Renowned for its stunning private island resorts, over-water villas and azure waters teeming with marine life, the Maldives is unparalleled when it comes to barefoot luxury. A haven for those that dive, surf, sail, and snorkel, or just want to re-energize at their own pace while enjoying world-class hospitality.
Photo credit: Kurumba Maldives
Experiences
Expect the extraordinary at your Maldives resort; alfresco cinemas, treetop hangouts, villas with water-slides, or underwater restaurants. Here, your travel fantasies are realized.
The unique topography of the Maldives’ coralline islands means that the most recent resorts have a ‘house reef’ which can be accessed directly from the beach. The clarity and temperature of the water make it one of the best snorkeling destinations in the world. Expect to encounter reef sharks, dolphins, turtles, and shoals of brightly colored reef fish just meters from the shore.
Photo credit: Baros Maldvives
The Maldivian archipelago of tropical islands in a string of circular atolls is spectacular from the air. Choose a resort with a seaplane transfer for a remarkable aerial view. Experience golden hour on the water and take a sunset cruise on a traditional wooden boat or Dhoni.
Photo credit: Travel Mall Tours and Trips
Join a snorkeling tour to the protected South Ari Atoll for a chance to swim with the largest fish in the ocean; the magnificent whale shark. Assist in a coral planting activity, a special experience which highlights the fragile beauty of the Maldives; marine ecosystem.
All resorts boast an excellent array of guest facilities such as a scuba diving and waters ports center, while those on larger islands may also feature tennis courts. Parents will love the ease of kid’s clubs. Be sure to check age restrictions as these can vary between resorts.
Photo credit: Soneva Fushi
At a Glance
Emirates gateway: Velana International Airport / Malé International Airport
Time zone: GMT +5 hours
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MvR), which is non-convertible currency, so you will not be able to exchange it outside the country. There are banks in the capital, Malé, and no ATMs at resorts, but credit cards and dollars are widely accepted.
Languages: Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken in resorts
Resort Transfers:
All resort transfers in the Maldives are either by speedboat, seaplane or in some cases domestic flight.
When to Visit
The best weather in December to February with low humidity, blue skies, and only occasional rain. Temperatures peak in March and April and prices tend to come down, with the lowest season being May to November (except August for school holidays) when the weather is slightly less temperate.
Photo credit: Centara Maldives
