Okay so just from the heading alone you may think is this lady insane, but trust me, Maldives is a wonderful trip for solo travelers and anyone in general who loves to travel and is tired of looking at that baby blue water and overwater villas on Instagram pics. My bucket list trip in contemplation I say can I do this? YES, I CAN, AND DID, AND YOU CAN TOO!
For those who may not know the Maldives or Maldives Island is an island country in the Indian Ocean. It consists of 1,200 small coral islands or atolls (coral reef enclosing lagoons), which make up the different islands that we’re able to take in all that beauty from.
As I prepared for my trip in excitement I knew first and foremost that a great airline with plenty of legroom FREE was needed. Scouring the internet midweek and late nights (airfares are generally cheaper those times), I decided on Emirates as I’ve flown them before and the extra perk is they put you up in Dubai if your stopover is longer than 8 hours which means you get a shorter trip inside the bigger one. Yahyee this is really happening!
The big day has come and after traveling 17 great hours I’ve finally arrived in Malé. The beauty is overwhelming even at the airport as it’s surrounded by that beautiful water. I reach to share this moment with my family however, Malé has their own WIFI you cannot tap in with ours YIKES!! Travelers beware as I did not know this I slipped on my usual thoroughness! As I walk out of customs I am happily (and very relieved), met with a sign for my atoll transfer by a resort representative.
There are several modes of transportation in Malé however all by water. Generally whichever resort you decide on will arrange your transfer. Seaplanes being the most expensive but your mode of transfer will depend upon how close or far you stay. Cost may vary from $199-$300 roundtrip. $300 is generally for a Seaplane. Also, in case you do not know, seaplanes are the smaller planes that take off and land in the water.
After a 45 minutes speedboat ride (yes, I let my curls fly in the wind as I love boat rides) I’m in Kandooma Fushi, South Malé!!! I finally arrived at my resort WHICH IS THE ONLY RESORT ON THE ISLAND. NICE RIGHT???!!!!
All resorts have their own Island. You may be thinking this is going to be a boring trip! Nope, there are an abundance of activities and excursions and don’t forget about that beautiful relaxing let’s chill baby blue water we continually gaze at on the internet.
I spent my first night in a beach villa and remaining nights in an overwater villa as I upgraded which is a cheaper route if you want to experience this but don’t forget that’s the other reason we came to Maldives. I went snorkeling, attended a Maldivian dinner celebration, a sunset cruise and did solo snorkeling from my overwater villa as all the equipment will be provided in your overwater villa.
I should also note every amenity was supplied from a toothbrush, toothpaste, beach bag etc. hey I could have packed a little less. There is an abundance of activities for whatever your interest is. There are even lots of activities for the kiddies and a drop off daycare.
I took in the Maldives beauty each day and watched the sunset each night from my overwater hammock. This will be home for however long you stay and trust me you won’t be disappointed. Are you convinced yet?
The Maldivian’s are very warm, friendly and accommodating people. They made me feel like I was family. I am anxiously planning my next visit who’s coming?
Travelers Tips:
- Maldives low season is between November-April and high season December-March
- You do not need a Visa for the Maldives but if you decide to go to Sri Lanka (which I did) or India both an hour or so away you will need a Visa for both.
- The Maldives is a Muslim country. No alcohol is allowed except on resort islands.
- Resort transport cost is not included in your accommodations cost.
- You must arrive in Malé before 3:30 p.m. if you need to take a Seaplane.
- Male is the capital of Maldives. I spent time there too.
- The local currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) but they take US dollars so it’s really not necessary to exchange.
- Don’t be discouraged by the long flight. A good airline will make you forget. My picks Emirates, Cathay and Japan Airlines. These airlines provide 32-34 inches of legroom free.
Dionne Dickson is in the Legal Profession and the proud mother of three wonderful adult children. You can catch Dionne traveling the globe, dancing to a great song in an Instagram story or catching a spectacular sunset sipping wine somewhere magical on Instagram @imbizzie_traveling.