Maldives Holidays

Looking for the beach holiday of a lifetime? You’ll find it in The Maldives. With fine white sand, glass-like water and palm trees for days, this island nation is the ideal backdrop to a heavenly honeymoon or a take-your-breath-away getaway. If you love to explore, make sure you visit the capital of Malé to sample local food and experience authentic Maldivian life. If you prefer to flop ‘n’ drop in your own little piece of paradise, then opt for a beach resort on one of the 26 heavenly atolls. Fancy a bit of everything? Look out for island-hopping excursions that will take you around coral reefs and hideaway bays. Located in the Indian Ocean - close to the Equator - Maldives holidays can be romantic escapes with your partner, tropical adventures with your family and everything in between.

Beaches
Look up the definition of wanderlust, and you’ll find a picture of a beach in The Maldives. Okay, that might not be strictly true... Although, if we asked you to describe your perfect holiday setting, the chances are it would match a Maldivian beach pretty closely. This destination is made for barefoot beach days and relaxing in the sunshine, as the leafy palm trees sway in the gentle sea breeze. Is romance the name of your holiday game? Opt for your own waterfront retreat on the Cocoa Island beaches. Stick to private sands such as Bikini Beach near Rasreef and Rasdhoo Islands if you like to see and be seen - you can strut your stuff in a bikini here; elsewhere you may need to cover up to respect local traditions. Need something more pocket-friendly? Check out the beaches on Veligandu in the North Ari Atoll for good value and good times.

Food & Drink
Maldivian cuisine is often based around fresh, locally-caught seafood – the country is surrounded by the warms water of the Indian Ocean, after all. Due to the tropical climate, coconuts are another common ingredient here. Look out for mas huni on the menu – this popular breakfast dish combines both of these into a tasty meal of smoked, shredded fish with grated onions and coconut. Try it for yourself at one of the harbourside restaurants in Raaveribe Maizaan in Malé. After something sweet? Sample some saagu bondibai, a popular vegetarian dessert made from palm stems, coated in coconut milk, condensed milk and rose essence. Alcohol is only sold in hotel bars and tourist resorts, so try a refreshing sai tea to quench your thirst if you’re out and about.

Culture
Culture here is influenced by Sri Lanka, South India, Africa and more, which blend together with a uniquely Maldivian twist. Being an island nation, it makes sense that the people of The Maldives have a strong connection to the sea – many of the locals are fishermen and rely on the Indian Ocean to make a living. This is a Muslim country, so mosques also play an important role in local life. These places of worship are stunning sites to visit; some of the mosques are made from coral and date all the way back to the 1700s. Looking for an authentic souvenir? Take some time to browse for braided mats and handmade jewellery from the street stalls and smaller shops in Malé.

Nightlife
Fancy a chic cocktail by the pool or a night of dancing until dawn? Or is coolly clinking glasses as the sun sets more your style? With places to stay to cater to every taste, evenings in The Maldives can be a wild party or a low-key affair. As this is a Muslim country, alcohol is generally only available in hotel and resort bars – something to keep in mind if you plan to hit the town in Malé. For alternative entertainment after dark, try snorkelling by moonlight with a guide, getting tickets for a show or even crab racing on Kuredu Island (yes, you read that right).

Important Information
Flight Time: 13 hours
Time Difference: GMT +4hr
Currency: Maldivian rufiyaa
Official Language: Dhivehi

Vaccinations
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Visa
On arrival in The Maldives, British nationals can get a tourist visa for up to 30 days if they have a valid onward or return ticket and enough funds to cover their stay.

Ramadan
Please be aware that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan will take place between 05/05/2019 and 04/06/2019. During this time, many cafes and restaurants will close during the day, restrictions on alcohol sales may be in place and hotel dining for non-Muslim guests may take place in private rooms. Playing music, dancing and eating in public areas may also be restricted during this time.