Arriving in Hulhulé after a flight to the Maldives with Qatar Airways, the first thing that will strike you is that this genuinely is a tropical island paradise.

Largely unknown among tourists until the 1970s, the Maldives are today one of the top luxury destinations in the world. Crystal clear oceans, white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees – the Maldives are the epitome of a tropical holiday destination.

Since its ascendance, in the latter half of the 20th century, as one of the world’s most exotic leisure destinations, the Maldives has lovingly preserved its natural wonders. Pristine beaches and idyllic diving spots are speckled among approximately 1,200 islands, in this tropical archipelago.

Book a flight to the Maldives with Qatar Airways, and fall in love with a picture-perfect wonderland in the equatorial Indian Ocean.

Sofia Airport, Bulgaria’s main international air departure point is rapidly expanding to become one of the busiest in Europe. Almost five million passengers pass through it annually, and as Bulgaria grows in importance as a financial and tourist destination, that number is set to keep rising annually. 

Located about 10 kilometres from the centre of Sofia, the airport provides a hassle-free experience for international travellers as well as passengers flying from Sofia with Qatar Airways. 

Transportation and parking

Drivers coming in from the centre of the city can use the Orlov Most bridge as their starting point, and then head east and follow the signs first to Hristofor Columb Boulevard, which in turn leads onto the airport. 

A car park that can accommodate up to 400 vehicles is located in front of Terminal 1, while a multi-storey car park provides a further 800 spaces. Both car parks offer short and long-term parking, and are open 24/7.

Public transport also provides links to the airport, with an extended Metro Line 1 service connecting to Terminal 2 at the airport.  while buses run regularly and journey time is approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. 

Some of the larger hotels provide a shuttle service, and there are fleets of taxis available (although it is advisable to book a taxi in advance, especially if you are travelling to the airport early in the morning). 

At the airport

Passengers flying from Sofia with Qatar Airways depart from Terminal 2, which houses 38 check-in desks, seven air bridges and a well-organised customs and security check area that makes the check-in process a stress-free one. However, bear in mind that like all airports, security checks are very thorough, so allow around two hours before your flight is due to board to go through processing. 

A number of lounges are available for passengers in Terminal 2, including a Business and First Class private lounge that can accommodate up to 120 people.

Facilities and amenities

Facilities at the airport are excellent, particularly in Terminal 2. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and the VIP lounge also offers a range of business facilities including faxing and photocopying services. 

There are also two additional business lounges in the terminal, with further business facilities. Banks, Bureau de Change and ATMs are dotted throughout the airport, and the food hall offers a wide choice of snacks, fast food and more substantial meals, as well as beverages. 

Duty Free shops provide the usual luxuries, while other retail outlets sell everything from travel essentials to souvenirs. Terminal 2 provides seamless accessibility as it was specifically designed with disabled passengers in mind.

Arriving in Hulhulé after a flight to the Maldives with Qatar Airways, the first thing that will strike you is that this genuinely is a tropical island paradise.

Largely unknown among tourists until the 1970s, the Maldives are today one of the top luxury destinations in the world. Crystal clear oceans, white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees – the Maldives are the epitome of a tropical holiday destination.

The collection of over 1,100 coral islands means that the most common method of transport is by boat or seaplane. Island hopping is a great way to experience the delights above water.

Under the waves there is a second paradise waiting to be explored, and the Maldives offers some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world.

Tourist attractions

The Maldives is different to many destinations in that there are relatively few attractions to visit on land. The main attractions of the islands are natural, rather than man-made, so to discover the very best of the islands’ riches you will need to don a swimsuit and head out with one of the many diving parties to explore the coral reefs.

Filled with brilliantly coloured fish and a wealth of natural wonders, the waters of the Maldives offer a rich tapestry of aquatic colour and beauty.

If you’re not a swimmer or prefer to stay on dry land then a visit to the nation’s capital island of Malé for some casual shopping and to see the ‘real’ Maldives away from the custom-made resorts of the islands.

Travel Considerations

Flights to the Maldives with Qatar Airways land at Malé International Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to the Maldives please check the visa and passport requirements.