Joanna James
Spending a month in the Maldives may raise the odd eyebrow and to most globetrotters, the thought of focussing their vacation on a specific region or country might appear an endeavour not worth mulling over. However, the term ordinary is not a term in the vocabulary of the Maldives and for those considering a lengthier holiday than usual, then here is how you can go about planning every step as part of a month-long outing within the sparkling islets of the Maldives.
Being well informed on where you go and what you end up spending your time and money on forms the basis of a holiday to the Maldives for there is much to do and experience across the 1,192 coral islands that scatter the archipelago. Thus, whether you picture yourself unwinding and basking on a private island with your favourite book and a fruity cocktail in hand or heading off towards the comfort of aquamarine seas to hone a skill or develop an interest in water sports, these charming islets will hand you every opportunity to have yourself one memorable encounter worth its weight in gold. In terms of accommodation, the Maldives will easily have you accommodated in an overwater bungalow for 1 week before transporting you to the heavenly pleasures that are synonymous with water suites where sprawling panoramas and warm hospitality will be at your beck and call. Regardless of personal fancies or travel plans, the Maldives is your ‘go-to’ concerning a holiday that can be made up of multiple tiers and corresponding experiences.
Never run the risk of bringing along the bare minimum concerning clothes as you must realise that a month in the Maldives will call for one to exert considerable prudence. Since you will be spending the majority of your time by the beach and in the ocean, be sure to pack your very best swimwear but be mindful that such attire ought to be reserved for stays on private islands as the Maldives is a conservative country that strictly abides by the teachings of Islam. Thus, never be seen scantily clad when out and about in public or when embarking on an island-hopping adventure. In fact, should trips to Male’s many mosques and cultural centres be high on your list of priorities, then do make it a point to cover your shoulders with a shawl and wear a sarong which can be wrapped around the waist that will extend towards your ankles. Additionally, the need to stay protected cannot be spoken of too mildly, especially when in the water or while exploring the ins and outs of the islands. For this purpose, a good brand of sun cream should be brought along for the trip while the keen snorkeler in you will be required to apply some reef-friendly sun cream that will both protect your skin and the reef that you will soon be immersing yourself in. Snorkelling gear can cost you quite a bit and since you will be in the country for a month, it will be wiser to make room in your luggage for your own equipment. Aside from the aforementioned, have your favourite t-shirts, pants, shorts, the odd evening dress or floral shirt for that special outing together with sandals and flip-flops all neatly packed and ready for the journey ahead.
Be flexible with your daily and weekly schedules and never miss a moment to mix and match your preferences as deemed fit. In order to realise such dreams, you will need to be careful with your money so that you do not end up having to compromise or worse, cut short your vacation. Also, concerning transportation, have a plan and stick to it and if you do see a need to board the public ferry which is the cheapest form of travel in the Maldives, go right ahead. Choosing your accommodation will largely be influenced by the nature of transfer and in this sense, have a look at the value of commuting via speedboat. As one of the cheaper modes, holidaymakers will enjoy greater flexibility as these services can be availed of during the day and night and if you happen to have booked in at OBLU SELECT Sangeli Maldives which is arguably, the best family resort in the Maldives, then you will have the luxury of a complementary speedboat transfer. If a seaplane or domestic flight is your way forward, then you will be required to pay a higher fee than a speedboat but in turn, will be provided with enhanced limits on luggage capacities and importantly, will place you in a prime position to visit remoter islands in the archipelago.
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.
