Joanna James
The Maldives is a dream destination for travellers from all walks of life. The Maldives is renowned for its stunning coastlines and pristine islands, and first-timers heading to the paradise isles may be surprised to find just how secluded the archipelago is from the rest of the region. From travelling during the right time of year to exploring the country's cultural capital, here's how first-timers should spend a glorious holiday in the Maldives.
Although the Maldives is considered a holiday archipelago that offers idyllic conditions all year round, first-time visitors should travel during the dry season. Lasting from November to April, these months are by far the best time to vacation in the Maldives. Apart from sunny skies and excellent wind and water conditions for engaging in a wide variety of water sports, this is also the peak travel season in the country. While this may also be one of the more expensive times of the year to head to the Maldives, the exciting array of activities and adventures accessible to tourists makes it worth one's while.
When it comes to booking accommodation in the Maldives, first-time visitors should be aware that the resort islands present a unique set of attributes and drawbacks. Unlike city hotels or beach hotels in countries such as Sri Lanka and Thailand, Maldivian resorts encompass entire islands, meaning, there's little besides the resort property on most inhabited islands. This means those who choose Saii Lagoon Maldives or any other resort will spend most of their holiday within the confines of that particular island. This is why it's crucial to pick an accommodation hub that offers plenty of on-site recreational facilities and activities. Those who are visiting the islands for a limited number of days may also want to book a resort island close to Male or the Velana International Airport.
While most travel brochures offer valuable information on how to go to Maldives and the best hotels on the islands, few delve into the complexities of Maldivian culture. As an Islamic nation, there are certain faux pas first-time holidaymakers should avoid during a getaway in the Maldives. Pork products and alcohol are strictly prohibited so bringing alcohol or meat products containing pork can land one in hot water. Although tourists can wear bikinis and skimpy swimwear/resort wear inside their resort base, it is necessary to dress conservatively when visiting inhabited islands and the nation's capital city. Travellers must be especially modest when touring cultural landmarks in Male while refraining from public displays of affection is also important when outside one's hotel premises.
A vacation in the Maldives would not be complete without taking part in water-bound activities. Those without diving skills can try their hand at snorkelling as the Maldives is home to some truly spectacular coral reefs. Surfing, kayaking and jet skiing are other popular water-based sports accessible in the country which is renowned for its excellent wind and water conditions for daredevil water sports such as parasailing and kite surfing.
First-timers who are touring the Maldives between December and March can also sign up for a whale-watching safari. Other cruise options that tourists can enjoy include sunset cruises and island-hopping tours, which take one from one virgin island to another.
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.
