Destinations
Maldives
With pristine white sand, palm trees and clear turquoise waters, the Maldives are a perfect beach destination.
The overwater bungalows found in many resorts are perhaps the world’s most iconic style of tourist accommodation, while the reefs are famed as a divers’ paradise.
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General Information
The beautiful Maldives comprises over 1,000 coral reef ringed islands, set around lagoons. Only 200 of the islands are inhabited, so you’ll find nearly every tourist resort has one to itself.
Many visitors to the Maldives don’t stray any further than their resort, taking advantage of the plentiful watersports, being pampered in a luxury spa, or simply enjoying total relaxation with a novel and a loved-one on a perfect beach.
With so many islands around, it would be a shame not to explore a little more of the Maldives. Island hopping excursions are commonly available and can take you to deserted spots for a picnic, barbecue or snorkelling. Some resorts even offer the romantic option of leaving couples ‘stranded’ on their own personal desert island and picking them up later.
Night fishing is another popular activity. You can cast a line from a boat at sunset and try your luck catching snapper, grouper or barracuda for your supper.
To appreciate the beauty of the Maldives from the air you can take a scenic flight in a sea plane and snap some stunning photographs of the atolls. It is for its underwater attractions however that the Maldives is famed. Its coral reefs are among world’s top diving destinations and all resorts offer dive facilities for both the experienced and beginners. The activity can be enjoyed year-round and sites are plentiful.
To get a feel for something of the culture of the Maldives you should visit an inhabited island. Village tours on Fisherman’s Island are popular, as are trips to Male, the Maldives’ capital.
Visit Male in the afternoon and you can watch huge tuna being carried by their tails from the boats in the harbour to the bustling fish market. A short stroll away, around the ‘local market’ you can see coconuts being hacked from their husks and bananas prepared for sale.
Buildings of note in Male include Hukuru Miskiiy or Friday Mosque. The walls of this 17th century place of worship are made of delicately carved coral blocks, while the inside features fine wood carvings. The huge, gold and marble Grand Mosque, and past and present presidential palaces are other popular tour stops.
While the Maldives has long been a favourite with honeymooners, it is not possible for tourists to marry in the islands. If you are keen to tie the knot abroad, consider a ceremony in nearby Sri Lanka, followed by a week of relaxation in the Maldives.
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Best Time To Visit
The Maldives has a tropical climate and is warm and sunny year-round with average minimum temperatures of 25°C and maximum temperatures of 31°C.
December to April is peak season when it is generally dry, with April the hottest month and December the coolest. The rainy season is May to November, though storms are rare. Because resorts have access to sheltered stretches of reef, diving can be enjoyed year round.
For surfing, April to October is best, with the biggest waves June to September. The Male Atoll has the best surfing conditions.
Insider Tips
The Maldives has a Muslim culture and beachwear is not appropriate outside of resorts. Cover up (for women that means body and thighs) when in populated areas. There is no problem buying alcohol in resorts.
The level of evening entertainment can differ widely between each resort in the Maldives. Make sure the resort you choose has the kind of nightlife you are expecting.
Pregnant women are advised not to travel by speedboat as the motion can induce early labour. If you are pregnant, check an alternative transfer is possible to your resort of choice.
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Map
5 Reasons to Visit
Diving: The Maldives is one of the world’s top dive sites. If you don’t already dive, take the opportunity to learn, or experience the reefs by snorkelling.
Perfect beaches: White sand, turquoise waters and palm trees just made for hammocks - chose the Maldives if you want to de-stress or spend a special holiday in a truly romantic environment.
Spas: If you are not already totally relaxed by your surroundings, you can surrender yourself to a day of pampering in one of the Maldives fabulous spas, some of which incorporate underwater views.
Overwater bungalows: Snorkel from your own back door, get room service delivered by canoe or watch fish though a glass floor in this most romantic style of accommodation.
Twin centres: Combine your Maldives holiday with time in Sri Lanka - with its numerous cultural attractions and touring possibilities, or Dubai - with its great shopping.
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