Canopus Retreat Thulusdhoo

We had eagerly anticipated our stay at Canopus Hotel for six months, having traveled halfway around the world to get there. We saved diligently to visit Thulusdhoo and maintained ongoing communication with the hotel manager throughout the process. Everything seemed fine, but we were not informed about the unpleasant surprises awaiting us. We arrived in February 2024 for a 15-day stay and were asked to pay the full bill before checking in. Although we found this request unusual, we agreed since we were exhausted after a 24-hour journey. While the payment process seemed smooth, the problems began shortly after—no wonder they wanted all our money upfront. Navigating through about 100 cats (and their inevitable smells and messes), we finally reached our room, hoping for a refreshing shower and some much-needed rest. To our dismay, the room was in far worse condition than what we had been led to expect based on the information provided and the price we paid. Despite this, we tried to make the best of our time in the Maldives, even in a subpar room. However, as the holiday progressed, it became unbearable. As soon as we lay down on the bed for a brief rest before lunch, construction work next door began, sounding more like demolition. This noise persisted throughout our stay, making it impossible to be in our room between 7:00 AM and 6:30 PM. We measured the noise level at nearly 130 decibels. We later discovered that the construction of a ten-story concrete block next door was being carried out by the owners of Canopus. After recovering from the initial shock, we headed to the beachfront restaurant, only to face another disappointment. Before we even received the menus, we noticed bulldozers and large diggers moving rocks and building a seawall on the beach. Swimming out front was impossible, and the noise was so unbearable that we left our table. The fact that the hotel managers, with whom we had been in communication for six months, never mentioned any of this is disgraceful. If you still decide to go here, keep in mind that: 1. This is a construction site. 2. The management under-communicates and distorts the truth. 3. Other guests shared my concerns.

CATS RETREAT. If you have cat allergies, do NOT visit this place. They have over 20 cats roaming around. The cats are on the dining tables, rugs, sofas, chairs, reception counter, halls, and they even try to enter the rooms. The entire place smells like cat litter. We experienced itching, coughing, and bug bites. There were cockroaches everywhere. When it rained, water from the street flooded our room. Despite checking out on time after staying only one night, we were charged for two nights.

We had an incredible lunch at Canopus. The food was excellent, offering a variety of options that set it apart from other places on the island. The Italian owners' influence was evident in the high quality of the food and the outstanding service. The tuna carbonara was absolutely delicious! You also have to try the brownie with ice cream. We will definitely return. Plus, they have some very lovely kittens and cats!

Extremely professional and friendly hosts. The staff is very helpful. The location is unbeatable, just 20 meters from Bikini Beach and very close to surfing spots. The pizza here is among the best in the Indian Ocean—truly authentic! Barbara and Giovanni were always available to assist and are genuinely nice people. I highly recommend this hotel to all types of tourists.

Best value hotel on Hulusdhoo Island!! We stayed here for 5 nights. The owner is incredibly helpful and even arranged our round-trip transfer. The restaurant is the best in town. We tried many places, but the food here was the best. My favorite dishes were the Salmon Poke and grilled reef fish. Unfortunately, there are too many cats around, so you can't avoid the smell of poop in the air. It was the only thing that dampened the atmosphere (no one's fault). Overall, everything was great, and we enjoyed our stay here. We will definitely be back.