Relax and unwind

Those seeking pampering are in for a treat. 132 single-island resorts, most of which have world-class spa facilities on-site, offer beauty treatments, massage, yoga, and personal training. The Standard is one such – with 115 private villas a short seaplane journey from the main island of Male, guests can enjoy unparalleled luxury in splendid tranquillity.

Those who prefer to relax in a more contemplative fashion should consider the Shaviyani Atoll. Less developed than the speedboat-accessible islands nearer Male, it is one of the world’s best spots for stargazers. Without light pollution the Milky Way shines more brightly than seems possible, and constellations like the Southern Cross – invisible from the Northern hemisphere – can be clearly seen.

Sun, sand, and sea

Throughout the archipelago, travellers to the Maldives are only ever a stone’s throw from white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. While many traditional beach destinations can be overdeveloped, the number of single-resort islands in the Maldives means that you can enjoy unspoilt coasts and relax amid calm and stillness.  

Coral reefs protect many of the coastal waters from heavy waves, making the ocean safe even for less confident swimmers, while surfers should head to the North Male Atoll – Thulusdhoo Island is a favourite, with consistent swells year-round. For a unique experience, try nightswimming on Vadhoo Island, where bioluminescent plankton cause the water to glow with your every move.

Experience nature

Largely isolated for hundreds of years, the Maldives is famed for its biodiversity. There are lizards unique to the islands, the famous flying fox, and over 167 species of birds living among the mangroves and palm trees. However, the real sights can be found in the ocean, with over 2000 species of fish, sharks, rays, and turtles to be found in the bright coral reefs.

On the South Ari Atoll, a protected marine area, you can swim among whale sharks. These gentle giants eat only plankton, and local guides offer snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat trips to see them. The Lhaviyani atoll is famed for the health of its coral reefs, offering opportunities to see green turtles, manta and eagle rays, and diminutive reef sharks.  

Live like a local

As well as visiting the island resorts, it’s well worth spending a day or two soaking up the rich local culture. ‘Local islands’ such as Huraa, Hithadoo, or Maafushi are home to most Maldivians – try staying at a family-owned guesthouse where you can buy mahi-mahi from local fisherman, enjoy the local street-food, and experience the Call to Prayer.  

Explore the Maldives with us

The Maldives is one of Qatar Airways’ most popular destinations, and rightly so. To truly experience the trip of a lifetime, Qatar Airways award-winning Q-Suite will mean your journey is as luxurious as your stay. You can travel there from airports across Europe, stopping off at the award-winning Hamad International Airport en-route, to set you up for an unforgettable break.