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Can I go to the Maldives? Entry requirements from the UK explained

Dreaming of a getaway to one of the best hotels in the Maldives ? Here’s everything you need to know about the rules for travelling to the destination, and the Maldives’ entry requirements.

Is the Maldives on the red list?

The Maldives was was added to the UK’s red list for travel from May 2021, but was removed from 4am on Wednesday 22 September 2021. So anyone returning to the UK from the destination no longer needs to quarantine in a government-approved hotel . 

The UK's traffic light rules changed from Monday 4 October, when the amber list and green list were scrapped. The rules have then changed further through October and November. As of Tuesday 7 December, double-jabbed travellers who return from ‘clear to travel’ countries such as the Maldives now need to take a pre-departure test and receive a negative result before travelling back to the UK, and fill out a passenger locator form. They must take a PCR test on or before day two of their return, and self-isolate at home until they have confirmed a negative result. 

Those who have not received two doses of a Covid vaccine at least 14 days before returning to the UK also have to fill out a passenger locator form and take a pre-departure test, plus a PCR test on days two and eight after arriving, and have to self-isolate at home for 10 days on their return. The Test to Release scheme can be used from day five to shorten quarantine, although this option is not available in Northern Ireland.

It is always best to double-check the government sites for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland for the latest rules in those UK countries. 

What are the entry requirements for the Maldives?

All visitors must present a negative PCR test (not an NHS test) taken no more than 96 hours before departure upon arrival into the Maldives. They must also fill in a Traveller Health Declaration form 24 hours before departure to and return from the Maldives, then complete an Immigration Arrival Card when arriving in the Maldives.

On arrival, passengers may also be subject to temperature checks and screening procedures, and those presenting symptoms of Covid will be subjected to a PCR test at their own cost.

The local government does not require tourists to quarantine, but others (such as residents, work visa holders and returning students) who are not fully vaccinated must self-isolate for 14 days. The NHS app will be accepted as proof of vaccination, but the paper card given at appointments won’t be.

Will the Maldives go back onto the red list?

Potentially. As the Covid situation is extremely changeable across the world, it is important to always check government websites for the latest news and entry requirements for your destination before you travel. For now, we recommend always purchasing travel insurance with Covid cover that is appropriate for the destination you’re visiting.

13 things to know before going to the Maldives

Feb 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Be ready for your visit to the Maldives with this guide to planning and etiquette © Jannoon028 / Getty Images

Paradise personified. Heaven on earth. Screensaver goals. The Maldives has earned a lot of monikers since it opened to tourists in the 1970s.

Over the past 50 years, it’s become known as a honeymoon hot spot, a family-friendly getaway and one of the world’s most coveted vacation destinations.

And while it may seem like a lot of hype for one small, spread-out island nation in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives really does live up to it. From coconut-fringed islands and colorful reefs to warm smiles and even warmer curries, it’s often a once-in-a-lifetime getaway for travelers. Whether you’re heading off to a ritzy private island resort or a more affordable local island, there’s a handful of things to know before departure. Here are our top tips and best advice ahead of a trip to the Maldives.

1. Plan for at least 5 nights in the Maldives

For all travelers, it takes a plane ride or three to land in this far-flung slice of paradise. So, while a weekend to the Maldives may work for travelers based in Asia, five nights will suffice if you’re crunched for time and budget. And if neither is an issue, plan for at least a week to fully unwind and embrace island life.

2. You can get around via seaplane or speedboat

When choosing your island resort, pay attention to whether it’s reachable by seaplane or speedboat. Although seaplane transfers give picture-worthy views of the pearl-shaped atolls, they often cost much more. And be aware there’s a 25kg (55lbs) total luggage per person allowance on seaplanes. So, if you’re looking to save money, pick a resort closer to Male that you can transfer to via speedboat. You can also take a domestic flight to another atoll in the Maldives and a speedboat to the resort.

3. Island-hopping is doable (and encouraged)

Many travelers spend weeks poring over which private island resort is the best for them, but you don’t have to choose one. Beach bums can split their time between resorts. You’ll need to travel back to Male airport, where a representative from your next resort will meet you and transfer you there via seaplane or speedboat. If the resorts are close together, you can charter a speedboat from one resort to another.

4. Aim to land in Male in the morning

If you’re staying at a resort accessible by seaplane transfer, arriving in the morning is crucial. Once the sun sets, seaplanes stop flying, so you’d need to stay overnight in Male or Hulhumale to wait for the next seaplane. If your resort is accessible via a speedboat or water taxi, arriving at night is less of an issue, but the Maldives scenery is so stunning you’ll want to be able to see it.

5. Understand “island time”

These tiny private islands operate by their own rules, including their own time zones. Some resorts will ask guests to set their clocks to “island time,” an hour forward to give them an extra hour of sunlight for snorkeling or swimming .

6. Stock up well (there are no grocery stores for tourists)

There are no grocery stores or Walmarts on these tiny private islands. So, triple-check that you’ve got everything you need, including reef-safe sunscreen to help protect one of the Maldives’ most precious natural habitats. Every resort has a boutique store where you can pick up necessities you may have forgotten, but prices are often insanely expensive.

7. Familiarize yourself with the prohibited items list

The Maldives is a devout Muslim country with strict rules. So travelers entering cannot bring alcohol, pornographic materials, pork products or idols of worship  among other things . If anything prohibited is found, it will be taken away on arrival.

8. Local islands are a bargain but come with caveats

The local islands are a great and safe option for travelers on a budget and those not willing to shell out thousands for an island getaway. Small Maldivian-run guesthouses offer a much more intimate look at daily life, but there are a few things to know first. Alcohol is illegal on local islands, so don’t expect to enjoy a beer by the beach. Travelers must also dress conservatively on local islands by covering their shoulders and knees. Women don’t need to cover their heads, but wearing a bathing suit outside of designated “bikini beaches” is not allowed and could land you with a fine.

9. There’s no standard tipping etiquette

Tipping on top of your restaurant bill at the resort is not expected because a 10% tip is already included. However, if you want to leave something for your favorite server at the end of your stay that is more than OK. Guests can also write a review calling out their favorite team members; management often rewards staff for stellar service. Leaving a tip ranging from US$2 to US$10 per day for housekeeping is also customary. And if you have a butler, tipping 10% of the cost of your stay is a good rule.

10. You can pay in USD

The local currency is the Maldivian rufiya, but US dollars are also accepted. You can get some local currency from the ATM at the airport on arrival. If you want to exchange money for rufiya, you can do so in the airport at the Bank of Maldives Foreign Exchange. Keep your receipt with you so you can change anything extra back into your local currency when you leave.

11. Resort doctors can help with health concerns

The vast majority of travelers will go straight from the plane to a private island resort. Should you have any health issues during your stay, the on-island doctor will be able to assist you.

12. There is a “green tax” for tourists

Every tourist is charged a government tax to stay in a hotel, liveaboard or guesthouse. The tax is US$6 per day unless you’re staying in a guesthouse on a local island with 50 or fewer registered rooms, then the tax is US$3 per day. The charge will be included in your overall bill.

13. Sustainability initiatives are everywhere 

As the world’s lowest-lying country, the Maldives is under serious threat from climate change. Nearly every resort has sustainability initiatives, which might include coral regeneration, onsite gardens, turtle rehabilitation and/or unique mosquito trapping methods instead of chemical spraying. A few of the more sustainable resorts to choose from are Soneva , Six Senses , Four Seasons , Kudadoo and Gili Lankanfushi . Beware of greenwashing , where organizations claim sustainability credentials that aren't as impactful as they suggest.

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• About the High Commission
• Mission Statement
• The High Commissioner
• Former High Commissioners
• Maldives Foreign Policy
• Bilateral Relations
• The Maldives in UK Parliament
• UK Assistance to the Maldives
• Bilateral Relations with Accredited Countries
• Passport Services
• Registering a Birth
• Registering a Marriage
• Renewing National ID
• Police Clearance Certificate
• Scholarship in the UK
• Student Visa
• Maldivians Visiting the UK
• Attestation Services
• Destination Profile
• Maldives Visa and Passport Information
• Customs Information
• Vaccination Advice
• Why Invest in the Maldives?
• Economic Profile
• Doing Business in the Maldives
• Maldivian Tuna Recipes
• News on the Maldives
• Emergency contact number

Maldivians can enter the United Kingdom and remain for up to 6 months visa-free, if the visit is for tourism purposes or to visit friends/family.

If you are travelling to the UK for any other reason, you will need to apply for and obtain a UK visa before  you travel to the UK. The UK Government’s ‘ Check if you need a UK visa ’ website is the best place to find out more information on UK visas.

UK Visa for Tourism Purposes

Although Maldivians do not need a visa to enter the UK for tourism purposes, they do need to have documents to show the UK Border Security Officers on arrival. These documents are the same documents that you would need if you did require a visa.

Full information on the supporting documents you will need can be found on the UK Government website .

In the majority of cases, Maldivians travelling to the UK for tourism purposes will need the following documents:

A genuine passport valid for the duration of your stay in the UK

Previous passports showing previous travel

If travelling for tourism purposes, you must not do the following while in the UK:

• take employment, produce goods or provide services, including the selling of goods or services to members of the public;
• undertake a course of study;
• marry or form a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership;
• carry out the activities of a business visitor, a sports visitor or an entertainer visitor;
• receive private medical treatment; or
• stay longer than six months.

Long-stay and non-Tourism UK Visas

If you intend to stay longer in the UK longer than six months, or wish to visit the UK for any reason other than tourism or visiting friends/family, you will need to apply for a visa.

Please visit the UK Government website for more information about different types of visas and the supporting documents you would need.

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• High Commissioner
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Visit Maldives

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The Ultimate Maldives Travel Guide

There are very few places in the world that I will go back to again and again, and the Maldives is one of them. It is truly a bucket list destination which lives up to all the hype! The Maldives is made up of 1,192 islands, located southwest of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean, of which only 188 are inhabited. It’s a pristine island nation with stunning beaches, turquoise blue water and welcoming locals. And it isn’t just for honeymooners – it’s the perfect destination for families, friends and couples too. There is something for everyone, whether you want to relax in the sunshine or explore the incredible underwater world. I’ve put together the ultimate Maldives travel guide with everything you need to know.

How To Experience The Maldives

There are three distinct ways to experience the Maldives, and they are all very different from one another.

1) Stay in an island resort. This is the most luxurious, expensive and popular way to experience the Maldives. If you’re looking for that typical Maldivian island experience, then this is the way to do it!

2) Stay on a liveaboard boat. If you’re a keen scuba diver, then this is by far the most cost-efficient way to experience the underwater world as you sail between the very best dive sites across the country.

3) Stay in a guest house on a local island. This is the best way to explore the Maldives on a budget and gives a more backpacking style experience. There are some great articles covering low-cost Maldivian travel such as this one .

How Do You Travel Around The Maldives?

The islands in the Maldives are spread over 90,000 square kilometres, so travelling between them isn’t as quick or simple as you may think! When you land into the capital of Male, you will have to use one of these key transport options:

> A seaplane. The most iconic and scenic form of transport in the Maldives and the one I recommend you try to experience if you can. Seaplane transfers are typically around 30-60 minutes long. One thing to note is that luggage restrictions can be strict on seaplanes, so make sure you check them. > A boat. If you’re staying on a resort relatively close to Male then you may be able to get a speedboat transfer, which is much cheaper than a seaplane. > A domestic flight. If you’re staying in the far north or south of the Maldives, you may need to take a domestic flight to another local island and then catch a boat to your resort or hotel. > A ferry. If you’re staying on a local island then you can catch a ferry.

The best thing to do is speak to whoever is handling your reservation out there, and they can give you guidance on which form of transport you need to take and assist you with booking it if necessary.

How To Choose A Maldivian Resort

At the time of writing, there are 168 island resorts operating in the Maldives, which is more than a little overwhelming! Each of these resorts is on their own private island (unless otherwise stated) and has its own unique selling points and features. Moving between island resorts can be quite expensive and challenging so it is easiest to be based in one place, which means picking the right one for you is even more important!

When considering which island to stay at, I would recommend asking yourself a few key questions

1) What is your budget? This price varies massively between resorts. 2) How far are you willing to travel from Male? Do you have the budget and time to catch a seaplane or domestic flight? 3) Who are you travelling with? Are there children who need to be entertained? Is it a romantic honeymoon or fun girls trip? Each resort has a different vibe. 4) Do you have a certain type of accommodation you want to stay in i.e. an overwater villa, or a beach villa with a pool? 5) What facilities do you want on the island? Such as water sports, a gym, a scuba diving centre, an underwater restaurant or a spa. 6) Do you care about marine life? If you plan on spending time in the water then consider looking for a resort with a good house reef for snorkelling or diving, or a prime location in an abundant atoll.

In terms of my own personal experience, I have been lucky to visit a range of Maldivian island resorts and each one is special in its own way. > The Residence. One of the best house reefs I’ve seen and perfectly located for superior scuba diving. > The St Regis. The epitome of luxury, a great choice for special occasions or honeymoons. > The Westin. A tiny island with a focus on wellness, perfect for if you’re looking for that “castaway” experience. > Niyama. A more laid back resort spread over two interconnected islands, complete with an underwater restaurant. > Soneva Fushi. An iconic Maldivian resort. Unreal food, famous water slides into the ocean, impeccable service and a great focus on sustainability. > Avani+. A brand new resort located in Baa atoll, with an amazing house reef, a great dive centre and a range of rooms which means they’re suitable for couples, families and friends.

Some other popular resorts include: Six Senses Laamu for sustainability focused luxury, Joali for incredible design and Lux* for more relaxed vibes. Top tip: I recommend either booking half board and eating two larger meals a day if you want to save money, or going for full board/all inclusive. Buying food as you go off the menu can get ridiculous expensive due to the hotels having to import all the ingredients.

How To Choose A Maldivian Liveaboard

The liveaboard you choose to stay on will make a huge difference to your trip. And there are so many variables to consider. I could write a whole blog post just on this topic, but for now, here are some key things to look into:

• The boat itself. Have a look at the facilities of the boat, the cabins, the interiors and the dive deck. It’s also worth reading reviews.
• The route the boat is taking. There are different routes which give different experiences. Boats which go to the north will allow you to escape the crowds. Boats exploring the central atolls are typically more beginner friendly. These routes will give you a taste of the well known Maldivian marine life. Boats going to the far south are for more advanced divers, typically focusing on shark diving, channel diving and navigating strong currents.
• The difficulty of the diving. Certain liveaboard routes will only allow guests with 150+ dives, while on others you only need 20. Make sure you pick a route suitable for your experience level.
• Availability . Liveaboards can get booked up 2+ years in advance on popular routes and boats. So, be sure to look way ahead when planning a dive trip.

I have personally had great experiences on every Emperor and Master liveaboard boat I have dived on, but I recommend browsing all the boats and comparing them on liveaboard.com .

What Activities Are There To Do?

A common misconception about the Maldives is that there is nothing to do. I am someone who gets itchy feet and needs an activity a day at least when I am on holiday, and the Maldives more than caters for that! Give these a go:

• Snorkelling & scuba diving.
• Boat trips, like a sunset dolphin cruise, visiting a local island, an uninhabited island or a sand bank.
• Take a cooking class.
• Go to the spa, the gym or try a yoga class. Some hotels even have tennis courts!
• Try watersports like paddle-boarding, kayaking or riding jet skis.

And of course, you can relax on the beach with a good book!

Things You Need To Know About The Maldives

Before you plan a trip to the Maldives, there are a few things you should know:

• The Maldives is a conservative muslim country, so when you are in public places like the airport or a local island, then please be respectful and cover up. You can wear whatever you please on resort islands.
• In general, the best season to go for stable weather and good underwater visibility is between mid December to mid March. However, that means higher prices.
• There can be mosquitos on the islands. Typically there aren’t too many but they are still there! So make sure you take your repellent. 
• Resorts and boats can cater for pretty much any dietary requirements, but try to let them know in advance so they prepare for your arrival.
• A common question I get is how long to stay in the Maldives. Personally I would recommend an absolute minimum of a week for a boat or resort stay. But, 10 days is the ideal amount of time!
• Even in the dry season, you can get heavy tropical rain showers. So, don’t expect clear blue skies all day every day.
• Take cash with you for tips, as there are no ATMs on the resort islands – USD is fine.
• Bring lightweight and casual clothing, most resorts are pretty laid back. I typically won’t wear shoes the entire time I am in the Maldives, except maybe trainers if I go to the gym or sandals if I am dressing up one night.

How Much Does A Trip To The Maldives Cost?

Well, that varies massively! It totally depends on whether you stay at a resort, on a local island or on a boat – but here are some rough estimations.

International Flights: £600-800 in economy. Internal Transfers: Between £200-600 round trip on a seaplane depending on the journey time. Domestic flights can be around £150 one way or £300 return. Boat transfers can be around £120-150. Resort Hotel: This hugely depends on the resort you choose and the kind of room you want to book. As an example, at a five star luxury resort a beach villa can be £300-700 a night and an overwater villa can be £1500-2000 a night. At a four star resort a beach villa can be £200-300 a night and an overwater villa can be £700 a night. Liveaboard: Prices range massively, from £1500 for a week in the central atolls through to £3500 for two weeks in the deep southern atolls. Local Island: If you stay in a guesthouse on a local island, you can be paying anything from £40-80 a night.

Then you need to add on any extra activities you may want to do if you’re staying on an island, so it certainly isn’t cheap!

If you want to learn more about scuba diving, then check out my beginner’s guide to diving here .

Safe travels,

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Maldives Holidays

Postcard-worthy and trending worldwide, the maldives is perhaps the most renowned group of islands in the indian ocean. attracting couples of all ages to its pristine shores, holidays here are all about easy island life., holidays in the maldives.

The type of destination that makes you feel like you've been marooned on a desert island (in a good way of course), each island is a luxury resort waiting to be explored.  Step right out of your room onto sugary sands and completely secluded tranquillity. You'll probably have to pinch yourself as you arrive and see how bright the turquoise sea really is. Whether you jet off on a romantic break, heavenly honeymoon, or a family getaway for the history books, let the Maldives show you why their idyllic hotels, palm-fringed coves, and radiant reefs reign supreme.

When is the best time to visit?: The best months to holiday in the Maldives are between December and April when temperatures soar to over 30°c and blissful sea breezes caress the shoreline.

Travel guide

The Maldives is a bucket-list paradise made for blissful beach days. From budget-friendly beachside bungalows to the ultimate luxury resorts, our choice of holidays has something for everyone.

• Best time to visit: December-April
• Average temp: 29°C/84°F
• Average flight time: 10 Hours
• Most suited for: Couples, Families
• Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa
• Time Difference: +5 Hours

Latest Maldives Holiday Offers

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Canareef Resort

Includes 40% booking discount

£3,175 pp

Siyam World Maldives

Includes 25% booking discount

£2,991 pp

Medhufushi Island Resort

Includes 20% booking discount

£2,200 pp

Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi

£1,825 pp

Dive into the Abyss

Head underwater and discover some of the planet's most beautiful marine life. A land of ring-shaped reefs known for their aquarium-like diving conditions; Ari Atoll has a reputation for its world-class scuba sites. Where coral-encased rock pinnacles rise from the depths to scratch the water's calm surface; swim-throughs and overhangs are decorated with colourful sponges, and cleaning stations of shrimp wait patiently for manta rays, giant turtles, and whale sharks to glide through the clear waters. If diving is your passion, the Maldives is a must.

Overwater Bungalow Bliss

If you're looking for extra special accommodation, The Maldives have plenty of thatched seaside huts and glass-bottomed chalets perched over the Indian Ocean. With all-inclusive wonderlands like Fihalhohi Island Resort, Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi, and Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, our handpicked collection of beautiful Maldivian hotels ensures your stay in this tropical paradise is truly unforgettable. Indulge in outdoor spa treatments, watch sublime sunsets, and enjoy freshly caught seafood under the stars. With its poster-perfect scenery and barefoot beach vibe, the Maldives is quite simply one of the most relaxing and romantic places in the world.

Swap the Beach for the City

Where the rest of the Maldives dances to the tune of tropical seclusion, Male is the exception to the rule. A pint-sized hub of high-rises and bustling blocks, Male is the closest resemblance to a city for miles, and well worth a look around. Explore the Old Friday Mosque, stroll the National Museum, or embrace local life at the Fish Markets. 

Food & Drink

Indulge in the freshest seafood imaginable. From succulent Maldivian lobster to perfectly grilled reef fish, the Maldives is a paradise for seafood lovers. Many resorts offer ocean-to-table dining experiences, ensuring your taste buds savour the essence of the Indian Ocean. Heavily influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic flavours, sample the flavours of Maldivian cuisine, where coconut, tuna, and aromatic spices take centre stage. Try mas huni, a traditional Maldivian breakfast dish, or indulge in garudhiya, a fragrant fish soup.

Average monthly temperature in the Maldives (°C)

• Jan 29 °C
• Feb 29 °C
• Mar 30 °C
• Apr 30 °C
• May 30 °C
• Jun 30 °C
• Jul 29 °C
• Aug 29 °C
• Sep 29 °C
• Oct 29 °C
• Nov 29 °C
• Dec 29 °C

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Your Trip to the Maldives: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Male International Airport Guide
• Top Romantic Resorts
• Sustainable Resorts
• Top Things to Do
• Best Beaches
• Snorkeling & Diving
• Nature Experiences
• Food to Try
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Made up of nearly 1,200 coral islands strung north to south in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is one of the most popular beach destinations on the planet. Known for world-class diving, miles of empty white-sand beaches, and resorts oozing with luxury, the Maldives isn’t always the most budget-friendly destination (though bargains can be found). But if you’re looking for mind-blowing sunsets, sugary sand, and the most turquoise water you’ve ever seen, break out your credit card and book a flight. Read on for our complete Maldives visitor’s guide, and learn the best places to stay, eat, dive, and explore in this spectacular tropical locale.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time To Visit: In true tropical island style, temperatures in the Maldives average 83 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius) year-round, and there are only two main seasons; dry and wet. The dry season comes in fall and winter, from November through April, with temperatures ranging from 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) to 89 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). The low, monsoon season runs from May through October, with the wettest month usually falling in June. Temperatures in the rainy season range from 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) to 87 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

Getting Around: As an island nation spread across hundreds of miles of the ocean, it’s only natural that boats are the country’s transport mainstay, so prepare your sea legs (or Dramamine). For those staying near the capital or attempting a more budget holiday, ferries are offered between some of the more populated islands in the Malé Atoll capital area. Speedboat taxis can be hired for short-distance island hopping, and private resort speedboats whisk guests away to properties in the immediate vicinity. For resorts set in distant atolls, further transport will be via seaplane or a domestic flight to one of the more far-flung airports followed by speedboat transfer to the resort.

Travel Tip: Many visitors to the Maldives must travel by seaplane to reach their final destination, so it’s important to note that seaplanes only operate during daylight hours. If your flight arrives after dark, consider staying at a nearby hotel on either Hulhulé Island or in nearby Malé city.

Things to Do

This is a country surrounded by water, water, and more water, so it's only natural that water sports have emerged as the leading activity in the Maldives. Landlubbers can bask in the sun on deserted sandbanks, or perhaps spend the day in one of the dozens of spas dotted at upmarket resorts throughout the nation.

• Diving: Some of the world's best diving can be found in the Maldives' coral atolls. Spot whale sharks and manta rays from May through November in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, or dive deep with octopi and reef sharks to explore some of the area's famed shipwrecks.
• Water sports: Snorkeling, stand-up paddle, surfing, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and every other water sport imaginable are available year-round. Most resorts include access to non-motorized water sports equipment, and the larger populated islands generally have water sports rental facilities.
• Spa experiences: The Maldives is home to some of the most indulgent hotel spas in the world. These havens of tranquility offer everything from Thai massages set in overwater villas, to underwater treatment rooms, to complete detox, rejuvenation, or restoration packages. Most resorts have a spa on the property, so it's only a matter of choosing which will best suit your budget and relaxation desires.
• Nothing: Perhaps the ultimate activity of all in the Maldives is doing absolutely nothing. This definition of "nothing" means laying on a sun lounger on one of the country's best beaches , staring into the sea-green distance while sipping ice-cold coconut water and reading a novel.

What to Eat and Drink

Maldivian cuisine borrows mainly from India and Sri Lanka, which both highlight hot, spicy flavors. But in the Maldives, what you’ll eat largely depends on where you stay. High-end resorts offer a variety of a la carte local and international fare in a host of luxurious settings, including in overwater and underwater restaurants .

Budget resorts are more likely to provide buffet meals with both Western and Asian options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are also small local eateries and cafes on many of the inhabited islands, purveying specialties such as fish cakes, soups, and curries.

Alcohol is prohibited in the Maldives (except for tourists at licensed hotels and resorts), so don’t expect to wash down your curry with a beer in any of the local establishments. Many of the more upmarket resorts, however, have full bars, and even wine cellars with hundreds of vintages to choose from.

Where to Stay

If visitors stay in the city of Malé, it’s rarely for more than one night, as there’s not much going on in the capital other than commerce, a few restaurants, and a museum or two. Most visitors stay in one of the dozens of resorts, which are often set on private islands in one of the country’s myriad coral atolls.

Accommodations vary widely in the Maldives, from rustic local guesthouses to some of the world’s most expensive resorts. If you’re on a budget, there are a handful of guesthouses and small hotels in many of the inhabited islands, such as in the North Malé Atoll or Ari Atoll.

There are also a variety of all-inclusive resorts, which range widely in quality. Check out Adaaran Prestige Vadoo , which is only 20 minutes by speedboat from the airport and has overwater villas with private pools, or the chic design and five restaurants at LUX* South Ari Atoll .

The Maldives’ lineup of five-star resorts are the stuff holiday dreams are made of. Postcard-perfect beaches, overwater villas, serene spas, and private butlers are only a taste of what to expect should you choose to splurge. Some of the most popular (and expensive) options include chains such as the Four Seasons , St. Regis , and the Six Senses , plus properties like Soneva Jani , which features massive overwater villas with private pools and waterslides, or Huvafen Fushi Maldives which has the world’s first and only underwater spa.

Getting There

The gateway to the Maldives is Velana International Airport (MLE), formerly Malé International Airport, which is set on an island adjacent to the capital city of Malé. Upon arrival, the best transport mode depends on where you’re staying. A bridge connects the airport (on Hulhulé Island) to adjacent Malé city, or there are taxis, speedboat taxis, and regularly scheduled (though not always on time) ferries.

The Maldives’ seafaring past and Indian Ocean location means the remote country has been heavily influenced by its closest neighbors, India and Sri Lanka, as well as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Africa. Many visitors will only see the surroundings of their chosen resort, but the Maldives possesses cultural treasures on the local islands and in Malé that are also worth exploring.

• One of the oldest mosques in the Maldives is the Malé Hukuru Miskiy, or Old Friday Mosque, which was built from ornately carved coral in 1658. The mosque is set on Hulhulé Island, an easy taxi ride from the airport.
• The Maldives National Museum in Malé is a compact yet illuminating repository for the country’s prized artifacts. Displays range from ancient to modern times and contain everything from religious carvings to whale skeletons to lacquered wood boxes handmade by Maldivian craftspeople.
• Across Sultan Park from The Maldives National Museum is The National Art Gallery. Established in 1999, this relatively new museum houses collections of Maldivian art from both past and present.

Money-Saving Tips

• May through October is monsoon season in much of Southeast Asia, and the Maldives is no exception. Although summer can sometimes bring heavy rainfall and severe storms, most often there are only afternoon showers, and risking a visit during these monsoon months (particularly June, considered the wettest month) means deep discounts compared to visiting the country during the peak season.
• Since alcohol is heavily taxed and marked-up in the Maldives, a drinks bill at the end of your trip can pose a hefty surprise. To keep the holiday stress-free and the umbrella drinks coming, consider choosing an all-inclusive package if you plan to indulge in adult libations during your stay.

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The Maldives is 99% water and just one percent land. And as one might expect, the thrills of the Maldives lie on, under or over the surface of the water. Wherever you choose to holiday in the Maldi...

Fun side of life

The Maldives offers a host of facilities and opportunities to fuel your sense of excitement. Whether you are staying on a plush resort, a hotel in Male’, or in a simple guesthouse on an island in a...

Colorful side of life

The Maldives is blessed with about 5% of the global reef area, and 250 species of coral teeming with over 1000 species of fish.  Nearly half those who visit the Maldives snorkel or dive and to...

Spiritual side of life

In the Maldives, a spa is, let’s say, more than just a spa. It’s an experience, a journey that will touch your soul. A journey that you can indulge yourself in, and an opportunity to splurge on you...

Maldivian side of life

The Maldives is made up of thousand two hundred islands, all different in their own unique ways. The geography of Maldives alone is something one would not get tired of observing. The archipelago i...

Romantic side of life

No matter where you stay in the Maldives, there’s a sense of romance that you cannot evade. Love is in the air, wherever you are.

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Maldives travel guide

An idyllic location, tropical sunshine and breathtaking natural beauty – the Maldives has it all. The nation is made up of 1200 coral islands, with each luxurious resort found on its own private isle. Seclusion, serenity and simplicity are the pillars of life in the Maldives.

Dive into the Maldives

Discover your perfect pace in the Maldives. It’s your holiday, and you can make it as slow, or sprightly, as you like. Here’s a little taster, or dive right into our  Maldives holiday offers .

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa

With miles of white sandy beach, an 'all you can drink' all-inclusive package, and plenty of incredible underwater sights to explore, a stay at Kuredu Island is sure to satisfy your Maldives daydreams.

Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi

This breathtaking tropical resort offers luxurious accommodations, stunning white sandy beaches, and an abundance of water-based sports... everything you need for an unforgettable island getaway.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon offers warm friendly service and has a great range of amenities, as well as regular entertainment for those chilled island evenings. 

OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi

Embrace island life in a laid-back retreat driven by smart services, playful design, and incredible experiences. As soon as you reach the island, you're sure to feel relaxed.

Villa Park, Sun Island

If you’re looking for a fun holiday, you’ll love Villa Park Sun Island, the largest resort in the Maldives. It really does have something for everyone. 

The Maldives is not just for grown ups. Many hotels cater specifically to families, providing kids' clubs, children's pools, and babysitting services, and all the swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling and marine-based activities they could wish for.

Hard Rock Hotel

The Hard Rock name has hit the Maldives and it brings all the signature Hard Rock experiences, meaning fun for all the family. 

Siyam World

Siyam World is home to the Maldives largest floating waterpark, which is sure to be loved by big kids and little kids alike. 

Centara Grand Island Resort

This modern Ultimate All Inclusive resort offers a truly luxurious standard of accommodation and top of the range amenities. 

Secluded overwater bungalow's, romantic sunsets, crystal clear waters, the Maldives is the quintessential honeymoon destination for a reason, and the perfect place to kick off wedded bliss.

Destination dining

Some might say the restaurants and destination dining experiences in the Maldives are beyond compare. And we would have to agree. Choose a romantic spot to share the love and your sweet dessert dish (only if you want, of course). 

Water bungalows

Staying in a water bungalow really makes a difference to your holiday. Imagine yourself walking down your own steps, straight into the ocean — the perfect way to cool off after topping up your tan on the balcony. 

Breakfast with a view

Kick start your day (and your metabolism) with a floating breakfast. If you've nabbed yourself a room with a pool, indulge in a holiday treat that's served with a fantastic view of the Indian Ocean. 

‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience

Many resorts offer day trips to private sandbanks and uninhabited islands. Perfect if you and your partner want to discover a ‘truly untouched’ natural environment and have your own ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience in the Maldives.

Beach Bubble experience

Finolhu Baa Attoll have created a unique beach buble experience where couples can hideaway and sleep under the stars, in their own private bubble on the beach. How. Incredibly. Romantic. 

We’re sure that the sun and sand (and sea and swimming…) are huge lures when you’re looking at honeymoons, however, the Maldives are also world-renowned for their spa sanctuaries and treatments that you can enjoy. We wouldn’t want you to miss out…

The Maldives is made up of a thousand or so small but perfectly formed islands grouped together to form 20 natural Atolls. Male airport is situated roughly in the middle, and where you’ll board your transfer to your resort by speedboat or seaplane. Whichever one you choose, all our hotels come with complimentary transfers, so you can arrive in style.

If your hotel isn't close to the airport chances are you will need a seaplane transfer. This is the fastest way to reach your hotel, and probably, the most exciting way to start your holiday! Pack light (luggage allowance is 25kg per person), buckle up and experience breathtaking bird's-eye views before landing in paradise. 

Resort Lounges

Before you jet off on your seaplane adventure, most resorts in the Maldives have their own or shared lounge at the airport where you can escape the heat and freshen up before your flight. Light snacks and refreshments are complimentary so take the time to refuel before it's time to board.

A popular and cost effective way to get to your resort is by speedboat transfer. Ranging from 10-70 minutes, it's a great way to see the magic of the island and you might even spot some dolphins and flying fish along the way. Our top tip: pack some sea sickness tablets because it can get choppy.

The Maldives know-how

Time to touch down

When you’ve touched down, it’s time to transfer to your island paradise — either by speedboat, seaplane or domestic aircraft. Look out for us or someone from your hotel who will take you to your departure point. If the weather isn’t playing ball or there are lots of flight arrivals, you may not be able to leave straight away. 

If you are flying, you may need to wait up to 3 hours. Seaplanes only operate when it’s daylight (that’s when you get the best views, after all), so you may need to spend a night at an airport hotel. Seaplane and domestic aircraft luggage allowance is 20kg plus 5kg hand luggage per person. Excess may be charged at approx $4 per kilo and/or carried later.

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The Complete Guide To Visiting The Maldives

The Maldives are the epitome of island paradise and the dream destination of pretty much everyone you ask – seriously, ask anyone around you right now if they’d want to visit the Maldives. 🙂

These pristine, beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean are a haven of natural beauty and one of those places that definitely lives up to the hype, as we got to discover recently.

Prior to booking our flights, I hadn’t really done much research into the Maldives (it was just one of those places I knew I wanted to go to) and shortly after booking, I soon realised how it was a lot trickier than I initially anticipated. There’s a lot more choice than I realised, so many things you should pack (and so many thing you shouldn’t), local laws I had no clue about and a whole range of activities those pretty Pinterest photos  never seem to highlight.

To that end, I’ve put together this guide to helping you plan your stay in the Maldives. Some stuff might seem more obvious than some other but hopefully, each of these will help you make the most out of your time in one of the most beautiful places on earth!

7 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

1.) The Maldives is a muslim country. This means no alcohol so on your way over, skip the duty free purchases. If you buy any, you will get it taken off you at the airport (they used to keep it for you until you left but I’m not sure if that still happens). Point is, you’re not allowed to bring alcohol with you.

2.) The capital city of Male is a proper city and probably one of the least photographed places on here. This is where a lot of locals live and tourists never seem to visit. Even when you arrive at Male airport, you really don’t arrive on Male island itself, you actually arrive on Hulhulé Island.

3.) Now while the individual resort islands in the Maldives are pretty liberal, the Maldives as a country is quite conservative so act accordingly when you’re in places like the airport. Don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to get into your bikini and speedos when you get to your own island resort.

4.) Each resort tends to be on its own island.

5.) Each resort typically has unique features and characters so bear this in mind when booking. They are NOT all the same – despite what the water-villa and snorkelling photos might have you believe.

6.) Peak season in the Maldives is December till April and the prices during this period will reflect this! There’s a good reason to visit in peak season of course (the amazing weather being one of them) but Maldivian weather is pretty good all year round so if you want to save on some money, it’s worth considering visiting outside of peak season.

7.) A lot of the islands here have their own time (island time is a real thing here). It’s typically an hour behind local time in Male and leaves you with ‘more time’ to do things like enjoy the sunset before dinner and generally feel like you’re somewhere entirely different (yes, I know moving the time back an hour doesn’t actually add time but trust me, once you get started with island time, you’ll find yourself settling rather nicely into the island bubble).

WHAT TO PACK

Seriously, this is one place you definitely do NOT need to over pack for.

We’re talking light and breezy summer clothes. No one is here for your fashion and the vibe everywhere is definitely too laid back to care. Pack a couple of smart clothes in case you feel like dressing up in the evenings but you might find that you’re the only one who wants to.

If you do decide to go uber-stylish, do remain practical – almost everything except your room is outdoors and heavy clothing will not work here.

Toiletries :

Pack the usual stuff. Do remember to take extra sunscreen though as there’s a lot of water based activities here so you’ll find that you need to top up a lot more here.

Don’t forget to pack your underwater camera ( UK here || US here ). Almost grab one of these floaters as well ( UK here || US here ) just in case you drop the camera.

Everything else:

Pack as usual. These islands are used to having guests and there are shops on them so if you forget any essentials, chances are that you can get them here so don’t worry.

Don’t forget your medication (if you’re on any) though some islands have their own on island Doctors

HOW TO GET THERE

Flights from whatever country you’re travelling from to the Maldives is fairly straight-forward and no different than booking a flight from say, London to Paris.

The getting to the islands is the bit you need to remember to sort out and plan ahead.

GOING BETWEEN ISLANDS

Booking a stay at more than one place in the Maldives is a great way to cram in as many new experiences as possible in your time there (even the snorkelling will be different). Each island is unique and moving around helps you relive the excitement of discovering somewhere new in the Maldives. I can’t recommend it enough. (Plus, you get to be smug when others are leaving for home and you’re just transferring to your next stunning Maldivian island).

To get to and from the islands, you tend to have one (or two) of three options depending on which island you’re in. You can either:

1.) Arrive by boat

2.) Travel  by seaplane (the most expensive option and by far the most scenic). Seaplane journeys are dependent on the weather so do bear that in mind when it comes to arranging your return.

3.) Travel to a local airport and then connect by boat .

You have to contact wherever you’re staying to have them organise your transfer in advance. Don’t leave this till the last minute.

If you’re moving between islands, let the islands know where you’ll be arriving from and leaving for. You won’t have much control with the time if you’re flying in between islands as the flights are scheduled however the islands will talk to each other and make sure they synchronise your departures and arrivals. All you need to do is to tell them the name of the place your going to and head back to enjoying your cocktails on the beach.

If possible, the general consensus is that you have to try to experience the seaplane at least one. The journey on this is quite picturesque and it’s a unique way to see the Maldives.

WHERE TO STAY

We search far and wide for where to stay and came up trumps on when it comes to amazing places to stay in the Maldives. Here are our recommendations on where to stay and why (in no particular order and absolutely backed by our personal experience):

1.) Dusit Thani Maldives

This Dusit Thani comes with it’s own personal butler and a range of different luxurious places to stay in (ocean villas, beach villas… etc). You get your own butler and it has the largest infinity pool in the Maldives. You can either choose to be carted around in a golf buggy or cycle around. Oh, and this is the island where you get those bioluminescent plankton on the beach at night so do look out for those when you visit. See more from our time at the Dusit Thani  here and here .

2.) Angsana Ihuru

It’s is all about intimacy at the Angsana Ihuru. It’s one of the smallest islands here and from sunset cruises, to candlelit dinners on the beach (plus a tiny deserted sandy island) the service is all intended to make you feel very special indeed. The coral reef here is one of the best on offer here (you’ve got dolphins, turtles, sharks, clownfish – the works) and you’ll get to see animals that you wouldn’t easily see anywhere else. See more details and photos from our time at the Angsana Ihuru  here and here .

3.) Kurumba Maldives

The Kurumba is the biggest one of the lot and part of this means that it comes with so much to do and see when you’re here. The range of accommodations here is quite huge which means that even though it’s premium (it is a 5 star resort, after all) it caters to a wider range of budgets (e.g. if you’re someone who wants a 1 bed own villa or 4 bed mansion, you can find it all here). The sea life here is pretty good too and as it’s really close to Male so it’s the perfect place to start or end your Maldivian holiday here. See more from our time at the Kurumba  here and here .

WHAT TO EAT

In our experience, the food in the Maldives will be the least of your worries. Every place has a lot of variety on offer and if you have specific dietary requirements, inquire in advance though you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place that can’t cater to you.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

There’s so much you can get up to here and although it’s best to check with you island resort to see what’s on offer, here are some reliable options you can count on regardless of where you’re located.

1.) Go snorkelling.

Even from beach in front of you, you jump right in can straight away start to experience the beautiful and rather varied Maldivian wildlife.

2.) Have a romantic meal.

Private island dining, candlelit dinner by the beach , special villas – the choices are endless. Choose one and make it special.

3.) Go swimming with sharks.

Swimming with whale sharks is definitely one of those unique experience you’ll be talking about for ages but even if you arrive out of season, you can still go swimming with black tip sharks who are around pretty much all year round.

4.) Take a guided tour with marine biologist.

Snorkelling on your own is great but going with an expert is so much better . They spot things you might otherwise miss and are able to help you make the most of your experience here.

5.) Go on a sunset tour.

If you’re lucky, you’ll see some dolphins while you’re at it too. Even if you don’t, the sunset here is absolutely incredible and goes down quite well with a few glasses of champagne .

6.) Have a spa day.

You don’t even need to over-think this one. Just do it.

7.) Go swimming with manta rays.

Like whale sharks, manta rays are huge and very impressive to see in the wild. The Maldives is the perfect place to see them though you do have to visit in season for this. 🙂

MONEY-SAVING TIPS

I’m going to be frank about this, a trip to the Maldives will set you back a few bob. It’s a premium, luxury destination and that’s the honest truth though there are a few ways to make savvy savings while having the holiday of a lifetime.

1.) Go half board.

You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to do this here. You end up having breakfast quite late anyway and if like me, you tend to over-indulge at every meal, you’ll find that by the time lunch-time rolls by, you’re not hungry enough for another meal. You can choose to have a light snack for lunch or do it like the pros and lunch on champagne but effectively, going half-board is a very sensible option for a trip to the Maldives. We were full-board but we even had days where we just stayed out to snorkel or chill by the pool because we weren’t hungry and know know much I like my food, that says a lot!

2.) Visit out of season.

Prices are lower, availability is better and you still get the great weather. You can definitely save yourself some money by visiting between the months of May till November.

3.) Move around.

Stay in the more expensive water villas to start (or at the end of your holidays) and move to a beach villa later on. Or perhaps even just move across islands.

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Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 102 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Maldives
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Maldives .

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Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Maldives

Medical facilities are limited – the only fully equipped hospitals are in Malé and Hulhumalé. Most resort islands are within reach of a doctor or have their own medical facilities, but many are several hours’ travel away from emergency treatment.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Maldives where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Maldives.

Travel and mental health

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Lifestyle | Travel

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives: the Barbican-style sanctuary that's the new jewel in the islands' crown

When I go on vacation, I want to feel like a James Bond villain. A little unconventional, I know. It’s clear those gargantuan lairs, remote locations and forward-thinking design concepts are supposed to inspire fear, not awe or aspiration.

But haven’t you ever secretly wondered whether Rami Malek’s ultra-modern No Time To Die island palace might actually be on Airbnb? Or felt a little jealous of Goldfinger’s wood-panelled “Rumpus Room” decor?

If it’s a yes, Alila’s Kothaifaru outpost in the Maldives is exactly your bag. It’s like the Barbican of the Maldives, with less height and considerably more luxury.

Located within the Raa Atoll, the resort's modern minimalist architecture was realised by Singapore-based architecture firm Studiogoto, who used their rectangular, brutalistic buildings to ‘frame’ the natural paradise of the island.

On top of the design, Alila Kothaifaru offers an elevated spa with wooden walkways that slink through its trees, multiple gourmet restaurants and unparalleled natural surroundings. Every single one of the villas has a pool and direct access to the sea, whether via the beachfront or via a ladder directly into the water, as in the overwater villas.

And just in case that’s not Bond villain-y enough for you, Alila Kothaifaru is also the only resort in the Maldives to have its own private sandbank, which you can travel to via boat for a secluded cocktail at sunset, or to snorkel among the butterfly fish and turtles.

Here’s what to expect from the 5-star resort.

Where is it?

Alila Kothaifaru is located on Kothaifaru Island, in the Maldives’ Raa Atoll, surrounded by a stunning house reef (that’s that bright blue bit of sea that surrounds the island, like an iris surrounds a pupil). The Raa Atoll is also home to a number of other resorts, including The Standard, Emerald and Heritance Aarah.

Because of the intrinsically private nature of islands in Maldives, guests are required to travel from Velana International Airport in the capital of Malé to their hotel via boat or seaplane. For Alila’s visitors that’s a 30 minute seaplane — the far more fun option, even for those a little wobbly with flying.

Before the seaplane, you’ll have to board a regular plane from Heathrow, either direct with British Airways or with a stopover in Abu Dhabi or Dubai airport when flying with Emirates. The total flight time for this stint is around 10 hours direct, or 12 hours with a connecting flight.

Alila’s design is rather unique for a resort within the Maldives: many others stick to a traditional aesthetic of thatched roofs and multi-coloured walls, as seen on the main islands, but Alila offers something more minimalist.

It’s main buildings are comprised of layered concrete, creating a stylish dichotomy between brutalism and the natural beauty of the rainforest. Internally, the rooms and restaurants are all about crisp fabrics and sharp lines, with windows instead of walls, as well as East Asian-inspired wooden partitions and low seating.

Dotted across the island, there’s a lobby, cocktail bar, dive centre, gym, clothes shop, café and two restaurants, as well as Yakitori bar for mid-dip beach bites.

The resort’s main restaurant, Seasalt, is the epicentre of the island. This is where you’ll come across most of the guests, either draping themselves over the seemingly endless edge of the infinity pool, taking photos on the ultra-Instagrammable beach swing, or hopping across the sand towards the sea.

The small area between Seasalt, the shop and the resort bar is separated by cement slabs laid neatly across square pebbled pools. The geometric combination of concrete, greenery, sand and water is a winning theme which runs throughout the resort.

Which room?

Meanwhile, Alila’s 80 villas neatly line the coast of the island and its jetties. The villas are split into 44 beachfront villas and 36 overwater villas, all of which come with their own pool and access to the ocean.

The overwater villas are the kind you can immediately call to mind when thinking of the Maldives — raised on stilts, jutting out like limbs from a long jetty suspended over turquoise sea. With a full wall of windows in the combined bedroom/living room, waking up in one of these yields an uninterrupted view of the ocean. Just sea and sky.

They’re the showstoppers of Alila, and indeed most Maldives resorts, but real consideration should be paid to the beachfront villas, which are larger, more private and somehow homelier.

The bathrooms of the beachfront villas are situated outside (though completely hidden), near the front of the villa, so you can take a bath or shower while at one with the draping vines and canopy of leaves.

At the back, there’s a private pool and ‘garden’ of sand which leads straight to the beach, perfect for more secluded sunbathing when you don’t fancy ambling to the main pool.

I stayed in one of these, and they’re ideal for anyone who adores feeling like they’re in a home away from home on holiday.

Food & drink

Anyone who knows anything about the Maldives knows this crucial fact: once you are on your island, you do not leave your island. That means you need to have plenty of places to eat, because you’ll either be staying on a half or full-board basis, eating exclusively at your resort. Luckily Alila has multiple restaurants and bars, as well as cooking classes and buffet nights.

Seasalt, the main restaurant, aims to cater to all tastes, offering Maldivian curries and south east Asian noodle dishes at dinnertime, as well as lighter bites at lunch (including some exemplary chicken satay). It’s where you’ll find the special seafood buffets, staffed by some of loveliest local chefs you could wish for, as well as the bespoke noodle and pasta making stations.

Umami is the resort’s Japanese restaurant for finer dining options, including an array of Teppanyaki dishes, impossibly tender Wagyu beef and fresh fish sashimi. If you’re a fan of Japanese flavours, it is a non-negotiable feature of the island, and likely where you will find your best meal. Or, if seeking a smaller snack, the Yakitori Bar next door has endless appetising skewers.

The resort’s cooking classes also make for a nice departure from eating at the same restaurants. You can learn how to cook with coconut like a Maldivian, assembling one of the country’s signature tuna and coconut snacks, as well as a comforting curry and nutty desert. Or you can put together fresh pasta in the island’s spice garden, where the kitchen’s herbs and vegetables are grown. And don’t worry, it’s not too much sweating over a stove in the heat — the resort’s super knowledgeable staff thankfully lead the charge in these activities.

As well as having plenty of places to eat, island living means you also need plenty of things to do. The Maldives are the destination for doing nothing, so a packed schedule isn’t at all necessary, but the restless among us may need a few things to keep them stimulated. Thankfully, Alila has its own dive centre, perfect for snorkelling — or even scuba diving, should you wish to delve deeper.

There’s also the opportunity to do various excursions, including a dolphin cruise (we saw over 100 of them, the trick is to clap!) and a boat trip to Alila’s private sandbank bar, The Shack.

And then there’s the spa. Aloft within the trees, walkways thread between treatment centres, spreading out from the spa’s central hub, where you’re met by attentive staff and given ginger tea with a handwritten welcome letter etched onto a dainty leaf.

The rooms show off their unparalleled surroundings by featuring ceiling to floor windows, often taking up a whole wall of each treatment room and their adjoining dressing rooms (which, inexplicably but amazingly, have free-standing cement baths, I guess in case you should wish for a soak after your massage).

During the signature massage, a pre-treatment foot spa is offered, with the chair facing out towards the windows and the dense greenery, so you can feel immersed in the rainforest before you’re face down for a full hour. And what better place to be face down — they even position a small local flower on the floor in alignment with the hole of the massage table, so you’re never looking at boring tiles. Once you’re done, you’re offered tea, ginger shots and water aplenty, as well as a small coconut snack. The attention to detail is second to none.

Mandatory, enforced relaxation, and connection to nature. If the spa treatments and stunning views aren’t enough to reset your stress levels, snorkelling with the resort’s local turtle, Emma, sure as hell will.

When should I go?

They say the Maldives have a “wet” season between May and November, but this often just involves the occasional downpour, followed by clear skies. It’s not like the stubborn British rain, it moves on quite quickly, and can also make your trip more cost-effective than travelling during dry season. Definitely consider going off-peak.

Half-board rates at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives start from £609 a night for two adults sharing on a half-board basis. This includes breakfast and dinner served at Seasalt, Pibati, Yakitori bar or Umami restaurant (excluding Teppanyaki). Signature dishes and all alcoholic beverages will incur supplementary costs. Return seaplanes are £498 per adult. This is not included in the room rate however, when booking a package it is usually included.

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