The lagoon is very small, so the beach is narrow and open to erosion but the staff are very responsive to changing room requests and there are daily free trips to a fine sandbank nearby. Walking almost immediately onto the reef means there are coral pieces underfoot, but 'reef shoes' are freely given. The snorkeling access is obviously excellent and there are free daily guided snorkel trips as well.

This is an isolated island in the far north of the country. The hour long internal flight and twenty minute speedboat ride can be seen as a tiring addition to your long-haul, or a great bonus way to see the country. The management have put some extra effort into different excursions to take advantage of the unspoilt local islands, both inhabited and uninhabited.

With such good work on the part to the staff, the resort works well for honeymooners and families alike, with a renewal of vows ceremony and a kid's club.

The cuisine is all buffet but seemingly of high quality. So too the spa, which is run by the very experienced Mandara company.

I haven't yet been to Alidhoo. I look forward to going, to make up my own mind concerning the aspects of the resort that are controversial. In the meantime, do join in with your own comments.