Quick guide to the Maldives
‘‘Welcome to the ultimate screensaver fantasy.’’
Which is your dream island?
Welcome to a tropical dream - the Maldives, a mesmerising archipelago adorned with private islands and turquoise waters. Experience rose-tinted Robinson Crusoe clichés, where lush havens meet bone-white beaches and tranquil seas.
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka, the Maldives comprises 1192 enchanting islands. These pristine gems are grouped in atolls, each offering a unique experience. The northern atolls exude a sense of tradition, while the southern ones provide a secluded escape. From the northern Raa Atoll, a paradise for scuba divers with its underwater caves and drop-offs, to the unspoiled beauty of the southerly Laamu Atoll, the diversity is captivating.
Indulge in luxury with the world's first underwater restaurant and spa. The Maldives offers modernism to rustic-chic sophistication, perfect for honeymoons and family getaways.
Beyond relaxation, explore vibrant marine life through diving, snorkeling, and spotting hammerhead and whale sharks. Surfing, fishing, and sailing add adventure.
Wellness seekers will find bliss on islands dedicated to well-being. Contribute to ocean conservation through coral planting and turtle protection programs.
The Maldives is a timeless destination of wonder and magic, inviting you to dive into stunning waters and embrace its aquatic wonders.
When to visit.
For an ideal beach vacation with hot, dry, and sunny weather, plan your Maldives trip between January and April. During this peak season, daytime temperatures range from 30 to 32 degrees, and you can bask in 8 to 10 hours of sunshine daily. The water clarity is excellent for diving and snorkeling, while the surfing season begins in March. Occasional showers are brief and shouldn't dampen your spirits. Due to high demand, it's best to book early for this period.
From May to October, the chances of rain increase, and there's a slight risk of storms. However, temperatures remain warm, and you can still enjoy extended periods of bright sunshine. Plankton in the water might affect visibility for divers, but it attracts majestic manta rays and whale sharks, especially from June to October.
September and October are the wettest months, leading to lower hotel prices, but they offer a great opportunity to relish resort facilities. By November, the wet season tapers off, and December becomes a popular choice for guaranteed winter sun, albeit with higher hotel prices.
During the peak season (Christmas, New Year, and November to April), hotel rates are at their highest. To find more budget-friendly options, consider visiting in the shoulder season from early May to late September, with May and June offering the best deals. While the weather might be less predictable, catching some beautiful sunshine during your stay could be a pleasant surprise.
Family Time in the Maldives
‘‘Making precious memories’’
Beach Villa or Overwater Villa?
If you can not decide spent a few nights in each!
Maldives Resorts
Venturing into the enchanting world of the Maldives, you'll discover that the vast majority of travel is to its luxurious tourist resort islands. Topographically, these idyllic destinations may seem similar, adorned with swaying palms and velvety sands, each boasting just one hotel. Yet, beneath the surface lies a captivating tapestry of diversity in styles and prices. From unpretentious havens that embrace simplicity to exclusive A-lister resorts that redefine luxury, the Maldives caters to every taste. For families seeking unforgettable memories, child-friendly islands await, providing a warm welcome to little adventurers. With an array of resort options to choose from, finding your personal slice of paradise in the Maldives is a delightful journey of exploration. Let us help you navigate through the options.
‘‘To escape and sit quietly at the beach – that’s my idea of paradise.’’
— Emilia Wickstead
Food and Drink
Embark on a culinary adventure like no other when you visit the Maldives. Despite being on a tropical island, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the diverse dining options available. From European to Asian cuisines, the range of flavours rivals that of London or New York.
The culinary standards are impressively high, as many top resorts, such as Soneva Fushi, collaborate with Michelin-starred chefs. Experiential dining takes center stage, offering catch-it-then-cook-it fishing trips, castaway picnic lunches on deserted islands, and dining on sandbars with just you, a ribbon of white sand, and a discreet butler serving each course.
Prepare for food that's both delectable and Instagrammable. The underwater restaurant 5.8 at Hurawalhi, sunk at 5.8 meters, invites you to dine surrounded by breathtaking marine life. At Nest on Niyama, tables tucked into tree branches are reached by wooden walkways for a truly enchanting experience.
Restaurants boast sand floors and open-air setups, adding to the island's laid-back charm. Buffet meals are a feast for the senses, thanks to live cooking stations where skilled chefs whip up breakfast eggs to order and sizzle seafood with your favorite spices. The Maldives' culinary scene is a delightful journey that surprises and delights at every turn.
Top Tips
Save on expenses and diversify your experience by mixing transportation options - arrive by seaplane, return by speedboat or domestic flight.
Opt for speedboat transfers for shorter holidays to save time and money, reducing waiting times and ensuring a seamless journey.
Pre-book activities and excursions for shorter trips to avoid disappointment and make the most of your time in the Maldives.
Carefully consider meal plans and all-inclusive options, as extras can add up quickly and impact your budget.
Enhance your stay with accommodation featuring a private pool, whether in a beach villa or overwater, for added luxury and relaxation.
Plan your seaplane transfers carefully, arriving no later than 15h30 in Malé to ensure smooth travel logistics.
Consider booking the fast track immigration option on arrival for a hassle-free entry process.
Prioritise reef-safe sun cream products and avoid importing alcohol to comply with regulations.
Purchase a pre-paid sim card upon arrival at Velana International Airport, Malé, for convenient communication during your trip.
Be mindful of the time difference at your resort, as it may differ from Malé.
Pack a short extension cable to have extra charging sockets for your devices.
Bring your snorkeling and diving gear to avoid rental costs, and consider a short wetsuit or lycra rash vest for UV protection.
Prepare with dry bags, wet bags, and waterproof cameras and phones for exciting beach adventures.
Respect local customs and dress sensibilities when visiting inhabited islands, and note that topless sunbathing is not allowed anywhere.
Check the resort's policy on drone usage before considering bringing one along on your trip to avoid any issues.
