Joanna James
Packing for a tropical holiday can be trickier than you think. Having fun under the sun requires some extra thinking and planning. You don't want to ruin your holiday by thinking about the things you left behind so make sure you pack smart for your time in a tropical paradise.
• When you take a tropical holiday remember that it will be warm whichever time you travel so rule number is to stick lightweight clothes. Cotton or soft linens would be ideal. If you are going on a long stay it's best to carry two swimsuits. When you soak up the sun at Adaaran Maldives, it's important to have the right kind of swimwear. In case you use a scooter to get around the island, carry shorts to wear over your bathing suits, which is practical than a sarong. Some dressy clothes will be useful for a dinner outing or a special date.
• In terms of shoes, you will definitely need a pair of rubber flip flops/ sandals for the beach then maybe another extra pair or two for day outings and dinner. You will also want to add a pair of running shoes in case you take an outdoor adventure.
• Remember to pack a pair of sunglasses and a hat or cap.
Make sure to carry sufficient sunscreen for everyone travelling because it's going to be pretty sunny almost all the time. Using a good lip balm will protect your lips from getting burnt especially if you are in water a lot. Many of the best beach hotels in Maldives have shops in hotels to buy certain items but medication is usually not available.
If you have very sensitive skin then some Aloe Vera gel will do wonders for sunburns. Sometimes even sunscreen doesn't prevent the sun rays from damaging the skin so Aloe Vera will be very useful.
Don't expect to run to the local drug store to pick up your allergy medicine or assume that you can buy any type of regular medication locally – because it might not be that easy. If you are on special medication, always carry extras on different bags so that you have enough meds in case you misplace a bag. In the Maldives, almost all the resorts are located in various villages and some of them do not even have a proper grocery store. You do find on-island clinics but there's no assurance that they will have what you need! There are shops within the resorts however most of them are expensive! So remember to carry a basic first aid kit with generic medications.
If you enjoy taking photographs, investing in a waterproof camera will be useful and a waterproof phone cover too will be handy since you will be in the water most of the time. A travel adapter and reading material are others to add to the list.
One of the best parts of Maldives Island is its underwater world. If you plan to snorkel then it's best to take your own snorkelling gear. You will be saving a lot on renting equipment and it is more hygienic too. This is actually optional; if you are not an avid snorkeller and prefer not to invest in gear then you can always rent locally.
It is best to be fully equipped when you are travelling. Many travellers don't pay enough attention to baggage locks but that is actually something important. Invest in some good locks so that looting can be avoided even if your baggage is misplaced.
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