Picture tranquil, unspoiled landscapes where the azure skies stretch endlessly above, and the air is invigorated with the scent of the sea. Welcome to a tropical paradise, the Maldives, home to a small population of fewer than 400,000 residents. This stunning archipelagic nation boasts 1,190 islands, each more inviting than the last. Here, seaplanes glide gracefully across the sparkling waters, serving as the primary mode of transportation, adding to the islands’ allure and unique charm. With its breathtaking beauty and serene ambiance, the Maldives is an idyllic retreat for weary souls seeking solace and intrepid travelers on the hunt for fresh adventures. Explore our comprehensive Maldives travel tips for a well-prepared journey to this enchanting destination.
However, the Maldives’ tourism continues to blossom yearly, making up an average of 30% of the country’s GDP.
Today, the Maldives is starting to be recognized for having some of the best beaches, diving, and snorkeling spots worldwide.
Only 185 of its islands are inhabited; most uninhabited islands are dedicated to tourism (hotels, restaurants) and agriculture.
Each island is unique, and there’s much to explore in the Maldives. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, read on. This is the travel guide for you.
Maldives Visa Requirements
Filipino Passport holders are not required to secure a tourist visa to visit the Maldives. Philippine passport holders can travel to the Maldives completely visa-free for 30 days.
Immigration officers will ask you to present your passport, valid for at least 6 months, return flight tickets, and confirmed hotel reservations upon arrival in the Maldives.
Best Time to Visit Maldives
As a tropical country, It’s hot, sunny, and humid all year round in Maldives, with average temperatures of 23ºC-31ºC.
The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April; these are the months with less precipitation.
The peak season falls between December and March. If you want to maximize your vacation, avoid visiting the Maldives during the monsoon season from May to October.
How to get there
Cebu Pacific and AirAsia are two local carriers offering Manila (MNL) Philippines to Malé (MLE), Maldives’ capital. Cebu Pacific’s Malé flights stopover at Singapore (SIN), while AirAsia’s Malé flights stopover at Kuala Lumpur (KUL).
Both carriers land at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, Velana International Airport, or Malé International Airport.
Getting around
Malé International Airport is an island in itself. Getting to the neighboring urban island, the center of Malé requires riding either a boat, a ferry, or a seaplane. Seaplanes can take you to almost any island. They are the equivalent of taxis.
Riding a seaplane is the preferred method of traveling between islands and atolls in the Maldives. Riding a ferry is less expensive; however, ferries travel less frequently.
Speedboats are similarly a less preferred mode of transportation, as they can become expensive despite their convenience.
Where to eat
Thila Restaurant in Vihamanafushi
Thila Restaurant is perhaps the most famous fine-dining restaurant in the Maldives. Aside from having a menu that ranges from classic Maldivian dishes to European cuisines, Thila also offers its guests a breathtaking view of the ocean.
There’s nothing better than enjoying a full-course meal of classic local cuisines while staring at the best sight the Maldives offers. Thila is located in Vihamanafushi of the Kaafu Atoll, just north of Malé International Airport island.
Just Veg by Atmosphere on Kanifushi Island
You can probably already tell from its name alone that Just Veg by Atmosphere is a vegetarian restaurant.
Much like most restaurants in Maldives, this one has an excellent location, facing the sea on the secluded edge of Kanifushi Island of the Lhaviyani Atoll.
If you’re not a vegan and are wary of pure vegetable meals, Just Veg by Atmosphere is a good place to try some vegan dishes.
Family Room Cafe in Hulhumale
If you’re craving some pastries or a cup of coffee, Family Room Café in Hulhumale, Kaafu Atoll, should be your first stop. Known as serving the best cup of coffee around, this café is perfect for families and a large group of friends.
However, if you simply want to enjoy some time to relax alone, Family Room Café is open for you, and its fast Wi-Fi will surely come in handy.
Sea Fire Salt on Dhigufinolhu Island
Sea Fire Salt Restaurant is perfect for romantic dinners. It’s a seaside restaurant that specializes in seafood and several Mediterranean cuisines.
You can order a bottle of wine if it gets a little chilly during the nighttime. Sea Fire Salt is one of the few restaurants that serve alcohol.
Things to do and see in Maldives
Walk around. A walking tour is one of the best ways to enjoy the Maldives. The islands in the country are relatively small and are suitable for such activity. The capital city Malé is a great place to walk around.
Go to the National Museum, and scurry over to the bustling Republic Square, which is less than a kilometer away.