Maldives

Perfect, Picturesque, Paradise, – these are all words used to describe this archipelago of 1,192 tiny coral islands…

Located to the south west of India in the Indian Ocean, these scattered islands are grouped into 26 ‘atolls’. Some are inhabited by the local population, some are home to island resorts, but the majority are uninhabited.

Although more traditionally thought of as a honeymoon destination, tourism has boomed in recent years meaning today The Maldives is just as appropriate for families or groups of friends as it is for romance.

• What’s your vibe? I didn’t fully appreciate this until I went, but choosing the right island is fundamental to the success of your holiday. Use a Travel Agent! Yes, really… many islands tick many of the same boxes on paper, yet the target market and ultimately the vibe of each island is so very different. Some promote laid back Robinson Crusoe ‘no shoes no news’ simple living, whilst others ooze opulence and glamour ‘anyone who’s anyone’… with lots in between!!
• If your chosen island offers an all-inclusive package, upgrade. Once on the island, holiday makers are a captive audience, there’s no where to eat out and much of the food & drink is imported.
• Don’t be too quick to rule out indirect flights. Indirect services will usually save you money as there is so much choice compared to the limited non-stop routes. It’s a long way – you may appreciate breaking your journey or building in a stop over. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sri Lanka are all popular choices.
• Go with the flow. This particularly applies to passengers utilising sea plane transfers. Light aircraft can only operate in the right conditions so be prepared, you may have a wait. The majority of islands have their own lounges at Male International so sit back, relax, and they’ll get you there asap. Once onboard the seaplane journey is all part of the holiday experience.
• Beach villa vs. water villa. It’s a tough one as there are pros and cons to each. There’s no denying water villas have that unique novelty factor but they tend to be less practical, further away from facilities. They’re great for privacy but often carry a supplement. I personally preferred the beach villas, which also can come with their own pools and section of beach.

• The ‘wow’ factor. When the sun shines, The Maldives really is picture perfect.
• Taking a trip to a local island getting a greater understanding of the Maldivian culture. There’s more to the Maldives than meets the eye.
• Floating breakfasts! Fun and instagramable! You won’t go hungry!!
• Beach BBQs under the stars. Giant lobsters, champagne, twinkly lights… maybe a shooting star.
• Over water spa treatments looking down on the fish – soo relaxing!!

December to April is high season when the weather is expected to be better however, as with all tropical destinations, there will be some rainfall year round. The best promotions tend to cover low season dates May/ June/ Sep/ Oct time. Depending on your interests, different months of the year have their own merits. Talk to us to find out more.