Joanna James
If you are planning a holiday to the Maldives, then you have much to look forward to from laid-back fun in the sand and sea to plenty of thrilling activities. Of course, to fully enjoy your getaway it's always a good idea to know about the destination including travel tips that will come in handy.
The weather in Maldives is truly sublime with average temperatures hovering around 32° Celsius. When planning your trip, decide whether to go in the peak or dry season (November to April) or the off-peak or rainy season (May to October). The peak season coincides with the best weather and less chance of rain; this also means that rates will be at their highest. The off-peak season is during the monsoon period when rains arrive and there's a chance of storms; however, this will unlikely be during the entire day and rates are relatively less during this season too.
One aspect first-time travellers to this destination can forget to consider is transport and related costs. The nation is made up of over 1,000 islands spread across 26 atolls covering vast areas of the sea. Once you land at the airport in the capital, Male, you will have to get to one of these islands. In the Maldives, island hotel or resort options can be reached via ferry, speedboat or seaplane with the latter being the most expensive. Consider staying at a resort that is a short boat ride from the airport which will save you on transport costs and travel time.
An ideal way to experience the best the country has to offer is to stay at a private island resort with luxurious comforts and distinctive experiences. Such properties including the likes of SAii Lagoon Maldives also feature beach or overwater villas; the latter is truly unique since you can stay right above the water and have direct access for a swim in the ocean! When choosing a resort, select one that also provides access to a holistic spa, water sports such as snorkelling and diving as well as activities like sunset cruises and dolphin watching.
When it comes to attire you will no doubt be packing plenty of beachwear and bikinis! Look to add light cotton clothing, while you could also pack formal attire for some fine dining. On an added note, for footwear, flip-flops and sandals will be useful. It's also very important to remember that while bikinis and short attire are allowed on private island resorts in Maldives, this is not the case on local islands or in public; pack conservative attire that covers bare legs and shoulders to wear when visiting such islands.
It will also help if you consider and select from the available meal plans; dining in Maldives offers culinary adventures which can be enjoyed at each resort which will have various restaurants or cafes featuring both local and international menus. One option to go for is a half-board meal plan with daily breakfast and dinner, while full-board options which include all three meals and selected beverages can be cost-effective too. If you are looking for more culinary diversity, consider staying at resorts that offer easy access to The Marina @ CROSSROADS, an integrated destination with eclectic dining (and retail) venues.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
