The Maldives

The ultimate dream destination

The ultimate dream destination would have to be the Maldives (also known as Dhivehi Raa’jeyge Jumhooriyya or the Republic of Maldives), south-west of India in the Indian Ocean. It’s the perfect place for a beach holiday or a honeymoon and offers plenty of luxury including staying on your own private island.

Beaches as white as snow, an oasis of green trees, bright blue skies and crystal-clear turquoise waters: the Maldives are paradise on earth.

Over 1,100 different islands

The Maldives consists of 1,190 coral islands. Spread out over 26 different atolls in the Indian Ocean. The perfect place for a swim, snorkel, or dive. It is really spectacular here.

The ideal beach vacation

The ideal beach vacation is synonymous with the Maldives. The many islands offer a natural protective barrier for the coral reef and all that lives in and around it, such as manta rays, barracudas, coral fish, and turtles. There’s no other place in the world where you can enjoy great visibility all year round and pleasant water temperatures, but the best time for diving is between January and March.

Villas on the beach

On the islands you will find many villas with an ocean view. Often there is also a swimming pool nearby. Local agencies offer tours to the protective areas where you can hike, snorkel or dive. It is also possible to go on a sunset cruise. During a sunset cruise, you ride with a boat on the ocean to see the sun sink behind the horizon, whilst enjoying a drink. 

You will find villas and bungalows in all price ranges. From luxurious to affordable. But the really luxurious ones often have the best ocean view. 

How tropical can it get? ©Corno van den Berg

Bungalows in the ocean

The Maldives is famous for the small cabin that literally stands in the ocean. Which usually have sunbeds and an outdoor jacuzzi. Some even have a slide into the ocean!

Some bungalows have a glass floor. Fantastic to see the fish swim underneath your feet. Or a turtle. Or a baby shark.

Maldives: the wedding destination

The Maldives are famous for honeymoons. But you can also actually plan your wedding here. You can rent a luxurious bungalow or even a private island.

Diving and snorkling

If you like to dive or snorkel, the Maldives is a perfect destination. There is a lot of protected coral reefs where you can spot manta rays, barracudas, different species of coral fish, sharks en different species of turtles. This is one of the few spots in the world where you can enjoy the whole year round a clear sight underwater and pleasant water temperatures.

The capital: Malé

Should you need a break from the beach, go and visit the capital Malé. It’s on its own island and it’s fun to take a boat trip there. Have a look at the royal palace that used to belong to the sultan, but is now the national museum. You can also hit the shops at Independence Square.

Best time to visit the Maldives

You can visit the Maldives whole year-round. The temperature of the water is always pleasant. The visibility underwater can vary per season. The best time for diving is between January and March.

All 2 Bucket List Tips in The Maldives