Resort Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives (Nord Male Atoll, Maldives)

The speedboat transfer from the airport is easy and if you're lucky, you might catch sight, en-route,dolphins at play. This sets the scene for a relaxing holiday in perfect surroundings.

There's a lot to enjoy here and the holiday is supported by some efficient services. Pay, for instance, a one-off amount and you get a same-day and very efficient laundry service - every day - throughout your holiday. Most staff members are very friendly and those who are a bit down in the dumps soon perk up miraculously when given a hefty tip.

It needs some updating now, but the accommodation is still fine. It's spotlessly clean throughout and is cleaned twice a day, with clean replacement towels as required. Menus are impressive and varied and the quality of food is excellent. The personal service from the waiters goes far beyond what you might reasonably expect. Without the staff and waiters in particular, the holiday wouldn't be quite so memorable.

You can't leave here without taking part in some of the trips and experiences. Swimming with the turtles and jet skiing are hugely enjoyable ... but budget puncturing. The spa treatments are also expensive and not surprisingly, hardly used. Also a bit steep … is the steps leading from the water bungalows to the sea. Not OK for elderly/infirm visitors.

The island hopping boats make quite a noise and at night, the appeal of the sound of the sea crashing against the coral ... can wear off after a while.

The beach is small, cramped and crowded. It''s virtually impossible to get a sunbed.