How to Get the Best Out of Your Maldives Trip

As one of Asia's most visited beach holiday destinations and tourist hotspots, countless travellers make their way to the paradise isles of the Maldives each year. Lined with stunning beaches and breathtaking natural wonders, one may think that enjoying a seamless vacation in the archipelago is a matter of simply arriving at the country. But a successful vacation in this part of the world requires a more deliberate approach. Here's how to make the most of your Maldivian getaway.

1. Time the Trip

Travellers who wish to experience the Maldives unhindered by inclement weather and less than perfect weather should ensure that their trip is timed perfectly. While the Maldives is considered a year-round holiday hotspot, the monsoon months from May to October must be avoided as the monsoon rains will be in full swing making most outdoor excursions and even water sports activities unavailable and even dangerous. This is why the period from November to April is considered the ideal time to head down to the archipelago as sunny conditions reign supreme. This may also prove to be the costliest time of year to vacation in the country, but the extra cost is well worth it as nearly every outbound adventure is accessible to tourists.

2. Secure a Delightful Base

One of the true pleasures of a Maldivian getaway is the chance to stay in an exquisite resort island and the much-touted over-water luxury villas Maldives is known for. Whether you select the Atmosphere Kanifushi or any other property, make sure not to skimp on the cost of accommodation as there's no better base for a holiday in paradise than one directly on the water. In addition to spa facilities and other on-site amenities, visitors should also consider the location of their resort base as a conveniently placed venue will afford access to better sightseeing opportunities and excursion options.

3. Enjoy Water Sports Activities

Although most honeymooners and business travellers stopping by the Maldives will spend a majority of their time soaking up the sun-kissed atmosphere and working on their tan, there's more to experience in the archipelago than stunning beaches and infinity pools. Signing up for water sports activities is a great way to enhance your enjoyment and make the most of your trip at the same time. Visitors have a plethora of options at their disposal as snorkelling, scuba diving, and surfing are not the only water-bound activities on offer. Jet skiing, windsurfing and stand up paddleboarding are just some of the other exciting things to do during a vacation in the paradise islands. Even holidaymakers with minimal or abysmal swimming skills can take part in banana boating activities or even sea kayaking.

4. Sign Up for Exciting Excursions

With most of its geography made up of the ocean and more than a thousand coral islands, the Maldives is the perfect destination to sign up for boat cruises. From sunset cruises to dolphin and whale watching safaris and catamaran rides, the choices are truly endless for those who wish to uncover the unique topography of the archipelago. Island hopping tours are another way to visit the Virgin Islands and the pristine beaches that make up the Maldives.

5. Enjoy a Day Tour of Male

With most travellers eager to head out to their resort havens in the outer atolls, many visitors miss the chance to experience the cultural heart of the Maldives. Although the beaches are not as impressive as those of the resort isles, the financial and cultural capital of the country is no less impressive thanks to the many iconic landmarks lining its confines. From the Grand Friday Mosque and the National Museum to Sultan Park and Republic Square, there's plenty to do and see in this bustling metropolis where one also finds traditional marketplaces such as the Chaandhanee Magu.