Holidays in the Maldives are the stuff of fantasies. The Maldives is a chain of over one thousand flat islands southwest of Sri Lanka. Few of the islands are larger than a mile across and they stretch for over 400 miles/640 kms across the Indian Ocean. To get the best out of a holiday in the Maldives you need to enjoy the idea of being marooned on a small island. You certainly need to choose your accommodation with care and find the island resort that has a character and style that suits your holiday aspirations and budget. The hospitality is impressive at all of the holiday resort islands. However at the booming end of the five star market, hotels are constantly trying to outdo each other in plushness. Don’t expect to find interesting insights into the Maldavian way of life and local culture. Such experiences are limited and controlled.
Amazing underwater thrills
Romantic escapism
Indulgent castaway luxury in the five star resorts
If you’re not a fan of diving or snorkelling you may feel a bit left out. The islands are tiny and the only non-guests you will meet will be hotel employees.
You will need to buy a tourist visa when you arrive. It’s recommended that your passport has a minimum of a year to run to its expiry date Consider taking your own snorkelling equipment if you have any. Hotels can charge upwards of £40 to buy and £7 a day to rent.
The island has a tropical climate with temperatures rarely dropping below around 29°C/84°F. The dry and sunnier season runs from December to April. From May to November the weather is wetter and windier and the sea can be choppy.
Flights to the Maldives take around eleven hours from the UK.
Driving is not advised (or possible) on most of the islands which are tiny and can be walked round in less than twenty minutes. You can often use resort bikes or hail buggies.