Choosing the right island in the Maldives

I’ve recently returned from a work trip in the Maldives. We visited several islands to get a better understanding of what each island offered. My biggest surprise was how different each resort was and how important it was to understand the different islands.

We visited a number of 4-5 star islands which were very back to basics - you took your shoes off as you arrived at the island and didn’t put them back on until you left. These islands didn’t have luxury facilities; they were about leaving all you worries at home and completely relaxing with no distractions. These are ideal islands if you’re looking for the true Maldivian experience. You do need to enjoy complete peace and quiet. You need to be content with a good book and the company of your companion. These islands would not be suitable if you’re after a range of facilities to keep you entertained, and want your home creature comforts.

Some of the islands we visited were more traditional all-inclusive complexes and in complete contrast to the islands mentioned above. We visited a number of 3, 4 and 5 star islands and they reminded me of the Caribbean, large hotels with everything you can imagine on offer. They had various restaurants to choose from, endless activities to enjoy on land or in the water and great entertainment programmes. The rooms had all the mod cons including plasma tv’s and coffee makers and the islands tended to be larger in size so either provided golf buggies or buses to take you around the islands. If I’m honest I have to say that you do lose a little of the Maldivian feel when the islands are larger but these style of islands are great if you’re taking children or if you prefer a lot going on to keep you entertained.

There were also a number of 5 star islands we visited which were the height of luxury and elegance. Aimed at the discerning traveller that won’t accept anything but the very best. They had chic fine dining restaurants on offer. They boasted amazing infinity pools with most offering private pools in the hotel rooms too. The designs ranged from traditional to contemporary but all were amazing.

We also visited a number of specialist islands too, including ones that specialised in diving holidays, and a couple that specialised in surfing holidays.

There really was a complete mix of different islands and choosing the wrong one could have a detrimental effect on your enjoyment of the holiday. Speak to either me or one of my colleagues who have also been and we’ll be able to recommend the most suitable island for your Maldives Holiday.

Out of the islands I visited, here are some of my favourites::

Maafushivaru – This is an island that in my opinion really captures the true essence of the Maldives. It’s a small island so you really get the feeling you’re on a dessert island. It’s modern but is still in keeping with the Maldives. There isn’t a wide choice of facilities or restaurants but if you’re after that this island isn’t suitable for you anyway… it caters for someone after time to completely relax and get away from it all.

Vilamendhoo – This was my favourite all-inclusive resort. It wasn’t a small island by any means, but wasn’t as big as most the other all-inclusive resorts. It has a wide choice of activities on offer, had a selection of restaurants but still had that Maldivian feel. It was recently renovated so is like a new hotel, and for the 3½ standard I felt it was more luxurious than some of the 4 star islands we visited.

Kuramathi – This resort is one of the larger islands but is great if you want a wide choice of restaurants and facilities to choose form. It really does cater for everyone so whether you’re a couple that wants a wide choice of restaurants or a family looking to have lots to keep the children entertained this is ideal.

CoCo Palm Bodu Hithi – If you are after 5 star luxury, this hotel certainly delivers. From the private pools in each of the island villas, the several fine-dining al a carte restaurants on offer and the chic design running through the property this hotel is simply amazing.

If you’re planning a holiday to the Maldives or a Maldives honeymoon, get in touch and we’ll happily tell you all the suitable hotels and get you the best deal! It's an amazing place and somewhere everyone should experience - just choosing the right hotel couldn't be more important!