Maafushivaru, South Ari Atoll hotel rooms at the Independent

"Idyllic location and excellent staff "

"Yes"

"Roomeas amazing staff were very kind the restaurants are extremely expensive if I want to advice you I will advice you to take bed breakfast only and then eat dinner at eats and beats restaurant that's a great way to eat good food and save money "

"Clean room, staff was great. "

"Dayanara is the best. Very accomodating."

"Amazing! Beautiful rooms, fantastic food, great staff… one of the best dive outfits I’ve been with… the whole experience was just fabulous and will certainly go back. Highly recommend to everyone I have spoken to since staying there. "

"really nice place for my honeymoon"

"Our stay had highs and lows. The best part was the incredible staff - always friendly and helpful. The hotel was also spotless, thanks to the amazing cleaner. Another highlight was its location, just steps from Bikini Beach, making it easy to enjoy the beautiful shoreline. However, there were several issues. We booked a room with a balcony and sea view but got a small window facing a brick wall. Management first denied the mistake, then blamed Expedia, despite Expedia confirming the hotel controlled the listing. The hotel refused to take responsibility or offer compensation. The bathroom had a persistent drain smell, which returned every time we used the shower. With no balcony or large window, airing it out was impossible. Breakfast was meant to be European-style but was a strange mix of foods—though you could order an omelette. Many excursions were cancelled due to low sign-ups. The whale shark trip, advertised as exclusive for hotel guests, was shared with 16 others from different hotels, some of whom paid less than we did. It lasted seven hours instead of four, with no proper food provided. The house reef excursion was lovely, but guides seemed more focused on filming for social media than helping guests. While the staff were fantastic, management lacked accountability. With better organisation, this hotel could be amazing."