Are you planning an upcoming trip to the Maldives?
You’ve come to the right place.
Before we share how you can get the most out of your trip, here are three fun facts about the Maldives that you might not have known:
- The Maldives is the lowest country in the world at just 1.5m above sea level,
- Cowry shells found on the Maldives were once a unit of currency (that’s why you’ll see shells engraved on their currency)
- There are around 1,200 islands in the Maldives (plenty to choose from)
Where is the Maldives?
The Maldives consists of nearly 1,200 sandy islands to the southwest of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean.
Some of the islands are so small that many maps do not even show them. The island country has a population of around 350,000 people. So if you’re looking to go off-the-grid and disappear for your next holiday, read on.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The Maldives has great weather all year round, lucky you! Temperatures range from a nice and warm 23-31 degrees Celsius.
If you’re looking to avoid massive crowds then it’s important to note that the busiest periods are between December and March. The nicest weather and the most ideal time to go is from November to April.
Do You Need a Visa?
If you plan to visit the Maldives, then you don’t need to sweat about getting visa clearance. On arrival, you’ll simply get issued a 30-day visitor visa at the airport the day you arrive.
One thing you should make sure you have is 6 months validity remaining on your passport, so you can get a return ticket.
What Should You Wear?
When visiting private resorts, you’re free to wear bikinis and drink alcohol. However, when visiting local beaches (most but not all), you should make an effort to dress modestly.
Drinking alcohol is not encouraged on local islands either.
Ramadan
If you’re planning your trip to the Maldives during Ramadan (a sacred month for many Muslims and all of Islamic culture), then make sure you do your research.
During this time of prayer, staff will be off and the availability of food will be scarce.
Alcohol and pork won’t be available either. If you are planning to travel during this holiday make sure you’re fully clothed.
Figure Out How You Will Get There Beforehand
If you’re aiming to travel on a budget, then consider checking out flights from Middle East Asia as this will be the most affordable.
You can also fly to Malé (the capital of the Maldives), then get a speedboat between the different islands until you get to your specific island or you could opt for a seaplane air ride which will be more expensive but quite breathtaking.
Now that the housekeeping is taken care of, let’s see what the Maldives is all about, shall we?
Beaches
The Maldives isn’t a host to your typical beaches that stretch for miles. Instead, there are atolls which vary in size.
Most of the beaches are thin, sloped rings around tiny islands also known as islets. In the northern cluster of islands, you’ll be greeted with lots of sandy beaches and swells perfect for surfing.
If you’re looking for some peaceful sunbathing then aim to hit up the Central Atolls as they are less packed. The Southern Atolls are busier as they’re populated with spots where you can go diving or snorkeling.
Snorkeling and Diving
If you’d like to check out the waters in the Maldives which, let’s be honest, is the main attraction, then you’re better off jumping on a cruise. It’s also the best way to see some of the islands that you wouldn’t normally visit.
Per Wander Wisdom, if it’s whale sharks you’re looking for, then head to South Ari Atoll. You can even wade right into the water from your resort and start your snorkeling or diving tour that way. Most resorts have diving centers where you can get certified too!
Stay at a Water Bungalow
Finally, if you’re into making memories, then make sure you splash out and stay at a water bungalow before you ride off into the sunset.
Imagine what it would feel like to slip into the glowing blue water just moments after waking up? Or how about an evening dip?
These bungalows are nothing short of amazing!
