Joanna James
Ranked among the world's finest beach holiday destinations, it should come as no surprise that the Maldives is equally perfect for family getaways. From cultural attitudes to exciting activities, here are the most compelling reasons to head to the Maldives on your next family vacation.
Although the official tourist season in the Maldives falls between November and April, the Maldivian archipelago is a near-perfect beach holiday hub for most of the year. Unlike neighbouring Sri Lanka and India, even the wet season does not bring heavy rains. While nearly every beach holiday hotspot has a time of year when spending time by the sea is not a safe nor pleasant activity due to inclement weather, the Maldives is the polar opposite. With an average temperature of 31 degrees Celsius and clear skies prevailing for most of the year, there's no better place to travel to on an impulse than the paradise islands of the Maldives.
Family vacations are centred on spending quality time together and the accommodation options available in the Maldives are tailor-made for this purpose. Whether you select the Adaaran Maldives or any other rest, the best all-inclusive resorts in Maldives occupy an entire island. This means that parents and children will be cocooned within a pristine island with plenty of on-site amenities and activities to keep the whole brood occupied.
The Maldives pulls out all the stops when it comes to engaging in water-bound activities the whole family can enjoy. As one of the world's leading water sports hubs, families can sign up for an array of exciting water-based activities including scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing and water skiing. banana boating and jet skiing are two activities that can be experienced in pairs or as a family while those who wish to learn how to surf or dive can also sign up for lessons. Children as young as 8 can get a PADI certification in the country.
As an Islamic country, the Maldivian culture and atmosphere are very family-oriented. Even if the country is a honeymooner's dream destination, there are no nude beaches in the country. Public displays of affection, public intoxication and other similar offences are frowned upon and can even be fined so parents need not worry about their young ones witnessing any promiscuous behaviour. Unlike the beach capitals of Thailand, the nightlife scene and parties in the Maldives are also not as risqué.
The nation's capital Male is another reason why the Maldives is a versatile family holiday location as it serves as the cultural heart of the country. There's plenty to do from touring the Grand Friday Mosque and the National Museum to spending time at Sultan Park or Republic Square. Shopping sprees in local boutiques and Chandanee Magu are also bound to be fun for families.
Island hopping tours and sunset cruises are not the only excursions accessible to families stationed in the Maldives as whale and dolphin watching safaris are also available.
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.
