Resort We loved the Mecure Maldives - it’s a small resort and so very relaxed, attracting similarly chilled out people of a range of ages. It had all the usual activities on offer from the dive centre. The reef, from the kayaking that we did, looked pretty good. We even saw a pod of dolphins passing by when we were in the pool bar on our last day. Bar & drinks I was pleased with the options of drinks offered - we’d rather drink local beers and cocktails than something that we might get at home. I avoided the Carlsberg on draft for that reason - its brewed in our home town. Instead went for local Lion beer, a Chinese beer and an Italian beer that was on offer. All were great - and served ice cold. The guys at the bar knew my wife’s and my drinks within a day and would start pouring before we got to the bar. Fishing Fishing was a highlight for us. Just a 10min ride out to the fishing spot and then traditional line fishing. We both caught a fish each, and had one cooked for us for lunch the next day - it was delicious. Italian The Italian restaurant is fantastic. We love the idea of all inclusive, I think it’s even better if it’s cooked to order, and better still if it is as well cooked as the chefs did in this restaurant, and served to the table efficiently. The restaurant doesn’t open everyday - so booking is suggested. We couldn’t get a suitable evening booking, but in all honesty - the view back at the resort, other islands and end of the runway is best in the afternoon when the restaurant didn’t need a booking. We ate there twice and had a great meal each time. Buffet restaurant This was good - lots of available options, together with a live station, for breakfast lunch and dinner. The local food was good. Indian meal This was very good. We really enjoyed the experience. The portion sizes were great and the flavours were good. It was a well cooked meal from start to finish. Beer delivery We didn’t try this, nor did we use the mini bar - as we were so close to the main bar and pool, and sunbathing there was better. Villa The villa was very nice - with a great outdoor shower which I took advantage of a number of times. Everything was as advertised and expected. There was also a bath - we didn’t get around to using that. Water pressure was great and there were plenty of fluffy towels provided. Zircon was good - in both bathroom and bedroom. If I return. I think I would go for the Overwater villa to avoid the insects around the beach villas, and also for access from the steps to the sea. The depth of the water at the bottom of the steps was very shallow and allowed great exploring in beach shoes. The variety and number of fish that could be observed was excellent. Arriving and leaving Checkin was handled very well, completed check in at our villa - allowing for us to start our holiday only after a short tour of the resort. And at check out, once all the formalities were completed, we were taken back to the pool bar for a couple of drinks then the short drive to the airport. Bar to departure lounge - 5 mins. Pity that the plane was a little late. Environment The little bit of jungle, together with the fish factory at the other end of the island doesn’t help with controlling flies and insects - even with the twice per day fogging. The flies and insects weren’t much of a nuisance - but packing some bug repellent and some bite treatment to manage any itchy sores would be a smart move. Communication I think the resort could do a little better with updating the timetable for each day - improved clarification on when the Italian restaurant is open, that earth day was being celebrated - are a couple of examples. The other resort we were at sent a short WhatsApp each day which was useful and maintained communication with the guest experience managers. During earth day when the lights were out, and the stars came out it occurred to me that an offering of star gazing would be a great option - perhaps switching the lights off at the Italian restaurant when it isn’t operating - I’m sure the far side would create a good dark area from which to gaze. Top tips Take plenty of sunscreen Consider an overwater villa Go fishing Bring insect repellent