is a tropical paradise formed by collection of over 1000 picturesque coral atolls sitting in the crystal blue waters of the
. Only 200 of these beautiful islands are inhabited, with many hosting some of the world’s most luxurious holiday resorts. The ocean is where the
really comes to life, rich in wildlife, color and breathtaking views. Fishing and diving are just two of the many once in a life time experiences available to guests. The
really does offer a sensational and truly unforgettable luxury holiday experience.
What To Know before you go on your Maldives holiday
The language in the
Maldives is Divehi however English is widely spoken throughout the
Maldives and in particular the resorts of Male.
Islam is the main religion in the
Maldives, despite the warm and very humid conditions; women are expected to dress appropriately. This however is not the case when in the resorts.
Gaining entry to the
Maldives is not difficult as no VISA is required.
Maldives holidays are extremely popular for enthusiastic divers, and it is not hard to see why, with its picture perfect white sand beaches and coral reefs. However it’s the abundance of wildlife in the
Maldives that sets it apart from other diving destinations. Many different species of sharks can be seen in these waters as well as an incredible variety of different fish. Explore caves, caverns and overhangs with an explosion of colorful sponges and coral.
Where in the world is the Maldives?
The Maldives lies in the
Indian Ocean, made up of 1,190 islands spreading over 90,000 kilometers. 99% of the
Maldives consists of the sea. 200 Islands are inhabited by locals, with a further 90 being used as tourist resorts. The current population of the
Maldives stands at 350,000. The islands lie 700 kilometers south west of Sri Lanka.
Maldives Information
Time Difference: GMT+5Hours
Flight Duration: 10Hours 20minuites (Direct)
Currency: Rufiya (The American dollar is widely accepted)
Capital: Male
Flights
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both fly to the
Maldives direct from London Gatwick. Emirates fly from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle via Dubai. Qatar Airways fly from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester via Doha.
Supplements
Emirates upgrades start from £450 for Business Class and £1,149 First Class per person each way. Club World upgrades with British Airways start from £450 per person each way.
Ideal for
Maldives holidays are deal for couples, families, beach living, water sports. The
Maldives is now extremely popular with honeymoons. With romantic dinners on a private sand bank and luxury spa facilities, the
Maldives is the idealistic getaway.
Climate
The Maldives has perfect holiday weather - a tropical climate that is determined by two seasons. During the wet southwestern monsoon season from May to Novemeber, there is a greater chance of winds and rainfall. The dry monsoon season stretches from December to March. Temperatures mostly remain consistent all year at around a glorious 30°C.