The Maldives is the perfect place to go for a luxury holiday, which is why it is a popular honeymoon or engagement destination. Situated in the Indian Ocean, this archipelagic nation enjoys a warm and sunny climate with cloudless blue skies and beautiful sandy beaches. It is a truly magical and relaxing place to visit.
Climate
The wonderfully warm and sunny climate in the Maldives is one of its biggest draws. The country enjoys a dry season, known as Iruvai, from January to April which is the most popular time of year to go and experience the almost constant sunshine. The Hulhangu monsoon season occurs between May and November.
However, although Hulhangu is the wet time of the year, the Maldives still remain attractive during this time as the temperatures rarely drops below the high twenties and low thirties and there are still long periods of uninterrupted sunshine between downpours. The monsoon season is also the best time of year for surfers to visit the islands due to the large waves that are created by the rain.
Things To Do
With the beautiful coastline, golden beaches and crystal clear waters, travellers can certainly be forgiven for not wanting to do anything except lying back and soaking up the rays when visiting the Maldives. However, for those that are concerned that they may tire of this relaxing lifestyle, there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
The sea surrounding the Maldives is home to some of the most diverse marine-life in the world. Coral reefs are the backdrop of some spectacular underwater scenery and therefore the Maldives is the ideal place to try out diving or snorkelling.
Other water sports are equally as popular with speed-boating, water-skiing and wind-surfing all on offer. Those that prefer a less active and more passive style of excursion can hop on a magnificent sunset cruise or go on a jaw-dropping dolphin-watching trip. Be sure to check your insurance terms and conditions before taking part in any activities.
The island resorts are also full of spa facilities offering treatments based on local ingredients such as coconuts, indigenous herbs and pastes.
Where To Stay
There are plenty of resorts to choose from in the Maldives depending on the type of holiday that you wish to book. Diving holidays are usually concentrated within their own resorts such as the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island or Kuredu. Those looking for more of a sedate holiday will prefer to stay in a location such as Kurumba which has recently won two World Travel Awards in the ‘Maldives Leading Resort’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading MICE Hotel 2016’ categories.
Another option is the island of Maadhoo which is home to a new lifestyle luxury resort known as Ozen. It offers an incredibly romantic setting, just 35 minutes by speedboat from Male International Airport. The resort boasts 41 beach-front villas and 49 over-water villas which each overlook the lagoon and many include their own 8 metre lap pool with fibre-optic mood lighting.
Remember to take out worldwide travel insurance to give you peace of mind whilst you lie back and enjoy the wonders of the Indian Ocean.