Maldives –
Pure Blue, Pure White.

Why the Maldives?

The Ultimate Escape to Turquoise Water.

The Maldives is the only holiday destination in the world that genuinely looks like its own photographs. The water is that colour. The sand is that white. The coral is that alive. Situated southwest of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean, the archipelago consists of 26 atolls and over 1,200 islands, of which about 200 are inhabited and around 150 host resort developments. Each resort occupies its own private island – which is the defining feature of a Maldives holiday: complete exclusivity on a footprint of coconut palms and white coral sand.

The overwater bungalow is the Maldives' signature accommodation type – and it lives up to its reputation. Waking above turquoise water, stepping off your own private deck directly into the lagoon, watching reef fish through the glass floor panel: these are experiences that justify the journey. The best overwater villas have outdoor bathtubs, retractable sun decks and private butlers; even mid-range overwater rooms offer a level of seclusion that no beach hotel can replicate.

Underwater, the Maldives is without equal. The coral reefs here support some of the highest marine biodiversity on earth: manta ray stations, whale shark aggregations, hammerhead shark cleaning stations, endless walls of soft and hard coral draped in anthias and fusiliers. The water clarity regularly exceeds 30 metres visibility. Even non-divers can snorkel directly from the beach or villa steps and encounter reef sharks, sea turtles and rays within the first five minutes.

The Maldives suits couples above all – honeymoons, anniversaries and "once in a lifetime" trips. Families are well catered for at the larger family-oriented resorts. Budget is the main variable: the spectrum runs from affordable guesthouses on local islands (a phenomenon since 2010, when foreigners were permitted to stay outside resort islands) to ultra-luxury resorts where a week for two costs more than a small car. Package holidays via German tour operators offer significantly better value than booking direct.

Tips for Your Maldives Trip

• 01Best season: November to April – dry season, best visibility, calmest seas. Manta rays peak January–April.
• 02Transfer logistics: Most resorts require a speedboat or seaplane transfer from Malé airport. Confirm this cost when booking – it can add significantly to the total.
• 03All-inclusive: With no shops on resort islands, all-inclusive packages often represent the best value – food and drink costs add up quickly otherwise.
• 04Respect local customs: On inhabited local islands, modest dress is required. Bikinis and alcohol are restricted to designated resort beaches.