Guest User
August 11, 2021
I am fortunate to have found Canopus last minute and was so relieved that this was actually my hotel when I checked in! It is beautiful! By far the best guesthouse on the island, with a stunning beach and views of cokes and chickens. The entrance with the board racks, chill area with books and other small touches, cats sleeping in the shade, make it feel like home. The outside area has a beautiful hammock, beanbags, and loungers so that once you finish your morning surf or snorkel and have eaten a delicious lunch (their restaurant is excellent and good value for money!) you can have a siesta under the trees and watch the world go by. The owners, Giovanni and Barbara, both came to meet me at Malé as they didn’t want me to travel alone on the ferry. Both are such lovely people, kind and caring, and they work hard. Being alone whilst traveling makes you more observant of the daily workings of accommodation, and I saw how well they treated their staff, always present in the front reception, busy in the kitchen, or generally being friendly and helpful to their guests. In the evenings, they always make an effort to dress nicely, to be there and chat to guests over dinner and connect with each person individually. They feel like a long lost uncle and aunt. I wish that my Italian was better so that I could hear their life story and learn how they came to be in the Maldives running this beautiful guesthouse. The staff are all lovely, polite people and special mention must go to Zia, Babu and Joy, but there are others whose names I did not get who were equally friendly and always ready to help (the room service man.. I didn’t get your name sorry! ) and the kitchen staff who make superb pizzas, poke, salads, and curries as well as Maldivian specialities. Oh amd the brownies!! Beware.. once you have had one you will be addicted! They are delicious! The room was perfect, mine was a basic room so no view - but I was only there to sleep as we have paradise outside! AC worked great, simple but beautiful room design, and perfect bathroom. Snorkelling gear is free, and there is a surf shop down the road if you need to rent boards etc. All in all, very grateful to have stayed there amd already planning my next visit, as I am sure many guests are. A true home away from home.