Traveling to the Maldives is an experience that combines luxury, exuberant nature and unforgettable romance. This paradisiacal archipelago in the Indian Ocean has become one of the most desired destinations for honeymoons, luxury vacations and romantic getaways. However, for the trip to be truly perfect, detailed planning is essential, taking into account factors such as the time of year, budget, type of resort, desired activities and documentation.
Best time to visit the Maldives
The Maldives has a tropical climate, with pleasant temperatures all year round, ranging from 25ºC to 31ºC. The best time to visit is between November and April, when the climate is drier and the days are sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and diving. This is considered the high season, ideal for those who want to guarantee perfect weather conditions, although prices are higher.
If you're looking for a more economical option, the months between May and October can offer good opportunities, albeit with a higher probability of rain and rougher seas. This is the monsoon season, but many days are still sunny, with resorts offering tempting deals.
How to get to the Maldives
Most travelers arrive in the Maldives via Malé International Airport (Velana). From Lisbon or other European cities, there are flights with stopovers in places like Doha, Dubai or Istanbul, operated by companies like Qatar Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines.
Upon arrival in Malé, the journey to the resort is usually by seaplane or speedboat, depending on the distance. This transfer is usually organized by the resort itself and must be booked in advance.
Choice of Resort: Private Islands and Personalized Luxury
Each resort in the Maldives occupies its own private island, offering a unique experience of isolation, comfort and exclusivity. The choice of resort is one of the most important planning points you should consider:
- Type of accommodation: overwater bungalows, beachfront villas, suites with private pool.
- Services included: all-inclusive, half board, nautical activities, spa, diving.
- Travel style: romantic honeymoon, family vacation, adventure and ecotourism.
Some of the most renowned resorts include Baros Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi, Soneva Fushi, Anantara Veli and Kandolhu Maldives, each with different proposals, from pure sustainable luxury to intimate experiences with gourmet cuisine.
Budget and travel costs
Traveling to the Maldives is a high-end experience, but with planning you can find options to suit different budgets. Below, we estimate the average cost for two people:
- International flights: €700 to €1,200 per person (round trip)
- Stay in a 5-star resort: €400 to €1,500 per night
- Transfer between airport and resort: €150 to €500 per person
- Extras (special dinners, excursions, diving): €100 to €500
A 7-night trip can easily vary between €4,000 and €10,000, depending on the choices made.
What to pack for the Maldives
Despite the inviting tropical climate, it's important to prepare your luggage well to avoid surprises:
- Light, cool clothes, preferably cotton
- Swimsuits, flip-flops, sandals and clothes for dining in the resort restaurants
- Biodegradable sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Personal snorkel, if you prefer to use your own equipment
- Insect repellent, although the resorts keep the areas well groomed
- Personal medication and hygiene products
Required Documentation and Entry Requirements
Portuguese citizens do not need a visa for tourist trips to the Maldives lasting less than 30 days. However, they must meet the following requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return ticket
- Proof of resort reservation
- Proof of financial means for the stay
Since the pandemic, it is advisable to check up-to-date entry requirements on the official website of the Maldives government or your chosen airline.
Must-do activities in the Maldives
In addition to absolute relaxation, the Maldives offers a range of unique activities and experiences:
- Snorkeling and scuba diving in the coral reefs
- Sunset boat trips with dolphins
- Massages and spa treatments on the water
- Romantic candlelit dinners on the beach
- Visits to local islands to get to know Maldivian culture
- Observation of bioluminescence (a natural phenomenon that occurs on some beaches)
Essential Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Book in advance, especially in times of high demand
- Check if the resort's meal plan suits your travel style
- Consider a combination trip with nearby destinations such as Sri Lanka or Dubai
- Ask about extra fees (some resorts apply service charges and taxes not included in the advertised prices)
- Avoid bringing alcohol - entry is prohibited and only available at the resorts
Conclusion: The perfect trip exists - and it's in the Maldives
Planning a trip to the Maldives requires attention to detail, but the reward is an incomparable experience of beauty, exclusivity and romance. Whether you're celebrating an unforgettable honeymoon, renewing vows or simply escaping from routine, this archipelago offers the ideal setting for creating everlasting memories.
