Maldives Resorts & Holidays

Overview Tab

Thanks to its proximity to the equator, the Maldives is subject to a monsoonal climate. In central areas the average minimum temperature is a warm 25.7 degrees. The wet season runs from mid-May to November where during this time, torrential rain occurs. January to March is the dry season which sees the Maldives reach its maximum temperature.

Tourists tend to flock to the Maldives from November through to April during the dry season and while most of the northern hemisphere is experiencing winter. It’s recommended to book accommodation well in advance for travel during this peak period. Swimming, surfing and snorkelling is good in the Maldives all year round, although reef visibility is clearer on the western side of the islands from May to November and from the eastern side during December to April.

Maldives calendar events that are well worth experiencing include Hay Festival in October which celebrates Maldivian culture and Independence Day in July which includes national parades and performances. Travel during the Islamic month of Ramadan isn’t ideal as restaurants in the county’s capital Malé and other inhabited islands are closed during this time.

Air

Located in middle of the Indian Ocean, the only way of travelling to the Maldives is by aircraft.

Airlines that fly from New Zealand include:

Depending on flight schedules, a transit or stop-over is required in a destination enroute such as Singapore, Malaysia, or Dubai.

Flights from New Zealand to the Maldives take approximately 20 hours.

Luxury Resorts

Many resorts and hotels serve meals and beverages at inflated prices. To save money we recommend opting for our all-inclusive package deals which often include meals, beverages and some alcoholic beverages during certain meal times. This is a convenient way to save money while enjoying a varied menu each day.Contact us for more information

Private Islands

Holiday makers can live out their own Robinson Crusoe adventures on the Maldives’ many private island resorts. These luxurious resorts offer accommodation for a range of travel styles, from opulent suits to family friendly options and romantic honeymoon rooms.

Spa Resorts

Take your relaxing holiday to the next level by staying at an indulgent spa resort. Spend your mornings swimming and soaking up sunlight in the lagoons and your afternoons enjoying feel-good pamper sessions at the spa. Spa resorts are ideal accommodation for couples and those looking for an indulging escape. Contact us for more information

Over Water Bungalows

We’ve all fantasised about waking up in an island bungalow with sparkling blue water at our door step. These dreams can become a reality with an over water bungalow holiday in the Maldives. Bungalows are ideal for honeymooners and couples looking for privacy with a breath-taking backdrop. Contact us for more information

Honeymoons

Honeymooners will be spoilt for choice for romantic accommodation options. All inclusive resorts offer wedded couples intimate privacy, luxurious suites and all the trimmings to ensure their holiday is stress free and unforgettable.Contact us for more information

To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Sights to See

Essential to a visit to the Maldives is admiring the country’s incredible marine life. Snorkel close to shore or have your hotel or resort arrange an off-shore snorkel trip for you. We recommend keen snorkelers and divers explore the 300 metres of protected marine park found at Banana Reef.

A great way to spend an afternoon in Malé is to visit the buzzing Fish Market and see the colourful catches of the day. Nearby you can wander through the indoor fruit and vegetable market and view the staples of local cuisine which include coconuts, taro, sweet potato, mango and pawpaw.

Travel to Bandos Island to witness highly skilled craftspeople producing detailed lacquer-work and matt-weaving. The lacquer-work items can also be purchased and make for beautiful souvenirs.

Grand Friday Mosque is one of the Maldives’ most popular tourist attractions. Constructed by the Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656, the Mosque features incredible artwork, coral engravings and has a capacity of 5,000.

Don’t Leave Without…

Most of life’s necessities are supplied or can be purchased from your accommodation, but some items do tend to be quite expensive. We recommend you bring a towel and a few swim suits to enjoy your beach holiday to its fullest.

The islands don’t sell underwater cameras so be sure to bring one from home to capture those unique, underwater Maldivian memories.

Local Customs

Most locals live on islands away from the resorts and as a result don’t normally interact with visitors. If you are lucky enough to be invited into the home of a local Maldivian it’s customary to remove your shoes upon entrance.

As the Maldives is an Islamic country, many people follow Ramadan. If visiting The Maldives during this time, it is respectful to not eat or drink in front of locals and your hotel staff.

Things to be careful of…

Alcohol

Bringing alcohol into the Maldives is illegal and if caught your alcohol will be confiscated. Although you can’t BYO, you can purchase alcohol at island resorts outside of Malé. If wanting to purchase duty-free alcohol, do so only on your return flight home.

Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory in the Maldives as there is a 10 per cent service tax added to everything. Some vendors however still expect travellers to tip. It’s a nice gesture to tip your room and spa staff around AU$1 per day. Baggage porters and boat crew may expect more depending on the number of bags and level of service. Tipping is not customary in local teashops and taxis. Haggling is acceptable in local shops, particularly when souvenirs are involved.

Dress code

Thanks to the tropical climate, the dress code in the Maldives is naturally relaxed. While predominately a Muslim country, you don’t need to worry so much at your resort, but when in public or in Malé it’s advised to cover up so not to offend anyone.

Souvenirs

Do not buy shells, coral, shark teeth or items made from turtles. These items endanger the Maldivian environment and will most likely be confiscated from Customs when you return home.