Maldives

The Maldives is the ultimate fly-and-flop destination, where you can spend your days lounging on the sand or snorkelling alongside colourful fish. This is pure beach bliss, offering not just stunning vistas but also exceptional food that captures the flavours of the Indian Ocean. This is a haven for couples, families, honeymooners, and solo travellers alike, offering a slice of heaven just a flight away."

Time Difference from the UK: GMT +5hrs (depending on Island time)
Flight Time from the UK: Approx 10-hours direct.
Best For: Couples, Families, Honeymooners, Solo Travellers.

The Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is made up of around 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks, grouped into 26 atolls that stretch over 500 miles. The capital, Malé, serves as the main gateway to the country, but many of the resort islands are scattered far from the city. Due to the distances between the islands, reaching most destinations requires a domestic flight, a scenic seaplane journey, or a speedboat transfer from Malé. This remoteness only adds to the sense of escape that defines the Maldives.

The beaches in the Maldives are renowned for their soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, and each resort is fortunate to have its own private stretch of shoreline. The size of the beach varies depending on the size of the island, with some resorts boasting expansive sandy areas, while others offer smaller, more intimate beaches. The quality of snorkelling and diving is largely determined by whether the resort has a house reef—a coral reef that can be accessed directly from the beach. Additionally, the atoll where the resort is located plays a significant role in the marine life visitors can encounter, as different atolls are home to unique underwater ecosystems and varying levels of reef diversity.

The Maldives is world famous for its stunning collection of 4- and 5-star beach resorts spread across its breathtaking islands. For many first-time visitors, staying in an overwater villa seems like the ultimate experience, with direct access to the lagoon and uninterrupted ocean views. However, some may find that the sound of waves crashing beneath can make for a restless night. Beachfront villas offer a quieter alternative, often with more spacious outdoor areas and direct access to the sand. Given the high costs of food and beverages in the Maldives, opting for an all-inclusive package is a popular choice, allowing guests to fully relax and indulge without the worry of a mounting bill. Whether over the water or on the shore, Maldivian resorts deliver unmatched luxury, blending natural splendour with top-notch service and world-class amenities. Need somewhere to stay, read our hotel reviews for expert inspiration.

The Maldives enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, with temperatures averaging between 25°C and 30°C. The dry season, from November to April, is typically the best time to visit, offering clear skies, calm seas, and perfect conditions for beach days and underwater adventures. Late December, particularly from the 18th onwards, and early January, until around the 12th, is an especially popular period to visit, with excellent weather—but also the most expensive room rates. During this peak holiday season, flights and accommodation can cost up to four times the usual rates. May to October marks the wet season, with occasional heavy rain and breezier days, but it’s also when travellers can find the best deals, fewer crowds, and vibrant marine life brought by the plankton-rich waters.

The Maldives is a dream for water enthusiasts, with most activities centred around its stunning lagoons and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkelling and diving are the top attractions, offering close encounters with colourful marine life, from tropical fish to manta rays and even sharks. Beyond these favourites, guests can explore the clear waters by kayaking, paddleboarding, or setting out on dolphin-watching excursions. Many resorts also offer romantic sunset cruises, where travellers can enjoy the breathtaking Maldivian sunset from the deck of a traditional boat.

On land, the larger resorts provide a range of activities to suit all interests. Guests can stay active with full-size gyms, enjoy pampering in luxury spas, or join organised activity programs like cocktail-making sessions, cooking classes, or arts and crafts. Cycling is another popular way to explore larger islands, with bikes often provided for guests. Families will find that many resorts cater well to younger visitors, with fantastic kids' clubs that offer fun and educational activities, ensuring everyone has a memorable stay.