The Maldives is often considered to be the ultimate destination for a honeymoon. That definitely still rings true, but it is also so much more than a place for happy couples to celebrate.
First and foremost, the country — which is made up of over 1000 islands — is one of the most beautiful locations in the world. All the photos you have seen of pristine turquoise water is exactly as advertised.
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Sure, it’s the perfect place for a couple to relax with each other in an over-water villa, but that shouldn’t discourage anyone else from visiting the idyllic place.
I’d argue you could be dropped on a resort with a group of strangers and still have an amazing trip, because that’s exactly what I did as Luxury Escapes launched their new direct flight route between Melbourne and Malé.
While being isolated on your own on an island, albeit in a five-star resort, may not appeal to solo travellers, there is actually so much to do once you get there.
But before we get to that, let’s start with how easy it is to get the Maldives now.
Direct flight
Getting there for Aussies has never been easier, thanks to a new flight route courtesy of a groundbreaking partnership between Luxury Escapes and Maldivian Airlines
You can now travel direct from Melbourne to Malé International Airport, and combine it with a Luxury Escapes package in a five-star resort. You also have the option of using Société Points with 120,000 enough for return Economy flights (plus $199 takes and charges).
The flight, on an Airbus A330-200, takes around 11 hours and 30 minutes and is a game changer for Aussies wanting a slice of a paradise. Previously the journey would take close to 20 hours across two flights and a layover.
Both flights there and back are overnight, and while that might be a turn off for some travellers, it’s actually a massive benefit.
You depart Melbourne on a Monday night at 11.20pm AEST and arrive in Malé around 6am local time. That means you won’t be rushing for a connection via sea plane or boat to your resort.
But more importantly, it gives you a full day in paradise. You might not be able to immediately check into your room, but you’ll still be able to enjoy the resort.
Your return flight is on a Sunday night, arriving back in Melbourne around lunchtime on Monday. That gives you one final full day before you depart.
It’s worth noting Maldivian Airlines is a dry airline so there is no alcohol on board, but that doesn’t matter given sleep will be your priority!
Accommodation
You’ve all seen the photos of the incredible over-water villas and you’ve probably always thought they are too expensive.
Well, here’s the good news: There are over 100 island resorts, the majority of which are five-star and have the famous villas over the ocean.
Here’s the better news: They are actually quite affordable and when you package it up with flights, it’s actually not that bad at all when compared to similar holiday destinations in Asia.
Pro tip: Book a package which includes food. Given you will likely eat every meal at your resort, it’s definitely worth the saving to go for the all-inclusive packages.
I can only speak for the two resorts I stayed at, but both Centara Grand Lagoon and Anantara Veli are excellent options. Both resorts are similar in that they are made up of multiple islands with different amenities and accommodation options available.
The ultra modern Centara Grand Lagoon has only just opened and oozes quality. One of the big advantages of this resort is how family-friendly it is. On one island you have the Grand Lagoon, which is aimed at couples and older people, while the Mirage Lagoon has all the benefits for kids.
The Mirage features a stunning main pool with multiple slides, a water playground and a one-of-a-kind meandering lazy river. There is also a kids club to keep the little ones busy all day. Over at the Grand Lagoon, the over-water villas are state of the art, spacious and simply spectacular.
Anantara Veli is the adults-only part of the resort, featuring the traditional stunning over-water villas, as well as a handful of beach front villas.
You get a real tropical feel here with the amount of trees and greenery on the island.
Over at Anantara Dhigu, which can be reached by a one-minute boat ride, is the more family-friendly island. There is also a highly secluded third island, Naladhu, which features 20 privates houses for the ultimate privacy.
Plus, there is a little “picnic island”, which has a fun tiki bar to enjoy a nice cocktail or even a swing locate din the middle of the water.
Both resorts offer a range of a high-quality dining options that will leave you wanting more after every meal.
They also both offer a stack of activities to keep you entertained, which is why the magical country is more than just a honeymoon destination.
Activities in the water
With the country comprised of 99 per cent water, it’s no surprise that activities in the water will be a main attraction.
Snorkelling is a must for everyone and can be freely done on your own around the resort. You can just pick up goggles and flippers and go wherever you want.
There is plenty of marine life to see and you might be lucky enough to find a turtle or two roaming the waters.
Scuba diving is also readily available, but you don’t need to be a certified diver to enjoy the crystal clear waters.
Most resorts will have locations close by where you can see snorkel with sharks, stingrays and other marine life. Speaking from experience, this is one of the best things I have ever done.
The nurse sharks may look scary, but they wouldn’t hurt us (or at least that’s what we were told).
Also at the resorts, there is stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking (with a glass floor) available, while some places offer surfing lessons (for all levels, including first-timers).
Thanks to the wonderful people at Tropicsurf, I was able to stand up despite having zero prior experience.
If you are more advanced, then there are plenty of decent waves close by to hone your skills at.
If you are an adrenaline junkie and want to push the limits then there is also parasailing, jet skiing, wind surfing, kite surfing, sea bobbing, flyboarding … basically any water sport you can think of is available!
Other activities
If the water is not your thing, then no stress, there are plenty of on-land activities to stay busy.
You can’t go wrong with a massage and spa treatment. Even if it’s not your thing, you will instantly feel (even) more relaxed after a massage.
You could try a cooking class and learn how to make some of the local specialties. Packed with spices and herbs, the crab cakes and tuna curry were an instant hit.
Just on the food, that’s another highlight. If you’re a fan of seafood then you’re in luck and will be loving the menu options from fresh reef fish to jumbo king prawns.
But there’s also heavy influence from other countries with amazing Thai food readily available, as well as stunning sushi and sashimi.
I didn’t have a bad meal for the entire trip and often struggled with the very serious issue of menu anxiety.
With direct flights, luxury accommodation, endless activities and amazing food, as well as crystal clear water to enjoy, you simply must make the Maldives your next holiday destination.
The writer travelled as a guest of Luxury Escapes