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Holidays in the Maldives conjure up images of palm trees, private islands and luxury cabins on stilts, standing just above the calm blue waters of the Indian Ocean. This dream-like holiday destination is ideal for families, friends and couples and is both awe-inspiring and soothing all at once.
Rather than being just one island, the Maldives is spread over hundreds of smaller islands, but still caters for over a million visitors every year. Some islands are more family-focused, others are more geared towards honeymoons, and some are perfect for diving enthusiasts. Whatever your preference, Maldives holidays are perfect for everyone.
For those on a relatively small budget or looking for cheap Maldives holidays, we’d recommend exploring the vibrant capital city - Malé. It’s a hub of activity, situated right in the middle of the tropical Indian Ocean and makes for an unforgettable holiday destination.
For those wanting to enjoy the finer things and indulge, Maldives holidays are world-renowned for offering unmatched, unforgettable experiences. Maldives hotels are some of the best in the world, and comprise inclusive resorts, luxurious villas and private island retreat hideaways.
Flights: You can catch a flight from several major UK airports including Birmingham, London Heathrow, Manchester, Newcastle and London Gatwick.
Passport/visa requirements: British nationals can get a tourist visa which is valid for 30 days. Your passport must also be valid for a minimum of 6 months. Check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website for the latest visa information, travel advice, and current travel health news.
Packing essentials: Light and breezy summer clothes and beachwear that isn’t too revealing. The Maldives is a Muslim country, so if you are out visiting local islands, try to wear conservative clothing that covers your knees and shoulders (keep a scarf handy to cover long hair) in order to obey local laws.
The Maldives is made up of 26 ring-shaped atolls and over 1,000 coral islands and is the world’s most geographically dispersed country. This means that wherever you stay, you will feel as if you’re on your own private island within the Indian Ocean.
Malé is the most populated, and the most central city of the tropical islands. It is well known as the place for tourists to find the best shopping centres and restaurants, as well as being the island closest to the main airport. The North & South Male Atoll area is one of the most popular areas for Maldives holidays, thanks to a huge range of adventure activities and plenty of opportunities to explore.
There are many more islands at the centre of the Maldives closer to Malé City, including Ari Atoll, Maafushi, Kuramathi, Meeru Island, Rangali and Rasdhoo to name just a few. Further to the south, there are a few more islands including Havadhu Atoll, Thinadhoo, Rathafandhoo and Madaveli.
Regardless of which island you visit, you’ll find stunning white sand beaches scattered across each, including Bikini Beach, Coca Island, Veligandu and Hulhumale Island. For picturesque tropical scenery you can't go wrong with a Maldives holiday to the Baa Atoll, which was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011 and is home to truly incredible wildlife.
The Grand Friday Mosque is situated in Manadhoo to the north and is the biggest in the country, attracting tourists and locals alike. Vaadhoo is located close by and is well-known for a natural phenomenon that turns the Indian ocean seawater electric blue. Reethi Beach, in the same area, is a 27-acre island known for its beautiful resort, dive centre and the world-class spa at the famous One&Only Reethi Rah.
The Dive Club, in Malé Island, offers noteworthy activities such as an underwater scooter trip, scuba diving, fishing and island hopping.
Travellers will find plenty to astound them in the Maldives, including underwater nightclubs, swimming with whale sharks, fascinating cultural landmarks and plenty of white sandy beaches that really do look too good to be true.
Maldives holidays are almost certainly going to consist of relaxation and indulgence in one of the islands’ beautiful resorts. This is an island paradise, after all, and the beaches in the Maldives are unforgettable. So, time spent relaxing by the coast, basking in tropical sunshine and soaking up the sun is an obvious pastime. Many Maldives hotels and island resorts have a house reef for snorkelling, so water sports fans will be in their element.
From your island, you might choose to go island hopping to experience more Maldives holiday activities - from spa days to water sports. You could also head to the most built-up island in your proximity and seek out more adventures and get a taste of local life. The Maldives is perfect for adventure lovers, with activities such as water sports, markets, luxury spas and diving to shipwrecks available. Many Maldives hotels are ideally located for diving holidays - for example Kuredu Island Resort is surrounded by over 40 dive sites nearby, while the PADI Dive Centre at LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas is renowned as one of the world's best. Most resorts offer a concierge service to arrange activities and can point you in the direction of the best adventures or offer inter-island travel advice.
Sitting atop many a bucket list, the Maldives is renowned as a luxurious collection of islands offering a truly exotic and tranquil experience. All Maldives resorts are well known for exceptional service and amazing facilities like house reefs and private pools. Each and every island resort is blessed with fantastic beaches with white sands and pristine cyan-blue warm waters, leaving you to relax, sunbathe, dive and swim to your heart’s content. Maldives holidays are truly an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
When you’re not sunning it on the beach, Malé, (the Maldivian capital) is definitely the best place to see the local culture and experience life on the islands. The capital itself offers a fascinating experience for visitors. A densely populated city crammed onto one of the small islands, bright houses and crowded markets abound on this peculiar city stranded in the middle of the ocean.
If you’re feeling adventurous, most resorts offer the opportunity to be temporarily stranded on a deserted island (with a lunch provided of course) leaving you to your own devices to explore the pristine white sands - a modern, luxurious take on castaway.
Head under the seaDiving in the area is a great experience for explorers, with local waters home to some of the most fascinating creatures in the ocean. The Baa Atoll is a particular favourite for those looking for a brush with marine life. Diving with hammerhead sharks and whale sharks is a once in a lifetime experience that is not to be missed. Resorts including Reethi Beach Resort and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort offer amazing access to dives alongside whale sharks. A particular favourite for visitors is diving on the southern atoll of Addu, with the spectacular range of colours and variety of wildlife on show on this colourful coral reef.
For more information on Maldives holidays, call Destination 2 on and speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable travel experts.
Depending on the location of the island you are staying on, you should be able to easily access other islands to partake in numerous activities. You could also head to the most built-up island in your proximity and seek out more adventures. The Maldives has so many opportunities, with water sports, markets, luxurious spas and shipwrecks to explore to name just a few. This means that in amongst lounging around in your serene island paradise you can also get active.
The Maldives boasts some of the best luxury spas in the world, making it one of the world's top spa holiday destinations and an ideal choice for a relaxing break. Chances are, if you’re lucky enough to stay in the Maldives, you’re likely to be staying at a hotel that also has spa services included. Popular Maldives spa hotels include The Four Seasons at Landaa Giraavaru, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, W Retreat & Spa and Huvafen Fushi.
A trip to the Maldives isn’t complete without getting out on the water. Malé is one of the best places in the Maldives to book water sports activities or boat tours in the area. It will also help you access other islands more easily through island hopping tours, allowing you to see more and choose your favourite from there. There are also snorkelling safaris available on many islands due to the abundance of house reefs and marine life to observe in the area. The house reefs at iconic resorts such as Huvafen Fushi and Embudu Village are amongst our team's favourites.
Common activities available include exploring shipwrecks, snorkelling with turtles and whale sharks, submarine tours, scuba diving, water skiing, banana boating, kiteboarding, windsurfing, jet skiing and windsurfing. For something a little more relaxing on the waves, why not try whale or dolphin watching on your next holiday?
Kurumba and Olhuveli Beach Resort are favourites for families looking for a perfect holiday that suits both parents and children, with children's clubs and babysitting services, both readily available.
The Conrad Rangali has an in-house marine biologist, who will bring the seabed to life for young explorers. Seeing turtles, octopuses, manta rays, and exotic fish darting in amongst the reef will almost certainly mean that they return home as lifelong marine enthusiasts.
If you’re staying near Malé (for example at a nearby resort like Centara Ras Fushi or Baros Maldives, then you will be spoilt for choice if you’re looking to head out to shop. With the Malé local market and Centro Mall on Hulhumale in close proximity to neighbouring islands, you’ll have plenty of options to find the best shopping in the Maldives. Alternatively, seek out Le Cute in Malé or the STO Trade Centre (also in Malé) for great deals on local produce including tourist mementos, handcrafted items and electronic gadgets.
In a region famed for resembling paradise on earth, choosing an island to visit can be tough. From selecting the perfect beach villa to choosing between multiple private islands for your castaway picnic... it can be a difficult choice.
Lily Beach is well known for being home to one of the most pristine beaches in the Maldives. The resort also offers plenty of places to eat and is situated near many famous dive sites for those wanting to stay active. Located on Huvahendhoo in the south of Ari Atoll, Lily Beach is ideal for couples and families looking to kick back and relax during their stay.
Baros, on the North Malé Atoll, has been said to have the best lagoon in the whole of the Maldives. The beach has everything - from soft white sand and crystal clear waters to spectacular views. After basking in the serenity of this beach, why not visit the Lighthouse restaurant or go reef snorkelling?
Situated on North-Ari-Atoll, the beach at the Veligandu Island Resort has been ranked within the top 5 beaches in the Maldives and boasts picturesque beauty and stunning surroundings.
Last but not least, if you stay at the Dusit Thani Resort or Mirihi Island Resort, you’ll have a good chance of witnessing a superb natural phenomenon - the soft glow of the beaches in the dark.
This wonderful sight has to be seen to be believed, but will truly make your stay in the Maldives one of the most magical and unforgettable holidays you’ve ever been.
Your dream holiday should be all about relaxing. You’ve chosen the perfect Indian Ocean holiday destination, so your Maldives getaway shouldn’t be about worrying and planning - it’s time to kick back and relax on pristine white sand as you immerse yourself in the wonders of the Maldives.
All inclusive Maldives holidays mean you get to enjoy the exceptional cuisine and facilities of your chosen island resort, without having to constantly worry about paying the bill. Many Maldives hotels and resorts offer unlimited drinks and access to your choice of restaurants as part of your package. Children also love the benefits of an all inclusive Maldives holiday - it often means they are entitled to free ice creams, sweets, soft drinks and other goodies which adds up to even more fun in the sun! Choosing one of our all inclusive holidays in the magnificent Maldives is a decision you won’t regret.
Many Maldives hotels and resorts really embrace the all inclusive concept beyond food and drinks by including a range of other welcome extras in their deals, such as free use of hotel amenities and facilities - these could include the use of a spa or gym, for example. Additionally, some Maldives resorts also include full use of their snorkelling gear, pedal boats, kayaks and water sports equipment, which is perfect for adventure lovers. You could even find yourself being offered yoga or cooking classes, plus much more besides, in your all inclusive deal.
The Maldives is a magical place, and home to some of the very best all inclusive resorts in the world. The Indian Ocean destination is steeped in awe-inspiring beauty, where you can truly relax and unwind - and opting for an all inclusive holiday helps you to do just that.
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Our Expert Nadine Edwards : "Diving in the Maldives with whale sharks or manta rays is a true bucket list experience. While lucky divers can spot them at any time, you increase your chances by heading to the western side of the Maldives during December-April. If you're visiting in the more rainy season May-December you should aim to dive around the eastern atolls."
Our Expert Shauna Golding : “There’s nothing more romantic than a paradise island honeymoon on the dreamy shores of the Maldives. With intoxicating tropical beauty all around, intimate accommodation, indulgent leisure facilities and seductive dining experiences, this mesmerising Indian Ocean haven is the ideal place to celebrate your wedded bliss in complete luxury. ”
Our Expert Nadine Edwards : “Family holidays in the Maldives are what dreams are made of. You’ll get to share unforgettable paradise island adventures with you nearest and dearest, and make magical memories that will be treasured forever. Family-friendly resorts are in abundance, with superb amenities and activities for children, and plenty to keep grown ups happy, too.”
Our Expert Nadine Edwards : "There really is nothing like an overwater stay in the Maldives. I’ve never seen water more clear or sunsets more breath-taking. It’s a bucket list experience, but well worth it for a really special holiday or honeymoon. I’d always recommend choosing a villa that faces the sunset side of an island, and opting for having breakfast delivered to the room at least once during your stay!"
Our Expert Llewys Benbow : “A Maldives multicentre holiday is the perfect way to take your luxury escape to the next level, combining two or more exhilarating destinations into one scintillating experience. You can choose from a variety of phenomenal locations around the globe and enjoy a melting pot of enriching culture, beauty, adventure and relaxation in a single trip.”
Our Expert Nadine Edwards : "An eco-friendly escape in the Maldives is a truly unparalleled experience. The crystalline waters and breathtaking sunsets create an unforgettable setting for an eco-conscious holiday. Choosing a villa in harmony with the resort's sustainability efforts and knowing it supports the preservation of this remarkable destination, can really add to the experience."
Where is the Maldives located?
The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, just southwest of Sri Lanka
What currency is used in the Maldives?
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (Rf). The US Dollar is widely accepted as a legal tender in the Maldives.
What is the time difference between the UK and the Maldives?
Maldives Time (MHT) is 5 hours ahead of GMT.
When is the best time to go to the Maldives?
The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April.
How long should you stay in the Maldives?
It is recommended to stay in the Maldives for a week or more to get the best out of the Maldives, allowing you time to relax, explore and indulge in some watersports or other activities.
Can you fly direct to the Maldives?
You can currently find direct flights from the UK to the Maldives from London Heathrow Airport. British Airways currently operates a direct route all year round, with Virgin Atlantic direct flights to the Maldives due to commence from October 2023.
How long does it take to fly to the Maldives?
A direct flight from London Heathrow to Malé in the Maldives is approximately 10-11 hours. Flights from other destinations with a connecting flight are available.
Do I need a visa for the Maldives?
Travellers with a British passport that is valid for at least one month will be granted a 30-day tourist visa. Make sure to check with the airline ahead of time for any other passport validity requirements. Check the FCDO Website for the latest travel advice.
What language is spoken in the Maldives?
The national language of the Maldives is Dhivehi.
Can you travel between islands in the Maldives?
Yes, island-hopping in the Maldives is one of the most popular holidays in the Indian Ocean! You can travel between Maldivian islands by seaplane, ferry, speedboat, luxury yacht or a local dhoni boat.
What is the weather in the Maldives?
The Maldives has a tropical climate, so enjoys hot weather all year round. There are very distinct dry and wet seasons too. Between December and April is the dry season with the least amount of rain and the longest sunny days. The monsoon season falls between May and November.
Can you drink alcohol in the Maldives?
Alcoholic drinks are freely available on resort islands but prohibited on local islands including Malé. It is illegal to take alcohol off a resort island.
Is the Maldives safe to visit?
Maldives resort islands and hotels are generally safe. As with any other country, it’s important to make sure you don’t leave your belongings unattended.
How many Maldives islands are there?
There are 1,190 islands in the Maldives.
What is the capital of the Maldives?
Malé (also Male) is the capital of the Maldives. The city is found on the south coast of the North Malé Atoll.
Does the Maldives have mosquitoes?
There are mosquitoes in the Maldives, though most resorts use mist and fog to clear them from their islands so you will probably not notice them. However, mosquitoes are present on the islands, so it’s a good idea to take insect repellent just in case.
Are Maldives plugs the same as UK plugs?
Many resorts in the Maldives have UK 3-pin plug sockets, but not all do. While you can use UK appliances as the Maldives uses the same standard voltage (230V) as the UK, you may need to take a UK-Maldives plug adapter with you - these are often listed as UK-Sri Lanka or UK-India plug adapters.
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