Maldives
Hotel Review: JOALI BEING, Maldives
JOALI BEING sits on the private island of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll, and it's the wellness-focused sister property of JOALI…
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Maldives
Welcome to our Maldives travel guide
Southwest of India, you will find the endless teal blue waters that make up the 26 Atolls of the Maldives. The Maldives offers incredible luxury and exclusivity that is unlike any other destination in the world. It is no surprise that the Maldives is known for being one of the world’s best honeymoon destinations, with its expansive, private bungalows perched above the waters edge or dotting the white sand. Hotel development has expanded significantly in recent years, providing luxury experiences for all price ranges.
One of the highlights of @alilamaldives was the incredible dining and overall vibe of the resort. From @kavi_musik ripping on the decks at sunset to overwater sushi and toes in the sand italian, I could have stayed forever ❤️ #maldives #alila
Here’s to beautiful blues, chill beats and all the amazing people that make @finolhu_maldives so special ❤️ #finolhu #beautifulhotels #maldives
@joalibeing offers guests a peaceful spa retreat with all the amenities of a 5 star luxury resort in the heart of Raa Atoll. The winding pathways, the towering ceilings and intricate details around every corner make JOALI BEING one of the most unique properties in the Maldives ❤️ #maldives #joalibeing
Ever seen a paradise like this? We haven’t! @_.herebaaatoll is an incredible architectural dream - I couldn’t stop taking videos at every corner. Imagine waking up over the water, having coffee on your private beach and swimming suspended over the curving walkways of the residences. There’s literally nothing like it! And on top of that, a private butler to bring you an aperol spritz? When can we go back?? #herebaaatoll #maldives
Welcome to my new home - I live here now 😂JK- I WISH. Welcome to @_.herebaaatoll - the newest ultra luxury property in the Maldives that welcomes guests to 7 out-of-this-world residences. Built both over land and sea, these incredible architectural gems give guests the best of both worlds: impeccable, natural beaches and crystal clear blue lagoons. Complete with a private butler, in-villa restaurant-style meals, a private restaurant, full access to Finolhu and a private dock for coming and going at your leisure, .Here is truly one of a kind. I cannot WAIT to go back. Who is .Here for? Ideal for families (3-4 bedrooms) or groups looking for privacy and the ultimate flexibility. They offer a phenomenal all inclusive plan that, to me, is a no brainer. It gives ultimate freedom of choice both in terms of the alcohol available and the endless 5 star cuisine. DM me for some insanely good introductory rates!! #maldives #herebaaatoll beautifuldestination
@joalimaldives has been touted as one of the most architecturally stunning resorts in the Maldives and I can confidentially confirm that - WOW - yes it truly is. The smallest details, the lush island, everything was just perfect. What do you think about this island? #maldives #beautifuldestinations #maldiveslovers
This is paradise. @alilamaldives is an elegant retreat located in Raa Atoll just 35 minutes by seaplane from Malé. As part of the Hyatt portfolio, it offers incredible, high-end dining, stunning villa design true to the @alilahotels brand and a peaceful energy that flows throughout the island. My favorite part of the resort was definitely the calm, quiet corners everywhere with comfy furniture, great music and a delicious beverage. DM for info on perks and special rates when booking through us :) #alilakothaifarumaldives #alilamaldives #beautifuldestinations #maldives
Day to night vibes at @bolifushimaldives ❤️ Ozen Reserve Bolifushi is an iconic property in the Maldives and the white sand beaches and sunset cocktails do not disappoint. This family friendly resort sits just 30 minutes by speedboat from Malé, making it extremely convenient. #maldives #maldivesisland #ozenreservebolifushi
Cheers to one of our favorite properties in the Maldives and one we are blessed to revisit in a couple weeks- @finolhu_maldives. Set on one of the most pristine lagoons mother earth has ever created, this 5 star design-focused hotel offers guests a stunning retreat, complete with exceptional entertainment, world class dining and enough activities to entertain for months ❤️ Even more exciting? We get to visit their brand new property, @_.herebaaatoll 🕺🏼🕺🏼🕺🏼🕺🏼🕺🏼🕺🏼 See you soon, paradise! #maldives #luxuryresort #islandvibes #finolhu
Things to See and Do in the Maldives
- Snorkel with the Whale Sharks outside your hotel
- Scuba dive the protected reefs
- Enjoy a spa treatment in an overwater bungalow
- Take a seaplane from Malé to your hotel
- Surf the waves at some of the world's best hotels, like Niyama's Vogi Wave
- Try the traditional Maldivian cuisine
What to Know
We recommend a minimum of 4 nights in the Maldives, overall. Depending on where you fly from, the journey is long and there is typically an additional fee to get to your hotel from Malé. Therefore, 4+ nights is recommended to make the trek worth it.
Our personal recommendation is to either spend 4 nights at one hotel, or spend 9–10 nights and stay at 2 different hotels.
The majority of luxury hotels are on their own secluded island in a larger Atoll. The closest hotels to Malé are accessible by speedboats (transfers costing $70+) and the transfers are organized through the hotel. Hotels outside the vicinity of Malé will require a plane transfer (typically through sea plane arranged by the hotel). When selecting hotels, be sure to account for transfer costs in your budget as well as the airline the hotel uses.
There are two airlines that operate sea planes in the Maldives: Maldivian Air and Trans Maldivian. If you are hoping to stay at more than 1 hotel, review the properties these airlines fly to and align to that airline to avoid needing to transfer back to Malé before going to your next hotel. This can save you time and money, so check with your hotels in advance. Also note, a few luxury hotels operate their own seaplane and do not operate through Maldivian Air or Trans Maldivian, such as Cheval Blanc.
It's important to remember that once you are at your hotel, there is nowhere to go. All your meals will be served at the property as there is no "town" to go to. When considering your resort, be sure to take into account the higher cost of food due to import taxes in the Maldives. Many hotels offer packages that typically offer breakfast or breakfast and dinner. These can typically be a great deal.
Note about alcohol: Alcohol is available at the resorts, but alcohol is not allowed in the capital city of Malé. There is no duty free at the airport and you are not allowed to bring liquor into the country. You will need to purchase alcohol at your island resort.
Since the majority of hotels are on their own private island, most of them have a great gift shop where you can purchase clothing, accessories, items you have forgotten and other trinkets. There is no other shopping available and duty free upon departure from Malé international is limited.
Some hotels focus more on Maldivian culture than others, but in some hotel shops, you can find traditional lacquer goods, weaved goods and other crafts.
The Maldives is governed by a conservative Islamic government, and therefore, alcohol is illegal to bring into the country via checked luggage. Since resorts are on their own islands throughout the Maldives, guests remain unaffected by conservative laws. However, it is important to note that if you spend any time in Malé or populated islands, dress conservatively in town and at your resort, and do not sunbathe topless. We found Maldivians to be incredibly generous, kind and service-minded throughout our experience in the Maldives.
Planning a Trip to the Maldives?
Learn Everything You Need to Know Before You Book—Resorts, Transfers, Costs, and More.
The Maldives isn't like any other beach destination—this 35-page guide reveals the key details travelers wish they knew before they booked.
Typical Costs
The Maldives is unlike anywhere else in the world for a number of reasons. It’s important to consider all the costs that go into your trip to avoid trouble along the way.
Of course, there are the international flights and standard hotel charges — but it doesn’t end there. As you look up room rates and hotels online, we encourage you to look into the cost of the transfers before committing to a particular property. It’s common to see rates from $100–250 USD for boat transfers per person and anywhere from $450–600 USD for flight transfers per person.
Once on property, it is unlikely that you will be traveling anywhere for any meals. Most properties offer all-day dining at a number of restaurants, so we encourage you to look at restaurant and bar prices to ensure they align with your budget. Many properties offer meal plans that may be a good option for your vacation. The common packages are:
Breakfast: This rate only includes breakfast for two.
Half-Board: Includes breakfast & dinner as well as soft drinks (and 90% of the time, water).
Full-Board: Includes breakfast, lunch & dinner as well as soft drinks (and 90% of the time, water).
All-Inclusive: Includes all meals, snacks and alcoholic beverages.
If you are considering meal plans, be sure to look at the terms & conditions to ensure you have access to the restaurants onsite that you are looking for. It is common to be allowed into only 1 or 2 restaurants, even though they may have 4 or 5. We recommend finding hotels that allow you to try a variety of restaurants, particularly if you are staying for more than a few days.
Suggested daily budget — What you won’t expect from the Maldives is that you can find accommodations ranging across any budget. There are beautiful little guest houses for around $100 USD, all the way up to $1,000+ USD. Pro Tip: look for all-inclusive packages for a hassle-free vacation.
When to TravelMaldives Seasons
While there is no bad time to go to the Maldives, the best time to visit is between November and April. High season falls between December and March, resulting in higher prices but optimal weather. Monsoon season runs from May to October, peaking around June. The northern atolls have highest rainfall May–Nov; the southern atolls from Nov–Mar.
Travel Tips
- Understand your transfer options – There are two main seaplane companies in The Maldives. If you are changing hotels during your trip, be sure to understand which airline is handling the transfer. Unless you are transferring to a hotel that uses the same airline, you will need to transfer through Malé.
- Beware of your departure flights – If your flight leaves early in the morning, you will need to confirm that you can get to the airport in the morning. Most hotels will be unable to accommodate early international flights, unless you are transferred via boat.
- Consider a meal plan – Many hotels in the Maldives offer half board, full board or all-inclusive options for guests since there is nowhere else to go. Depending on the property, it's worth looking into these options to see if any are right for you.
- Try Scuba diving! – The Maldives has some of the best diving in the world. There is so much sea life, along with Whale Sharks, Manta Rays and other beautiful creatures. Diving not for you? Snorkel gear is usually free at the resorts.
Luxury Hotel Reviews
Check out some of our favorite Maldives resorts and what we like and don't like about each of them.
How to plan your trip
Planning a trip to the Maldives can be incredibly overwhelming. With hundreds of hotels and resorts spread across hundreds of islands, where do you even start? Our first recommendation is to set a budget for yourself. Consider what you’re willing to pay per night for your trip (and be sure to include a transfer cost of $250–800 per person). This will automatically give you a great sense of the options available to you.
Next, if you plan to stay at multiple resorts, we recommend properties that use the same seaplane company or are within boating distance to minimize transfer times.
Be sure to reach out to us via email if you need help starting to plan your Maldives trip! We have amazing partnerships with brands in the Maldives and around the world that provide additional perks and benefits for booking.
Gallery of the Maldives
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