Maldives Vacation: When to Go, What to See

It's no secret that once upon a time, everyone dreamed of a trip to the Maldives. Some cut out photos from magazines, while others simply imagined themselves on the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean. Fortunately, all cherished dreams tend to come true. So, finding yourself among tall palm trees and turquoise waters in 2023 is much easier. 

Don't worry about documents and force majeure, we'll tell you everything now. Kupi.com is here, and we invite you to dive into the vibrant world of the Maldives together!

How to Get There

To spend your most unforgettable vacation, you need to undertake a long flight to the Maldives . The total flight time will be a full day (or even a day and a half). So, be sure to take a book with you on the plane or plan what you'll do on board. 

By the way, our advice: don't be lazy to check ticket prices from time to time. A great option would be to subscribe to price change notifications. After all, sometimes life brings us pleasant surprises, and the same tickets to the Maldives can be bought not for 40,000 rubles, but for a pleasant price of 20,000 rubles. It's great that with the tracking function, you can snatch up such options faster than others. In short, use it.

Visa and Entry

Fortunately, you won't need to apply for a visa in advance for a trip to the Maldives. This only applies if your stay on the islands does not exceed 90 days. In other situations, you'll have to put in a bit more effort. 

Alright, now about the documents. You must have with you:

• passport;
• return ticket;
• tourist voucher (in other words, a hotel booking).

In most cases, a passport alone is sufficient. However, they have the right to ask for any of the above documents. 

When to Go

Generally, the best season for a vacation in the Maldives is considered to be from late November – early December to mid-April. However, there isn't much difference. The climate here is humid, tropical, which makes it one of the top options for a seaside vacation abroad. Rains, by the way, are short-lived on the islands. So, even during the peak season (May to October), they won't interfere with beach relaxation. Plus, prices are slightly lower during this time.

What to See

The Maldives is a place where people go for a visa-free seaside vacation. They are adored for their countless beaches, picturesque views, and fresh air. Active travelers always find new entertainment here. And those who simply dream of escaping the daily grind enjoy spending time on the beach.

Malé

Malé is the capital of the Maldives. You can walk around this small city in just a couple of hours. This is more than enough time to spend on local souvenirs or stroll through the narrow Asian streets. Unfortunately, the beaches here are artificial. Therefore, a great option would be to start your acquaintance with the local culture here, and then bask in the sun on another island.

Among the interesting places you should definitely visit are the Malé Fish Market and the National Art Gallery. There, you'll get more immersed in the country's atmosphere and even learn about its history.

Vaadhoo Island

Do you want the sky to fall at your feet and truly believe in magic? Then we recommend visiting Vaadhoo Island. At night, the coastline glows with a blue light. Photos from there have already flooded the internet, and those who have never been to the Maldives think it's Photoshop. However, we hasten to delight you: it's not about a graphic editor at all, but about plankton. Upon contact with water, it emits a faint glow, which makes the island amazing.

Baros Island

Baros Island is loved by tourists for its elegance. It's small, neat, and all activities like bars or snorkeling spots are within walking distance. The large number of overwater villas has made this place one of the most picturesque, which is why the houses here can be seen in many photos.

Mirihi Island

The perfect place to escape the digital world. Mirihi Island simply has no televisions. But there are plenty of villas and activities. For example, you can go diving or snorkeling here. And for couples, romantic evenings are arranged, and they are invited to the spa. In short, gather your willpower and put your phone away somewhere to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this place.

Maafushi Island

While all the main attractions are in the capital, we offer another option for what to see in the Maldives. Maafushi Island has a resort town with its own school, restaurants, and beach. It's as small as Malé. So, rest assured you'll walk around it quite quickly. But it offers a bit of variety: tourists come here to scuba dive or go shark diving. Moreover, the place is quite budget-friendly — feel free to choose it if you want to spend minimal money and get maximum emotions.

Hulhumalé Island

A man-made island with plenty of entertainment. Active recreation (diving, snorkeling, and boat trips) is very popular here. However, in addition to swimming, you can also take a stroll on land. There are many parks and cafes. In short, we recommend resting from a long flight on Hulhumalé. By the way, the Sino-Maldivian Friendship Bridge leads here from Malé. It was built with the support of the PRC, and now thanks to it, you can easily get from one city to another.

Maldive Victory

In other words, an excellent choice for diving enthusiasts. Those who love to dive deep underwater adore Maldive Victory for its tragic history. Once a large ship that crashed, it is now overgrown with corals and serves as a home for various types of fish and even turtles. People go here to personally see the wreckage of the ship and find a piece of beauty in the destruction.

Fuvahmulah Island

The largest island in the archipelago, where you can eat delicious food and stroll among tall palm trees. We emphasize it for a reason. Fuvahmulah Island truly has a lot of greenery. It even has its own natural attraction: the freshwater lake Bandaara Kilhi. Around it are banana and mango trees, and in the distance, a small bridge and cozy terraces. 

Utheemu Ganduvaru

For a deeper acquaintance with the country's history, we recommend visiting Utheemu Ganduvaru. This is the palace of Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu, where tours are currently conducted. Nearby there is a beautiful beach where you can take a break. By the way, sometimes manta rays — devilishly beautiful underwater inhabitants — visit the coast. 

Hanifaru Bay

People go to Hanifaru Bay to feed manta rays — local stingrays. They gather there from May to November. Don't worry, you can become a part of this exclusive gathering. You just need to get permission in Baa Atoll and follow the visiting rules. We recommend finding out about available spots for the excursion in advance, for example, a month beforehand.

Things to Do in the Maldives

The answer is simple — relax. However, if you want to diversify your routine, we share some entertainment options.

Befriend Marine Life

How? It's simple, you need to go snorkeling. In a nutshell: you put on a mask, fins, and go explore the underwater world. You won't have to go deep underwater. Most often, coral reefs and fish are easily found near the coastline. So, you can easily observe the colorful inhabitants of the ocean. Who knows, maybe you'll discover a new hobby.

Dine at an Underwater Restaurant

You've probably never been to one, but you've seen photos: a couple sitting in a restaurant with fish of all colors and sizes swimming above them. It's no surprise that such pictures can become a reality in the Maldives. Among the restaurants offering this service are Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, Subsix.

Take Beautiful Photos from a Boat or Yacht

In general, one of the popular types of recreation in the Maldives is a boat trip. The photos turn out great, and thanks to the transparent bottom of some boats, you can even see what's happening beneath the waves. 

Learn to Surf

You'll definitely enjoy surfing if you love active recreation. Of course, the Maldives has decent waves that many experienced surfers dream of riding. However, it's not always easy to find something for beginners. This is due to the abundance of coral reefs around the islands. Nevertheless, if you wish, you can always learn it at one of these hotels:

• Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi;
• Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives;
• Six Senses Laamu.

Watch Whales and Dolphins

In the Maldives, it seems you can see everything. Even dolphins and whales within arm's reach. Therefore, most hotels will gladly offer an excursion to their guests. Don't forget to bring your phone — the photos will be beautiful, we guarantee it.

Food

Locals use rice, seafood, and fresh fruits as main ingredients. Many don't shy away from spices, which makes some dishes spicy and sometimes even pungent. 

Tuna is considered a classic food; it's added to almost all appetizers. There's so much of this fish here that some tourists can't even look at it after returning home. However, if you're only visiting for a few days, such a diet won't be off-putting. Rather, it will add something new to your culinary preferences.

What you should definitely try:

• Garudhiya. Simply put, it's tuna broth. It's especially popular among tourists and is considered one of the main dishes in the Maldives;
• Rihaakuru. Tuna paste and a local favorite. Can be spread on bread or flatbreads; 
• Banana Flower Salad (Boshi Mashuni). Something like a dessert. It's a mixture of shredded coconut and banana flowers, mixed with curry, lime, and turmeric.

By the way, be prepared that alcohol is not available here; its sale is prohibited. Some drinks can be found on hotel premises. However, locals prefer fruit cocktails.

Transportation

Public transport in the usual sense is absent in the Maldives. Everything here is within walking distance: great apartments and a beach nearby. What more could you want? On the other hand, what if you get the urge to explore and want to visit several islands? In that case, there are options:

• Seaplane. The fastest and most expensive mode of transport between islands. The price often reaches 200 dollars, and in some cases even 300;
• Speedboat. Also not a cheap option: a trip can cost 200 dollars. However, it is one of the most popular options;
• Ferry. Slow, but the cheapest option: from 2 to 10 dollars.

In general, most hotels arrange transfers for their guests. This means you'll be met right at the airport and taken to your dream destination without any hassle. The downside: this isn't available everywhere, so check in advance and inquire on the official hotel websites.

What to Bring Back from Your Trip

It's nice when you can take a piece of your past vacation memories with you. However, in the Maldives, it's not that simple. Souvenirs are sold only at the airport or on the streets of the main city, Malé. In general, you can't count on typical shopping. But there's an option to easily find a couple of trinkets that will lift your spirits for a long time. Here are some interesting ideas:

• jewelry made from shells or pebbles. Well, that's a classic. You can buy these in souvenir shops;
• exotic fruits. Suitable as a treat for home or a gift for friends. Sold at any market;
• national clothing. Will easily diversify your wardrobe. Light tunics and cotton shirts are perfect for beach trips in the heat;
• cosmetics based on coconut oil. Yes, those delicious-smelling gels and shampoos that can usually be found on store shelves;
• spices. Will be an excellent addition to your homemade dishes.

Tips

1. Sometimes waves enticingly wash up an unusual shell or a beautiful coral. However, don't fall for it, because everything the ocean brings is the property of the Maldives. Therefore, it is forbidden to take anything found on the islands with you.
2. Even if you've never had problems with motion sickness, it's better to take pills with you. Just in case. And in general, it's worth packing a small first-aid kit for your trip.
3. Wearing revealing swimsuits is only allowed on hotel premises. After all, this is a different country with its own culture. 
4. Bringing alcohol is prohibited. Even alcohol bought at Duty Free. It will be confiscated at customs, so don't waste your money. 

Contact Information

A small memo in case something unusual happens and you have no idea what to do:

119 — emergency services number;

110 — information service number;

102 — ambulance number.

Address of the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Republic of Maldives: 404, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.

General number of the Russian Consulate in Sri Lanka: +9411 269-70-42; emergency number: +9477 728-79-88.

Now you know exactly when it's best to go on vacation to the Maldives and what you can do there. If your thirst for new adventures doesn't leave you, we recommend reading our blog articles about other cool places. For example, we've already told you what to see in Bali and shared key life hacks.

We wish you pleasant adventures and unforgettable emotions among the paradise islands!