Have you ever dreamed of escaping to a paradisaical island, somewhere? If so, then what you imagine might not be too far from the reality of the Maldives. But in deciding to pay a visit to this part of the world, you’re still left with a choice of more than a thousand different islands.
The archipelago is famed for its ‘one island, one resort’ approach. Every photo you look at might promise perfection. But there are a few questions worth asking before you arrange your Maldives holidays. Let’s look at four of the more important ones.
Resort vs. Local: Defining Your Budget and Vibe
You’ll be faced with a choice between two different categories of island. There are those that are entirely dedicated to a single holiday resort, and there are others that are actually inhabited by the residents of the Maldives. Opt for the former, and you’ll get what amounts to a self-contained hotel, where the proprietor sets the rules around things like alcohol and modesty. It’s here that you’ll find the iconic overwater villas.
The latter, on the other hand, will bring you closer to the authentic culture and customs of the Maldives. Be aware that you’ll need to respect the local laws, however.
Transfer Type: How Far is Too Far?
Some islands are more accessible than others. Reaching a more remote one might involve quite a complex arrangement of speedboats and seaplanes. The closer you are to Velena International Airport, on Hulhulé Island, the less complicated your transfer will be.
Of course, getting out to a more remote island isn’t just a hassle – you’ll enjoy spectacular aerial views from the cabin of your seaplane. But if you intend to travel with children, or you’re looking to cut costs, then transfers must be factored into your plans.
Reef Access: Are You a Diver or a Lounger?
For many, a major part of the appeal of the Maldives will stem from the local sea life, and the opportunity to see it up close. This means donning a snorkel and diving into a nearby reef. But not every island provides easy access to such a thing.
If there isn’t a local reef, you’ll end up paying for regular boat trips, which can be time-consuming and expensive. If nature matters to you, then look for an island on a specific wildlife-focused Atoll, like Baa Atoll.
Atmosphere: Quiet Retreat or Lively Hub?
Finally, we should note that there’s often considerable variety between islands, even if they all belong to the same broad category. If the resort is designated as Adults Only, then it’s probably going to offer more peace and quiet than one that’s oriented toward families. Similarly influential might be the presence of local facilities, like water parks.
Larger islands tend to be better at keeping rest areas away from the lively spots. If you’re in doubt, check the map of the resort, and see how far the bar is from your lodgings!
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