Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

We had deluxe beach villa 142 and reckon it's one of the best situated - quiet side of island amd very convenient for snorkeling. The island is definitely one of two halves - water villa side is windy most of the time (albeit still hot) and as this is where the watersports bit is, can be challenging to take kayaks out with choppy waters - worth it for the laugh and the guys are good at advising when its really not wise! The reef side is sheltered from the wind and therefore gets mad hot. Snorkeling is superb - easy to go out through channels - #1 is around 8 feet away from shore to drop off. Sea life is very abundant with all manner of fish, and a hawksbill turtle that is very curious of snorkellers - often coming right up to you to check you out! Not many reef sharks and only the odd ray, but lots of trigger fish, parrot fish etc - most days it is very clear so you see a lot without going far. Current floats you gently down to #3 gate. We were all inclusive and its well worth it - only 2 a la carte restaurants but both excellent and wide variety of drinks - including a well stocked mini bar in the room which is topped up daily free of charge. Service across the island is excellent - special mention to Babul out room attendant who cleaned and turned down each day. Aqua is the buffet restaurant for breakfast and dinner (if you prefer to a la carte or can't get booked in on the App) and unlike many, the food is superb - lots of choice and really tasty dishes to suit any palate. Shiut out to staff : Dilshan and Vijay - aqua restaurant; Digajan, Tharinda and all of the chefs in The Spice (Indian pm and Italian lunchtime); Arjit, Ram and all the chefs at Well Done (steak and fish); Yanis on the front desk and lastly Thathi, our island host who is always very responsive on WhatsApp- nothing too much trouble. The Spa is excellent - we had a massage which was one of the best we ever had. The dolphin cruise is part of the all inclusive package and the guys honour of the way to find the dolphins - we saw a large pod who jumped out of the water etc - they really seemed to enjoy showing off to us- we were very appreciative. Bars are great, including the nautilus where you can watch the sunset on huge beanbags sipping your cocktail. All in all a magical experience!