How to explore Maldives in 7 days – a week-long splurge on the allures of the tropics

The Maldives can mean differing things to a vast volume of vacationers, regardless of whether you fancy an isolated escape amidst palm-fringed beaches or outings in the company of the nation’s abundant marine life. Listed out below is how you can invest your time wisely and carefully across one entire week in the Maldivian archipelago.

South Male Atoll | img via wallpaperflare

Male & Hulhumale

Kick-start your holiday out in the splendid surroundings of the Maldives in the nation’s capital Male. Packed to the rafters with cultural sites like the Grand Friday Mosque and the educational Islamic Centre which is noted for its golden minaret, the city also welcomes those who fancy engaging with the area’s water sporting facilities. Therefore, be sure to visit Hulhumale Beach which will serve as the perfect springboard into a world of wakeboarding, parasailing, kitesurfing and canoeing.

Ukulhas

Choose the ferry or hire a speedboat to take you to the inviting embrace of Ukulhas Island which is nestled on the North Ari Atoll. The beaches here are amongst the best in the region and especially, Bikini Beach where you will have no reservations about sporting that fancy piece of swimwear. As a caveat, do avoid arriving outside of the period covering November through April as this is when high tides and coral debris make their presence felt which will invariably throw a spanner in the works for your holiday aspirations.

South Male Atoll

Uncover the riches of the oceans that have nourished these islands for centuries as part of a memorable snorkelling expedition out in the waters of the South Male Atoll. Zoom in on priceless coral formations that will soon give way to the treasures that attempt to hide from prying eyes. Bid adieu to the waves for a brief moment as you settle down to feast your eyes on schools of colourful reef fish, rays and a host of other species that reside here. In fact, if you opt to be based at Adaaran Club Rannalhi which is arguably, one of the best hotels in Maldives, then you will have ease of access to a snorkelling experience that will only have you pocketing out a rental fee of USD 14 per person for a day’s usage.

Maafushi

Commence the 4th day of your stay in the Maldives by beelining for Kaafu Atoll’s Maafushi Island. No sooner you arrive at Villingili Port and settle down at your mode of lodging, you can begin mapping out the remainder of the day which can easily involve enjoying a boat ride, a riveting dive and purchasing trendy souvenirs from the locals to take back home with you.FihalhohiKnown as the last island within the borders of South Male, Fihalhohi Island is one such getaway that will inspire you into remaining here more for than just a day. Relaxed vacationing is the main draw of being on Fihalhohi as you will be presented an opportunity to book into a favourable form of accommodation that will surely come in handy in the event you seek some respite from the sun’s glare. While sunbathing and lounging with your favourite book in hand are some of the pastimes that can be had here, one can also toy with the thought of embarking on a dolphin-watching safari before giving yourself over to pungent oils, herbal baths and expert masseuses who will ensure that your mind, body and soul remain in perfect harmony.

Fulidhoo

Rated as one of the smaller islands that you will encounter in this part of the Indian Ocean, Fulidhoo Island can be journeyed to for the remaining two days of your vacation. Comprising several tempting facilities to try your hand at, those choosing to be based here will do well to check out the islet’s sole dive shop which is Fulidhoo Dive from where helpful information can be sought en route to preparing for a channel dive that will have you passing overhangs. In fact, the night dive will allow you to share the waters with nurse sharks, eagle rays and barracuda for one intriguing escape.