Everything you Need to Know to Plan a Trip to the Maldives

Here’s what to consider before you book a holiday in one of the world’s most paradisiacal – and luxurious – destinations

The Maldives is truly the stuff of dreams – a destination so picture-perfect you’d think that no real life encounter could ever live up to the hype. But you would be wrong. This paradisiacal island destination never fails to impress honeymooners and families alike, but with more than 130 resorts all offering access to white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, palms and coral reefs – choosing where to stay can be tricky. And while each of the Maldives’ 1000+ islands looks equally alluring, it pays to narrow down your search depending on whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a ‘flop and drop’ break, a family getaway or an action-packed adventure exploring the island’s marine life, surf breaks and local culture.

When to go

Despite the water and weather being warm in the Maldives all year round, November to April is peak season, when it is particularly dry and calm. The humidity is higher from June until August, and rain is more likely in September and October.

Getting there

While there are numerous direct flights to the capital Malé from Singapore, Sri Lanka, the Middle East and more, the location of your resort will determine whether the next leg of your journey is via speedboat, seaplane, domestic flight – or a combination of these.

For those just wanting to slip into their swimmers and make the most of every minute, there are a number of resorts a short boat ride from Malé. On the other hand, those seeking more secluded and exclusive private islands can travel up to 90-minutes from Malé via seaplane and speedboat to reach their accommodation.

Take a moment in Malé

Often overlooked by travellers rushing to get to their final island destination, the Maldives’ capital city of Malé is worth exploring for an insight into the Maldivian way of life. From the 13th century mosques, to lively fish markets and the myriad eateries dishing up fresh seafood, spicy curries and traditional roshi bread, Malé offers an alternate but rewarding experience of the Maldives. Besides, seaplanes only fly during daylight hours, so you might need to stay in Malé pre- or post- your international flight anyway, so why not make the most of it?

Where to stay

The Maldives offers four different types of accommodation:

• Resorts: The Maldives is one of the only places in the world that can host one resort per island. These luxurious retreats offer relaxation, adventure, private beaches and incredible cuisine all in one spot. The Maldives has 140 resorts to choose from – with new properties opening each year.
• Hotels: On the more affordable side are the 12 hotels on offer, which cater to business travellers and those wanting to have easy access to different parts of the Maldives.
• Liveaboards: For the seafarers and thrill seekers, there are over a 150 liveaboards to sail away on. Guests can learn how to dive and surf – as well as be wined and dined – all from the comfort of their own private or semi-private vessel.
• Guest houses: Nested amongst the Maldives’ most welcoming of local communities lie over 500 guest houses, where travellers can experience traditional Maldivian culture and cuisine.

Minimal travel, more time

For those keen to get to poolside cocktail hour as soon as possible, there are a number of resorts within a half-hour boat ride from Malé’s international airport. Some of the closest resorts to Malé include: Huvafen Fushi (15-minute seaplane ride); Jumeirah Vittaveli (20-minute speedboat trip); Kurumba Maldives (10-minute speedboat ride); and LUX* North Malé Atoll (15-minute seaplane).

Activities for those who like to keep busy

It pays to do your research if you fancy combining your R&R with plenty of activity and adventure. Consider whether you want a resort with a gym, tennis courts, evening entertainment, water sports or a choice of restaurants and bars – or whether a bed, a beach and a book are all you need.

Resorts offering numerous activities ranging from wake-boarding and jet-skiing to parasailing, golf, tennis, cycling, wreck diving and more include Amilla Fushi (10-minute speedboat from the airport); One and Only Reethi Rah (45-minute speedboat from Malè); and Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa (domestic flight from Malè followed by 5-minute speedboat).

For snorkelling and diving

The Maldives has long been known for its amazing snorkelling and diving, but not all islands are made alike when it comes to their reef systems. There are a few standout regions for snorkelling and diving when it comes to proximity to shipwreck dive sites, manta rays, or swimming with whale sharks.

Ari Atoll and Vaavu Atoll (especially Alimatha Island) are popular with divers, Banana Reef is terrific for snorkelling, and the South Ari Atoll is the prime spot to snorkel with whale sharks all year round. To meet the Maldives’ famous manta rays, head to the UNESCO-protected Hanifaru Bay – Milaidhoo Island Maldives is just 10-minutes away, making it the ideal place to stay.

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