Have you ever been to the Philippines? It's a very friendly, fun, interesting mix of cultures. Basically, it's more of a cultural experience than I feel you get out of the Maldives resorts. Filipinos are mostly Catholic. They are incredibly kind hearted.

Amanpulo does some local food items like adobo/pancit and makes homemade guava jam. And their welcome calamansi (tiny lime) juice is to die for.

Of course, both locations are equally stunning with great beaches and water activities. Tough choice.