Hannah Mason travelled to the Maldives and discovered a romantic and relaxed destination. After landing in Male, Hannah visited three beautiful island resorts.
I visited the Maldives for the first time in May and I believe it to be the ultimate honeymoon destination. This stunning group of islands has deep blue seas, turquoise reefs, white sandy beaches and palm trees everywhere you look. It is the perfect place to sit on the beach with a cocktail in your hand or swim in the ocean among the schools of colourful fish.
The Maldives is made up of 1200 islands, with resorts occupying 250 of them. In most cases there is only one resort per island, meaning the accommodation is always very secluded. The weather is usually picture perfect with sunny days and an average temperature of around 30 degrees. If you can, aim to avoid the wetter months from May to November.
The Beautiful Maldives
Male
Male is the capital of the Maldives and is only two kilometres long and one kilometre wide. Decorated with candy coloured high rises, this island offers an intriguing balance between hustle and bustle and the laid-back island vibe. Cuisine in Male and throughout the Maldives is very much seafood-orientated but also caters to other tastes.
LUX Maldives
For young and energetic newly weds that want a lively and fun-filled honeymoon, I would recommend LUX Maldives (formerly known as Diva Resort), on the island of Dhidhoofinolhu. The infinity spa offers a welcome sanctuary and the staff are young and friendly. There is also a nightclub for those who want to party. The over-water villas here are beautiful and reasonably priced.
Sheraton Full Moon Resort
The Sheraton Full Moon Resort on Furanafushi is more family friendly with a kids club that has been voted the best in the Maldives. The island is situated just 15 minutes from Male International Airport and is only a short boat transfer away. The transfers run 24 hours a day so you’ll never be stuck without a lift to the island.
Taj Exotica Resort and Spa
The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa on the island of En’boodhoofinolhu was by far my favourite resort. Taj Exotica is an exclusive, private and romantic island resort with lush tropical plants, surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Maldives. The resort is a member of the Leading Small Hotels of the World. Most of the resort's villas are perched over the lagoon with nothing but blue water around you. All the villas are palm-thatched with classic Maldivian style interiors and sun decks, while some also offer private plunge pools, outdoor showers, verandahs with day beds and private spa rooms.
Each villa has a dedicated butler that will help to unpack your luggage so that you can relax straight away. Butlers will also offer to run you a bath or serve food and drinks outside your villa. This resort offers romantic picnics on a pontoon table perched 1km from the island. They will boat you out with a picnic basket for an afternoon sunset and dinner in complete privacy.
The Maldives is the most relaxed and romantic place I have ever visited. If your honeymoon is coming up or you’re simply due for a getaway but don’t want to be constantly surrounded by people, the Maldives is the perfect destination for you.
Interested in visiting the Maldives? Contact Hannah Mason, an International Travel Consultant with Flight Centre based in Northlakes, Queensland by email at hannah.james@flightcentre.com.au or by telephone on 1300 125 437.
