Joanna James
In an era when even the world's leading travel destinations have become hosts to a deadly virus, the Maldives remains a safe haven that's accessible for all. Here are some of the main reasons why the Maldives is the only travel destination you should consider for a holiday during the pandemic.
When it comes down to the numbers, the Maldives probably had fewer COVID-19 cases than your home city or apartment building as the country took stringent measures during the initial breakout. No visitors can enter the Maldives without a negative PCR test so the risk of coming across infected travellers is also minimal. This means that locals and visitors you encounter in the country will be COVID-19-free and very few travel destinations can lay claim to such a fact.
Cancelled travel plans and refunds were an unfortunate side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many travellers stranded in the confines of their homes for months on end. Whether there are strict or partial lockdown protocols in place in your home city or not, perhaps it is time to consider spending these confinement periods on a paradise island. The Maldives is quite literally the ideal location to self-isolate with loved ones or on your own as the geography of the country is tailor-made for social distancing.
The Maldives grants visa-upon-arrival for those hailing from most countries around the world. The few countries that are exempt from this privilege also enjoy speedy visa processing possibilities through online immigration applications. This makes holidaying in the Maldives only a matter of packing one's bags and purchasing an airline ticket since applying for visa is not an issue for most visitors.
As a year-round holiday hub, the weather in the Maldives is sunny and clear for most of the year. While those who are heading to the beach capital during the peak tourist season from December to March can take advantage of the countless water sports activities and clear conditions available during this time of year, those who visit during the off-season will find that the weather is perfect for surfing. Rainfall in the Maldives is also not heavy and does not last days but mere hours even during the height of the monsoon season.
Famed for its overwater villas, a stay at Saii Lagoon Maldives or any similar accommodation hotspot will allow travellers to self-isolate as they please. While it is considered a quintessential Maldives experience, this is one of the few island nations on the planet where resorts occupy entire islands. This means you will not run into anyone other than those who are based at the same resort for the duration of your stay.
Unlike the Caribbean islands or more exotic corners of the world, the Maldives is an affordable beach paradise where luxury amenities are accessible to even budget travellers.
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.
