Spotlight on Maldives
| If you're looking for a few extra hours of sunshine then you should visit the Maldives between December and April |
The Republic of Maldives is created from a ring-like formation of coral atolls enclosed by cobalt lagoons, now recognised as a unique ‘tropical paradise’. Approximately 90,000 square kilometres of Indian Ocean encases 1190 palm-fringed, white sanded islands all with a distinctly different character, and all providing that ultimate holiday experience.
Populated with bountiful resorts and hotels located in 87 islands, there is an abundance of activities to suit. Best of all is the Maldives wealth of marine life and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for diving and snorkelling. Or just simply chill on one of the marvellous beaches; de-stress with a Spa treatment or explore local communities and traditions.
Getting there
You can fly to Male, the Capital of the Maldives direct from London on Sri Lankan Airways and British Airways. You will find excellent deals also on Qatar, Emirates, Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines. There is no need for visas as on arrival in Male an Entry Permit is issued to passengers with a valid passport and return air ticket (country of residence restrictive).
Knowing the Islands
The vast majority of visitors come to the Maldives on package tours, staying at one of the 87 Hotels or Resorts. Three atolls closest to the capital are North Malé Atoll, South Malé Atoll and Ari Atoll. Access to these atolls and many more is by Seaplane, seaboat or traditional Dhoni (ferry service) and can take approx 20mins-1hour. All packages designed by Dreamticket will include your airport assistance and transportation to your selected Hotel or Resort.
Weather
Hot and humid is generally the forecast however during the south west monsoon period from May to November you will see the most rain storms. The north east monsoon period between December to March is less interruptive as the weather is quite dry and slightly cooler. Daytime temperatures rise to about 30°C and the low averages about 20°C.
When to Go
If you're looking for a few extra hours of sunshine then you should visit the Maldives between December and April, which is the dry season. This is the high season, however, and resorts can be fully booked and prices are higher than the rest of the year. The Christmas-New Year period is the busiest and most expensive part of the high season. Between May and November it's still warm, but the skies can be cloudy, humidity is higher and rain is more likely. This is the low season, and there are fewer tourists and prices are lower. The transition months of November and April are said to be associated with increased water clarity and better visibility for divers.
Malé
About 2km (1.2mi) long and 1km (0.62mi) wide, Malé is small, quaint, and densely settled. Though not spectacular, it is quite unique as a capital city. It's clean and tidy, with mosques, markets, a maze of small streets and a certain, sometimes sleepy, charm all its own.
Malé is packed to the edges with buildings, roads and a few well-used open spaces. Officially, the population is around 65,000, but with foreign workers and short-term visitors from other islands, there may be as many as 100,000 people in town - it certainly feels like it.
Tsunami
Effective from 01st August 2005 69 resorts throughout the Maldives are in full operation. 18 resorts remain closed and are presently being renovated. The resorts that are being renovated are not available on Dreamticket.com’s package search engine.
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