Travel guide – resort islands
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Overview
Most visitors to the Maldives come on prearranged package tours that include accommodation on any one of the 87 resort islands. All the resorts are located on pristine islands, with idyllic settings for water activities and long, lazy beach days.
The resorts are predominantly located in the three atolls closest to the Maldivian capital, in Malé (Kaafu) atoll. A few are found in Vaavu, Baa, Lhaviyani and the Ari (Alifu) atoll. Ari has recently been earmarked for development as the new Tourism Zone. Each resort has an individual character supported by traditional or modern architecture.
The larger, less expensive resorts attract young, adventure-seeking tourists whilst some of the smaller, expensive options offer a more reclusive, intimate holiday. The excursions provided by the resorts vary, depending on their proximity to dive sites, local villages and natural attractions. All the resorts, however, offer watersports, such as night-fishing trips, scuba diving, parasailing, windsurfing, jetskiing, banana-boating, knee-boarding or ringo-riding. Very popular are excursions in glass-bottomed boats.
For a comprehensive list of resorts consult the Maldives tourist website: www.visitmaldives.com
This resort located in the Baa Atoll is a perfect juxtaposition of traditional Maldivian style with modern comforts. The resort’s spa offers a range of therapeutic beauty treatments and relaxing massages to completely indulge in. A host of other recreational and watersport activities can be enjoyed on the island.
An expensive resort, Makunudhoo has the best of comfort and luxury surrounded by the finest tropical beauty. Coconut groves shelter individually thatched bungalows and charter yachts moor peacefully offshore. The island is best known for its excellent cuisine. It is a two-hour trip from Malé.
This picturesque island is extremely photogenic, featuring a large lagoon ideal for watersports. The resort island is located west of the North Malé atoll, about 15 miles (24km) from the airport.
Reethi Rah is a secluded, pristine island that is perfect for relaxation. Thatched bungalows nestle among the palm trees and comfortable water bungalows stretch sleepily over the lagoon. The island is situated northwest of Northern Malé.
Seenu is located in the Addu Atoll. The local Addu people distance themselves from the inhabitants of the capital and have a strongly independent fervour. It is the best base from which to visit the traditional island communities and catch a glimpse of their lifestyles.
South of Malé airport are the neighbouring islands of Veligandu Huraa (Palm Tree Island) and Dhigufinolhu, connected by a causeway over a lagoon. Dhigufinolhu is the larger and louder of the two, offering a greater selection of entertainment and accommodation.
Climate
The temperature of Maldives is hot throughout the year and although the humidity is relatively high, the constant sea breezes help to keep the air moving. The best time to visit the Maldives is between December and April, during the dry season. However this is also the tourist high season, and resorts are not only more expensive, but often fully booked. The wet season runs between April and October, when strong winds can also be expected. November and April are reported to be the best months for diving.
Health
Immunisation against typhoid, hepatitis A and polio is recommended. Precautions should be taken to avoid sunburn and dehydration. There is a good private hospital on Malé and first aid facilities are available on all the resort islands. In the event of diving emergencies, a decompression chamber is available. Food and water in the resort hotels is generally risk-free. Medical insurance is advised.
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