Trying to get some measurable benchmark by with to distill the myriad subjective characteristics of a property is the only of the Holy Grails of guides. I have written a number of pieces on the distinct challenges that resort ratings in the Maldives face and some ideas on how to navigate them. The internet has made “ratings” a cornerstone of many guide sites though many of these crowd-sourced versions come with their own problems and biases. But now the pinnacle of guide books, the OG (“Original Guide”), Michelin has added “stars” (well “keys”) to its hotel guide. And it includes a number (12) of Maldives resorts.
- Michelin describes its criteria as the following:
- Design – excellence in architecture and interior design.
- Service – quality and consistency of service
- Character – overall personality and character
- Value – value for the price
- Contribution – significant contribution to the neighborhood or setting
As with Michelin stars for restaurants, “3” keys is the highest accolade. For perspective, out of the dozens of luxury properties in the Maldives, only 2 have achieved 3 key status: Cheval Blanc Randheli and Soneva Fushi. Soneva Fushi would have been the first to come to my mind so that seems clear. Though it does beg the question about the omission of Soneva Jani which has all of the style and distinction of Soneva Fushi and in many respects more so because it was built many years after Soneva Fushi and it feels like they enhanced Jani with all the lessons learned from their experience with Fushi. I would question the selection of Cheval Blanc Ranheli for the top accolade as I don’t know anything it does as a “significant contribution” to the area, and “3 stars” pretty much means you ace every single aspect under consideration.
- “Three Keys: An extraordinary stay – The ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary stays and a destination for the trip of a lifetime.”
There are some very obvious omissions like Velaa, a contender for at least 2 keys (“A hotel that’s unique in every way, where a memorable experience is always a guarantee. A hotel of character and charm, run with obvious pride and considerable care.”, and I would say that Oaga warrants a key based on their criteria (“A true gem with personality. Service always goes the extra mile, and the hotel provides much more than others in its price range”).
Whatever its shortcomings, at least you have professional hospitality experts assessing the property and not the owner of a car dealership on their first visit to the destination.