Why Maldives is the Ultimate Island Escape

 

The Maldives has everything one could possibly want for a luxury island holiday — from sparkling turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and charming hotel resorts. This small country, made up of over one thousand islands spread across twenty-six atolls, is rightfully considered to be one of the best places in the world to relax and unwind. For those looking for a more adventurous holiday, the Maldives is also a great hotspot for natural wonders and water-based activities.

 

Snorkelling

Photo Credit: www.kurumba.com

 

As island activities go, snorkelling is an absolute must-do. The waters that surround the many islands of the Maldives are perfectly suited to snorkelling. The wildlife that inhabits this part of the Indian Ocean ranges from sea turtles to whale sharks to octopuses to manta rays. Being able to swim amongst these creatures is nothing short of magical! As well as the animals, snorkelling is a wonderful opportunity to explore the stunning coral ecosystems that the Maldives boasts. Coral reefs can be found either in the sea or slightly inland in lagoons. Many resorts have their private areas for snorkelling reserved for guests, and those staying in less expensive accommodation can book a snorkelling-specific tour or pay for a one-day pass to a resort.

 

With all the sun you can get in Maldives, suncare products are essential. However, certain chemicals in these products are extremely dangerous for ecosystems, making corals more susceptible to bleaching, deforming baby coral and degrading its resilience to climate change. Therefore, travellers should always use natural and environmentally safe suncare products.  

 

Photo Credit : kamadhoomaldives.com

 

Beaches

 

Photo Credit : www.adaaran.com

 

An island break would be incomplete without a few days at the beach. In this regard, the Maldives does not disappoint. Most resorts have private beaches with perfect white sand, palm trees and gently rolling waves of sparkling turquoise water lapping the shore. Beaches here is complete with an unparalleled array of recreational activities both on and off the island that is suitable for all ages. From exciting land-based activities to one of the world’s most thrilling oceanic playgrounds, discover the adventurous side of the Maldives. Push your limits with beach volleyball and tennis; ride the waves with surfing; discover thrilling water sports like jetpacks and parasailing; embark on dolphin cruises and shark snorkel safaris; or dive in search of mesmerising thilas and reefs.

 

Photo Credit : www.adaaran.com

 

Island-hopping

Photo Credit : Getty Image

 

With over one thousand islands to choose from, why stop at just one? While almost all of the islands have the basics (sun, sand and sea) there are subtle differences between them. Malé, the capital, is where you will fly in to before taking a seaplane or speedboat transfer onwards. As one of the world’s smallest capital cities, it is definitely worth exploring even for just one day – and it won’t take much longer to have a good look around! Malé is where most Maldivians live, and is an interesting, bustling city full of parks and beautiful mosques. Many islands, on the other hand, are dominated by just one resort. Islands in the South Ari Atoll, such as Vakarufalhi and Nalaguraidhoo, are excellent spots for swimming with whale sharks. Other islands such as Biyadhoo and Mirihi, are perfect spots for water sports enthusiasts. Catamaran sailing, kayaking, scuba diving, surfing, water-skiing and a range of other fun-filled activities are readily available at these islands.

 

Photo Credit : kamadhoomaldives.com

 

 

Resorts

Photo Credit : www.adaaran.com

 

While smaller hotels and even hostels are now available for those looking for an inexpensive Maldives escape, the resort experience is the height of decadence and generally what tourists coming to the islands are looking for. The best resorts typically offer a range of accommodation, from rooms to suites to overwater villas. The latter option is a truly beautiful way to spend your time in the Maldives and well worth the expense. Adaaran Resorts is a classic example of Maldivian accommodation, offering a perfect blend of lavishness and comfort, options range from a more casual resort with hotel-style accommodation to water villas and a more exclusive resort on a private island. The Adaaran Prestige Water Villas under the resorts even features a private jacuzzi on the deck and a spacious glass bottom sun deck which presents an ideal setting to bask in the sun for hours while enjoying glimpses into the life beneath the waves through the glass portal. For those who would like their accommodation, food and activities to be located in one place, a resort on an island is the way to go.

 

Photo Credit : www.adaaran.com

 

Food & Drink

 

Photo Credit : www.adaaran.com

 

Many of the larger resorts have as many as a dozen restaurants onsite to offer their guests plenty of variety. These restaurants will range from traditional Maldivian food (think lots of coconuts and fresh fish) to French haute cuisine. Buffets are common, and cuisines from all over the world are catered for. For example, Mirihi has excellent sushi, while its daily buffet also has themes ranging from Churrasco to Thai. Resorts are the only place on the islands where it is legal to drink (for non-Muslims over the age of 18) and duty-free alcohol is not allowed into the country. Alcohol is expensive on the island but all-inclusive deals on resorts allow guests to enjoy cocktails, fine wines and everything in-between as often as they like!

 

Photo Credit : www.adaaran.com

 

Start to plan your trip to the Maldives and get your travel packages and air ticket at mayflower.com.my ! Also, follow Mayflower’s Facebook page for the latest travel deals!