The Residence Maldives, a true paradise on earth, is the latest addition to the well known Residence Hotel group (who also have hotels in both Zanzibar and Mauritius). We get to know Mr Meenakshi Sundaram, general manager at this Maldivian gem…
How long have you been General Manager at the hotel?
I have now been general manager at The Residence Maldives for just over a year.
If you could sum up the hotel in three words, what would they be?
“Heaven in Paradise”, Since the Maldives is always referred to as Paradise…Stunning Location, Fantastic Food and Delightful Service also spring to mind.
The accommodation at the hotel looks stunning; could you tell us a bit about the style of the property, and where that inspiration came from?
One of the more modern resorts in the Maldives, The Residence ahs been constructed with a traditional Maldivian style, in the untouched and unspoilt Gaafu Alifu atoll. The resort including the villas is styled with a fusion of soothing colours, wood and marble.
Do you get to know the guests that come and stay with you at the hotel?
Yes I meet every guest on arrival and also I go around the main restaurant during Breakfast and Dinner to find out how they are getting on.
Which is your favourite restaurant? Do you have a favourite dish?
Our Specialty Restaurant “Falhumaa” is fabulous and the “Magic Fish” is my favourite dish. Baramundy Fish cooked with Mexican spices makes it a sumptuous and truly delicious!
Do you tend to have a lot of repeat guests coming back to the hotel every year?
Since we have only been open a few years, it is hard to measure our repeat business just yet, but we have definitely had repeat guests from the UK, France, Russia etc. plus quite a few who have come back to spend the festive season with us both years.
Which is your favourite excursion on offer to the guests at the hotel?
The Sunset Dolphin cruise where the guests can enjoy the grandeur of the Sunset along with the friendliest of the sea mammals, the dolphins, including the rare spinners.
Finally – would you say the hotel is more suited to couples, or families? Or both?
Both since our resort can cater to both couples looking for quiet serenity, as well as families for whom there are so many activities such as Bicycle, Water Sports, Diving, and Excursions etc…
