There are few places in the world which have captured our hearts quite like the Maldives. I mean, you can’t really go wrong when you combine a private island resorts, with crystal clear sea, the best snorkelling and heaps of activities!
We recently set off for our honeymoon in the Maldives and cannot wait to tell you about it! So here is everything you need to know, to convince you that the Maldives needs to be at the top of your travel plans…
Arrival
The Maldives is made up of 1,200 beautifully unique islands – 200 of which are inhabited. You’ll most likely fly into Male International Airport [MLE]. And from Male you will get to your resort by seaplane or by boat which your resort will usually arrange for you.
Male is one of the most densely populated cities in the world and not one we particularly recommend visiting unless you have too. If you can arrange your flights so that you don’t have to spend a night in Male – we suggest going for that option. (We much prefer paradise Islands to cities, so we may be bias hehe)
Visa
To enter the Maldives no pre-arrival visa is required. A thirty day free visa is issued on arrival for all nationalities. For more info on this, visit: http://www.immigration.gov.mv/pages/entry.html
Getting around
To get around you generally have two options seaplane or by boat. There are various options depending on your budget, the ferry’s and speedboats are probably your best options if on a budget. Or if you want to arrive quickly and in style, take a look at the seaplane options.
Before booking any mode of transport, speak to your accommodation first as they will often include transfers as part of your stay.
Choosing your accommodation
Stay on the water! If you’re in the Maldives and on your honeymoon, you just have too.
Imagine waking up each morning with the water at your fingertips, you can take a dip right off your beautiful private deck. Watch dolphins and amazing wild life from your bed! Most of these amazing bungalows include your own private plunge pool which is just perfect for those private sunsets with your other half!
Top tip: Resorts in the Maldives are usually all inclusive or half board. When deciding what package to go for, remember that you won’t be able to leave the island and pop to the local co-op. Drinks on the island can start from $40 for a glass of sparkling wine!
Our bungalow – Fairmont Maldives
What to do
The Maldives is a place to experience pure relaxation and you will easily spend your time eating, drinking, sun bathing and swimming.
Being surrounded by water you will have plenty of chances to try water activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking paddle boarding and jet ski-ing. If you get the chance its definitely worth going on a sunset cruises or even dolphin & manta ray spotting cruises!
If the water is not really your thing, like most honeymoon spots you’ll most likely have the opportunity to have a relaxing spa day, play tennis or work out in the gyms.
If you are looking to do something extra special, speak to your resort about having dinner on a private, uninhabited island. Or if you are more into adventure, why not book an excursion to snorkel or dive with Manta Rays!
Things to note:
- Weather – the Maldives is hot and sunny all year around but the best time to visit is between November and April when you are guaranteed the best weather and a calm sea which means better sea life visibility!
- Tax – in the Maldives you are charged Green Tax which is the payable rate of 6USD per day of stay in the Maldives and Goods and Service tax. Always check with your resort as to whether taxes are included in your stay.
- Alcohol – as the Maldives is an Islamic nation, alcohol is banned for the local population. If you’re over 18 and not a Muslim you can buy and drink alcohol legally. You cannot bring alcohol with you, it will be confiscated at the airport however most resorts will have licenses and sell alcohol but usually with a steep mark-up.
- Distance from Male – not all resorts are close enough to reach by boat. Some resorts require you to get an internal flight and a speed boat. We did this to get to our accommodation and it was a great way to see all of the beautiful islands from the sky.
