A luxury holiday in the Maldives is a dream come true offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences and adventures in a paradisiacal setting.

This spellbinding Indian Ocean archipelago boasts stunning locales, like the Ari Atoll, North Malé Atoll, South Malé Atoll, and Baa Atoll, all offer destinations ideal for scuba diving escapes, family-friendly holidays, and luxurious honeymoons. No matter your budget, there are an abundance of 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star accommodation options to suit every traveller’s needs. Find out whether an all-inclusive holiday is right for you, how long you should be spending in the Maldives, the best time of year to visit, along with some fun facts! Read on to discover everything you need to know before your unforgettable Maldives holiday, from budgeting tips to packing essentials.

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Are Maldives Holidays Expensive?

Due to the luxurious nature and remote location of resorts in the Maldives, these holidays tend to be on the higher end of the price range. However, it is worth noting the value for money here, as a sought-after overwater or beach villas with a private plunge pool and personalised butler are often the trademarks of Maldives accommodation, ensuring an exclusive atmosphere like no other destination. Saying that, you may be lucky enough to bag yourself a cheap Maldives holiday. During the wet season (May to November), flight and hotel prices often drop because of the higher chance of rainfall. However, many holidaymakers still find this period to be a sensational time to visit, with short-lasting showers acting as a welcome refresher to break the tropical weather conditions. You can still enjoy incredible sunsets, beautiful beaches, top-notch resort facilities and spectacular dining opportunities - all while saving money!

Can I Go All-Inclusive?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, opting for the all-inclusive in a Maldives resort is highly recommended, as everything you could wish for will be right at your fingertips. Generally, all-inclusive concepts involve your three daily meals and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served throughout the day. More premium all-inclusive options tend to entitle you to a larger list of luxury inclusions, such as a wider variety of buffet and à la carte dining options, a range of snacks, in-room minibar items, activities, entertainment, non-motorised water sports and so on. While some Maldives resorts are entirely all-inclusive, making for a hassle-free experience for all, others offer the freedom and flexibility of Bed & Breakfast, Half Board and Full Board bases. Whether visiting with family, friends or as a couple, allow yourself to relax completely knowing that once you step on the soft sands of your private island, everything is taken care of.

How Long Should I Stay?

When planning your dream getaway to the Maldives, we recommend spending anywhere from a week to two weeks on these breathtaking islands. Anything less than a week may feel rushed, especially considering the longer flight time, and a week or more allows ample time to fully immerse yourself in tranquil island life. For families, a longer stay provides the opportunity to take advantage of a myriad of activities tailored to all ages, from snorkelling around vibrant coral reefs and thrilling water sports, to enjoying resort entertainment and fun-filled kids clubs. Meanwhile, couples can indulge in romantic sunset cruises, intimate beachfront dinners and rejuvenating spa experiences, making the most of their time together in this idyllic setting. As travellers with a British passport will be granted a 30-day visa free of charge, you can even extend your stay for ultimate rest and rejuvenation.

What Do I Need To Take?

Although many resorts are home to shops and mini markets, when packing it is worth bearing in mind you won’t be leaving the island to wander into a town filled with shops. As the Maldives has a tropical climate, we would recommend bringing insect repellent. Although the Maldives is a Muslim country, you don’t have to worry about covering up when in your island resort, so get packing your favourite swimsuits. However, as you will be exposed to the sun, be sure to pack sun cream, aftersun, a wide-brimmed hat, and t-shirts and coverups, especially for little ones. When gliding through the waves of the Indian Ocean on a boat trip with snorkelling and diving opportunities, you’ll want to have an underwater camera and dry bag on hand. When it comes to spending, everywhere usually takes card, but you could take some US dollars or Maldivian Rufiyaa for tipping staff.

Did You Know?

Here are some interesting facts about the Maldives you may not know…

• You can enjoy a city break! All travellers will fly into the capital of this island nation, Malé, which is a city with cultural landmarks, markets, shops and boutique hotels. From here, you can take a seaplane or speedboat to your island.
• Leave the alcohol back in Duty Free. The Maldives is a Muslim country, so you are not permitted to take alcohol with you. Once on the private island of your resort, you may consume alcohol as you please.
• You will literally be living on ‘island time’. Some Maldivian islands are actually an hour behind Malé!
• The Maldives is still a fairly new holiday destination. With the first Maldives resort opening in the 1970s, holidaymakers have only been visiting these islands for approximately 50 years. Did you also know that less than a fifth of the Maldives’ islands are inhabited?

Best Time To Visit

It is usually advised that the dry season of November to March is the best time to visit the Maldives, due to minimal rainfall and high temperatures up to 30°C. If you visit during this period, prepare to spend hours unwinding under radiant sunshine and swimming in crystal-clear waters. From May to October, the wet season, you are likely to be able to book flights and accommodation in the Maldives for a cheaper price as you are not guaranteed consistent clear skies. Although average rainfall increases during this time, temperatures will be warm and rain showers will often only last an hour or so, providing you with the ideal excuse to grab a tasty lunch and a refreshing cocktail inside the resort. In the rainy season, known as the South West Monsoon, winds tend to get stronger, making for top-notch surfing conditions.

“If you have been craving an escape from everyday life and seeking total rejuvenation, the Maldivian islands are like no other place in the world, setting the stage with secluded overwater bungalows and pristine white-sand beaches.

“The Maldives offers a kaleidoscope of marine life beneath crystal-clear waters, making it a scuba diver’s paradise. You’ll want to ensure you’ve invested in an underwater camera - the images you can capture are unparalleled.

“Experience this Indian Ocean wonder with the love of your life…whether you are craving some quality time, planning a proposal, looking for the perfect honeymoon destination or even booking an unforgettable wedding, the Maldives is idyllic.

“Choose a multi-centre holiday when visiting the Maldives to get the best of both worlds. Pair it with another Southeast Asian beach delight like Sri Lanka, or stay in Dubai for an exhilarating experience of unique sightseeing.”

Joy Island

Captivate the senses with the idyllic charm and unspoiled beauty of Joy Island. Choose from a sophisticated selection of delightful suites and villas perched atop of crystal-clear waters or nestled beside pristine white sands. This all-inclusive resort offers a wide variety of gastronomic pleasures to enjoy with a refreshing beverage, from themed buffets and Italian-style pizzas to a rustic barbecue under the stars. Other key features include a swimming pool, kids club, spa, dive centre and a variety of land and water sports.

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Sun Siyam Iru Veli

Escape to sun-drenched paradise at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, a luxurious resort with a fantastic All-Inclusive Premium concept to enjoy. Whether you are travelling with family, friends or your partner, prepare to be amazed by top-notch facilities such as a tranquil spa and a cutting-edge fitness centre. Enjoy a realm of delightful activities above and below the waves, such as dolphin-watching, scuba diving, and snorkelling, as well as plenty of varied live entertainment for all ages.

Check out the Sun Siyam Iru Veli

Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Succumb to heavenly moments at the 5-star Lily Beach Resort & Spa for the perfect island getaway. This family-friendly resort has everything an active traveller could wish for; a tennis court, a football pitch, an ultra-modern gym, swimming pools, a plethora of water sports and even more. The little ones can enjoy fun-filled days at the lively kids club, while grown ups can indulge in a rejuvenating massage or head to one of the classy bars for a refreshing tipple.

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Atmosphere Kanifushi

Surround yourself with beautiful azure Indian Ocean waters and an untouched white-sandy beach for the ultimate Maldives experience at Atmosphere Kanifushi. Spend your days basking in sizzling sunshine, relaxing with a yoga session, discovering the flora and fauna of the ocean, and treating yourself to delicious dishes from around the world. At the end of each day you can unwind in your sumptuous accommodation, complete with deluxe amenities and stunning vistas from your terrace.

Check out the Atmosphere Kanifushi