Maldives Travel Guide

The Maldives is one of the exciting places on earth where your transfer from the airport is the start of your incredible getaway. Either by speed boat (who hasn’t wanted to rock up at an idyllic island James Bond style) spotting dolphins along the way (remember to pack the hand luggage with sun cream and hat). Alternatively it may be a seaplane transfer which is an excursion in itself where you can island spot on the way and listen to the ooh’s and aah’s of fellow passengers admiring the thrilling scenery; you may even make a few stops to drop off on the way.

One of the best places on Earth for diving and snorkelling, the underwater world does not disappoint and is the home to a variety of marine life including manta rays, dolphins and whale sharks; some house reefs can be reached straight from the beach. Over 1200 islands and almost 30 coral atolls ensure world-class diving and a host of opportunities to explore. Maldivian cuisine features seafood galore and most hotels provide a fishing excursion where yellow fin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and mackerel scad are all commonly found. With some of the best game fishing in the world and chefs ready to cook your catch, it’s a fisherman’s dream. There’s usually a range of activities on land and on sea to explore including sunset cruise, a visit to Male’s colourful markets, an endless array or water sports and a fabulous of land sporting activities; football, volleyball, tennis and more.

Standards are high in the Maldives where some of the most exclusive villas can be found with private butlers, over water villas and a choice of luxurious accommodation for couples, families and groups of friends. A popular destination with honeymooners it is also the perfect backdrop for a wedding to remember. All inclusive is the way to go with packages varying between resorts including meals, a choice of restaurants, wine, water sport, mini-bar drinks, excursions and a whole lot more are included. Always check the one that suits your needs the best and some hotels offer a couple of all-inclusive options. Luxury spas are another way to rejuvenate with massage treatments in over water spas where the view is breathtaking and the feeling of peace and tranquillity is experienced like never before.

Eating out in the Maldives is a pleasure with choices of buffet and a la carte restaurants with feasts from around the world, wine cellars and private dining experiences with romantic beach settings. Try local dishes such as gulha (fried fish dough balls), bondi bai (Maldivian rice pudding) and kuli (spicy fish cakes). Alcohol can be found at the more luxurious resorts otherwise is prohibited so make sure you ask us for the best recommendation for a resort where your favourite wine is served. 

Lastly, the dress code is very relaxed; some of the hotels provide flip-flops and a beach bag as part of your stay. Evenings can be smart-casual and if you do want to explore Male or local villages remember to take clothing to cover your shoulders to adhere to local dress requirements. You may buy trinkets from a local market at Male or shop a little at your hotel boutique otherwise there isn’t much you need apart from your best beach attire and dress for dinner and dancing to a resident DJ. Take a look a some of our luxurious travelplanners Maldives Holidays today.