Hotels in Maldives
You'll need to island-hop on holidays to the Maldives if you plan on shifting from your own peaceful patch of sand. But luckily, travelling from 'atoll' to 'atoll' is one of the pleasures of holidays to the Maldives. Hop aboard a Dhoni, a traditional wooden boat, and dock into local fishing villages to sample the catch of the day, or take to the skies in a sea-plane, for stunning views of the teardrop islands.
Holidays in the Maldives begin and end on the beach, but the resorts range from romantic hideaways to luxury all-inclusive resorts. For action-packed holidays in Maldives, take the plunge and learn a diving course at one of the island's dive centres, for a glimpse of rainbow coral reefs and darting tropical fish. Stay above water with a wide range of water-sports - you can try your hand at anything from kite-surfing to kayaking on a holiday in the Maldives.
Transfers in the Maldives
The airport transfers are part of the excitement of a holiday to the Maldives, whether by speedboat or seaplane. The seaplanes offer the best views of the coral atolls and are the perfect way to start and end a holiday. You can find details of which mode of transport is included in your holiday price in our individual hotel descriptions and at certain resorts you can choose to upgrade to seaplane transfers.
It is advisable to wear shoes that are suitable for climbing in and out of boats and seaplanes. Due to weight restrictions on the seaplanes it may be necessary for your luggage to either be transferred by boat or by a later seaplane. It is advisable to pack a change of clothes, swimming costumes and any personal items as you may be parted from your baggage for a few hours.
If your international flights arrive or depart late in the evening or early in the morning you may have to spend your first or last night at the Hulhule Island Hotel. As a general rule flights departing before 09:00 or arriving after 16:30 will need an overnight stay if your chosen island is reached by seaplane, as they don't fly during the night.
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Maldives Travel Notes
GMT: +5 hrs in Male the capital. Some islands run island time which is +6 hours.
Language: Divehi, English.
Currency: Rufiyaa, though on tourist islands the US Dollar is the main currency.
Dates for the diary: Eid al Adha; 16 Nov 09, Ramadan 11 Aug - 09 Sep 10 (approx).
Tourist/Visa/health information: Visas are required for British Passport holders, but are free and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months on your date of return. It is recommended that all immunisations and boosters for travel to the Maldives are up to date. Yellow Fever immunisation is required if arriving from an infected country. For full details please contact your GP. Please contact the Maldives Tourism Promotion Board on 020 8237 7979 or visit www.visitmaldives.com
Flight Information: Sri Lankan Airlines offers a scheduled direct service to the Maldives from London Heathrow. British Airways have introduced a new direct non stop service from London Gatwick three times per week. British Airways offers the only Premium Economy service to the Maldives. Other carriers to feature the Maldives include Emirates - with great UK regional coverage and Qatar Airways with services from London Heathrow and Manchester. Thomson also features services from London Gatwick and Manchester.
