This is the start of our new Community Stories series, where readers can submit their own stories, and they'll appear in the Reader-Stories section of the site. Learn more about community stories and our new features.
@ 1990_ -- What an awesome review, thanks for sharing! I've been curious about the new terminal, so it's awesome to see a firsthand report! May I ask, which resort did you stay at in the Maldives, and how was your experience?
Thanks, Ben! Stayed at the W Maldives, which was wonderful after their 2025 renovations. In short, it's a bit more refined now, but still very fun; and, an ideal spot to take advantage of Marriott's 5th-night free benefit. I can pull together another 'Reader Story' with photos from the visit if you'd like!
wow looks like a huge upgrade. went in 2022 and couldnt believe how bad the old terminal was
The new one really is (and the old one really was). Did you at least get to experience the new seaplane terminal (opened late 2022), or was everything still 'old-school' when you were there? Hope you had a good visit, regardless. Always reasons to return!
Great start to the community reviews. Thanks @1990!
I must say, since I saw a documentary about how the Maldives deals with its waste a few years ago (spoiler alert - it either got chucked in the ocean or dumped on a frequently burning island a few kilometres off shore, which also creates massive water pollution issues), I've found the draw of these tropical islands somewhat reduced.
No judgement, obviously; every country round the world is either dumping or burning its waste somewhere. It just seemed particularly problematic on a paradise tropical idyll.
Thanks, Jimmy K!
Actually, that burning island is just west of Malé—Thilafushi, the so-called 'trash island.' I do believe the Maldivians are trying to improve this; they plan to eliminate open burning, ban single-use plastics, etc. Still, it's a massive infrastructural hurdle for an island nation.
Thankfully, nearly all the resorts are far away from Thilafushi (except Centara Ras Fushi, it's too close), but you can see it in the distance even from 5-star properties like the WA (if you're on the north side), so... er, uh, just look to the south! Ya, that's the ticket! Bah!
All said, if you've ever had an interest in visiting, I'd still give Maldives a try at some point. Don't let Thilafushi (or new/old Male airport) scare you or anyone else away. Still worth it!