Is The Maldives Your Next Bucket List Adventure?
Overwater Bungalows. Crystal clear blue water. Honeymoons. The ultimate luxury couples retreat.
Surfing. Scuba diving. Incredible marine life.
Quiet. Remote. And maybe a little expensive….
These are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think of the Maldives.
Why go?
If the Maldives is on your bucket list, it’s probably because you want to explore the underwater world by scuba diving or snorkeling OR because it looks just so amazing. At least these are the reasons it’s on my list!
Is the Maldives right for you?
Prepare for an expensive trip and a long journey. If you’re not up for the travel time or the cost, then the Maldives is probably not the right place for you.
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury destination that feels quiet, relaxing, and totally isolated (and you’re ready to make the long trip there), then definitely consider the Maldives. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to totally unplug and just relax with your travel companion - which is why it’s such an ideal destination for honeymoons and anniversary trips.
Traveling with kids? Maybe. If your family is ready for the lengthy trip, there are family-friendly resorts in the Maldives that could be a good fit for you. There’s so much to explore in the underwater world that kids can have a great time exploring: snorkeling, swimming, diving, and more.
You’ll want to spend between 5-7 days in the Maldives. Since you are likely traveling a long way to get there, consider adding another destination to your trip (and this can help breakup the travel time):
Explore nearby Sri Lanka or plan a stay in Southeast Asia’s cities like Singapore or Bangkok
Doha, Dubai and Istanbul are all likely connection points from the US and make an easy place to stop on the way to or from the Maldives
Travel to one of the European cities that offers direct flights to Male such as London, Paris, or Rome
Getting There
It’s not easy to get to the Maldives. There are no direct routes available from the US so flights are long and can be expensive. Average travel time is more than 20 hours and can vary based on where you are starting from. You will likely connect through Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, or Hong Kong (if coming from the west coast) before flying on to Male. Once in Male, you will need to continue your journey to your resort which may be another short flight or boat ride.
Where to Stay
The Maldives has a one island, one resort policy which means you can expect a lot of privacy wherever you stay. You'll find spacious villas, often with private pools and butlers, as well as access to the Indian Ocean and some of the most glorious white beaches you've ever seen.
It’s important to note that The Maldives applies some very problematic laws to its citizens (same-sex relations are criminalized). But, resort islands are free to operate to their own rules, and same-sex couples are roundly welcomed and treated as respectfully as any other guest.
Since it’s known as the ultimate honeymoon spot, there’s plenty on offer for couples in the Maldives and you can opt for an adults-only resort such as the Anantara Veli or COMO Cocoa Island. Or look for a hotel with adults-only pools and private pool villas like Joali, Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru or the One & Only Reethi Raa. There are so many amazing resorts to choose from - so working with a travel advisor can help you find the perfect spot for you.
Believe it or not, there are an increasing number of resorts catering towards families in the Maldives.
Cheval Blanc Randheli offers a wonderfully stylish kids club, Le Carrousel. There’s a water park, as well as crafts, games for older kids, and regular cinema nights so the parents can have dinner alone. Babysitting services are available and kids under 5 eat completely free.
You’ll also find an excellent kids club, at the Ritz Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, about a 45-minute boat ride from the airport. Great for toddlers, the kids club offers plenty to do and the hotel staff will make sure your room is filled with baby products and perhaps the signature tepee for the kids’ toys.
If you’re looking for a focus on sustainability and wellness,
you can find wonderful accommodations in the Maldives like Soneva Secret and JOALI BEING. THe latter offers experiential classes with wellbeing experts and herbalists and serves healty-yet-indulgent sustainably sourced cuisine. You’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
Looking for that underwater hotel suite you may have seen on Instagram? You’ll find it at the Conrad Maldives.
Is the Maldives right for you? Contact us to learn more about this luxurious and beautiful destination.