The Indian Ocean- Maldives
Maldives
Look no further for a holiday with the‘ wow’ factor
This alluring string of around 1,200 islands are spread over 26 natural ring-shaped coral atolls with every resort occupying its own private patch of flawless white sands, shimmering turquoise waters and encircling pristine coral reefs. With each atoll offering unique characteristics, there are resorts for every occasion and budget, be it those offering the epitome of luxury, tiny hideaways, adult only sanctuaries, larger all inclusive resorts with abundant facilities, or those with a family focus. Thankfully, the mesmerising scenery isn’ t blighted by high rise hotels as accommodation is usually in low rise buildings, rustic garden or beachfront bungalows and, overwater villas. All inclusive islands or resorts offering all inclusive upgrade packages, are highly recommended if you like to plan your holiday budget. When not lazing on the sands, chances are you’ ll be lured into the warm crystal-clear waters for a relaxing dip or to try your hand at watersports such as kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. The Maldives are also a magnet for those keen to explore the amazing underwater world. Divers plunging below the waves are greeted by dazzling coral gardens hosting an enormous variety of fish along with turtles, dolphins, manta rays( particularly in the Baa Atoll during the summer season) and sharks in deeper waters. Some of the best dive sites are found in the Raa Atoll, North Ari Atoll, South Ari Atoll, Lhaviyani Atoll and Vaavu Atoll. If diving isn’ t for you, opt for a resort with a house reef accessible from the beach and, within a few steps of the shore, you too can glimpse the marine life with just a snorkel and mask. Many islands also offer cruises to uninhabited islands for a true Robinson Crusoe experience or fishing trips in search of the catch of the day. Over the years the Maldives has become synonymous with the peace and serenity that comes from escaping urban life. Spas are a natural extension of that tranquillity, ensuring an even deeper sense of utter relaxation and, as each of our featured resorts has its own spa, why not indulge and treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering or rejuvenation. Whilst most resorts have bars, some live music and a few larger islands even have small nightclubs, the Maldives is not a party destination. For many, evenings are spent sitting back whilst savouring tropicalthemed drinks and mouthwatering cuisine in stunning surroundings.
Getting there: Flights from the UK take around 11 hours non-stop.
Best time to go: Temperatures average 25-30 ° C all year, December-April has lower humidity while May-October has more rainfall, although usually only short downpours, so still a good time to visit.
MALDIVES
Indian Ocean
Baa Atoll
Goidhoo Atoll
Alifu Alifu Atoll
Alifu Dhaali Atoll
Faafu Atoll
Dhaalu Atoll
Gaafu Alifu Atoll
1 Reethi Faru Resort 2 Centara Ras Fushi
3 OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi & OBLU Select Lobigili 4 Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi
5 Adaaran Meedhupparu & Prestige Water Villas
6 OBLU Nature Helengeli by Sentido
7 Hard Rock Hotel & SAii Lagoon Maldives
8
11
10
9
1 5
15 14
13 12
2
3
7
Lhaviyani Atoll
6 Kaafu Atoll
4
Vaavu Atoll
Meemu Atoll
Thaa Atoll
8 Sun Siyam Iru Fushi 9 Siyam World Maldives 10 Centara Grand Lagoon 11 NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort 12 Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa &
VARU by Atmosphere 13 OBLU Select Sangeli 14 Atmosphere Kanifushi 15 Heritance Aarah
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