options were limited, with choices like Johnny Walker Red Label. It would have been nice to see bourbons like Jim Beam or Jack Daniel’s, or at least scotch like Chivas Regal. While breakfast offered an excellent spread, lunch and dinner could use some improvement. The buffet spread could have been larger, with more options to choose from.
Overall, our stay at Sun Siyam Olhuveli was a dream come true. The beauty of the Maldives, combined with the resort’s luxurious amenities and thoughtful service, made for an unforgettable family holiday. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a paradise worth experiencing.
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