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Luxury Maldives Holidays & Tours

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Holidays to the Maldives

This independent ocean republic consists of 1190 tiny coral atolls like a string of pearls scattered over the deep blue Indian Ocean, south west of Sri Lanka and due west off the southern tip of India.

The Maldives really is a unique paradise and here the emphasis is on pure relaxation in the unspoilt setting of white sandy palm-fringed beaches, vast untouched coral reefs and beautiful lagoons of infinite shades of blue and turquoise. The Mal...

The Maldives really is a unique paradise and here the emphasis is on pure relaxation in the unspoilt setting of white sandy palm-fringed beaches, vast untouched coral reefs and beautiful lagoons of infinite shades of blue and turquoise. The Maldives is also a base for some of the finest snorkelling and diving in the world. The richness and diversity of Maldivian marine life is almost unrivalled and even a cursory glance under the waves reveals brightly coloured coral reefs, schools of vibrant tropical fish and, if lucky, a curious manta ray or dolphin. With our knowledge and experience we can help to create a unique holiday to the Maldives that is tailored exactly to your requirements.

With daily flights to Male from both Sri Lanka and southern India, as well as regular services to the UK, the Maldives is the perfect end of tour destination for those wanting the ultimate beach retreat. For guidance on how the Maldives can be incorporated into your holiday or for resort advice, please feel free to contact us.

We enjoyed every minute of it

NR - Sri Lanka and the Maldives - November 2024

We returned this morning from our trip having had a really superb holiday. We enjoyed every minute of it and I wanted to thank you for the efficient way in which you organised our fascinating itinerary and the selection of lovely hotels in Sri Lanka. Everything went like clockwork and we have returned relaxed and refreshed. I am very grateful and I shall be in touch when we plan our next adventure.

Thank you for an epic and amazingly unforgettable holiday

SC & DC - Maldives - April 2023

Just wanted to say thank you for such an epic and amazingly unforgettable holiday experience. We made some fantastic family memories...and it was exactly what I wanted and needed.

Thank you so much...for the time and effort that you spent on getting this right for me and dealing will all my questions and emails.

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Places to visit in the Maldives

For the vast majority of people the islands of the Maldives conjure images of immaculate white sand beaches, crystal-clear azure waters, pristine coral reefs and gently swaying palms – pure serenity, ultimate luxury and complete utopia. Choosing the right resort, as well as the mode of transport to reach your island hideaway, is an important factor in ensuring your image of the Maldives becomes a reality.

Although the focus, on the whole, is on total relaxation there are a range different activities that can be undertaken – some of which are dependent on where you are stay. Snorkelling is popular as is scuba diving whilst fishing trips can usually be arranged as well as a range of non-motorised water sports. Occasionally visits can be made to neighbouring islands including the capital Male. The Maldives can also easily be combined with Sri Lanka and India.

Booking with Pettitts Travel
1

Getting to know you
A crucial part of our process, discuss your plans with us either by phone, video or in person.

2

Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.

3

On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.

4

Full confidence whilst you are away
Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.

We’re pleased to confirm that Pettitts Travel will not apply any surcharges to our package holidays when we are operating as a tour operator, regardless of changes in global costs. The price you agree at the time of booking is the price you will pay, a commitment we have proudly upheld for the past 38 years.

Meet our Maldives Travel Consultants

Alexis
Senior Travel Consultant
Helen
Senior Travel Consultant
Katie
Senior Travel Consultant

Your holiday to the Maldives

With a vast range of resorts to choose from, the options on where to stay in the Maldives are almost endless. With over 30 years of experience in planning holidays to the Maldives, we will be delighted to recommend properties that best fit your requirements. Resorts vary in standard and style, from simple barefoot escapes to luxurious or exclusive retreats. Some are better suited to families, while others are strictly for adults only. Another key consideration is accessibility. Resorts closer to international and smaller regional atoll airports can be reached by speedboat, however, remote properties require a seaplane transfer. The main reason for your visit will also play an important role in your decision. Is a wide sandy beach with good swimming a key factor, o...

With a vast range of resorts to choose from, the options on where to stay in the Maldives are almost endless. With over 30 years of experience in planning holidays to the Maldives, we will be delighted to recommend properties that best fit your requirements. Resorts vary in standard and style, from simple barefoot escapes to luxurious or exclusive retreats. Some are better suited to families, while others are strictly for adults only. Another key consideration is accessibility. Resorts closer to international and smaller regional atoll airports can be reached by speedboat, however, remote properties require a seaplane transfer. The main reason for your visit will also play an important role in your decision. Is a wide sandy beach with good swimming a key factor, or is snorkelling and diving a priority? Will the emphasis be on pure relaxation or will the resort need to offer a range of activities? We will be happy to share our knowledge and advice on all these elements.

While we can arrange a single-resort beach holiday, most visitors like to combine the Maldives with neighbouring India or Sri Lanka on a multi-destination holiday, undertaking a cultural tailor-made tour followed by a tropical beach escape. Combine the Maldives with Sri Lanka for excellent wildlife viewing and to discover the exceptional UNESCO-protected sites of the ‘Cultural Triangle’, or head to Kerala in southern India, visiting historic towns, tea plantations and the narrow canals of the tropical backwaters. Alternatively, discover the iconic sites of northern India, including Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. For those looking for something a little different and with an interest in Maldivian marine life, consider joining a unique sea cruise through remote atolls in the company of a renowned marine biologist. Only a few of these cruises operate each year, so please contact us for full details and further information.

Maldives marine life

The Maldives is renowned for its rich and diverse marine life. The crystal-clear waters and colourful coral reefs provide a sanctuary for a myriad of animals. Over 2000 species of fish have been recorded and the reefs also host a wide variety of crustaceans, molluscs and echinoderms, such as starfish, sea urchins and sea cucumbers, which all play a crucial role in the underwater ecosystem. The shallow waters and abundant coral formations of the inner lagoons offer a more sheltered environment for smaller reef fish. In contrast, the outer reefs, exposed to the open ocean, attract migratory species, many of which visit Maldivian waters between May and November in search of plankton. The Maldives serves as a vital feeding ground for several species of sea turtle, including the green turtle and the hawksbill turtle, whilst it remains one of the best places to see cetaceans such as whale sharks, dolphins and the exceptionally rare dwarf sperm whale.

Colourful coral reef and fish in the Maldives

Maldives multi-destination holidays

The Maldives, well connected by air and located close to Sri Lanka and India, is an ever-popular option for a multi-destination holiday. Sri Lanka is the nearest neighbour, a charming and approachable destination where it is possible to see exceptional cultural sites, misty tea plantations, historic towns and a range of different wildlife experiences, all within a week to ten days. Similarly, Kerala in southern India offers varied landscapes, spice trading towns, the hills of the Western Ghats and the opportunity to take an authentic houseboat for an exploratory cruise of the delightful Keralan backwaters. In contrast, it is also possible to combine the Maldives with the bustling cities of northern India. Explore the mosques, bazaars and monuments of India’s capital Delhi, marvel at Agra’s monumental Mughal sites including the magnificent Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and discover the markets, palaces and havelis of the colourful ‘pink city’ of Jaipur.

Jal Mahal at sunset, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Baros Maldives Dhoni
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Speak to a Maldives Travel Consultant

When is the best time to visit the Maldives?

A tropical island nation located on the equator, the Maldives can be visited the year-round. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year but there is a lower risk of rain during the dry season which runs from December to April. Between June and November there is an increased risk of tropical rain showers, however, these tend to be short-lived.

Do I need a visa to travel to the Maldives?

The Maldives issues free 30-day visas on-arrival for UK citizens.

How long is the flight to the Maldives from the UK?

Direct flights between London and the Maldives take around 10 hours. Indirect flights, the majority of which stop en-route in the Middle East, take around 12 to 15 hours.

Are vaccinations required for travel to the Maldives?

We would recommend speaking to your doctor regarding health requirements for visiting the Maldives. Generally, travellers should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up-to-date and may wish to consider Hepatitis A or Typhoid. There is no risk of malaria in the Maldives.

What currency is used in the Maldives?

The official currency of the Maldives is the Rufiyaa. US Dollars, Pound Sterling and Euros are also accepted. Credit cards can be used for all purchases at island resorts.

How do I travel to my resort?

Depending on your resort, from the international airport at Male transfers will either be by speedboat or seaplane. Transfers will be arranged prior to your arrival.

What language is spoken in the Maldives?

Maldivian is the official language of the Maldives, however, English is widely spoken both in resorts and locally inhabited islands.

What activities can I do in the Maldives?

With its beautiful beaches and warm tranquil waters most visitors to the Maldives come to relax. The crystal-clear lagoons offer fabulous snorkelling and, depending on the resort, a range of different activities can be arranged from diving and island hopping to wildlife viewing and spa treatments.

Can I consume alcohol in the Maldives?

It is illegal to bring alcohol into the Maldives and to have it in your possession on locally inhabited islands. However, alcohol can be consumed on all resort islands.

Book with confidence with Pettitts Travel

We are here to take the stress out of your holiday, to provide you with impartial well-informed advice and assist you in navigating regulations and guidelines to ensure your trip goes as planned.
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