Todd Nelson

Review of Bandos Island Resort - Maldive...

Since 1972, this island resort has been hosting gu...

Since 1972, this island resort has been hosting guests from all over the world. The island, just 20 minutes ride on a speed boat ferry from the airport, is about 500 meters across with most guest rooms located on the perimeter. Four restaurants serve a variety of cuisine. The main one is open 24/7. The breakfast buffet has just about anything you'd want. We booked a Bed and Breakfast stay, so other meals were added to our room tab. Expect resort prices plus 22% in service fee and govt tax.

For activities, we enjoyed the manta ray open water snorkeling tour and the sunset dolphin tour. (It was more like "race with other boats to find and chase some dolphins.") We returned just before sunset. On the manta ray trip, we found four huge rays at the cleaning station where they come seasonally to have their gills cleaned by little fish. The guides were very helpful, and the rays were awesome.

Bring your snorkeling gear, or rent a set for about USD20 per day. You can snorkel at the beach and see lots of beautiful fish, a few turtles -- and small harmless sharks if you venture out to where the reef drops off. Again, expect resort prices for meals, minibar snacks, and excursions. But also expect beautiful beach access, balmy weather, and time to relax. Staff are friendly and helpful. We heartily recommend Bandos.