Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives

Tripoto
11th May 2017

Waterville Views

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

The Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Comprising 26 coral atolls and over 1,000 individual islands, the Maldives is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious overwater bungalows. It's a top destination for honeymooners, scuba divers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape.

A Cloudy Evening in Male Airport

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

When to Visit:

The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this period, you can expect pleasant weather with little rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports.

Visa Requirements:

Visa on arrival for Indians

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Most travelers to the Maldives receive a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.

Packing Tips:

- Lightweight, breathable clothing for the tropical climate.

- Swimwear, sunglasses, and sunblock for water activities.

- Snorkeling gear if you have it, although many resorts provide it.

- A power adapter (Type G) if your devices use a different plug type.

- Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Health and Safety:

The Maldives is a safe destination, but exercise standard precautions regarding your belongings.Tap water in most resorts is safe to drink, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and protect yourself from the sun, as it can be intense.

View from flight

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Transportation:

-- Inter-island travel is typically done by speedboat or seaplane.

-- Resorts usually arrange transportation to and from the airport.

Seaplane

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Currency:

The Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted at resorts and tourist areas.

Maldivian Rufiyaa

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Language:

Dhivehi is the official language, but English is widely spoken at tourist establishments.

Decide how long you'll stay in the Maldives as per your budget. A typical vacation is around 5- 7 days. Here's a sample 5-day itinerary:

Walk around the beach

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Day 1: Arrival and Malé:

Arrive at Velana International Airport in Malé.

Explore Malé city, visit cultural sites, and stay overnight in Hulhumale.

Swimming on the turquoise water

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Day 2-3: Resort Stay:

Transfer to your chosen luxury resort via speedboat or seaplane.

Enjoy the amenities and activities at the resort, such as snorkeling, water sports, spa treatments, and relaxation.

Day 4: Island Hopping:

Take a day trip to explore nearby islands or coral reefs.

Return to your resort for the night.

Ferries ready to depart

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Day 5: Departure:

Check out of your resort.

Transfer back to Malé for your departure flight.

Photo Posing

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Our Experience in this Island :

Me and my husband wanted to visit Maldives from long time. Always we make plans but we end up with finalized some other destinations because of budget as visiting Maldives is quite expensive and all of the resorts are very expensive. Finally we decided to visit this tranquil on our 4th anniversary. And Our dream was to stay in Waterville at least for a day.

So the day has arrived and we were so excited about our trip. We had booked our flight from Bangalore to Male by Airindia which was a direct flight to Male and it costed us 40k roundtrip for both of us. One suggestion to take flight from Kochi if you want cutdown some budget as flight fare is quite less. We had taken land only package from TravelTriangle tour agent.

We have taken 4N5D package in Paradies Island Resoirt & Spa(5* property) for 1N in Watervilla and 3N in superior beach bungalow in which inclusive of welcome drink and half board(Breakfast & Dinner). As our flight was reaching in the afternoon around 2 p.m in Huluhmale, and to resort again 2-3 hrs so a day will go off ,so we dint want to spend much on the resorts. And decided to stay in the Hulhumale only which is easily accessible from the airport island by Volvo buses or taxis. You can check with hotel for airport pickup. Bus fare is quite cheap only 2$ per person.

We had booked UI Inn hotel which was very near to beach. Bus dropped us near the hotel, upon reaching the hotel ,we checked into our room which was in 2nd floor and it has the Seaview room. Then we couldn't control ourselves to explore the white sand beaches. Next day our resort had arranged ferry transfer to the resort.

UI Inn Hotel

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Open Swimming pool!! Isn't it ?

Photo of Villa Nautica, Maldives, Kaafu Atoll by Shivani Priyadarshini

Resort

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

We had spend our most memorable 4 days in the beautiful property..3 Days we were in the beach bungalow which is just a stone away from beach with beautiful trees and white sands.. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling or just read books and enjoy the views and have your drinks.

At our own Watervilla

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Water villas, also known as overwater bungalows or water bungalows, are a type of luxury accommodation that has become synonymous with idyllic tropical destinations like the Maldives, Bora Bora, and the Seychelles. These unique lodgings are typically built over shallow, crystal-clear waters, offering guests unparalleled views of the surrounding ocean and direct access to the marine environment.

Colour Contrast

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

It has stunning location, direct access to the sea, glass floors, luxurious amenities, privacy, overwater dinning, marine life, bathroom with Seaview, can see fish, rays, sharks, turtle from the villa & own private pool everything...

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Once you are in Maldives just relax and enjoy your trip. Embrace the stunning natural beauty, indulge in the luxurious amenities, and savor the unique experiences this tropical paradise has to offer.

Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini
Photo of Sun, Sand, and Sea: The Allure of the Maldives by Shivani Priyadarshini

Thank you...