This 10-year-old hotel in the capital of Malé is suited for budget travelers and those who need a place to crash between flights. The 12-story building has 30-plus rooms with city views and is accessed from a hidden alley entrance, just a five-minute walk from the airport ferry. There is a hostel feel to the place — especially in the lobby where locals like to hang. Basic, worn rooms have private bathrooms (with no shower curtains), AC units, desk space, and free Wi-Fi; many guests complain of cleanliness issues, and one room we stayed in had a bed bug infestation. A 24-hour kitchen dishes out simple fare in the lobby, and the rooftop will serve Asian food and non-alcoholic drinks (slated to open later in 2015). Day-trip excursions such as diving and surfing can be arranged, or an artificial beach is walkable for those on a dime.
This 10-year-old hotel in the capital of Malé is suited for budget travelers and those who need a place to crash between flights. The 12-story building has 30-plus rooms with city views and is accessed from a hidden alley entrance, just a five-minute walk from the airport ferry. There is a hostel feel to the place — especially in the lobby where locals like to hang. Basic, worn rooms have private bathrooms (with no shower curtains), AC units, desk space, and free Wi-Fi; many guests complain of cleanliness issues, and one room we stayed in had a bed bug infestation. A 24-hour kitchen dishes out simple fare in the lobby, and the rooftop will serve Asian food and non-alcoholic drinks (slated to open later in 2015). Day-trip excursions such as diving and surfing can be arranged, or an artificial beach is walkable for those on a dime.
This 117-room upscale hotel is hands-down the nicest option in the capital of Malé; it is also the tallest with 14 stories and views from big windows. Another major identifying feature is the chic rooftop infinity pool and lounge -- great for enjoying a slice of nightlife (i.e. mocktails and coffee), which Malé famously lacks. The Shangri-La group rebranded its Traders Hotels under the Jen label and is implementing changes to liven things up for a younger generation. The two restaurants focus on local products, while coffee and to-go meals are available in the lobby. Modern rooms -- though small -- have rain showerheads, bathrobes, comfy beds, and free Wi-Fi. There are also a spa, fitness center, free walking tours of the city, and free transfers to and from the airport on the next island over.
This 117-room upscale hotel is hands-down the nicest option in the capital of Malé; it is also the tallest with 14 stories and views from big windows. Another major identifying feature is the chic rooftop infinity pool and lounge -- great for enjoying a slice of nightlife (i.e. mocktails and coffee), which Malé famously lacks. The Shangri-La group rebranded its Traders Hotels under the Jen label and is implementing changes to liven things up for a younger generation. The two restaurants focus on local products, while coffee and to-go meals are available in the lobby. Modern rooms -- though small -- have rain showerheads, bathrobes, comfy beds, and free Wi-Fi. There are also a spa, fitness center, free walking tours of the city, and free transfers to and from the airport on the next island over.
This slim and tall 14-room hotel in the city of Malé is best suited for those in transit or business travelers on a budget. It was opened in 2012, and its basic but modern rooms have white bedding, flat-screen TVs, and (small) desk areas with free bottled water and minibars; suites have separate living rooms and kitchens for longer stays. Courteous staff can arrange day-trip excursions and airport transfers -- they will even pick-up and drop-off guests at the international terminal, a ferry ride away. Room service is available throughout the day and free coffee, toast, and eggs are served in the cafe each morning. Overall, this is a clean and safe place those who need to be in the capital. Upper floors are quieter, but guests can try opening windows to hear the sounds of local culture, such as mopeds and the call to prayer. Wi-Fi is free.
This slim and tall 14-room hotel in the city of Malé is best suited for those in transit or business travelers on a budget. It was opened in 2012, and its basic but modern rooms have white bedding, flat-screen TVs, and (small) desk areas with free bottled water and minibars; suites have separate living rooms and kitchens for longer stays. Courteous staff can arrange day-trip excursions and airport transfers -- they will even pick-up and drop-off guests at the international terminal, a ferry ride away. Room service is available throughout the day and free coffee, toast, and eggs are served in the cafe each morning. Overall, this is a clean and safe place those who need to be in the capital. Upper floors are quieter, but guests can try opening windows to hear the sounds of local culture, such as mopeds and the call to prayer. Wi-Fi is free.
Open since 2013, this well-managed resort close to the airport has 140 rooms, either along the shore or overwater on stilts (reached via a lengthy jetty). Thailand-based Centara has two properties in the Maldives, both known for offering luxury accommodations at competitive prices, and this particular one is aimed at young couples (no guests under the age of 12 are allowed). It’s not the prettiest island or best house reef for snorkeling, but its service is exceptional, a rarity at this price point. The buffet serves a wide mix of European and Asian cuisines, while three a la carte restaurants (Thai, Italian, and Middle Eastern) and three bars keep the mainland fun and lively; both half-board and all-inclusive rates are on offer. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, DVD players, bathrobes, and 24-hour room service, but no umbrellas on the private villa decks -- and it will get hot in the afternoon sun. Luckily there are tons of water-based activities including an outstanding dive center for newbies. Wi-Fi is free.
Open since 2013, this well-managed resort close to the airport has 140 rooms, either along the shore or overwater on stilts (reached via a lengthy jetty). Thailand-based Centara has two properties in the Maldives, both known for offering luxury accommodations at competitive prices, and this particular one is aimed at young couples (no guests under the age of 12 are allowed). It’s not the prettiest island or best house reef for snorkeling, but its service is exceptional, a rarity at this price point. The buffet serves a wide mix of European and Asian cuisines, while three a la carte restaurants (Thai, Italian, and Middle Eastern) and three bars keep the mainland fun and lively; both half-board and all-inclusive rates are on offer. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, DVD players, bathrobes, and 24-hour room service, but no umbrellas on the private villa decks -- and it will get hot in the afternoon sun. Luckily there are tons of water-based activities including an outstanding dive center for newbies. Wi-Fi is free.
