Jan 2, 2019, 3:02 pm
Last edit by: Jaffar
:-: Welcome to the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi Wiki! :-:
Notes: All prices are in US Dollars and are exclusive of taxes unless specified (by ++)
Tax Information
• 10% Service Charge (levied by resort. For info on this and how it's distributed, see this post)
• 16% T-GST (Tourist Goods & Services Tax, levied by the Maldivian government, current as of Jan 1, 2023). Old 2022 rate was 12%.
• Total tax is 27.2%, not 26% as one would think. Example; $100 + 10% = $110, then add 16% on to $110 for a total of $127.20.
• Tip: To work out prices before the 27.2% taxes, multiply by 0.7862, i.e; 127.2 * 0.7862 = 100
• A Green Tax of $6pp/pn (levied by the Maldivian government) has been introduced starting from 1 November 2015. Points/Redemption bookings are exempt from the tax for up to two guests per room
Booking with points
• Bookings must be cancelled 30 days prior in order to avoid one full night's charge at BAR. (some days cancellation period is 14 days check your reservation details for the exact applicable cancellation policy)
• Website and phone agents state that a cash deposit equivalent to the BAR per night will be taken when booking stays with points. This is an error. NO CASH DEPOSIT IS TAKEN WHEN MAKING A POINTS BOOKING
• Free night certificate: The phone agent states that a cash deposit equivalent to the BAR per night will be taken when booking your free night. This is an error. NO CASH DEPOSIT IS TAKEN WHEN USING YOUR FREE NIGHT CERTIFICATE
• This hotel is extremely popular. Rooms are released to be booked with points about 1 year in advance. It seems to be a partially manual process so it's not an exact science. After being released those rooms get booked within a matter of minutes. If you have specific dates you want you need to book them one at a time a year in advance, or risk booking last minute. Yes that makes it hard to use the 5th night free. You can book 5 individual nights and cancel them all to rebook getting the 5th night free, but there's only about a 50% chance the rooms go back into inventory so it's risky. There is no secret, just check Hilton.com all the time. If you don't want to do that, someone else will and they'll get the rooms.
Transfers To and From Resort
• Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi is located in South Malé Atoll, 23km southwest of Malé and Velana International Airport [MLE] (also known as Malé International Airport, previously known as Ibrahim Nasir International Airport)
• Transfer experience includes personal service for your group after luggage pick-up until arrival on the yacht; yacht includes dedicated server for champagne, non-alcoholic beverages, and light snacks. Departure experience on the yacht is the same, and your group be personally escorted through airline check-in until airport security.
• Pricing in 2021 is $650++, 2020 is $600++ per person, and 2019 it was $350++ per person per way ($1724.80 return inclusive of taxes for 2 passengers). The price for kids 5 and under is complimentary while kids 6-11 years old are charged $300++ per person. If the yacht is not available, a speedboat will be provided by the resort. If this happens, you may be refunded the yacht transfer fee.
• Pricing for 2022 will increase to $730++ for adults and $365++ children 6-12, see website by clicking here.
• Pricing for 2023 will increase to $780++ for adults ($995.28 nett) and $390++ for children 6-12
• The resort offers the ability to redeem Hilton Honors points for your transfer, .strValue1=all&promoGroupList[1].strValue1=en_US&qt[0].type=fieldsearch&qt[0].name=panname_country_s&qt[0].value1=MDV&rc=24&sort=timeleft_asc]click here.
• See this post for a detailed review of the yacht transfer (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Third party transfers are not permitted by the resort.
• Transfer to / from Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: A private seaplane transfer from the Waldorf to the Conrad, taking approximately 25 minutes, is approximately USD 8,125++. Most guests travel between the resort booking the standard round trip seaplane from Male to Rangali and then the Yacht transfer round trip from Male to Waldorf.
Time
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi time has been set one hour ahead of Male’ time to give an extra hour of daylight each day. For ease, set phone or Dhaka Sri Lanka time zone.
Resort Information / Spa / Activities
• WA Ithaafushi is made up of three islands (95% man-made)
• There are 2 standalone OWVs (Over Water Villas) and 121 villas in total
• Click here (Hilton's website) or here (dedicated website) to visit the resort on the web
• The kids club (one of the biggest in the Maldives) is for children between 4 to 11 years. Click here for detailed information and here for the schedule. Click here, here and here for basic reviews and comprehensive sets of pictures (All courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• See this and this post for info on the Christmas Eve and New Years Eve Gala Fee
• Click here to visit the resort's listing on TripAdvisor
• Tennis courts: See this post
• For a new map of the resort click here
> For the old map of the resort click here * Note that this map is orientated north and so the SUNRISE and SUNSET written on it are incorrect. Also note that you receive a black and white map when you arrive and this is not as good nor as detailed as the one posted here. For comments on the quality of the map, click here
• Snorkelling spots and other info 3e4sd:Link to post: (Courtesy of AirForceFlyer)
• Scuba Diving pics :Link to post: (Courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• Activities Brochure (prices as of July 2019)
• Spa pics and review :Link to post: (Courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• Wellness Programme :Link to post: (Courtesy of AirForceFlyer)
Resort Information - F&B and Menus
• The resort has 11 restaurants / bars
• Kids under 6 eat free when ordering from the dedicated kids menu (all restaurants except the adult only ones have kids menu; does not apply to in-room dining)
• Some restaurant menus are available in PDF format on the resort's website. Click here to visit the relevant page on their website
• Menus for most restaurants as of early October 2020: See this post
• For pictures of most of the menus: Part 1 and Part 2
• Dining Programme / restaurant opening times: See this post and the post below it
• IVD (In Villa Dining) menus: See this post
• Yasmeen - Menu version discussion here.
• Terra is $298.00++ per person. As of December 2019, the set menu includes Amuse Brioche (3 selections per person), a starter (tuna, avocado, caviar), 2 courses highlighting lobster and wagyu beef with a pallet cleanse in between, a dessert course, then finishing with 3 additional sweet selections per person.
• The Ledge - See this post. Note that this menu changes daily but there are probably only 2 for each day and 14 in total (7 for lunch and 7 for dinner). Chefs rotate to the resort from Burnt Ends in Singapore.
+ Peacock Alley 1/2 priced drinks daily after 9:30pm. High-quality cocktails and liquors available at a very affordable price ranging from $13-$15 post discount
+ Tasting Table full buffet breakfast with made to order entrees and complimentary Champagne for $65++/person or Free for Hilton Diamond / Gold
+ Glow and Yasmeen wine selections are priced in the $65 - $85 ++ range per bottle.
• Lunch can be purchased at the main pool or beach from Nava or The Ledge. The majority of lunch entrees cost $30-$50++. Lunch is also available at Tasting Table, Tangled, or In Villa Dining.
• A new pizza oven was flown in from Italy to replace the original oven installed at Nava, and an Italian chef traveled to the resort to work with the team to elevate pizza quality in early December of 2019.
• During festive season 2019, the resort introduced a lobster & champagne dinner on the beach, including tasting stations, free flow champagne, and a live band for $298++ per person.
Miscellaneous Information
• Villa pool depth: See this post
• Best snorkelling spots: See this post and this post
• Complimentary water (in villa): See this post
• Walking / getting around the resort: See this post
• Sunset / Sunrise at the resort: See this post and this post
• Power outlet configuration: See this post
Elite member benefits:
Accommodation:
At opening the resort defined Beach Villas as the lowest category of accommodation (only this category bookable with points). The next highest category was Reef Villas then above that, the Overwater Villas. Note: villas on the Private Island do not count.
This will change in 2020. Quote from the resort "Please be informed that for next year we have changed our villa category. Kindly note that the Reef Villa will be our base category, next will be the Overwater Villa and then the Beach Villa. Basically the Beach Villa will be a higher category compared to reef Villa and Overwater Villa."
See this post for the conversation related to this. Pricing has changed as well to reflect this. See below for 2020 pricing.
Note that as of August 2019 the BV is still available to book on points in 2020. This may change, however.
Prices - Accommodation (2020):
***** March 2020 Figures *****
• Beach Villa USD 2630
• Overwater Villa USD 2430
• Reef Villa USD 1930
Prices - Accommodation (2019):
***** July 2019 Figures *****
• 2 Bedroom Beach Villa with Pool USD 3850
• 2 Bedroom Over Water Villa with Pool USD 4350
***** October 2019 Figures *****
• Beach Villa USD 2100
• Grand Beach Villa USD 2300
• Reef Villa USD 2300
• Grand Reef Villa USD 2500
• Overwater Villa USD 2500
• Grand Overwater Villa USD 2700
***** Upgrade Costs - Jul 2019 *****
• Two Bedroom Beach - US 2000
• Two Bedroom Grand Beach - US 2200
• Two Bedroom Reef - US 2200
• Two Bedroom Overwater - US 2400
***** Upgrade Costs - Oct 2019 *****
• Reef Villa USD 200
• OWV USD 400
Villa Types and Abbreviations used in this thread (listed in order from most basic to most luxurious)
-- BVs (Beach Villas) --
BV (Beach Villa)
GBV (Grand Beach Villa)
-- RVs (Reef Villas) --
RV (Reef Villa, the Garden Villa category shown in the pre-opening promo video)
GRV (Grand Reef Villa, also a type of Garden Villa shown in the pre-opening promo video)
-- OWVs (Over Water Villas) aka Ocean Villas in rewards booking --
OV (Overwater Villa)
GOV (Grand Overwater Villa)
SMR (Stella Maris Residences)
-- Occupancy Information --
See this post for maximum occupancy of each villa type
Villa Selection
• See this post and this post
• Privacy - Beach Villas: For pics, info and opinions, see the following posts; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Travel & Safety Information
• The Maldives is listed in Category 1 (the highest category) on the
WHO Zika virus classification table. However, don't let that scare you because as of April 13, 2017 there has only been one confirmed case of Zika in the Maldives
• Click here for information related to the single Zika infection in the Maldives (reported in January of that year)
Contact
• General Enquiries: [email protected]
• Reservations Department: [email protected]
• Tel: +960-4000-300
• Click here for hilton site and click here for Waldorf Maldives website
Weather:
Note: since the resort is close to Mahibadhoo (where there is a weather station), I have added this info from the Conrad Maldives thread as both resorts are close by and the weather will be the same as far as forecasts go (MaldivesFreak)
• General info on weather in the Maldives: Link 1 Link 2 (Maldivian government website)
• Recommended Android weather app: eWeather HD. See this post for detailed info on the app, settings, tips and general weather info (Courtesy of MaldivesFreak)
• Want to get an idea about the weather in the month of August? Click here to read a post from a FT member that spends 2 weeks at Rangali during this month (Courtesy of Splotly)
Pictures - Resort under construction:
• January, 2018 :Link to post:
• June, 2018 :Link to post:
• Approx October, 2018 :Link to post:
• January, 2019 :Link to post:
Pictures & Videos - Post-opening:
• General pics of the resort (July, 2019) :Link to post: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• The Stella Maris exclusive! :Link to post with links to videos: (Courtesy of alanslegal)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #1 :Link to post: (Courtesy of alanslegal)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #2 :Link to post: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #3 :Link to post: (Courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #4 :Link to post: (Courtesy of Another Getaway)
• IVD(in villa dining) :Link to post: (Courtesy of Stivelio)
• Terra (views from all 7 'cages') :Link to post: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Terra and Family Pool :Link to post with link to video: (Courtesy of alanslegal)
• Reef Villa with sunset view :Link to post: (Courtesy of Stivelio)
• Views in the direction of Male (night & day pics) :Link to post 1: (Courtesy of wekxbrainx) :Link to post 2: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Bicycle tour :Link to post:
• Various resort and villa pics from a stay in November 2019 :Link to post: (Courtesy of aspenedelen)
Reviews:
• Review by Jermyn
• Review by goldelite8
• Review by escape4
• Review by Falcons05 (text only)
Historical Information for high rollers:
+ $135 shisha, Check out this post
+ If you do NOT have Gold/Diamond status with Free breakfast AND you decide NOT to pay the $65++ for full buffet at Tasting Table, then you may or may not encounter a $35 charge for a single egg
+ 106,000 dollar bottle of wine: Click
here for a picture of the wine menu (reactions follow on subsequent pages)
Notes: All prices are in US Dollars and are exclusive of taxes unless specified (by ++)
Tax Information
• 10% Service Charge (levied by resort. For info on this and how it's distributed, see this post)
• 16% T-GST (Tourist Goods & Services Tax, levied by the Maldivian government, current as of Jan 1, 2023). Old 2022 rate was 12%.
• Total tax is 27.2%, not 26% as one would think. Example; $100 + 10% = $110, then add 16% on to $110 for a total of $127.20.
• Tip: To work out prices before the 27.2% taxes, multiply by 0.7862, i.e; 127.2 * 0.7862 = 100
• A Green Tax of $6pp/pn (levied by the Maldivian government) has been introduced starting from 1 November 2015. Points/Redemption bookings are exempt from the tax for up to two guests per room
Booking with points
• Bookings must be cancelled 30 days prior in order to avoid one full night's charge at BAR. (some days cancellation period is 14 days check your reservation details for the exact applicable cancellation policy)
• Website and phone agents state that a cash deposit equivalent to the BAR per night will be taken when booking stays with points. This is an error. NO CASH DEPOSIT IS TAKEN WHEN MAKING A POINTS BOOKING
• Free night certificate: The phone agent states that a cash deposit equivalent to the BAR per night will be taken when booking your free night. This is an error. NO CASH DEPOSIT IS TAKEN WHEN USING YOUR FREE NIGHT CERTIFICATE
• This hotel is extremely popular. Rooms are released to be booked with points about 1 year in advance. It seems to be a partially manual process so it's not an exact science. After being released those rooms get booked within a matter of minutes. If you have specific dates you want you need to book them one at a time a year in advance, or risk booking last minute. Yes that makes it hard to use the 5th night free. You can book 5 individual nights and cancel them all to rebook getting the 5th night free, but there's only about a 50% chance the rooms go back into inventory so it's risky. There is no secret, just check Hilton.com all the time. If you don't want to do that, someone else will and they'll get the rooms.
Transfers To and From Resort
• Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi is located in South Malé Atoll, 23km southwest of Malé and Velana International Airport [MLE] (also known as Malé International Airport, previously known as Ibrahim Nasir International Airport)
• Transfer experience includes personal service for your group after luggage pick-up until arrival on the yacht; yacht includes dedicated server for champagne, non-alcoholic beverages, and light snacks. Departure experience on the yacht is the same, and your group be personally escorted through airline check-in until airport security.
• Pricing in 2021 is $650++, 2020 is $600++ per person, and 2019 it was $350++ per person per way ($1724.80 return inclusive of taxes for 2 passengers). The price for kids 5 and under is complimentary while kids 6-11 years old are charged $300++ per person. If the yacht is not available, a speedboat will be provided by the resort. If this happens, you may be refunded the yacht transfer fee.
• Pricing for 2022 will increase to $730++ for adults and $365++ children 6-12, see website by clicking here.
• Pricing for 2023 will increase to $780++ for adults ($995.28 nett) and $390++ for children 6-12
• The resort offers the ability to redeem Hilton Honors points for your transfer, .strValue1=all&promoGroupList[1].strValue1=en_US&qt[0].type=fieldsearch&qt[0].name=panname_country_s&qt[0].value1=MDV&rc=24&sort=timeleft_asc]click here.
• See this post for a detailed review of the yacht transfer (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Third party transfers are not permitted by the resort.
• Transfer to / from Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: A private seaplane transfer from the Waldorf to the Conrad, taking approximately 25 minutes, is approximately USD 8,125++. Most guests travel between the resort booking the standard round trip seaplane from Male to Rangali and then the Yacht transfer round trip from Male to Waldorf.
Time
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi time has been set one hour ahead of Male’ time to give an extra hour of daylight each day. For ease, set phone or Dhaka Sri Lanka time zone.
Resort Information / Spa / Activities
• WA Ithaafushi is made up of three islands (95% man-made)
• There are 2 standalone OWVs (Over Water Villas) and 121 villas in total
• Click here (Hilton's website) or here (dedicated website) to visit the resort on the web
• The kids club (one of the biggest in the Maldives) is for children between 4 to 11 years. Click here for detailed information and here for the schedule. Click here, here and here for basic reviews and comprehensive sets of pictures (All courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• See this and this post for info on the Christmas Eve and New Years Eve Gala Fee
• Click here to visit the resort's listing on TripAdvisor
• Tennis courts: See this post
• For a new map of the resort click here
> For the old map of the resort click here * Note that this map is orientated north and so the SUNRISE and SUNSET written on it are incorrect. Also note that you receive a black and white map when you arrive and this is not as good nor as detailed as the one posted here. For comments on the quality of the map, click here
• Snorkelling spots and other info 3e4sd:Link to post: (Courtesy of AirForceFlyer)
• Scuba Diving pics :Link to post: (Courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• Activities Brochure (prices as of July 2019)
• Spa pics and review :Link to post: (Courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• Wellness Programme :Link to post: (Courtesy of AirForceFlyer)
Resort Information - F&B and Menus
• The resort has 11 restaurants / bars
• Kids under 6 eat free when ordering from the dedicated kids menu (all restaurants except the adult only ones have kids menu; does not apply to in-room dining)
• Some restaurant menus are available in PDF format on the resort's website. Click here to visit the relevant page on their website
• Menus for most restaurants as of early October 2020: See this post
• For pictures of most of the menus: Part 1 and Part 2
• Dining Programme / restaurant opening times: See this post and the post below it
• IVD (In Villa Dining) menus: See this post
• Yasmeen - Menu version discussion here.
• Terra is $298.00++ per person. As of December 2019, the set menu includes Amuse Brioche (3 selections per person), a starter (tuna, avocado, caviar), 2 courses highlighting lobster and wagyu beef with a pallet cleanse in between, a dessert course, then finishing with 3 additional sweet selections per person.
• The Ledge - See this post. Note that this menu changes daily but there are probably only 2 for each day and 14 in total (7 for lunch and 7 for dinner). Chefs rotate to the resort from Burnt Ends in Singapore.
+ Peacock Alley 1/2 priced drinks daily after 9:30pm. High-quality cocktails and liquors available at a very affordable price ranging from $13-$15 post discount
+ Tasting Table full buffet breakfast with made to order entrees and complimentary Champagne for $65++/person or Free for Hilton Diamond / Gold
+ Glow and Yasmeen wine selections are priced in the $65 - $85 ++ range per bottle.
• Lunch can be purchased at the main pool or beach from Nava or The Ledge. The majority of lunch entrees cost $30-$50++. Lunch is also available at Tasting Table, Tangled, or In Villa Dining.
• A new pizza oven was flown in from Italy to replace the original oven installed at Nava, and an Italian chef traveled to the resort to work with the team to elevate pizza quality in early December of 2019.
• During festive season 2019, the resort introduced a lobster & champagne dinner on the beach, including tasting stations, free flow champagne, and a live band for $298++ per person.
Miscellaneous Information
• Villa pool depth: See this post
• Best snorkelling spots: See this post and this post
• Complimentary water (in villa): See this post
• Walking / getting around the resort: See this post
• Sunset / Sunrise at the resort: See this post and this post
• Power outlet configuration: See this post
Elite member benefits:
Hilton Honors GOLD MEMBERS:
- Full breakfast at Tasting Table
- In-villa VIP welcome bottle of wine and fruits
- Complimentary daily afternoon delights (see here for pic) with a fine selection of beverages crafted by mixologist and sommelier from 16:00 to 17:00 at Peacock Alley. Note The afternoon delights have been removed and replaced with a bowl of nuts or crisps for example
- 50% special offer on selected beverages at Nava Beach Club from 22:00 to 23:30
- Full breakfast at Tasting Table
- Free item from the kids menu for kids under 6 y.o. (staff are somewhat flexible on this age limit)
- In-villa VIP welcome Champagne, sweet and savoury amenities, note this could be downgraded to a bottle of red wine.
- [Diamond only benefit] With a selected 60-minute massage, enjoy a complimentary additional 30-minute at Waldorf Astoria Spa
- Complimentary daily afternoon delights (see here for pic) with a fine selection of beverages crafted by mixologist and sommelier from 16:00 to 17:00 at Peacock Alley. Note : The afternoon delights have been removed and replaced with a bowl of nuts or crisps for example
- 50% special offer on selected beverages at Nava Beach Club from 22:00 to 23:30 (January 2021: Currently at Peacock Alley as Nava closes at 7pm due to Covid-19 service changes)
Accommodation:
At opening the resort defined Beach Villas as the lowest category of accommodation (only this category bookable with points). The next highest category was Reef Villas then above that, the Overwater Villas. Note: villas on the Private Island do not count.
This will change in 2020. Quote from the resort "Please be informed that for next year we have changed our villa category. Kindly note that the Reef Villa will be our base category, next will be the Overwater Villa and then the Beach Villa. Basically the Beach Villa will be a higher category compared to reef Villa and Overwater Villa."
See this post for the conversation related to this. Pricing has changed as well to reflect this. See below for 2020 pricing.
Note that as of August 2019 the BV is still available to book on points in 2020. This may change, however.
Prices - Accommodation (2020):
***** March 2020 Figures *****
• Beach Villa USD 2630
• Overwater Villa USD 2430
• Reef Villa USD 1930
Prices - Accommodation (2019):
***** July 2019 Figures *****
• 2 Bedroom Beach Villa with Pool USD 3850
• 2 Bedroom Over Water Villa with Pool USD 4350
***** October 2019 Figures *****
• Beach Villa USD 2100
• Grand Beach Villa USD 2300
• Reef Villa USD 2300
• Grand Reef Villa USD 2500
• Overwater Villa USD 2500
• Grand Overwater Villa USD 2700
***** Upgrade Costs - Jul 2019 *****
• Two Bedroom Beach - US 2000
• Two Bedroom Grand Beach - US 2200
• Two Bedroom Reef - US 2200
• Two Bedroom Overwater - US 2400
***** Upgrade Costs - Oct 2019 *****
• Reef Villa USD 200
• OWV USD 400
Villa Types and Abbreviations used in this thread (listed in order from most basic to most luxurious)
-- BVs (Beach Villas) --
BV (Beach Villa)
GBV (Grand Beach Villa)
-- RVs (Reef Villas) --
RV (Reef Villa, the Garden Villa category shown in the pre-opening promo video)
GRV (Grand Reef Villa, also a type of Garden Villa shown in the pre-opening promo video)
-- OWVs (Over Water Villas) aka Ocean Villas in rewards booking --
OV (Overwater Villa)
GOV (Grand Overwater Villa)
SMR (Stella Maris Residences)
-- Occupancy Information --
See this post for maximum occupancy of each villa type
Villa Selection
• See this post and this post
• Privacy - Beach Villas: For pics, info and opinions, see the following posts; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Travel & Safety Information
• The Maldives is listed in Category 1 (the highest category) on the
WHO Zika virus classification table. However, don't let that scare you because as of April 13, 2017 there has only been one confirmed case of Zika in the Maldives
• Click here for information related to the single Zika infection in the Maldives (reported in January of that year)
Contact
• General Enquiries: [email protected]
• Reservations Department: [email protected]
• Tel: +960-4000-300
• Click here for hilton site and click here for Waldorf Maldives website
Weather:
Note: since the resort is close to Mahibadhoo (where there is a weather station), I have added this info from the Conrad Maldives thread as both resorts are close by and the weather will be the same as far as forecasts go (MaldivesFreak)
• General info on weather in the Maldives: Link 1 Link 2 (Maldivian government website)
• Recommended Android weather app: eWeather HD. See this post for detailed info on the app, settings, tips and general weather info (Courtesy of MaldivesFreak)
• Want to get an idea about the weather in the month of August? Click here to read a post from a FT member that spends 2 weeks at Rangali during this month (Courtesy of Splotly)
Pictures - Resort under construction:
• January, 2018 :Link to post:
• June, 2018 :Link to post:
• Approx October, 2018 :Link to post:
• January, 2019 :Link to post:
Pictures & Videos - Post-opening:
• General pics of the resort (July, 2019) :Link to post: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• The Stella Maris exclusive! :Link to post with links to videos: (Courtesy of alanslegal)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #1 :Link to post: (Courtesy of alanslegal)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #2 :Link to post: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #3 :Link to post: (Courtesy of Traveler Dave)
• Breakfast buffet at Tasting Table - Post #4 :Link to post: (Courtesy of Another Getaway)
• IVD(in villa dining) :Link to post: (Courtesy of Stivelio)
• Terra (views from all 7 'cages') :Link to post: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Terra and Family Pool :Link to post with link to video: (Courtesy of alanslegal)
• Reef Villa with sunset view :Link to post: (Courtesy of Stivelio)
• Views in the direction of Male (night & day pics) :Link to post 1: (Courtesy of wekxbrainx) :Link to post 2: (Courtesy of jphripjah)
• Bicycle tour :Link to post:
• Various resort and villa pics from a stay in November 2019 :Link to post: (Courtesy of aspenedelen)
Reviews:
• Review by Jermyn
• Review by goldelite8
• Review by escape4
• Review by Falcons05 (text only)
Historical Information for high rollers:
+ $135 shisha, Check out this post
+ If you do NOT have Gold/Diamond status with Free breakfast AND you decide NOT to pay the $65++ for full buffet at Tasting Table, then you may or may not encounter a $35 charge for a single egg
+ 106,000 dollar bottle of wine: Click
here for a picture of the wine menu (reactions follow on subsequent pages)
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi {MDV}
Apr 2, 2021, 11:29 am
#436
Join Date: May 2015
Posts: 508
thanks for the excellent write up.
curious how the experience was in Male? Were they strict once you got into the airport? Meaning can you go into Male?
Im asking as I need an additional night, but if I can’t get it I got a backup plan at the good ol Sheraton. Free boat ride over and back.
I’m assuming it won’t be an issue to leave WM go back to male, then get the boat back to Sheraton and then back to airport.
Also, did WM offer covid testing for departure?
curious how the experience was in Male? Were they strict once you got into the airport? Meaning can you go into Male?
Im asking as I need an additional night, but if I can’t get it I got a backup plan at the good ol Sheraton. Free boat ride over and back.
I’m assuming it won’t be an issue to leave WM go back to male, then get the boat back to Sheraton and then back to airport.
Also, did WM offer covid testing for departure?
Forgive me if you already know this, but a Negative test from December isn't going to help you. I'll run you through what I did/happened when I entered this month.
- Did a PCR Test locally Wednesday before our Departure from DFW on Friday (Maldives says it can be 96 hours before departure from initial airport, but I played it safe). It does need to be a PCR Test And I would recommend you get them to put your Passport Number on the results, which shouldn't be a problem.
- Received Results via email and a PDF File on Thursday - printed out 3 copies and had the PDF on my Phone/Laptop -- No sort of "Stamp" was on on the PDF file
- Checked in with Qatar Airlines on Friday - they requested the Hard Copy of my Negative Result - but did give it back (They also wanted proof of my Hotel Reservation and return travel, which was a surprise but were happy to just see that on the phone)
- Saturday - While on layover in Doha filled out the Pre-Arrival on-line form here https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/ - you are supposed to do that within 24 hours of arrival. As part of that I had to upload the PDF of my Negative test. When I submitted the form it generated a QR Code - one of each of us, which I saved and uploaded to my Phones Photo File.
- Sunday am - When we went through passport control, with QR Codes (and a Hard Copy of my PCR Test) at the ready - they just took and processed/stamped our passports - did not ask for the test, QR Code, so I assume they were quickly able to tie my passport to the arrival form.
Last edited by Canarsie; Apr 17, 2021 at 8:29 am Reason: Consolidation.
Apr 2, 2021, 12:15 pm
#437
Formerly known as hcampana
Join Date: May 2010
Location: AMS
Programs: Hilton Diamond
Posts: 463
thanks for the excellent write up.
curious how the experience was in Male? Were they strict once you got into the airport? Meaning can you go into Male?
Im asking as I need an additional night, but if I can’t get it I got a backup plan at the good ol Sheraton. Free boat ride over and back.
I’m assuming it won’t be an issue to leave WM go back to male, then get the boat back to Sheraton and then back to airport.
Also, did WM offer covid testing for departure?
curious how the experience was in Male? Were they strict once you got into the airport? Meaning can you go into Male?
Im asking as I need an additional night, but if I can’t get it I got a backup plan at the good ol Sheraton. Free boat ride over and back.
I’m assuming it won’t be an issue to leave WM go back to male, then get the boat back to Sheraton and then back to airport.
Also, did WM offer covid testing for departure?
Apr 2, 2021, 1:02 pm
#438
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Grapevine, TX
Programs: AA Plat Pro, HHonors Lifetime Diamond, Hyatt Globalist, National Emerald Club Exec Elite,
Posts: 38
thanks for the excellent write up.
curious how the experience was in Male? Were they strict once you got into the airport? Meaning can you go into Male?
Im asking as I need an additional night, but if I can’t get it I got a backup plan at the good ol Sheraton. Free boat ride over and back.
I’m assuming it won’t be an issue to leave WM go back to male, then get the boat back to Sheraton and then back to airport.
Also, did WM offer covid testing for departure?
curious how the experience was in Male? Were they strict once you got into the airport? Meaning can you go into Male?
Im asking as I need an additional night, but if I can’t get it I got a backup plan at the good ol Sheraton. Free boat ride over and back.
I’m assuming it won’t be an issue to leave WM go back to male, then get the boat back to Sheraton and then back to airport.
Also, did WM offer covid testing for departure?
Similar to our arrival, on Departure the Boat docks right by the airport entrance where we were met by WA Representative - this was around 9pm Male Time - he then escorted both us and our Luggage into the airport and stayed with us through the check for QR code, initial Security Scan, Check in and all the way to the Escalators that lead up to Passport Control and the Secondary Security Scan.
Even if we did want to go into Male, I don't think we could have due to COVID Restrictions and at the time there was a Curfew (That was lifted this week)
Have you considered the Hulhule Island Hotel - that one is on the airport and you might not be subject to similar restrictions.
David.
Last edited by txbrit; Apr 2, 2021 at 1:04 pm Reason: Grammar and spelling.
Apr 2, 2021, 1:24 pm
#439
Join Date: May 2015
Posts: 508
you are right about the guide. I forgot about that. We stayed at the Conrad and they did the same thing pre covid.
good suggestions, but, I just changed my flight. We found a flight departing on the day the reservation ends so, no back and forth. I guess we got lucky🤷🏻♂️. 7 nights is plenty.
funny though, this article from CNN popped up right after I wrote this post, it said:
Tourists are allowed to split stays between hotels. However, if you spend more than 48 hours in the Greater Malé area, you must take another PCR test before moving elsewhere.
This means that while locals are subject to restrictions, those going to and from the airport are exempt. Split stays between different hotels are allowed, if the hotels meet government requirements. Requests for split stays must be made to the Ministry of Tourism at least 48 hours before travel.
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/m...-19/index.html
good suggestions, but, I just changed my flight. We found a flight departing on the day the reservation ends so, no back and forth. I guess we got lucky🤷🏻♂️. 7 nights is plenty.
funny though, this article from CNN popped up right after I wrote this post, it said:
Tourists are allowed to split stays between hotels. However, if you spend more than 48 hours in the Greater Malé area, you must take another PCR test before moving elsewhere.
This means that while locals are subject to restrictions, those going to and from the airport are exempt. Split stays between different hotels are allowed, if the hotels meet government requirements. Requests for split stays must be made to the Ministry of Tourism at least 48 hours before travel.
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/m...-19/index.html
Short answer - I couldn't tell you.
Similar to our arrival, on Departure the Boat docks right by the airport entrance where we were met by WA Representative - this was around 9pm Male Time - he then escorted both us and our Luggage into the airport and stayed with us through the check for QR code, initial Security Scan, Check in and all the way to the Escalators that lead up to Passport Control and the Secondary Security Scan.
Even if we did want to go into Male, I don't think we could have due to COVID Restrictions and at the time there was a Curfew (That was lifted this week)
Have you considered the Hulhule Island Hotel - that one is on the airport and you might not be subject to similar restrictions.
David.
Similar to our arrival, on Departure the Boat docks right by the airport entrance where we were met by WA Representative - this was around 9pm Male Time - he then escorted both us and our Luggage into the airport and stayed with us through the check for QR code, initial Security Scan, Check in and all the way to the Escalators that lead up to Passport Control and the Secondary Security Scan.
Even if we did want to go into Male, I don't think we could have due to COVID Restrictions and at the time there was a Curfew (That was lifted this week)
Have you considered the Hulhule Island Hotel - that one is on the airport and you might not be subject to similar restrictions.
David.
Apr 3, 2021, 3:15 am
#440
Join Date: Apr 2020
Posts: 18
We had Yasmeen for dinner in-villa during our stay. We just left on 4/1. I don't think this is the norm though, so YMMV. The food was DELICIOUS and we were not able to finish it all.
Our PCR test was administered by the resort doctor two days before our departure to the US. Charged $70 plus tax.
Saw him with his family while I was leaving breakfast at Tasting Table. To be honest, I wouldn't have known he was famous if WA didn't repost him on IG. You're going to have a WONDERFUL time.
Our PCR test was administered by the resort doctor two days before our departure to the US. Charged $70 plus tax.
Saw him with his family while I was leaving breakfast at Tasting Table. To be honest, I wouldn't have known he was famous if WA didn't repost him on IG. You're going to have a WONDERFUL time.
Last edited by Canarsie; Apr 17, 2021 at 8:30 am Reason: Consolidation.
Apr 3, 2021, 9:38 pm
#441
Join Date: Jun 2019
Posts: 29
Does anybody find It odd that no awards are available here at waldorf astoria maldives through the rest of the year? I went here back in 2019 and found award availability no problem. Back in 2019 the standard room was the beach Villa and then they decided to change the standard room to overwater reef villa or whatever. Anyway, I remember finding standard 120k award availability for the reef villa pretty easy; however, now Were trying to go back pretty soon here and there's not one standard room at 120k available through the rest of the year. Let me know what you guys think.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Last edited by Eyesonthepoints; Apr 3, 2021 at 9:44 pm
Apr 3, 2021, 10:00 pm
#442
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: So Cal
Posts: 937
Does anybody find It odd that no awards are available here at waldorf astoria maldives through the rest of the year? I went here back in 2019 and found award availability no problem. Back in 2019 the standard room was the beach Villa and then they decided to change the standard room to overwater reef villa or whatever. Anyway, I remember finding standard 120k award availability for the reef villa pretty easy; however, now Were trying to go back pretty soon here and there's not one standard room at 120k available through the rest of the year. Let me know what you guys think.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Apr 3, 2021, 10:53 pm
#443
Join Date: Apr 2020
Posts: 18
Does anybody find It odd that no awards are available here at waldorf astoria maldives through the rest of the year? I went here back in 2019 and found award availability no problem. Back in 2019 the standard room was the beach Villa and then they decided to change the standard room to overwater reef villa or whatever. Anyway, I remember finding standard 120k award availability for the reef villa pretty easy; however, now Were trying to go back pretty soon here and there's not one standard room at 120k available through the rest of the year. Let me know what you guys think.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
With all the reviews that came out since then, it’s the most coveted Hilton resort at this point because everyone and their mother knows about the 120k standard reward rooms now. Countless “influencers” explaining how to reserve this hotel on points, coupled with the hotel now being ranked highly in travel magazines doesn’t help. I imagine people at home itching to go on holiday with more time on their hands to watch availability exacerbates the problem.
Seems like a regular supply and demand issue.
Apr 4, 2021, 7:35 am
#444
Join Date: Dec 2008
Programs: Alaska MVP Gold, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 669
I don’t find it odd. There has been a global pandemic that has prevented most people from traveling. Now that there is light at the end of the tunnel, everyone is planning to travel. I am seeing similar circumstances with flight award redemptions.
Apr 4, 2021, 8:27 am
#445
Join Date: Jun 2019
Posts: 29
I understand where your coming from ffman999. I completely agree in regards to people see the light at the end of the tunnel and people are getting ready to travel and there's less awards. I'm with you on all that. The thing here though is that Waldorf Maldives IMO is purposely doing something in regards to the awards. It's never been like this. Hilton terms as I recall ensure customers of no blackout dates and also standard rooms start at 120k Hilton points at WA maldives. How in the world is there not one standard room through the rest of the year into 2022? Additionally, People cancel just before their trip here and there and if that's the case we should see standard room availability open close in from time to time.... If waldorf maldives can push cash bookings over award bookings I'd imagine they would take the risk. It's just a theory. Maybe I'm completely wrong.
Last edited by Eyesonthepoints; Apr 4, 2021 at 8:34 am
Apr 4, 2021, 9:35 am
#446
Join Date: Aug 2013
Programs: HH Lifetime Diamond, DL PM, Hertz President's Circle
Posts: 920
Does anybody find It odd that no awards are available here at waldorf astoria maldives through the rest of the year? I went here back in 2019 and found award availability no problem. Back in 2019 the standard room was the beach Villa and then they decided to change the standard room to overwater reef villa or whatever. Anyway, I remember finding standard 120k award availability for the reef villa pretty easy; however, now Were trying to go back pretty soon here and there's not one standard room at 120k available through the rest of the year. Let me know what you guys think.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Oops looks like you guys talk about it above.. Anyway. something isn't right here.. IMO hotel is doing something wierd with the Award availability.
Apr 4, 2021, 11:00 am
#447
Join Date: Jan 2019
Programs: Hilton Diamond
Posts: 27
I understand where your coming from ffman999. I completely agree in regards to people see the light at the end of the tunnel and people are getting ready to travel and there's less awards. I'm with you on all that. The thing here though is that Waldorf Maldives IMO is purposely doing something in regards to the awards. It's never been like this. Hilton terms as I recall ensure customers of no blackout dates and also standard rooms start at 120k Hilton points at WA maldives. How in the world is there not one standard room through the rest of the year into 2022? Additionally, People cancel just before their trip here and there and if that's the case we should see standard room availability open close in from time to time.... If waldorf maldives can push cash bookings over award bookings I'd imagine they would take the risk. It's just a theory. Maybe I'm completely wrong.
Apr 4, 2021, 6:00 pm
#449
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Sydney, Australia
Programs: HH Diamond, Marriott Titanium/LTG, IHG Platinum
Posts: 1,921
The property has been operating since July 2019 now and they would have spend data of guests, and worked out that award guests are spending, on average, less than other non-award guests. I accept that guest spend is going to be different but I have a feeling that award guests with status (and their complementary champagne breakfast and happy hour - which I have taken advantage of) is generating less spend than an average John or Jane on a cash rate then pays for everything else.
Apr 4, 2021, 7:01 pm
#450
Join Date: Sep 2009
Posts: 1,485
I don’t buy it, myself. Conrad also has no availability next year.
I think the combo of high demand and next year uncertainty has led to a delay in the release. When the go out I think there will be a Q1 block release, at least. They may have longer minimum stay requirements too, to minimise award bookers, but they will come.
I’m keeping an eye out along with everyone else. They can probably see those searches and mistake it for even more demand than there already is.
the Maldives will be seen by many as a safe place, due to the nature of the accommodation and holiday, so I think rates will be sky high for 2022.
I think the combo of high demand and next year uncertainty has led to a delay in the release. When the go out I think there will be a Q1 block release, at least. They may have longer minimum stay requirements too, to minimise award bookers, but they will come.
I’m keeping an eye out along with everyone else. They can probably see those searches and mistake it for even more demand than there already is.
the Maldives will be seen by many as a safe place, due to the nature of the accommodation and holiday, so I think rates will be sky high for 2022.