Located in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives comprises 1,200 islands, of which only about 200 are inhabited. With towering palms, lush mangroves and hidden lagoons, this tropical getaway is ideal for any travellers seeking sandy beaches and unspoiled nature. From smaller, cosy hotels to large resorts, there’s a range of accommodation to choose from on your Maldives holidays.
You'll need to jump on a seaplane, dhoni or speedboat to get to the islands. There are public transportation options in the capital city of Male, but it's best to book one of Wotif’s car hire options in the Maldives and add it to your Maldives package for a more comfortable and convenient way to zip around the island. Sunning yourself on the beach and swaying in a hammock are clearly the most popular pastimes here, but there are a number of activities that cater to adventurers as well. The 26 coral atolls provide excellent conditions for a spot of scuba diving look out for manta rays, reef sharks and hawksbill turtles. Keen fishermen can charter a boat out to the deep sea, while landlubbers can take advantage of yoga, dance classes and art programmes offered by a number of the resorts.
If you want to fill your suitcase with souvenirs on your Maldives holiday, the small, independent boutiques found along Chaandhanee Magu on Male sell handicrafts, such as carved wooden masks, woven mats and traditional clothing. Luxury resorts will have stores selling designer clothing and swimwear—just brace yourself for the inflated prices. Maldivian stamps are actually quite lovely, and will make thoughtful (and affordable) souvenirs.
After browsing the markets, refuel with some traditional Maldivian food. The cuisine here draws its influences from India and Sri Lanka, while the world-class chefs in high-end resorts dream up fusion dishes and gourmet tasting menus. Given the location, it's no surprise that freshly caught seafood such as mahi mahi, yellowfin tuna and bigeye scad are a popular part of Maldivian mealtimes. Try Garudhiya, a fragrant bowl of fish broth with chili, lime and rice, and then wash it down with the water from a chilled and freshly cracked green coconut.
After dinner you can sip on a creamy pina colada in your resort's bar, listen to some live music or watch then nightly traditional entertainment. Back on Male, the sale of alcohol is prohibited, but it still can be found in some of the larger hotels. Don't expect too many all-night party venues the islands are more suited for enjoying a tipple at a mellow, oceanfront bar.
There’s a hammock with your name on it, and you can almost hear the sound of crashing waves lulling you into a nap. With affordable prices on flights and hotels, Wotif has everything you need to book Maldives holiday packages. Extending your trip? We also offer options for South and North Male Atoll holidays that will suit any budget. Check out Wotif’s cheap Maldives deals and you could soon be relaxing on your own stretch of sand.
Reviewed on 20 May 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 2 May 2024