Reethi Rah still sets the standard in The Maldives

When the Reethi Rah first opened four years ago it was greeted as the Burj Al Arab of the Maldives, a seven-star hotel on a coral atoll island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. It is interesting to report that this resort has matured and even improved since then.

At 109 acres Reethi Rah is one of the largest islands in The Maldives and was in fact enhanced by land reclamation to the ideal scale for an up market resort offering the desert island experience with champagne and fois gras served at the right temperature.

One&Only experience

The international management and staff of the One&Only have created a tranquil haven for relaxation in this almost natural paradise. Your every wish is catered for as well as a great many things you might not even have considered.

Accommodation comprises a variety of 1,000 square feet plus villas with minimalist interiors that actually include the maximum of facilities: a huge bath for two with view over the beach; a rainfall shower with the same view; a vast bathroom; super-king sized bed; electronic entertainments; and an impressive mini bar.

There have been small changes since opening: two iPod connections and wireless Internet that works flawlessly on the beach as well; and indeed the standard Water Villa has its own private beach leading down to the crystal clear lagoon.

A coral reef has grown in the lagoon over the past four years, and the snorkeling is now excellent. You can still also use the infinity swimming pools by the main restaurant complex, or for more vigorous exercise the incredibly well equipped gym has been extended.

Restaurant heaven

The hotel restaurants will be reviewed in a subsequent article. But let me mention that there is a choice of international cuisine with a strong French influence, a full Japanese restaurant and an Arabic restaurant on an isolated beachfront. And again standards have gotten better since the opening with larger menus and not to put too finer point on it, the food tastes better.

This is a good time of year to book a last minute stay at the Reethi Rah as occupancy is running at 45-60 per cent, typical for the low-season when daily showers are to be expected and the occasional dramatic storm.

Guests range from honeymoon couples to supermodels and businessmen, and the hotel is particular popular with Asian and Russian guests at the moment. Only the uncharted super-yachts moored offshore are a reminder that nobody has been entirely immune from the global financial crisis.