Located in the North Malé Atoll region of Kaafu, Aanugandu Island Resort offers a convenient escape from Velana International Airport with speedboat transfers typically taking 20-45 minutes depending on sea conditions. This boutique island resort combines traditional Maldivian hospitality with modern comforts across its tropical grounds. The property sits on its own private island, surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs that make the Kaafu Atoll region popular with both first-time visitors and regular Maldives travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Aanugandu Island Resort from Velana International Airport?
The resort arranges speedboat transfers that take between 20-45 minutes depending on sea conditions and time of day. The speedboat terminal is a 5-minute walk from the arrival hall. Resort representatives meet you at the airport with a sign and escort you to the boat. Transfers run throughout the day but must be pre-booked with your flight details. The cost is typically $150-200 per person return, though this varies by season. During rough weather, the journey might take longer, and seasickness medication is recommended for sensitive travelers.
What is the Wi-Fi situation at the resort?
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, including in all villas, restaurants, beach areas, and even on some parts of the house reef jetty. The connection typically offers speeds of 10-20 Mbps, sufficient for video calls, streaming, and general browsing. Each guest receives a unique login that works on multiple devices. For business needs requiring higher bandwidth, premium packages can be arranged through reception. The IT desk provides support daily from 9 AM to 9 PM.
What are the check-in and check-out procedures?
Standard check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out is 12:00 noon. However, the resort tries to accommodate early arrivals when possible, often providing immediate room access if available. Welcome drinks and cold towels are served upon arrival while staff handle paperwork. For late departures, the resort offers a hospitality suite with shower facilities, and luggage storage is complimentary. Late check-out until 6:00 PM can be arranged for 50% of the room rate, subject to availability. Express check-out is available where bills are settled the evening before departure.
Are there medical facilities available on the island?
The resort maintains a medical clinic staffed by a qualified nurse 24/7, equipped to handle minor injuries, common illnesses, and first aid emergencies. A doctor visits twice weekly or can be called from nearby resorts in emergencies. The clinic stocks basic medications, though guests should bring any prescription medicines they need. For serious medical issues, emergency evacuation to Malé (25 minutes by speedboat) or seaplane evacuation to private hospitals can be arranged. Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. The nearest decompression chamber for diving emergencies is in Malé.
What payment methods are accepted and how does billing work?
The resort accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and UnionPay credit cards. Cash payments in US Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds are welcome, though change is given in USD. All purchases are signed to your room account and settled at check-out. A credit card pre-authorization or cash deposit is required at check-in. The resort adds a 10% service charge and 12% GST to all bills. Tipping is not expected but appreciated - a general guide is $1-2 per service. Currency exchange is available at reception but rates are better in Malé.
Is the resort suitable for families with children?
Yes, the resort welcomes families and provides extensive facilities for children. The kids club (ages 4-12) operates from 9 AM to 5 PM with trained staff organizing activities like treasure hunts, craft sessions, and movie time. Babysitting services cost $20 per hour with advance booking. Children's menus are available in all restaurants, and high chairs and baby cots are complimentary. The shallow lagoon is perfect for young swimmers, and child-size snorkeling equipment is available. Family villas with connecting rooms can be arranged. Children under 12 receive discounts on meals and excursions. Special arrangements for baby food preparation can be made with the kitchen.
What should I pack for my stay at the resort?
Pack light, breathable clothing as the temperature stays around 28-32°C year-round. Essentials include: swimwear (bring multiple sets), reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended), sunglasses and a hat, light evening wear for dinners (casual elegant, no strict dress code), comfortable walking sandals, underwater camera or waterproof phone case, insect repellent for evenings, and any prescription medications you need. The resort provides beach towels, snorkeling gear, and toiletries. A universal adapter is helpful though rooms have multiple plug types. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Alcohol cannot be brought into the Maldives, but is available at the resort.
What is the best time to visit and what's the weather like?
The Maldives has year-round warm weather with two seasons. The dry season (December to April) offers the best weather with calm seas, clear skies, and excellent visibility for diving - this is peak season with higher rates. The wet season (May to November) brings occasional rain showers and wind, but also fewer crowds, better rates, and excellent surfing conditions. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts rather than continuous drizzle. Water temperature remains 27-30°C throughout the year. Manta ray season peaks from May to November, while whale sharks are more common from August to November.
How does the all-inclusive package work?
The all-inclusive package covers all buffet meals, selected à la carte dinners (usually 3 per week), house wines, beers, spirits, and cocktails during operating hours, mini-bar items (restocked daily), afternoon tea and snacks, and most non-motorized water sports. Not included are premium alcohol brands, specialty restaurant supplements for certain dishes, motorized water sports, diving, spa treatments, excursions, and items from the shops. Some special dining experiences like the underwater restaurant or private beach dinners carry supplements. The package represents good value for those who enjoy regular meals and drinks, though light eaters might prefer room-only rates.
What about environmental conservation and sustainability?
The resort implements several eco-friendly practices including solar panels for water heating, a water bottling plant to eliminate plastic bottles, organic gardens for herbs and vegetables, and a coral restoration program guests can participate in. Single-use plastics are minimized with bamboo straws and reusable bags. The resort participates in manta ray and whale shark research programs. Guests can join weekly reef cleaning dives and beach cleanups. Energy-saving LED lights and key card power controls are in all rooms. The marine biology center offers educational programs about reef conservation. A portion of the environmental tax goes toward local conservation projects.
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