113. Cheval Blanc Randheli: Recollections of a Luxury Getaway

I was at this incredibly gorgeous resort in Maldives several years ago, soon after its opening.

I was asking myself: What do I remember about the stay? There are some obvious factors that make an everlasting impression: the private seaplane journey, the stunning resort architecture, the humongous size of the entry-level villas and its luxurious furnishings, the extensive wine list and cellar.....but these are the hardware.

What about the software? With the help of journal entries taken back then, I tried recollecting what still stuck in my mind. Here goes:

What I wished had been different:

(These are withdrawal to the Service Bank)

  • No one cared about “Our Preferences” list which we were asked to fill in pre-arrival. (Then why bother to ask in the first place?)

  • Majordome (i.e. butler): On several occasions, even when we were trying to engage with him, he didn’t seem to reciprocate. (Post-note: turned out that he thought we had wanted privacy. Still, he should have connected with our jovial mood when we interacted with him and included him in our conversation.)

The special touches:

(These are the deposits to the Service Bank)

  • After going on the jet ski, an employee from the sports centre walked past and gave me a folded cricket made from leaves. Nice touch!

  • Samy of Le 1947: his calm presence, strong knowledge and impeccable service. We looked forward to seeing him whenever we dine at this outlet.

  • Diptyque Restaurant: Upbeat service and good teamwork. The Director of Food and Beverage came by to greet the guests, and he informed us the best spots on the island to see fishes swimming in hordes. Delightful detail!

  • At departure: an army of chefs and cooks (at least 20 of them!) lining up both sides of the private jetty to see the guests off. This was truly memorable and we still rave about it till this day.


Reflective thoughts: Think of a hotel stay experience that happened a while back. What do you still remember from it? Do these factors still matter today?

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