Review of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives 5*

Everybody wants something different from the Maldives. Family holidays, so minding and kids activities. Honeymooners who want privacy and remoteness. Couples who want an escape from their normal world who command service, respect and top shelf care. Gili Lankanfushi is a most unique establishment. It somehow, seamlessly offers it all. With it’s child friendly villas that staff are only too happy to reconfigure to suit, Its standard open air couple villas that make you feel l…ike you’re at one with the sea upon opening the front doors and the Robinson Crusoe style villas accessible only by small boat (manned by the guest). ‘Gili’ has it all. Nothing ever seems to be a problem with your own ‘Friday’ butler, and that is a big selling point for many. Whether it’s a drink at the bar you’d like brought back to your villa, a midnight snack or just a special dinner on your own private rooftop this property says yes, and keeps saying it. The Ayurvedic inspired, overwater Spa, your own personal Bamboo bikes to navigate around the island and the renowned ’By The Sea’ Japanese cuisine restaurant with its own Teppanyaki bar… How can you get possibly get bored with relaxation? That's before you touch on the dive centre, very chic sunset bar — purposely located for the perfect shot and the tennis court and gym if it’s all just too much for you. The Island composts over 90% of its food waste and provides an enormous volume of its food from its own, garden grown produce — which guests are more than welcome to have a leisurely stroll around. Gili sources only the best ingredients and quite often you find yourself enjoying a complete meal that’s been grown within walking distance of your villa. It really is difficult to know where to stop. The underground wine cellar, chocolate and cheese room — open for tastings on request was certainly another memorable extra… Beyond all of this and, on a personal note our trip was defined by the staff. Roberto and David are committed to making this concept work — like clock-work. And it does. Our Friday Shaan made us feel like there wasn’t a thing that could not be achieved here. It’s a property that has earned all of its accolades and will continue to for many — which is the same reason why in peak season more than half of the residents have been here before. Love Gili, and you will inevitably too.