Maldives Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
Comprising 1,190 tropical islands jutting out from the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives really is paradise on earth. Subdivided into 26 atolls, based around curving coral reefs and immense lagoons, just over 10% of the islands are inhabited. A further 87 house exclusive resorts, where near deserted sandy beaches and secluded retreats complete that Robinson Crusoe feel. These picture perfect islands impress with more than dazzling scenery alone and an enthralling underwater world of coral reef and colourful fish awaits snorkellers and divers. Warm, crystal clear waters also make the Maldives the perfect place for holidaymakers to indulge in other watersports that run the gamut from canoeing to windsurfing. So whether you want to get active in the Indian Ocean, or just simply unwind amidst some of the world's most beautiful scenery then the Maldives is for you.
Who goes there?
With temperatures that fluctuate between 26-32ºC the Maldives attracts well-heeled visitors all year round. The exclusive nature of the resorts means that they never feel crowded and depending on which you choose your fellow holidaymakers could be honeymooning couples, families or even celebrities. The Maldives appeal to a wide range of nationalities including Austrian, British, Chinese, French and German.
Where in the world?
The Maldives is located southwest of Sri Lanka close to the Equator. The International Airport is located in the capital Malé, an island with 75,000 inhabitants.
The 1,190 coral islands form an archipelago of 26 atolls. Each of the atolls overlooks lagoons and the Indian Ocean.
When to go?
The Maldives have a hot tropical climate. There are two monsoons, the southwest from May to October and the northeast from November to April. Generally the southwest brings more wind and rain in June and July. The temperature rarely falls below 25°C (77°F).
Beach
The Maldivian islands have a combined coastline that measures 644km (430 miles), the majority of which (Malé being the notable exception) is fringed by pristine white sand beaches. Whether holidaymakers want to simply soak up the sun's rays from their resort beach, float about in the inviting Indian Ocean waters, explore coral reefs, or hoist a windsurf sail, they will be spoilt for choice.
Beyond the beach
The Maldivian capital of Malé is the islands' only real attraction as such. Home to a third of the country's population Malé is one of Asia's most densely populated cities. As the only island in the Maldives with traffic, a commercial centre and no natural beaches, Malé certainly is an interesting anomaly in this part of the world. One highlight for holidaymakers is the Grand Mosque, while the city's markets overflow with local colour.
Family fun
Many of the Maldivian resorts are family orientated and boast all the usual resort facilities including child-friendly restaurants, swimming pools, organised activities and sports facilities. Kilometres of unspoiled, uncrowded beach, a wide variety of watersports and the calm sea are also big hits with kids, as are island-hopping excursions.
Retail therapy
For many holidaymakers the hotel gift shop and airport stores are the only retail outlets that they will encounter in these tranquil islands. Resort boutiques are great for forgotten essentials like beachwear, as well as the odd souvenir or more expensive keepsakes. More serious retail therapy can be found in Malé, where lacquer ornaments and other handicrafts are on sale alongside everyday items like clothes and food. Steer clear of anything made from seashells or coral as it is against the law to take them out of the Maldives.
A night on the town
Holidaying in the Maldives is all about peace and tranquillity, so you won't stumble across much raucous nightlife on the islands. Resort hotels do sell alcohol (its sale is restricted in the Maldives) and generally offer a range of drinking options including pool bars, beach bars, cafés and cocktail lounges. In some resorts the entertainment may even stretch to live music, karaoke or a disco.
Eating out
As you might expect in a country spread over 1,190 islands, dining tends to be restricted to the resorts hotels. Most hotels have two or three restaurants with the choice ranging from elaborate buffets to fine-dining establishments specialising in local seafood. Cafes and pool bars also sell snacks where holidaymakers can pick up a sandwich, pizza or burger.
Getting around
With the exception of Malé, where taxis are the best way for holidaymakers to get around, the Maldivian islands are traffic free, which means the only way to get around is on foot or by golf buggy. Seaplanes transfer guests between the airport and their resorts, with boat trips also allowing holidaymakers to island hop.
Exploring further afield
Deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and snorkelling excursions, as well as island hopping trips, are organised by the majority of resorts. Organised visits to Malé and other inhabited islands are also popular with holidaymakers.
Splashing out
Make a beeline for one of the many spas, where soothing facials, deep tissue massage and purifying body wraps are guaranteed to ease away any lingering tension resulting from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life, which now feels a million miles away. The Spa Pavilions at the Taj Spa (Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, on South Male Atoll) (tel: 664 2200;
www.tajhotels.com), is the most luxurious of the lot. Yoga, Ayurveda treatments and heat and water therapies are amongst the offerings, and the spa is a sublime place to unwind.
Flying in
Malé International Airport (MIA)
