Grand Park Kodhipparu is only 25 minutes by speedboat from the airport, this makes is very convenient for guests staying only a short time in the Maldives. Male and the Industrial Island are visible in the distance but it doesnt detract from the beauty of the island.
Whilst the resort is currently in the soft opening stages, pretty much everything is ready. Only a few small things were missing. To be honest Ive seen resorts that have so much still to do but still open but with Grand Park, it was only small things such as bathrobes, coffee machines missing from the room. There was no construction taking place, but landscaping is still ongoing and like all new resorts, the vegetation needs time to grow. Give it another 6 to 8 months, it will look completely different as the vegetation will have grown up.
The boutiques have yet to open and the fine dining restaurant is ready but they are waiting for some equipment.
The style of the resort is a blend of rustic and bohemian. Some of the most stunning interiors I have seen. It doesnt exude luxury but a really homely comfortable feel. Hats off to the interior designer as he/she made some excellent choices.
The rooms are spacious and once the vegetation grows up there will be more privacy between the beach villas.
I stayed an Ocean Pool Villa which looked out towards Baros Maldives. The pool was a good size and there is even a hammock over the sea. The deck does get very hot, so you have to watch you dont burn your feet.
The bar is quite relaxed, with daybeds, couches and comfortable chairs and bar stools. Modern, bohemian and rustic all mixed together.
The Spa was one of my favourite places. The treatment rooms were quite unusual as the even had a swing in them. All the treatment rooms are over the water.
The Edge Restaurants is very cosy. Again the use of mix and match furniture, including couches and rugs, its not like most main restaurants in resorts. Theres out door dining and for those who prefer air conditioning, there is even a small area indoors with a/c so they cater for everyone.
The staff were all friendly and the service was very good for a new opening. The staff seemed experienced and very genuine.
Due to low occupancy, the meals were al a carte and all very tasty.
There are plenty of motorized and non-motorized water sports to choose from.
I didnt go snorkelling but I could see from my decking that there were plenty of colourful fish in the lagoon beneath our villa.
Overall we had a wonderful experience, even though it was only two days. Im confident this will be a popular resort and guests will have a wonderful experience.
Thank you to the Management and resort team for a great experience!
