Maldives with my parents (65 and 73) — is a travel agent worth it, or am I fine doing this myself?
Planning 5 nights in the Maldives in the second week of September for my parents and me (three adults). I've already spent a fair amount of time going through resorts, so I have a decent sense of the landscape, but I've hit the point where I'm not sure whether I'm optimizing or just going in circles. Would love input from people who've done this trip, especially with older parents.
What we're looking for - Ocean Villa with a pool (must have) for my parents. I would like butler service or something similar for my parents. Quieter and peaceful environment with walkable areas. Half board at minimum. Fresh seafood, especially simply grilled, is a big deal for my dad. Wellness is a priority for my mom (yoga in particular), and we're all up for trying new activities in and around the resort.
Resorts considered so far: Six senses Laamu; Six Senses Laamu; Jumeirah Olhahali Island; Gili Lankanfushi, OZEN Reserve Bolifushi
I am curious of your thoughts on the below -
- Agent vs. DIY. Does a good Maldives specialist actually get you enough (better rates, upgrades, celebratory perks, on-property advocacy) to be worth handing over control? Or is it mostly reselling what I can book directly?
- Half board vs. full board. I want to do at least one, maybe two, experiential/destination dinners. Does full board still pencil out if a couple of dinners will be surcharged anyway, or is half board plus paying à la carte the smarter move?
- One 2BR villa vs. two 1BR villas. The 2BRs are expensive and dramatically shrink the shortlist. Is the togetherness worth it, or do two separate villas end up being better value and more privacy for everyone?
- Seaplane tolerance. For a 73-year-old, how rough is a short seaplane leg really? And which resorts are genuinely good on a speedboat-only transfer without sacrificing the reef and quiet?
Any resorts you'd steer us toward or away from, given the above, would be hugely appreciated.