Maldives Holidays, hotels and flights
Select any one of the hotels to
the Maldives for more information.
Paradise Found - Maldives Holidays - Indian Ocean
It's a nation of more than a 1,000 coral islands (grouped into 'atolls') scattered down the middle of the Indian Ocean like little gems. There are islands so tiny that each one is a resort in its own right. The water is crystal clear, the powdery sands are gleaming white, and the diving and snorkelling are amazing. With some great spas and a romantic, castaway environment, the Maldives are made for honeymooners and couples.
The most famous coral reefs in the world are found in the Maldives. All kinds of colourful, tropical marine life can be viewed simply by putting on some snorkel gear and swimming into the lagoons. Diving is of course, huge, and you can get your PADI certificate at all of our resorts, or improve your existing skills. The activities here are mainly quiet and convivial: barbecues on the beach, sunset watching with a cocktail, the gentle rhythms of local music, all contributing to the very special atmosphere of this magical place. Surfing is big on the east of North Malé atoll, but you may prefer to come here to relax. Stay in the Spa Retreat at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, or one of our other spa properties, and you can add some top-class pampering to your itinerary of pleasures. Elsewhere on your holiday, you can visit the sleepy capital, Malé, or take a boat to the town of Seenu on Addu atoll, from where you can visit traditional Maldivian island communities.
Flights from the UK to the Maldives - Male Airport
Scheduled airlines such as Emirates, Qatar and Sri Lankan Airlines fly from the UK to the Maldives. Emirates flights are via Dubai, Qatar flights via Doha. However if your looking for a direct flight to the Maldives, Sri Lanka Airlines now fly direct from Heathrow.
Charter flights are also available from Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Gatwick
- Time Difference - GMT +5 hours
- Currency - Maldivian Rufiya (US$ travellers' cheques are recommended - some US$ notes are handy for tipping on arrival.)
- Visa Requirements - British citizens do not require a visa.
- Language - Maldivian Dhivehi is the official language. English is widely spoken.
Transfers in the Maldives - If your flight to Malé arrives at night or departs very early in the morning, it may not be possible to transfer directly to your chosen resort by seaplane, as they only operate during daylight hours. It may be necessary to overnight at either the airport hotel or Kurumba, which is located a short boat ride from the airport. Prices start from £68 per person per night. Transfers in the Maldives are either by speedboat or seaplane. Due to the nature of the transfers, during adverse weather conditions it may not be possible to transfer immediately to your resort.
Diving and Snorkelling in the Maldives
These islands, with their crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, are fabulous for underwater activities. Many resorts have 'house reefs' an easy swim from the beach. So if you'd just like to snorkel, you can experience the myriad of colours the coral and marine life offer - all resorts provide snorkelling equipment and many arrange snorkelling excursions to show you the varying reef structures and types of marine life. Want to learn to dive on your holiday? Most resorts have a professional PADI diving school, with courses for beginners and advanced.
Honeymoons and Renewal of Vows
For a castaway, barefoot feel to your honeymoon, the Maldives are hard to beat. Many hotels offer COMPLIMENTARY extras for honeymooners, and all will have restaurants where you can dine outdoors, your table lit by candles, as you listen to the sound of the waves. As well as relaxing and enjoying sunset walks on the beach, followed by tropical cocktails, you'll be able to try diving or snorkelling together, discovering the amazing underwater world. The Maldives offer you a true desert island experience.