The Maldives
Facts
Just north of the equator the Maldives are 1% land and 99% ocean, they consist of approximately 1190 coral islands, grouped in a double chain of 27 atolls. They are spread over roughly 90,000 square kilometres, making the country one of the most unique destinations in the world. Only 200 of the islands are inhabited. They are full of swaying palms, sandy beaches and blue lagoons.
Travel to the Maldives
We travelled with Etihad Airlines to the capital Male via Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This is a busy airport but the connection was very organised and stress free. The service provided by Etihad was excellent. From Male we took a 35 minute sea plane to the island of Kuredu. This was an amazing experience and we were able to view multi islands from the aircraft. It is also possible to reach islands by boat and speed boat, and at certain times of the year British Airways operate a direct flight to Male. I would also recommend a connection through Colombo, Sri Lanka because you get most of the journey out of the way. It is also possible to combine a holiday in the Maldives with a stay in Sri Lanka.
Climate
The Maldives are close to the equator so there is plenty of sun year round. The average temperature is close to 30 degrees, and the water temperature is around 28 degrees. I compare this to swimming in a bath! During the summer months there is a chance of stronger winds and showers. The best time to visit is March to May.
Accommodation
We stayed at the 4* Kuredu Island Resort and Spa, located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, 90 miles north of Male. You can walk the island in 45 minutes. Upon arrival at Male airport before our connection to the seaplane, we were met and escorted to a private lounge staffed by Kuredu resort staff and given refreshments before boarding our plane to the island. The professional and friendly service started here and continued throughout our entire stay. All Inclusive and no tipping expected.
We stayed in a beach bungalow which was fully air conditioned and also had a ceiling fan. The bathroom was located outside and I found it a lovely experience having the opportunity to shower outside in the warm air. Our view was incredible, basically a paradise view of the fine white sandy beach and turquoise blue sea.
There are three resorts on the island, the family friendly section, the adult only O resort, and the exclusive Sangu resort, each having its own beach, bar, restaurant and pool areas. There is also a wide choice of accommodation including beach bungalows, water villas, Jacuzzi villas and villas with a private pool. We looked at all types of accommodation so I am able to make a recommendation. There are several restaurants to choose from depending on your type of accommodation. There is a wide choice of international and Maldivian food - curries, fish, and rice. It is possible to book into one of the beach restaurants at a supplement. There is also a Japanese and Italian restaurant. We booked a private beach dinner and watched the sun go down, whilst eating king prawns and lobster.
Top 10 things to do
• Sail on a luxury yacht to local islands • Diving • Spa • Dine around • Visit your own Robinson Crusoe Island • Evening entertainment • Play a round of golf • Snorkel at the world’s most stunning coral reefs, and Swim with the baby sharks and turtles • Behind the scenes • Private Beach dinner
Top Tips • No shoes required! Only take one pair of shoes, most of the residents walk around barefoot, and even the restaurant floors are sand! • Book an all- inclusive resort. This is the most cost effective way to stay in the Maldives • When visiting islands and Male inhabited by locals, women should cover their shoulders and knees out of respect for the Muslim locals • Observe the signed swimming areas, there can be strong currents • Pack light! Beach wear and for the evening – light trousers, smart shorts and shirt for men, and summer dress style or co-ordinates for ladies • Snorkel – the sea life is amazing • Go for a minimum of 10 nights My Highlights • The friendly staff who only want to make you happy • Swimming with baby sharks • Sunset Cruise • Visit to a local inhabited island and meeting the locals • Private beach dinner • Being on my honeymoon and looking out from our room to paradise