All you need to know about the Maldives

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All you need to know about the Maldives

The Maldives has to be that quintessential holiday destination – with glistening azure waters, beckoning beaches, sunshine that is never ending and hotels that look like they were made in heaven, it is the ultimate island paradise. From week-long diving liveaboards scouring the seas for the best the Maldives has to offer, to hotels that offer a myriad of dining adventures and activities both in and out of the water, the Maldives is idyllic for everyone. Keep reading our guide to the Maldives to find out everything you need to know about this Indian Ocean archipelago:

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Geography of The Maldives 

The Maldives archipelago includes more than 1,100 islands of which 188 of those are inhabited, and are home to over 100 resorts, 390 guesthouses and over 100 liveaboard vessels. New islands are also being added daily through to innovative land reclamation techniques – meaning you can look forward to more luxurious Maldives accommodation in the future. These islands are grouped in 26 atolls or chains stretching for 822 kilometres – each offering a unique appeal in terms of location and diving opportunities. The Maldives’ nearest neighbours include India and Sri Lanka and an add-on tour to either of these unique destinations can really add a different dimension to your Maldives getaway. Male is the capital city of the Maldives and it is here where the country’s airport is located. Most hotel’s transfer boats or planes depart from Male, being home to the largest seaplane terminal in the world. It is also from Male where most of the Maldives liveaboards depart. 

Weather in The Maldives

Being located close to the equator The Maldives receives an incredible amount of sunshine and daylight hours, allowing you to really make the most of your holiday. Daytime temperatures are around 30°C, seldom reaching below 20°C at night. May to November is the wet season thanks to the Southwest monsoon but rainfall in the Maldives is low with short sporadic showers. Humidity sits at about 70-80%, however, you will never feel stifled thanks to the sea breezes which cool and refresh. The Maldives is perfect for a holiday any time of year with a great all-around climate.

Food in The Maldives

Fishing was the main source of income and food for many Maldivians before the advent of tourism. As a result, and because of its location, the seafood dishes in the Maldives are simply amazing. The islands have been influenced by the cultures of Africa, Arabia, Indonesia and India and this all reflects in the local cuisine. The Sri Lankan influence can also be seen in the tea houses which can be found on some islands, serving delicious tea varieties and pastry snacks. Some resorts even offer cookery classes so you can learn how to make traditional Maldivian dishes at home.

Things to do in The Maldives

There is so much to do in The Maldives with most activities revolving around the spectacular unspoiled reefs and turquoise waters. The snorkelling and diving are some of the best in the world with sightings of whale sharks, mantas, dolphins and turtles. Other water activities include deep sea fishing, kayaking, dhow sailing, jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing and stand up paddle boarding. The Maldives is also a fantastic destination for health and wellness enthusiasts with a number of award-winning spas offering fantastic treatments as well as yoga classes. 

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