Maldives Holidays
Whether it’s a honeymoon, a luxury beach break or a a special, once in a lifetime trip, a Maldives holiday will tick all the boxes.
The Maldives are the ultimate tropical paradise, where private islands and luxury touches come as standard. Think pristine white beaches, overwater bungalows, amazing in-resort restaurants and swaying palm trees - but it’s better than the pictures, and there is more than meets the eye to this blissful destination.
Consisting of a chain of about 1200 small coral islands, only about 200 of these are actually inhabited. With more than 130 resorts to choose from, you may feel daunted at the thought of choosing the perfect beach resort, but our travel experts are well placed to help you narrow down the options and plan your perfect Maldives holiday!
Each of the 26 atolls that make up this archipelago has its own unique selling points. Many are home to reefs offering crystal clear views for diving fans - the Ari Atoll is considered to have some of the best diving in the Indian Ocean. Others are more well known for resorts which offer the highest luxury. If you want easy access from Male airport, then the North and South Atolls are both conveniently located.
Once you land at Male airport, your holiday truly begins! You will be met by a representative from your resort, and often handed a refreshing welcome drink and cold towel. You will then be whisked away to your resort either by speedboat or seaplane. You won’t have access to your luggage in between, so make sure you have your camera with you to record your first glimpses of this amazing tropical haven.
Maldives Beach Resorts
Maldives beach resorts are the epitome of holiday heaven.
There are so many resorts to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to begin. Do you want a house reef, accessible from the beach? How many restaurants would you like to have at your disposal? Beach villa or garden view? We can take the stress out of the process and ensure you find your slice of paradise.
The archipelago’s trademark stilted water villas are any holiday maker’s dream come true, and perfect for those once in a lifetime trips. Watching the sunset from your own private pool, hanging out in a hammock, looking down through the glass floor at the sealife below.. These are all experiences that many of the overwater bungalows offer.
If you are more of a land lover, then the standard of accommodation will still impress. Many resorts offer multiple pools, spas, watersports and private dining.
Maldives All Inclusive Packages
The Maldives offers some of the most generous all inclusive packages of any destination. Some of our favourite resorts offer everything from unlimited minibars, a fully stocked in-villa wine chiller, premium spirits, sunset canape cruises, yoga sessions and high afternoon tea!
Most resorts will have multiple dining options, usually a la carte and also on demand in-room dining. Special private dinners and floating breakfasts can always be arranged, and are occasionally included in your all inclusive plan.
Motorised watersports and spa treatments are usually payable locally.
If you are feeling really fancy, some resorts offer a high-end ‘Residence’ upgrade which will even include a private butler service!
Maldives Honeymoons
Whether it’s working your way through the hand-crafted cocktail list,strolling down the white sand beaches hand in hand or dining in a huge underwater aquarium, the Maldives will truly deliver your perfect honeymoon.
A Maldives honeymoon is secluded and peaceful, with each resort nestled on its own island. Crystal clear lagoons, reefs thriving with vibrant fish and coral, and endless white beaches make an extra special start to married life.
Opt for an overwater bungalow for a tranquil and private getaway, often complete with outdoor bathroom and plunge pool. Chill out together in a hammock, and enjoy a private dinner on the beach at night - a Maldives honeymoon is truly the ultimate choice.
We can guide you through the many different options, and find your perfect island escape.
Same-sex couples are welcome in the main resorts, even though the locally inhabited islands are strictly Muslim and very conservative.
Family Holidays in the Maldives
The Maldives isn’t just for couples - it is a fantastic family holiday destination. Watch your children’s eyes light up as they paddle in the waves, spot brightly coloured fish and enjoy the kids clubs that are available.
Spend time together chilling out on the bean bags dotted along the sugar sand beaches, learn local dances and take in an impressive cooking show. Banana boats, treasure hunts and beach activities will keep them entertained all day long.
The restaurants offer something to please every palate, and if you have some fussy younger ones, they will love the tasty woodfired pizzas!
We can help you find the perfect Maldives family holiday in a resort that has something to delight everyone.
Cheap Maldives Holidays / Maldives On a Budget
If a fancy all inclusive luxury resort isn’t your bag or your budget or you just want a more authentic, local experience, then we can absolutely help.
There are more and more locally run guesthouses popping up across the islands of the Maldives, which offer the same amazing beaches and scenery, but for a much lower cost - from as little as £30 a night.
Independent travel is still fairly new in the Maldives. Travellers can make use of the local ferries, or book onto day trips to get between islands.
Generally, the smaller the island the less dining options there are, meaning you may be limited to eating at your guesthouse - but this makes for an interesting and enjoyable way of interacting with the locas and trying Maldivian delicacies such as tuna curry or a fish BBQ.
We are also able to offer sailing itineraries, where you can sleep on board a traditional dhow boat and truly go off the beaten path.
These itineraries may not be quite as luxurious as a typical beach resort package, but they are just as special. Get in touch so we can help you find your perfect cheap Maldives holiday.
Dubai & the Maldives
Opposites attract! If you want a twin centre itinerary, and to add some contrast to your picture perfect Maldives holiday, then Dubai is a very popular choice. It is halfway between the UK and the Maldives, so combining the two is very simple.
In glitzy Dubai, you will enjoy exquisite dining, amazing hotels, giant super malls and adrenaline pumping theme parks. The buzz of the city and bright lights really complements the serenity and tropical islands that a Maldives holiday offers.
Solo Travel in the Maldives
If you’re a solo traveller but looking for a group holiday we can help. We have some small group guided tours, don’t worry! They’re not the traditional stuffy tours of the 1980s! These are modern cycling or trekking tours with plenty of free time, other solo travellers and a guide. Contact our team to find out more.
Touring In the Maldives
If you’d like to see more of the Maldives than a typical holiday, why not consider joining one of our small group guided tours? These aren’t the old fashioned stuffy coach tours and we promise there won’t be any guides with flags in sight! These are guided but free flowing adventures taking you to explore your destination and experience the local life. Certainly most tourists won’t experience where these tours will take you. Jump on board a dhow boat and visit the islands that aren’t in the glossy holiday brochures!
Best Time to Go to the Maldives
November to April brings the best weather, and being peak time, also the highest prices. January to April are the driest months, with low humidity and little rain, making it the perfect time to visit the Maldives.
Travelling during off peak or shoulder seasons can bring lower prices. Average highs are consistent year round, at a consistent 29 - 30°, meaning there isn’t really a ‘bad’ time to holiday here.
The Maldives is predominantly a Muslim country, so we would recommend avoiding travel during Ramadan, particularly if you plan to opt for a smaller local B&B or guesthouse. Many hotel staff will be off work visiting family, and food and drink can be difficult to come by during the day. Pork and alcohol will be off the menu. The bigger resorts will always cater to Western tourists - this is more applicable to those seeking a more ‘local’ experience.
Helpful Information
The currency in the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiya, however most tourists travel with US Dollars.
Flying time from the UK is about ten hours direct.
Maldives are +4 hours ahead of GMT.
Local emergency numbers are:
Ambulance - 102
Local Police - 119
