The Westin Miriandhoo Resort, Maldives

The Westin brings another well-known, 5-star brand to the Maldives. The contemporary Italian design, with influences from the ocean and quirky touches from the Japanese owners (e.g. a toilet that opens and lights up as you enter the cubicle – the Maldives has moved a long way from salt-water outdoor showers!) may not be for everyone, but that can be said for so many resorts these days. What the island does have is good quality facilities, a la carte dining option (Japanese restaurant The Pearl is a must) friendly and professional staff and good service levels. The villas are spacious, and all have their own pools and feature the Westin’s trademark and aptly-named ‘Heavenly Bed’. The resident DJ provides the gentle musical pulse at the Sunset Bar but it’s not overpowering, and it’s away from the villas.

The island feels established. There is a pleasing amount of vegetation and thoughtful landscaping, often lacking with new resorts. The house reef runs down both sides with lovely snorkelling. Access is easy and within 10-30m from shore. As one end of the resort is on the edge of the atoll, the house reef is in the channels so be mindful of strong currents. The bonus is there is always a good chance of seeing the larger Pelagics as well as turtles, eagle rays, reef sharks and dolphins. There are 4 or 5 turtles that still come to nest here despite the fact the island is now a resort. The beach is slim on both sides with erosion issues - hardly surprising when you consider the position of the island and the two channels. On the west side there is a larger area of wide beach, facing the overwater accommodation.

The Westin philosophy is “Sleep Well, Feel Well, Move Well, Play Well, Eat Well” and you can certainly do all of these here. Whether internationally-branded, strap-lined resorts in the Maldives inspire a sense of comfort or contrivance is for the individual. For us, a good reef, quality dining and a great night’s sleep trump all other considerations – one for your shortlist in the Baa Atoll.