| Holiday in the Maldives - think desert island and barefoot paradise. Over 1000 tiny coral atolls make up the Maldives, with secluded island resorts and castaway beach retreats. Ideal for scuba diving, the clear water is home to three quarters of the world's reef fish species. Add seamless service, excellent water sports and a truly romantic feel, and you've got the perfect, tropical Maldives holiday escape. |
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Beaches Maldives beach holidays have some of the world's finest deserted tropical beaches, white sand and the brilliant blue Indian Ocean are the norm on every island resort, a picture-postcard view not to take for granted, with crystal clear lagoons teeming with tropical fishes.
Sports The Maldives are a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving, the Indian Ocean is filled with multi-coloured fishes and soft coral. The islands are a surf hot spot and kite surfing, sailing and canoeing are also favourites.
Local tastes Most of the food on your Maldives holiday is imported, so there's something to suit all tastes. The locals enjoy fish curry or soup with a hot and spicy kick; meat is saved for special occasions. Finger food is popular including chili coated fish pieces, battered fish rolls and curried vegetable samosas. Despite being Muslim islands, alcohol is freely available; try Raa, a spirit made from coconut palm sap.
Evening flavour Most of the larger resorts offer live music, Maldivian dancing, folklore shows, fire dancers and even crab racing. People spend the evening watching the sunset with a cocktail or enjoying a beach barbecue. In Male, the capital island, you'll find a great evening atmosphere with outdoor concerts by New Harbour, late-night shopping and night cafes.
Best buys Whilst on holiday in the Maldives why not visit the best souvenir shops and colourful markets, which are in Male, although there are gift outlets on most of the island resorts. Unique Maldivian crafts including finely woven mats, lacquered boxes with intricate floral designs, mother-of-pearl and black coral jewellery, carved model boats and beautiful silk dresses.
Live the Experience Explore the capital island of Male including the Grand Friday Mosque, waterfront markets, late afternoon football matches and activity-filled streets after dark. Take an island-hopping trip in a dhoni, Maldivian boat, to see local fishing villages and what the other atolls have to offer. See the Indian Ocean islands from the air on a seaplane journey where the aerial view of iridescent blue, green and turquoise lagoons is simply unforgettable.
All inclusive Maldives all inclusive holidays are an excellent way to holiday without having the worries of overspending, allowing you to budget before you leave. At many all inclusive Maldives hotels all your food and drink, activities and entertainment is included - there may be some restrictions at certain resorts so check each hotel beforehand to find out exactly what is included and what isn't. |