Sean Collins

Review of Niyama Island Resort and Spa

My wife and I are avid travelers and this includes...

My wife and I are avid travelers and this includes bringing our young toddlers with us. Even though our daughter is 4-1/2 she's already been to 12 countries. My wife has been to over 60 countries. The Maldives is like nothing you've ever seen - it's a dream come true. I feel blessed to have been able to visit and even better given my experience at Niyama. This is an incredible resort and one of the best I've ever stayed at. It is a combination of a luxury resort and a relaxed beach environment all located in the most beautiful archipelago in the world. The 2 islands (Chill and Play) are rather large and incredibly well maintained with lots of beautiful beaches, snorkeling spots, a surf break and amazing villas connected through winding paths that you can bike everywhere to. You can bike from one end of Play to Chill in about 10 leisurely minutes. Even though the islands and resort are rather big, you would never know it. It doesn't seem large because you don't see many people except at the buffet meals - and even then it still has a good feel and is not overwhelming.
The staff and operations of Niyama was impressive to say the least. The entire experience was cultivated through attention to detail, incredible service, engagement, lots of smiles and taking care of the entire family, especially our children.
The Kids Club was a huge hit with the kids - they barely wanted to go to the beach. I can't say enough about the Kids Club facility and staff. There's so much for the kids to do and they develop a lot of activities for them and are incredibly attentive and engaging with the children. Sarah and Olivia were absolutely incredible. The children still talk about it and their time there.
The entire experience was great and it was a combination of nature, beauty, relaxation, a beautiful resort, great landscaping and a bunch of little things like the name tags on the bikes, special things for the kids, they even threw a birthday party for my boy, etc. Not to mention the great conversations with Hassan (our Thakaru) and everyone else who seem genuinely happy and eager to be of service.
Honestly, I wish we had extended our stay (we were there 6 days) and could spend more time there. It would be incredible if we get the opportunity to go again. Part of traveling is to see travel to a number of different countries to see other cultures and places - the beauty and experience here was so great, I'd love to go back!