Its a really tough choice and feels like you cant go wrong with any of the top tier marriot properties in the maldives, but what it came down to for me was the following:
- the W OWVs have a more unobstructed view of the ocean vs the st regis where the OWVs on points redemption typically face the island/resort unless you upgrade for a pretty hefty fee
- Better house reef at the W, im not a big snorkeler but it seems like the house reef at the W cant be beat
- I'd prefer the more laid back/friendly vibe at the W vs the fancy vibe at the St Regis
- Lots of reports of feeling nickeled and dimed at St Regis, im going in expecting to drop a good amount on F&B but feel like my buck will go a lot further at the W with F&B and excursions and spa unless they jack up the costs after reopening
- The menus at the W seem like they have more local/maldivian cuisine on offer vs the st regis which is very international. There are several michelin star restaurants i can go to locally if I wanted international food.
- Personal preference but I don't like the butler model, i find it awkward and makes me feel obligated to tip.While St Regis trip reports are generally pretty solid the ones ive seen that are not good usually there is butler issues so it feels like a potential point of failure.