The ultimate guide to the Maldives

So why the Maldives?

If you are looking for a place you can switch off from the world and escape from it all on a secluded island without a Bill Gates bank balance, then this is the holiday for you. The Maldives represents the ultimate relaxation holiday with minimum fuss and maximum luxury. We have put together this handy guide together to make sure you get the most out of your time away.

Where is the Maldives?

Just north of the equator, the cluster of islands that make up the Maldives is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Flights leave from London Heathrow and Gatwick several times a week and take around 11 hours if it is direct.  Most of the islands are inhabited and each holiday island tends to have one resort-style hotel. They are notoriously low lying and experts believe we have limited time left to enjoy the Maldives.

Visas, do I need one before arriving?

No. You can visit the Maldives for 30 days before you require a visa. You must have a return ticket, a valid passport and enough money to support you throughout the duration of your stay. For more information please visit-http://www.worldtravelguide.net/maldives/passport-visa

Seaplanes and Speedboats

The Maldives main international airport is in Male and transfers to the island resorts are either by speedboat or seaplane, depending on the distance. Sea planes can only operate in smooth weather so there can be delays when the sea is a bit choppy. The seaplanes are usually 16-seaters and are run by Trans Maldivian Airways and Maldivian Air Taxi. They are usually included in the cost of your package holiday but make sure you check with us at the time of booking.

What to pack

[awesome-weather location=”Maldives” units=”C” size=”tall” override_title=”Maldives weather” forecast_days=”2″ hide_stats=1 custom_bg_color=”ff6c08″ inline_style=”width: 200px; margin: 20px; float: left;”]The Maldives average temperature is between 25°C and 30°C throughout the year. The dry season runs between January and March and the wet season between mid-May and November. If you visit in the wetter months you can expect some tropical thunderstorms and huge downpours – but still in paradise of course!

Try to pack light weight and leave your woollies and cardigans at home – even on an evening the temperature only dips by a few degrees so it’s very unlikely you’ll need a cover up.

What to do and see

Holidays in the Maldives are the stuff of dreams for scuba divers and snorkellers. There are dive sites for every level, from beginner to PADI qualified, including everything from shallow reefs to wrecks and lagoons. Expect to get up close and personal with some extraordinary marine life including sharks and turtles swimming around the beautiful coral.

If you just want to take a dip in the water unsupervised we recommend you take or buy a snorkel mask and fins. This is a good way of building-up confidence for anyone new to scuba diving. Take your time and enjoy being a mermaid or merman as the fish swim around you.

Good to know- checklist

If you’re planning a Maldives holiday there are a few things to remember.

• Alcohol – The Maldives is a Muslim country and it is illegal to import alcohol. Make sure you purchase your duty free going home and do not have any miniatures in your luggage for the room. Once you are at your resort you will be able to purchase alcohol at the bar and in the restaurants.
• Clothing – If you are planning on venturing out or island hopping then remember to pack something to cover up. You don’t need too much, just something lightweight that respects the local culture.
• Diving Souvenirs – Taking coral and turtle shells is a huge no-no in the Maldives. Do not be tempted to take anything home. Also, if you do go shopping, make sure you don’t buy any of the items mentioned.